Читать книгу Christmas tales of Flanders онлайн

17 страница из 25


RUBBING IT ON HIS FACE AND HANDS

John Twist was in a deplorable condition. His clothes were torn to ribbons, and his skin was grazed all over.

“How is it that you have arrived in such a tattered state,” said his fiancée.

“I said, ‘Through hedges and fences,’” replied John Twist; “you may not believe me, but I assure you I have left half my clothing and skin hanging on thorn-bushes and palings.”

“You ought to have said, ‘Over hedges and fences,’” said the girl.

The subject was then dropped.

The company then sat down to eat tarts and drink wine out


DREW THE PEAK OF HIS CAP OVER HIS EYES, IN ORDER TO SEE WHAT TOOK PLACE

of large goblets. A witch, in a large hat, with two black cats in attendance, organized games. John Twist was so tired that he fell into a deep sleep. When he awoke the entire company had vanished, with the exception of an old man who was seated at a little table with a bottle of wine before him, at the entrance to the cellar.

“Where are the two ladies I know?” asked John Twist.

Правообладателям