ground with the young living eaglet, where he was received with loud
shouts of joy and congratulations.
VIII. What Fresh News the Parlor-Cat Had to Tell
There is what you asked for,” said Rudy, as he entered the miller’s house
at Bex, and placed on the floor a large basket. He removed the lid as he
spoke, and a pair of yellow eyes, encircled by a black ring, stared forth with
a wild, fiery glance, that seemed ready to burn and destroy all that came in
its way. Its short, strong beak was open, ready to bite, and on its red throat
were short feathers, like stubble.
“The young eaglet!” cried the miller.
Babette screamed, and started back, while her eyes wandered from Rudy
to the bird in astonishment.
“You are not to be discouraged by difficulties, I see,” said the miller.
“And you will keep your word,” replied Rudy. “Each has his own
characteristic, whether it is honor or courage.”
“But how is it you did not break your neck?” asked the miller.
“Because I held fast,” answered Rudy; “and I mean to hold fast to
Babette.”
“You must get her first,” said the miller, laughing; and Babette thought
this a very good sign.
“We must take the bird out of the basket,” said she. “It is getting into a
rage; how its eyes glare. How did you manage to conquer it?”
Then Rudy had to describe his adventure, and the miller’s eyes opened
wide as he listened.
“With your courage and your good fortune you might win three wives,”
said the miller.
“Oh, thank you,” cried Rudy.
“But you have not won Babette yet,” said the miller, slapping the young
Alpine hunter on the shoulder playfully.
