Mouk

For some time Mouk was quite happy, for he had plenty to eat and little to do.

Hauff's Fairy Tales, Translated and Adapted Cicely Hauff McDonnell 1903

"You invited every one to your feast," said Little Mouk; "and as I am hungry I came!"

Hauff's Fairy Tales, Translated and Adapted Cicely Hauff McDonnell 1903

Ahavzi had six cats, and every morning Mouk had to comb out their fur and rub them with costly ointment; at night he had to lay them on silken cushions and cover them with beautiful embroideries.

Hauff's Fairy Tales, Translated and Adapted Cicely Hauff McDonnell 1903

Mouk replied that he "might probably become chief runner to the King."

Hauff's Fairy Tales, Translated and Adapted Cicely Hauff McDonnell 1903

So poor Little Mouk wandered away, poorer far than when he came; for his slippers and his stick were taken from him and placed in the King's treasure chamber.

Hauff's Fairy Tales, Translated and Adapted Cicely Hauff McDonnell 1903

When the King recovered consciousness, he was naturally furious with Little Mouk.

Hauff's Fairy Tales, Translated and Adapted Cicely Hauff McDonnell 1903

That he had not found good fortune here, as he had hoped, troubled Little Mouk.

Hauff's Fairy Tales, Translated and Adapted Cicely Hauff McDonnell 1903

Before the little "airship" could well understand this magic, Mouk found himself in the town, and right in front of the King's Palace.

Hauff's Fairy Tales, Translated and Adapted Cicely Hauff McDonnell 1903

He longed to stop, but did not know how to keep the shoes from running; and Little Mouk let the King continue till he fell fainting from exhaustion.

Hauff's Fairy Tales, Translated and Adapted Cicely Hauff McDonnell 1903

Where Little Mouk wished to go, no one ever knew; but it is certain that with the help of his stick, he became a rich man.

Hauff's Fairy Tales, Translated and Adapted Cicely Hauff McDonnell 1903