252 SLAV TALES

creatures were thrilled with a gladness such as they had never
felt before. The king was beside himself with joy ; he loaded
Niezguinek with honours and presents, and, in order to have
him always at court, raised him to a higher rank in the army.
In this new post he had many under him, and he showed
much exactitude in drill and other matters, punishing some-
what severely when necessary. He made, too, no difference
in the treatment of his brothers, which angered them greatly,
and caused them to be still more jealous and to plot against
him. So they again imitated his handwriting and composed
another letter, which they left at the king’s door. When his
majesty had read it he called Niezguinek to him and said,
“T should much like to have the marvellous sword you speak
of in your letter.”

“Sire, I have not written anything about a sword,” said
Niezguinek.

‘Well, read it for yourself.” And he read :

“In a certain country within the house of old Yaga is a
sword that strikes of its own accord: if the king would like
to have it, I will engage to bring it him.

“« (Signed) NIEZGUINEK.”

“ Certainly,” said Niezguinek, “this writing resembles mine,
but I never wrote those words.”

“Never mind, as you succeeded in bringing me the guzla
you will find no difficulty in obtaining the sword. Start with-
out delay, and do not return without it at your peril.”

Niezguinek bowed and went to the stable, where he found
his horse looking very thin and miserable, with his head
drooping.