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There was once upon a time a soldier who for many years had

served the king faithfully, but when the war came to an end could

serve no longer because of the many wounds which he had received.

The king said to him: 'You may return to your home, I need you no

longer, and you will not receive any more money, for he only

receives wages who renders me service for them.' Then the soldier

did not know how to earn a living, went away greatly troubled,

and walked the whole day, until in the evening he entered a

forest. When darkness came on, he saw a light, which he went up

to, and came to a house wherein lived a witch. 'Do give me one

night's lodging, and a little to eat and drink,' said he to her,

'or I shall starve.' 'Oho!' she answered, 'who gives anything to

a run-away soldier? Yet will I be compassionate, and take you in,

if you will do what I wish.' 'What do you wish?' said the

soldier.