In time, when the old king died, the shepherd succeeded him. He
made a very good king and never expected his people to wish him
well against their wills; but, all the same, everyone did wish him
well, for they all loved him.

[From Russische Mahrchen.]



The Story of the Seven Simons

Far, far away, beyond all sorts of countries, seas and rivers, there
stood a splendid city where lived King Archidej, who was as good
as he was rich and handsome. His great army was made up of men
ready to obey his slightest wish; he owned forty times forty cities,
and in each city he had ten palaces with silver doors, golden roofs,
and crystal windows. His council consisted of the twelve wisest
men in the country, whose long beards flowed down over their
breasts, each of whom was as learned as a whole college. This
council always told the king the exact truth.

Now the king had everything to make him happy, but he did not
enjoy anything because he could not find a bride to his mind.

One day, as he sat in his palace looking out to sea, a great ship
sailed into the harbour and several merchants came on shore. Said
the king to himself: 'These people have travelled far and beheld
many lands. I will ask them if they have seen any princess who is as
clever and as handsome as I am.'