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forever separates you from your kind. Therefore, when you go forth into the
world of men you shall retain the protection of the Forest, and the powers you
now enjoy will remain with you to assist you in your labors. In any need you
may call upon the Nymphs, the Ryls, the Knooks and the Fairies, and they will
serve you gladly. I, the Master Woodsman of the World, have said it, and my
Word is the Law!"
Claus looked upon Ak with grateful eyes.
"
This will make me mighty among men," he replied. "Protected by these kind
friends I may be able to make thousands of little children happy. I will try very
hard to do my duty, and I know the Forest people will give me their sympathy
and help."
"
"
"
"
We will!" said the Fairy Queen, earnestly.
We will!" cried the merry Ryls, laughing.
We will!" shouted the crooked Knooks, scowling.
We will!" exclaimed the sweet nymphs, proudly. But Necile said nothing. She
only folded Claus in her arms and kissed him tenderly.
"
The world is big," continued the boy, turning again to his loyal friends, "but
men are everywhere. I shall begin my work near my friends, so that if I meet
with misfortune I can come to the Forest for counsel or help."
With that he gave them all a loving look and turned away. There was no need
to say good by, by for him the sweet, wild life of the Forest was over. He went
forth bravely to meet his doom--the doom of the race of man--the necessity to
worry and work.
But Ak, who knew the boy's heart, was merciful and guided his steps.
Coming through Burzee to its eastern edge Claus reached the Laughing
Valley of Hohaho. On each side were rolling green hills, and a brook
wandered midway between them to wind afar off beyond the valley. At his
back was the grim Forest; at the far end of the valley a broad plain. The eyes
of the young man, which had until now reflected his grave thoughts, became
brighter as he stood silent, looking out upon the Laughing Valley. Then on a
sudden his eyes twinkled, as stars do on a still night, and grew merry and
wide.
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