Only one faithful servant stayed with the prince and refused to part
from him. They journeyed over hill and dale till they came to a
place called Goldtown. The King of Goldtown had a lovely
daughter, and the prince, who soon heard about her beauty, could
not rest till he saw her.

He was very kindly received, for he was extremely good-looking
and had charming manners, so he lost no time in asking for her hand
and her parents gave her to him with joy. The wedding took place
at once, and the feasting and rejoicings went on for a whole month.
At the end of the month they set off for home, but as the journey
was a long one they spent the first evening at an inn. Everyone in
the house slept, and only the faithful servant kept watch. About
midnight he heard three crows, who had flown to the roof, talking
together.

'That's a handsome couple which arrived here tonight. It seems
quite a pity they should lose their lives so soon.'

'Truly,' said the second crow; 'for to-morrow, when midday
strikes, the bridge over the Gold Stream will break just as they are
driving over it. But, listen! whoever overhears and tells what we
have said will be turned to stone up to his knees.'

The crows had hardly done speaking when away they flew. And
close upon them followed three pigeons.

'Even if the prince and princess get safe over the bridge they will
perish,' said they; 'for the king is going to send a carriage to meet
them which looks as new as paint. But when they are seated in it a