Chapter V

"It is an old and foolish tale. Be still,
For now, I think, your father's step I hear,
Though not the tune he whistles down the hill.
He comes--is at the door. Why, goodman, dear,
You're out of breath! Bad news you bring, I fear."
"Bad news" (the goodman smiles, with half a frown),
"But not for us; and so take heart of cheer.
I own I'm out of breath--but sit ye down
And hear the strangest thing e'er happened in this town."