Page:Tales and Legends from the Land of the Tzar.djvu/45

Rh as he could with the iron hammers; this done, the soldier took up the knapsack and again went before the king.

"My task is done, your Majesty," he said; "the evil spirits will torment the princess no more."

The king was delighted.

"You are a clever fellow; go, therefore, and make merry in all the taverns in my kingdom; do whatever you please, everything will be open to you."

After making merry for a whole month, the soldier returned to the king.

"I have enjoyed myself thoroughly, your Majesty, and now I want to continue my journey homewards."

"But why not stay with me, soldier, and become one of my courtiers?"

"Your Majesty is most kind, but I should like to return to my native land; I have not been there for many a year, and wish to see some of my friends and relations again."

"Well, be off, and God bless you."

The king, as a reward for all that the soldier had done, gave him carriages, horses, and more money than he could well spend, however long he might live.

Off went our soldier to his native land, and on his way he met with an old friend of his.

"Good day, brother!" cried the soldier.

"Holloa, old boy! how are you?" asked the other.

"Just as of old, my friend; only Providence sent some luck in my way, and I am a rich man now, thank goodness; so come, let us make merry, old boy;