“‘Tis called an ‘instrument’,”[26] quoth Pierre.
In the morning the girl, taking her father’s money, gave it to the apprentice, who hied him to the town and made pretence of buying another instrument; and when night came, he played on his instrument to the infinite satisfaction of the girl.
On the morrow the apprentice received a letter, wherein he learned that his mother lay ill and desired to see him. He started on his journey forthwith. Anon the girl appeared, and not seeing the apprentice, inquired:
“Where is Pierre?”
And they answered her that he was gone and would return no more. Whereat she sped after him, and when she perceived him afar off, cried out:—
“Pierre! Pierre! At least leave me the instrument!”
Pierre, who was in a field at the moment, wrenched up a big turnip, and casting it into a swamp at the feet of the girl, cried out:—
“Take it—’tis there!”
And while the girl sought the instrument, he continued on his way.
With both her eyes she looked, but of Pierre’s instrument could perceive no vestige. Anon she sat down on the edge of the swamp and gave herself up to tears. Presently there chanced to pass the vicar, who made inquiry as to the cause of her grief.