DANISH FAIRY AND FOLK TALES
gave you shelter and provisions, and now you would even take with you the most beautiful flowers in my garden."
The merchant immediately begged pardon, saying that he had intended the flowers as a gift for Beauty, his daughter.
"Have you several daughters?" asked the horse.
"Yes, I have three, and Beauty is the youngest one," he replied.
"Now you must promise me," said the horse, "that you will give me the daughter whose name is Beauty; if you refuse, I will take your life."
Well, the merchant did not wish to lose his life, so he promised to bring his daughter to the palace, whereupon the horse disappeared among the trees, and the man rode home.
As soon as he reached his house, the two older daughters came out and asked him for the fine things which they were expecting. But Beauty came and bid him welcome. He produced the flowers and gave them to her, saying, "These are for you, but they cost your life;" and he then told her how he had been obliged to make the fatal promise to the horse, in order to save his life. Beauty at once said, "I am willing to follow you, father, and am always glad to help you." They started on their journey, and soon arrived at the palace.
As before, no one was to be seen, but the merchant found food for his horses and a good stable
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