He looked at the six little green feet, and his eyes twinkled; but
before he could speak the three angry maidens all began scolding
him at once, for they were delighted to have somebody fresh to find
fault with.
The cuckoo, being in some respects a philosopher, did not attempt
to interrupt, but when they were quite exhausted he said he really
could not see any reason for their distress. No one would ever
wish to see their feet, and they could always wear stockings. He
added that he had great news, and had come on purpose to bring it.
"The King of Silverland," he said, "is coming with all his court to
hold high revel close to this place and celebrate the coming of age
of his three sons. These princes were all born at once; and the
king has decided to divide his kingdom into three equal parts and
leave his sons to rule while he retires to his country place to
study science. Now these Silver princes desire to marry three
princesses, sisters born at once like themselves; but they are very
hard to find, and the king is advertising everywhere for triplets.
When I heard this I set off at once to tell you."
The three maidens were so much interested and excited that they
forgot their troubles and began to sing.
The cuckoo was pleased with his success, but told them they must go
to bed and to sleep, and he would fetch them in the morning to show
them the way to the King of Silverland's court.
Next morning, although he arrived quite early, the maidens were up
and ready for him, looking very pretty in their yellow frocks.
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