Peronnik did as she bade him, and by the help of his arm she jumped nimbly on to the back of the colt.
'Do you know how to kill the magician?' asked the lady, as they were crossing the ford.
'I thought that, being a magician, he was immortal, and that no one could kill him,' replied Peronnik.
'Persuade him to taste that apple, and he will die, and if that is not enough I will touch him with my finger, for I am the plague,' answered she.
'But if I kill him, how am I to get the golden bowl and the diamond lance that are hidden in the cellar without a key?' rejoined Peronnik.
'The flower that laughs opens all doors and lightens all darkness,' said the lady; and as she spoke, they reached the further bank, and advanced towards the castle.