Off she went. She dressed John in beautiful garments, and then
presented him to the guests, saying: "This is my golden key. He
delivered me from torment, and I was to marry him. He went to see
his parents, but he could not reach them. Now he has come back to me
just as I was going to marry another man, the silver key of my story,
though I had given up all hope of his return. Yet he has come back,
and I shall keep him, the golden key, for the silver key has himself
decided so."
The wedding was celebrated the next day, and John took charge of the
old king's kingdom. Then they both went to visit his old parents,
and brought them back with them to the palace. On their way back they
called on the three brothers, and John gave them back the boots,
the cloak, and the hat. And if they haven't died since, they are
still alive enjoying their kingdom.