e the
pitcher filled itself again to the brim.

The old couple then knew that their guests were not mere mortals;
indeed, they were no other than Jupiter and Mercury come down to
earth in the disguise of poor travelers. Being ashamed of their humble
entertainment, Philemon hurried out and gave chase to his only goose,
intending to kill and roast it. But his guests forbade him, saying:--

"In mortal shape we have come down, and at a hundred houses asked
for lodging and rest. For answer a hundred doors were shut and locked
against us. You alone, the poorest of all, have received us gladly and
given us of your best. Now it is for us to punish these impious people
who treat strangers so churlishly, but you two shall be spared. Only
leave your cottage and follow us to yonder mountain-top."

So saying, Jupiter and Mercury led the way, and the two old folks
hobbled after them. Presently they reached the top of the mountain, and
Baucis and Philemon saw all the country round, with villages and people,
sinking into a marsh; while their own cottage alone was left standing.

And while they gazed, their cottage was changed into a white temple. The
doorway became a porch with marble columns. The thatch grew into a roof
of golden tiles. The little garden about their home became a park.

Then Jupiter, regarding Baucis and Philemon with kindly eyes, said:
"Tell me, O good old man and you good wife, what may we do in return for
your hospitality?"

Philemon whispered for a moment with Baucis, and she nodded her
approval. "We desire," he replied, "to be your servants, and to have the
care of this temple. One other favor we would ask. From boyhood I have
loved only Baucis, and she has lived only for me. Let the selfsame hour
take us both away together. Let me never see the tomb of my wife, nor
let her suffer the misery of mourning my death."

Jupiter and Mercury, pleased with these requests, willingly granted
both, and endowed Baucis and Philemon with youth and strength as well.
The gods then vanished from their sight, but as long as their lives
lasted Baucis and Philemon were the guardians of the white temple that
once had been their home.

And when again old age overtook them, they were standing one day
in front of the sacred porch, and Baucis, turning her gaze upon her
husband, saw him slowly changing into a gnarled oak tree. And Philemon,
as he felt himself rooted to the ground, saw Baucis at the same time
turning into a leafy