As the inhabitants of the little cottage sat silent, thinking these
thoughts, the knock was heard again. It was followed by a low groan.
Then the knight rose and took his sword from the wall where it had
hung for many days. But the fisherman, watching him, shook his head as
he muttered, 'A sword will be of but little use to-night.'

Undine meanwhile had gone toward the door. She did not open it, but
she called out in a loud voice, 'Remember, whoever you be, spirit of
earth or fire, that if harm befall us my uncle Kühleborn will punish
you.'

These strange words made the knight marvel. But a voice answered the
maiden, 'I am no wandering spirit, but an old frail man. For the love
of God open your door and give me shelter from the storm.'

At these words Undine, holding a lamp high in one hand, flung the door
wide open with the other. Before her stood an old priest, who looked
upon her with surprise. How came so fair a maiden to be dwelling in so
lonely a home? he wondered, and in his bewilderment he stood still
outside the shelter and warmth which awaited him.

'Will you not enter, holy Father?' said Undine.

The priest roused himself to thank the beautiful maiden, and then
entered the kitchen. Water flowed from his long robe and trickled from
his long white beard and snowy locks.

'Come with me, Father,' said the fisherman, and he drew the priest
into a little room and made him take off all his wet garments. Then,