Page:The Gypsy Lad of Roumania (1914).djvu/26

24 When the soldiers were at supper that evening, the prince came riding through the camp. He drew rein at the door of Fontanus’ tent.

“Fontanus,” he said, “I think you will have to give me that boy of yours. He brings me good fortune. To-day he has done me another service. He saved the life of my son.”

Then the prince told the story as he had heard it from the women. Men from the castle had gone into the glade, and found the dead wolf. Fontanus bade the lad go into the prince’s service with his blessing. Peter was glad but for one thing. He managed to murmur a question as to who would take care of the cattle for Helena. But Fontanus said they would send for an uncle, too old for warfare, but quite strong enough for that work.

So the next day, Peter rode back with a glad heart to carry the news to the family. And the third evening saw him back at the castle, with Beauty and his other small possessions.

A week later they were off to meet the foe. Peter rode proudly just behind his prince, and not one of the staff felt a more serious responsibility than this boy.