“I thank you, good father,” said he; “but how is it possible that you should have been long looking for me? Are you a friend of King Katzekopf, or of Queen Ninnilinda?”
“No, my son. I knew them once for a short time; but they have long since forgotten my very existence.”
“Then who are you, aged man?”
“Never mind who I am. I am not wont to tell my name at first. I have found that it raises a prejudice against me. But you may be satisfied of my good-will towards you, since it was by the Lady Abracadabra’s direction that I came to seek you here. I am ready to be your companion, if you are willing to accept my services.”
“I fear I should weary you out in a few hours,” replied the Prince, “you forget that I have the active limbs of youth, and that you, my father, guide your steps with a staff.”
“Nay,” answered the old man, “the fear is on the other side. I am more like to weary you, than you to weary me.”
“Have you ever travelled with any as young as I am?”
“I have set out upon pilgrimage with multitudes such as you are,” answered the stranger with a sigh, “and some,” he added, “have I accompanied to their journey’s end. And dearly have they loved me.”
“I think I should love you, too, and like you for a companion,” said the Prince, “for though you look severe, and speak gravely, your manner bespeaks kind intentions.”
“Stay,” said the old man, “perhaps you choose me because no more acceptable guide appears at hand. The Lady Abracadabra did not mean to restrict you in your choice. If I mistake not, we have another companion hard at hand. Lo you there!”