DANISH FAIRY AND FOLK TALES
succeeding in catching it. But a couple of days after, when he again watered the mare, she kicked the same goldfish to the shore. Hans seized the fish and brought it to the king's kitchen, where every one was anxious to see it. When it was cut open the missing ring rolled out. Then the king said to his oldest daughter: "Well, now, you will have to marry Hans!" She was willing enough, and so was Hans; but, he said, the honor was really due rather to the little mare which had kicked the fish ashore with her hoof.
When the little princess heard this she skipped down to the stable, folded her arms around the mare's neck, kissed her, and said: "No, you shall not be married to my sister, she may take Hans; but I am going to keep you always, for you are my dearest friend." As soon as she had uttered these words the mare was gone, and she was embracing a beautiful young prince. He thanked her, and told her all about his punishment, and how he had now been set free. Afterwards they walked up to the king, and their marriage was celebrated on the same day when Hans was united with the other princess.
The beautiful prince went home to his father with his bride, and his return caused great happiness throughout the land. He is no more haughty or conceited, but noble and good, and happy with his little princess. Hans is also happy with his princess, and is now in possession of the whole kingdom, the old king having died.
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