“‘Yes,’ said the Piper, ‘I know. No one could be lame here now that the gate is open. This is the land of harmony; but tell me, boy, why did you come? Do tell me they sent you.’
“‘They did. They want to keep their promise.’
“‘They do? Will they give me the gold?’ he asked eagerly.
“‘Oh, yes, they want to. They beg of you to take it.’
“‘Then tell them when the mountain path is paved with guilders I will bring the children.’
“The boy bounded away, but as he passed the children he was at once swept into the ring and in some mysterious way he also was clad in a garb of silvery leaves, while on his head was placed a crown of wondrous beauty, a crown of flowers which breathed forth a rare perfume.
“As they danced round and round, the song was no longer sad but rang out like joyous bells, filling the air with showers of gladness, while the Piper piped, and the birds twittered and trilled the gayest of tunes.
“They danced nearer and nearer the portal, and presently saw without, a sea of hungry faces and many outstretched arms.
“The boy shook himself loose and ran through the gate. With shining eyes he cried:
“‘See! I can walk! I can run! And I have more good news, but you must obey. Bring the gold quickly and you will soon have your children.’