The Giant's Questions
Long, long ago there lived a giant who traveled from land to land declaring "Whoever answers my questions two, shall be rewarded with magic pearl, but if he fails to do so, he shall turn to a golden doe!" Many made an attempt to give a satisfactory answer to the giant's questions. For, the reward offered was indeed very attractive. It was an extraordinary pearl that shone like a dozen stars. One day, the giant came to a small country on top of a hill. He sang his refrain loud and clear. The king summoned all his counselors and wise men. But none could answer the questions and they were forthwith changed into wee little animals. The king was indeed a sad man for having lost his circle of wise advisors. "Who's going to counsel me now?" he lamented. It was evening and a poor shepherd boy was returning from the pasture when he heard the giant's loud refrain. "Whoever answers my questions two, shall be rewarded with the magic pearl, but if he fails to do so, he shall turn to a golden doe!"