The Wise Woman. 147

“*Yes, yes—I know. Madam Skimp did all that mischief
because she could not marry the fairy king; and it was his
gift. I hear all the news from my two friends here.’

“*T saw Skimp fly away with the chain in the form of a
hawk,’ said the eagle.

“ The wise woman sprinkled some dried herbs on a brazier,
and a white cloud rose in the hut, so that the two visitors could
not see her at all. When the smoke cleared, she shook her
head.

“*Go to the fairy king. Perhaps Skimp will tell you, aft-

er all.