t some strolling thieves
take so much treasure out of the country, and urged the king to send a
troop of soldiers after them, to recover the gold and precious stones.

So the king sent a body of armed men on foot and horse, to take back the
treasure Strong-Back was carrying away with him.

But Hare's-ear, who had heard what the counsellors had advised the king,
told his companions just as the dust of their pursuers was visible on
the horizon.

No sooner had Blow-Blast taken in their danger than he raised such
a mighty wind that all the king's army was blown down like so many
nine-pins, and as they were quite unable to get up again, Moscione and
his companions proceeded on their way without further let or hindrance.

As soon as they reached his home, Moscione divided his spoil with his
companions, at which they were much delighted. He, himself, stayed with
his father, who was obliged at last to acknowledge that his son was not
quite such a fool as he looked.

[From the Italian, Kletke.]

The Street Musicians

A man once possessed a donkey which had served him faithfully for many
years, but at last the poor beast grew old and feeble, and every day his
work became more of a burden. As he was no longer of any use, his master
made up his mind to shoot him; but when the donkey learnt the fate that
was in store for him, he determined not to die, but to run away to the
nearest town and there to become a street musician.

When he had trotted along for some distance he came upon a greyhound
lying on the road, and panting for dear life. 'Well, brother,' said the
donkey, 'what's the matter with you? You look rather tired.'

'So I am,' replied the dog, 'but because I am getting old and am growing
weaker every day, and cannot go out hunting any longer, my master wanted
to poison me; and, as life is still sweet, I have taken leave of him.
But how I am to earn my own livelihood I haven't a notion.'

'Well,' said the donkey, 'I am on my way to the nearest big town, where
I mean to become a street musician. Why don't you take up music as a
profession and come along with me? I'll play the flute and you can play
the kettle-drum.'

The greyhound was quite pleased at the idea, and the two set off
together. When they had gone a short distance they met a cat with a
face as long as three rainy days. 'Now, what has happened to upset your
happiness, friend puss?' inquired the donkey.

'It's impossible to look cheerful when o