And though they went on talking till bedtime they came to no conclusion. Indeed, I fear a good many sharp and unkind words passed between them, and they went to bed without saying good-night to each other. So far it did not seem as if the dwarf’s gift was to bring them happiness.
Chapter Six.
The Story of the Three Wishes—concluded.
When they woke in the morning they were in a calmer state of mind, and began to see how foolish they had been.
“Chloe,” said Arminel, as they sat at breakfast, “we were very nearly quarrelling last night; and if we quarrel we shall certainly never find out the secret of the third wish; and all our hopes will be at an end. Now, let us think over quietly what the third wish is likely to be. Let me see—what were the dwarf’s exact words?”
“He said we must seek for it in our own hearts,” replied Chloe. “That means, of course, that it must be something kind.”
“Perhaps he meant that it must be something to do us both good,” said Arminel. “What is there we are equally in want of? Oh! I know; suppose we wish for a good stack of fuel for the winter. That would certainly benefit us both.”
“It can do no harm to try,” said Chloe; “so I agree to the wish for a stack of fuel.”