“I am observing the world. Are you not a nobleman? Whither are you bound?”
“To Marsella,” replied Don Juan.
“To bet? If that is your purpose, you are sure to lose, for it is certain that you cannot guess of what the drum is made,” interrupted the man.
“I entreat you to tell me the right answer, if you know it,” said Don Juan.
“I will not only tell it to you, but I will also accompany you. That is why I am here. I was waiting for you to pass,” said the man.
“Grandpa, I’m astonished. You must be a prophet.”
“You are right. I am the sage prophet Noet Noen,[9] who will go with you to King Palmarin.”
“I appreciate your help and am grateful to you, grandpa,” said Don Juan. “You had better ride on one of the horses.”
Noet Noen and Don Juan rode on together. The prophet then related to Juan the whole story of the tuma that had got into the powder-case of the king. While the two travellers were talking, they saw a man sitting under a tree. As it was very hot, they dismounted so that their horses might rest. Don Juan was surprised at the stranger. He was whistling; and every time he whistled, the wind blew strong, so that the trees in the forest were broken off. This man was Supla Supling, a companion and friend of Noet Noen.
“Supla Supling, why are you here?” said Noet Noen.