Of course the kind-hearted German could not refuse such a general
request. Besides, he liked to tell stories. Taking his long pipe
out of his mouth, he laid it down on the ground beside him. Then he
cleared his throat and began to speak.

"Look above you, friends. Do you see that mark on the rocky platform
overhead? I noticed it as soon as I got here. It made me think of a
wild spot in the Hartz Mountains where there is just such a mark.
The people call it 'The Horse's Hoof-print.' I will tell you how
they explain its coming there.

"Once upon a time there was a beautiful princess. Her name was
Brunhilda, and she lived in Bohemia. She lived a gay and happy life,
like most young princesses, till one day a handsome prince arrived at
her father's palace. He was the son of the king of the Hartz country.

"Of course, you can all guess what happened. The prince fell in love
with the princess, and she returned his love. The day was set for
the wedding, and the young prince went home to prepare for the great
event.

"But he had been gone only a short time when a powerful giant arrived
at Brunhilda's home. He came from the far north. His name was Bodo.

"He asked for the princess in marriage, but her heart had already
been given away. She did not care for the giant, even though he gave
her the most elegant presents,--a beautiful white horse, jewels set
in gold, and chains of amber.