The Green Belt. 95

searched every path, gazing eagerly up into the trees; but he
found just nothing at all. The brothers, in their own joy,
scarcely noticed poor Peter’s disappointment.

“«T must seek my fortune out in the wide world,’ said the
eldest, taking the scarlet bird in his hand; then with a careless
good-bye he was gone.

“ The others quickly followed, until Peter was left alone.

“ The little squirrel leaped down, and nestled close beside
the weeping child.

“Dry your tears; you are the seventh child, and therefore
the most fortunate of all. Here is the caul with which you
were born, to hang about your neck, and that will bring good
luck. The green belt is your gift

“The squirrel had the same clear diamond eyes that the
old woman possessed who visited their cottage on the stormy
evening.

“Peter took the belt from the peg where it had hung, and,
behold! it was bright in color, and bore these lines—

‘You shall have power to change your shape,
To Lion, Tiger, Dog, or Ape ;
To help the good, torment the bad,

To make some gay, and others sad.’

“Peter danced for joy, and the squirrel skipped also on its
hind feet to keep him company.

“*Put the caul on your head, and you will see just what
your brothers are doing, wherever they go,’ said the squirrel.

“Peter held the dried skin-cap over his head, and shut his
eyes. The first son travelled far, still holding the scarlet bird