"I have shot an arrow," he said, "and I am waiting for it to reappear."
"Never mind your arrow," said the suitor. "Come with us."
"I will come," said the Skilful Archer.
As the four companions journeyed through a forest they beheld a strange sight. A man was lying with his ear to the ground, and if he lifted his head for a moment he bowed it again, listening intently. The four approached him, saying: "Friend, for what do you listen so earnestly?"
"I am listening," said he, "to the plants growing. This forest is full of plants, and I am listening to their breathing."
"You can listen when the occasion arises," they told him. "Come and join us."
He agreed, and so they travelled to the village where dwelt the beautiful maiden.
When they had reached their destination they were quickly surrounded by the villagers, who displayed no small curiosity as to who their visitors were and what object they had in coming so far. When they heard that one of the strangers desired to marry the village beauty they shook their heads over him. Did he not know the difficulties in the way? Finding that he would not be turned from his purpose, they led him to a huge rock which overshadowed the village, and described the first test he would be required to meet.
"If you wish to win the maiden," they said, "you must first of all push away that great stone. It is keeping the sunlight from us."
"Alas!" said the youth, "it is impossible."