iron doors.

[Illustration]

While he was lying on his straw pallet, pondering mournfully on his
fate, he thought he heard the low whining of his dogs outside; then an
idea dawned on him, and he called out as loudly as he could, 'Mustard,
come to my help,' and in a second he saw the paws of his biggest dog at
the window of his cell, and before he could count two the creature had
bitten through the iron bars and stood beside him. Then they both let
themselves out of the prison by the window, and the poor youth was free
once more, though he felt very sad when he thought that another was to
enjoy the reward that rightfully belonged to him. He felt hungry too, so
he called his dog 'Salt,' and asked him to bring home some food. The
faithful creature trotted off, and soon returned with a table-napkin
full of the most delicious food, and the napkin itself was embroidered
with a kingly crown.

The King had just seated himself at the wedding-feast with all his
Court, when the dog appeared and licked the Princess's hand in an
appealing manner. With a joyful start she recognised the beast, and
bound her own table-napkin round his neck. Then she plucked up her
courage and told her father the whole story. The King at once sent a
servant to follow the dog, and in a short time the stranger was led into
the King's presence. The former coachman grew as white as a sheet when
he saw the shepherd, and, falling on his knees, begged for mercy and
pardon. The Princess recognised her deliverer at once, and did not need
the proof of the two dragon's teeth which he drew from his pocket. The
coachman was thrown into a dark dungeon, and the shepherd took his place
at the Princess's side, and this time, you may be sure, she did not beg
for the wedding to be put off.

The young couple lived for some time in great peace and happiness, when
suddenly one day the former shepherd bethought himself of his poor
sister and expressed a wish to see her again, and to let her share in
his good fortune. So they sent a carriage to fetch her, and soon she
arrived at the court, and found herself once more in her brother's arms.
Then one of the dogs spoke and said, 'Our task is done; you have no more
need of us. We only waited to see that you did not forget your sister in
your prosperity.' And with these words the three dogs became three birds
and flew away into the heavens.

Grimm.

Spottiswoode & Co. Ltd., Printers, New-street Square, London.