"Yes, I know they are," said Gargantua, slily; "all you have to do is to follow me, and I will show you a beautiful stable, where there are bigger horses than ever yours can grow to be. Where have you left your horses?"
"Out in the court-yard, little Giant."
"Follow me, then, and I will show you the stables."
The Chief Equerry and the Grand Steward went after him, up the great staircase of the palace, through the second hall, into a great stone gallery, by which they entered into a huge stone tower, the steps to which they mounted, along with the Prince, but breathing very heavily indeed.
"I am afraid that big child is laughing at us," whispered the Grand Steward, behind his hand, to the Chief Equerry. "Nobody ever puts a stable at the top of a house."
"You are wrong there," whispered back the Chief Equerry; "because I happen to know of places, in Lyons and elsewhere, where there are stables in the attic. But, to make sure, let us ask him again."
Turning to Gargantua, he said:—
"My little Prince, art thou sure thou art taking us right?"
"Haven't I already told you? Isn't this my father's palace, and don't I know the way to the stables of my big horses? Don't gasp so much, gentlemen. Only three little steps and we are there!"
