Good evening, children. It's Granny McDuff, ready with a story. So make yourselves comfy, and I'll begin.

Once upon a time, a peasant who was called Hans picked up his best walking stick and told his daughter,

I am going out, through the forest and across the country, I shall be gone three days.

Go father, his daughter who was called Agnes replied.

While I am gone, if the cattle dealer should call and have interest in our three cows, sell them.

But make sure you collect two hundred thallows from him and no less, or he shall not have the cows.

I will manage it, father.

Now go, said Agnes.

Do not forget what I say, Hans ordered.

And with that, he left.

The next day, the cattle dealer arrived and looked over the three cows.

Agnes told him the price.

He nodded. I'm willing to pay it, he said. These cows are certainly worth the 200. I will take them away at once.

The man led the cows out of the pasture. But just as he was going out of the gate, Agnes clutched his sleeve and stopped him.

You must pay me first, then you can take them, she said.

You're right, but I've forgotten to strap on my money belt today, and you see, and so, well, I'll tell you what, I will leave you with some security until I'm able to come with the payment. I will take

only two of the cows, one shall remain here until I return. Agnes did not see anything wrong

with this, and so she let the cattle dealer go with two of the cows.

How clever father will think me, she thought to herself.

After three days, Hans returned, just as he said he would.

Are the cows sold?

He asked.

...