“But then, why doesn’t she ask it herself how to get away?”
“The heart is of no use to any one but a man,” said the fish.
“And I suppose no man has ever been here?”
“Two or three have come sailing by; one who came was anxious to help the Princess, but, as she was about to throw him the Golden Heart, she told him that if he took it he would have to face as much trouble as a man could bear. So he would not have it and sailed away. But that was years ago—and now, we really can’t stay here any longer, nor do any good if we do—let us be off.”
And he swam away.
The little boy would have liked to stay and speak to the Princess and his eyes were full of tears.
“What are you sniffling at behind there?” exclaimed the fish, who was getting rather tired of his load.
“I am so sorry for her!” he sobbed.
“Dear! Dear! If you cry for all the troubles you see, you will have enough to do; try to think of something else, and, for goodness’ sake, strike out a little with your legs and help me along—I have to do all the work.”
The little boy was so frightened when he heard this that he kicked out with might and main for fear that his protector should shake him off.