After many turns into branch
tunnels and an hour of climbing ladders and stairways we are out again
into daylight. We see the cove. A lively offshore breeze is blowing.
'The Elves drag a boat from among nearby reeds. We take seats in the
boat and our escorts row us out to our ship. We climb aboard, and wave
farewell.
'I turn away and shout to my crew, 'Hoist the sails.'
'The sails rise, catch the offshore breeze and fill out. Our gallant ship
turns gently and moves gracefully out of the cove. We are on our way
home.'
***
The Little Old Man slowly stands. He is stooped, and leans on his cane
with both hands. He looks tired and a little sad.
'That is the end of the story,' he says. 'I recall that the voyage across the
sea was stormy, but we did reach the other shore safely. The Princess
was happy to be back with her mother and father, whom she loved and
who loved her and they had indeed missed each other very much.
'For many years afterward the Princess enjoyed baking bread and rolls
for her father and mother and for friends who came to visit. In time, she
married, and baked for her family.
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