"At some other time, but not now," said the giant, for he reflected that the King might not wish the adventure recounted without his consent.
After the departure of the tailor the giant took another stroll, in order to gain an appetite for dinner. This time he made his way up a hill, whose sides were covered with small evergreen-bushes, from whose summit he thought he would obtain a good view of the town below. As he advanced higher the bushes disappeared, and the ground was barren and destitute of herbage. He then recognized a disagreeable odor, which increased as he advanced. He feared that he was approaching the abode of the dragon, but could see no signs of the beast or his habitation. He came at length to some openings in the ground, which emitted a stench that seemed strangely familiar.
"Why," said he, "this resembles the gas springs which we have in my country, which we conduct through pipes to the town, and use it for purposes of illumination and heat. I must remember this, and take advantage of it."
Three days later the tailor returned with his new clothes. They fitted perfectly, and he felt himself ready for the audience.
As he was hesitating whether or not to seek the King, he heard horses' hoofs without, and, looking through the low window, beheld a group of gentlemen, each of less than medium height, who were mounted upon ponies. They were in conversation with his host, and as they spake loudly, he heard their words.
"We have been seeking through the town," said the spokesman, "for a foreign gentleman, the Count Gofaster, and not finding him, have come here with the hope that he might lodge with you."
"There is a gentleman here," said Hepsone, "but I did not know that he was a Count. Has he done anything wrong?"
"Not that I know of," said the other, laughing; "but his Majesty the King and her Royal Highness the Princess Amber are desirous of seeing him, and we are ordered to summon him to Court."
At this Gofaster emerged from the door and confronted the group. "I am Gofaster," he said, "and the gracious wishes of his Majesty are commands. I shall have the honor of seeking an audience without delay."
"We have brought a horse for your convenience, Count," said the spokesman, pointing to a gaudily caparisoned pony about twelve hands high.