But there was another surprise in store.
Arminel in her turn went into the larder.
“Chloe!” she called out, “see what you have forgotten. Eggs!” and she held up three large, beautiful brown eggs.
“I don’t know where they have come from,” said Chloe. “I’m certain they were not there when I packed my basket. Besides, none of my hens lay eggs of that colour.”
“Never mind,” said the dwarf; “here they are, and that is enough. We shall now have an omelette for supper. An omelette and hot coffee! That is a supper for a king.”
He seemed to be getting quite bright and cheerful, and complained no more of his bruises as he sat there basking in the pleasant warmth of the fire. Supper was soon ready, and the three spent a pleasant evening; the little man asking the sisters many questions about their life and occupations. They told him all about their present troubles, and he told them to keep up heart, and never forget their good grandmother’s counsel.
“Did you know our grandmother?” they asked in surprise.
“I have heard of her,” was all he said; and though they were curious to know more, they did not venture to question him further.
After supper they made up a bed for him on the kitchen settle, where he said he was sure he would sleep most comfortably.
“And now farewell,” he added; “I shall be off in the morning before you are stirring. Your kindness has so refreshed me that I feel sure I shall be able to make my way home without difficulty.”