熊皮人故事_0.doc

熊皮人故事 story熊皮人故事 Bearskin Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm Once upon a time there was a young fellow who enlisted as a soldier, conducted himself bravely, and was always at the very front when it was raining bullets. As long as the war lasted all went well, but when peace was made he was dismissed, and the captain said he could go wherever he wanted to. His parents were dead, and he had no longer a home, so he went to his brothers and asked them to support him until there was another war. The brothers, however, were hardhearted and said, What can we do with you? We have no work for you. See that you go and make a living for yourself. The soldier had nothing left but his gun, so, putting it on his shoulder, he went forth into the world. He came to a large heath, on which nothing was to be seen but a circle of trees. Filled with sorrow, he sat down beneath them and thought about his fate. I have no money, he thought, and the only trade I have learned is that of making war, and now that they have made peace they can no longer use me, so I see that I shall starve. Suddenly he heard a rustling sound, and when he looked around, a strange man was standing before him. He wore a green jacket and looked quite stately, but he had a hideous horses foot. I know what you are in need of, said the man. You shall have money and property, as much as you, with all your might, can squander away, but first I must know if you are fearless, so that I wont be giving away my money for nothing. A soldier and fear —— how can those go together? he answered, You can put me to the test. Very well, answered the man, look behind you. The soldier turned around and saw a large growling bear running towards him. Aha, shouted the soldier, Ill tickle your nose until you lose your desire for growling. Then taking aim at the bear, he shot it in the snout, and it fell down motionless. I see quite well, said the stranger, that you do not lack for courage, but there is one more condition