"Proceed," said the dwarf, seating himself upon a piano-stool, and screwing
himself up until he was near the ceiling and on a level with the singer's
head. The giant proceeded:

"If thou shouldst build thy house thyself,
The cost thou surely ne'er would know;
But if I take the job, my friend.
You'll see where every cent will go."

"I like that," said the dwarf. "Pray sing some more."

"I'll tell you just what it will cost;
And all that you will have to do
Will be to travel for a time,
Whilst I your castle build anew."

"That's capital!" cried the delighted dwarf. "It would suit me exactly.
Warble me yet other wood notes wild."

The giant sang on:

"A castle such as you will want
Will cost you eighty pounds--or so.
I'll charge you nothing for my time;
You'll see where every cent will go."

[Illustration]

The dwarf revolved himself rapidly, and quickly reached the floor.