"In a Barn."

"But one works in a Barn--"

"Stop!" cried the king, putting his fingers in his ears. "One prays
in a Barn."

"Very likely," said the Lad, looking at him curiously. "Are you
going to pray in one?"

"Yes," said the King. "When is the New Moon?"

"Next Saturday."

"Hurrah!" cried the King. "That settles it. But what's to-day?"

"Monday, sir."

"Alas!" sighed William, wondering how he should make shift to live
for five days.

"I don't know what you mean, sir," said the Lad.

"I would tell you my meaning," said the King, "but am pledged not
to."

Then the Lad said, "Let it pass. I have a proposal to make. My
father is dead, and for two years I have worked the forge
single-handed. Now I am willing to teach you to shoe your nag with four
good shoes and strong, if you will meanwhile blow the bellows for