THE BROAD MAN 167

The Man with Eyes of Flame looked back, and replied
that the king’s guards were out of the forest and coming
towards them with all speed.

“They will not be able to reach us,” cried she. And she
let fall a tear from her eyes, saying as she did so, “Tear,
become a river.”

At the same moment a wide river flowed between them
and their pursuers, and before the latter had found means
of crossing it, Matthias and his party were far on in front.

“Man with Eyes of Flame,” said the princess, ‘look
behind and tell me how closely we are followed.”

“They are quite near to us again,” he replied, “they are
almost upon our heels.”

“ Darkness, cover them,” said she.

At these words Tall drew himself up. He stretched and
stretched and stretched until he reached the clouds, and
there, with his hat he half covered the face of the sun. The
side towards the soldiers was black as night, while Matthias
and his party, lit up by the shining half, went a good way
without hindrance.

When they had travelled some distance, Tall uncovered
the sun, and soon joined his companions by taking a mile
at each step. They were already in sight of Matthias’ home,
when they noticed that the royal guards were again following
them closely.

“Now it is my turn,” said Broad; “go on your way in
safety, I will remain here. I shall be ready for them.”

He quietly awaited their arrival, standing motionless, with
his large mouth open from ear to ear. The royal army,
who were determined not to turn back without having taken