Good evening, children. It's Granny Madduff, ready with a story.

So make yourselves comfy, and I'll begin.

Once upon a time, the wind said to the sun and the rain,

I have a story for you.

But the rain wasn't having any of it.

It's my turn to tell a story.

You've been howling all day and night, cried the rain.

This is how you speak to me, when it is I who turn umbrellas inside out for you, even throw open unlatched doors when people want nothing to do with you.

It is my turn.

Now, both of you, hush, said the sun, and listen.

The sun spoke with such splendour, with such grace,

that the wind could do nothing but stand still and listen.

The rain, however, wasn't having any of it.

Hmm, it isn't right. Madam Sun always seems to break through, push us aside.

I will not have it, said the rain.

Quiet!

Ordered the wind.

Let her tell it, and then it will be your turn, I promise.

The sun began her story.

Once upon a time, said the sun.

A swan, as white as snow and as regal as any king and queen, flew over the deep blue ocean. Each one of its feathers glistened in the morning sun. This was no ordinary swan.

This swan was a bird of fortune. She flew in a circle over a merchant's ship,

...