"Not if it is dirty water with caterpillars in it," said Trudel.
"O dear no, it is purified and refined; it is most delicious." So saying, she handed each of them a large acorn cup full; and they drank the contents.
"It does taste nice, dear fairy," said the children, "like what we make ourselves at a doll's feast. May we ask you for some more?"
"No, no, it is very strong, and would get into your heads, and you would find out all about…. No, I'm sorry … but——"
"Children," said mother's voice, "where are you? I have been looking for you."
"We have only been to call on Lady Larch, mother; she has shut her door tight again or we would have introduced you to her," said Lotty.
PART III
They came home rather late that evening and found the farm in a great state of commotion. The red-haired cow-herd was shouting and crying in an unintelligible way; the house seemed to be deserted. They met the Herr Baron also preparing to set out in a hurry.
"What's the matter? Where is everybody?" said mother.
"The silly old cow-herd has lost one of the best cows; it has strayed off among the bushes, and may die if it is exposed all night. Who knows where the poor creature may have got to in these vast woods?"