Now there was sorrow among the people such as the like had never before been
experienced; every one interceded for the young prince, but the king's word was final. The young men had, therefore, no
alternative; so
taking the prince with them, they set out on their way. When they had penetrated very far into the forest, they met a man driving swine;
whereupon one of the men said to his companion: "It seems to me not good to lay violent hands on a king's son: let us rather purchase a hog, and take its heart; for no one will know it not to be the prince's heart." This to the other seemed
wisely said; so they bought a hog from the man, slaughtered it, and took out its heart. They then told the prince go his way and never return.
The king's son did as they had directed him; he wandered on as far as he was able, and had no other food than the nuts and wild berries which grew in the forest. When he had thus
traveled a long distance, he came to a mountain, on the
summit of which stood a lofty fir tree. He then thought to himself: "I will climb up into this fir, and see whether there is any path." No sooner said than done. When he reached the top of the tree, and looked on all sides, he discerned a
spacious palace lying at a great distance, and glittering in the sun. At this sight he was overjoyed, and instantly bent his steps there. On his way he met with a boy following a
plough, with whom he exchanged clothes. Thus equipped he at length reached the palace, entered it, and asked for work; so was taken as a herd-boy, to watch the king's cattle. Now he ranged about the forest both late and early; and as time went on he forgot his sorrow, and grew tall and
vigorous, so that
nowhere was to be found his like.
Our story now turns to the king, to whom the palace belonged. He had been married, and by his queen had an only daughter. She was much fairer than other damsel, and was both kind and
courteous; so that he might be regarded as fortunate, who should one day win her hand.
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