A certain merchant died. His son was nineteen years old at the
time. He said to his mother: "Mother dear, I'm going to try my luck
in the world."
His mother answered: "Go, dear son, but don't stay long there, for
I am old, and should like some help in my old age." She fitted him
out for the journey, and said good-bye to him.
Out into the world went the son, and he travelled on till he came
into a forest. He had been going through it for three days, and
no end appeared. On the third day he kept on and came at last to a
cottage. He went into the cottage and he saw a horrible being seated
on a stool. The fellow asked him where he was going.
"I don't know where I am going. I'm seeking my fortune in some
service."
"Well, if you like, you can enter my service."
The lad was very hungry, so he took service with the other.