“That’s more than I can say. Never mind; it shall be the bear’s last meal. As I entered the village I engaged six strong companions, and to-morrow, sister Maase, I will bring you the handsomest white fur that ever ran over mountain snow.”
“Take care, brother,” said the woman; “you have seen strange things, truly. That bear may be the Devil.”
“Are you mad?” interrupted the mountaineer, with a laugh; “the Devil change himself into a bear, indeed! Into a cat or a monkey, I grant you; but to a bear! Oh, by Saint Eldon the exorciser, you’re worse than any child or old woman, with your superstition!”
The poor woman hung her head.
“Brother, you were my lord and master before my revered husband cast his eyes upon me; do as your guardian angel bids you.”
“But,” the fisherman asked the mountaineer, “where did you meet with this bear?”
“Between Lake Miösen and Walderhog.”
“Walderhog!” said the woman, crossing herself.
“Walderhog!” repeated Ordener.
“But, brother,” rejoined the fisherman; “I hope you were not travelling toward Walderhog.”