East of the Sun and West of the Moon (8)

East of the Sun and West of the Moon (8)

" What we have to say can be said at any time, " she answered.

But somehow or rather her mother at last persuaded her, and she was forced to tell the whole story.

So she told how every night  a man came and lay down beside her when the lights were all put out, and how she never saw him, because he always went away before it grew light in the morning, and how she continually went about in sadness, thinking how happy she would be if she could but see him, and how all day long she had to go about alone, and it was so dull and solitary.

" Oh ! " cried the mother, in horror, " you are very likely sleeping with a troll ! But I will teach you a way to see him. You shall have a bit of one of my candles, which you can take away with you hidden in your breast. Look at him with that when he is asleep, but take care not to let any tallow drop upon him.

So she took the candle, and hid it in her breast, and when evening drew near the White Bear came to fetch her away.

(8/23)