TED Hans Rolsing and the magic washing machine 中文 文本 字幕
希腊神话英语作文

Greek mythology is an intricate and fascinating system of stories that have been passed down through generations,and they continue to captivate audiences today.It is a collection of tales that explain the origins of the world,the gods,heroes,and the natural phenomena.Here is an essay on Greek mythology that delves into its rich tapestry of narratives.Introduction to Greek MythologyGreek mythology,a cornerstone of Western literature and art,originated in ancient Greece and has been a significant influence on Western culture.It is a set of stories that were used to explain the world and its mysteries,from the creation of the universe to the behavior of natural forces.The Olympian GodsAt the heart of Greek mythology are the twelve Olympian gods and goddesses,who resided on Mount Olympus.These deities,led by Zeus,the king of the gods,were worshipped and revered by the ancient Greeks.Each god had a specific domain,such as Athena for wisdom,Apollo for the sun and music,and Aphrodite for love and beauty. Creation MythsGreek creation myths describe the birth of the universe and the first gods.According to Hesiods Theogony,Chaos was the first to exist,and from Chaos emerged Gaia Earth, Tartarus the Underworld,and Eros Love.Gaia gave birth to Uranus Sky,and together they produced the first generation of gods,the Titans.Heroes and Their AdventuresGreek mythology is also replete with stories of heroes,such as Hercules,Theseus,and Perseus.These heroes often embarked on epic quests,facing trials and tribulations that tested their courage,intelligence,and moral fortitude.Hercules,for instance,was tasked with completing the Twelve Labors as penance for a terrible crime,while Theseus navigated the labyrinth to slay the Minotaur.The Trojan WarOne of the most famous stories in Greek mythology is the Trojan War,which was sparked by the abduction of Helen,the face that launched a thousand ships.The war is recounted in Homers epic poems,the Iliad and the Odyssey.The story of the war and itsaftermath is filled with tales of valor,betrayal,and divine intervention.Mortal and Divine RelationshipsGreek myths often explore the complex relationships between mortals and deities.Gods could be capricious,intervening in human affairs for their own amusement or to further their own ends.The story of Orpheus and Eurydice,for example,shows the tragic consequences of a mortals love for a god and their attempt to defy the natural order.Moral Lessons and Cultural SignificanceGreek myths are not just entertaining stories they also serve as cautionary tales and convey moral lessons.They reflect the values and beliefs of ancient Greek society,such as the importance of hospitality,the dangers of hubris excessive pride,and the inevitability of fate.ConclusionGreek mythology continues to be a rich source of inspiration for artists,writers,and filmmakers.Its stories have been adapted and reinterpreted in countless ways, demonstrating their timeless appeal and relevance.Whether its the drama of the gods on Olympus,the bravery of legendary heroes,or the moral dilemmas faced by mortals, Greek mythology offers a window into the human condition and the enduring power of storytelling.。
《哈利波特与火焰杯》第11章《登上霍格沃茨特快列车》中英文对照学习版

中英文对照学习版Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire《哈利波特与火焰杯》Chapter ElevenAboard the Hogwarts Express第11章登上霍格沃茨特快列车There was a d efinite end-of-the-holidays gl oom in the air when Harry awoke next morning. Heavy rain was still splattering against the wind ow as he got dressed in jeans and a sweatshirt; they woul d change into their school robes on the Hogwarts Express.第二天早晨,哈利醒来时,家里明显笼罩着一种假期结束的沉闷气氛。
大雨仍然啪啪地敲打着窗户,他穿上牛仔裤和一件运动衫。
他们要在霍格沃茨特快列车上再换上校袍。
He, Ron, Fred and George had just reached the first-fl oor landing on their way d own to breakfast, when Mrs Weasl ey appeared at the foot of the stairs, l ooking harassed.他、罗恩、弗雷德和乔治下楼吃早饭,刚走到二楼的拐弯处,就见韦斯莱夫人突然出现在楼梯底下,一副心烦意乱的样子。
‘A rthur!’she call ed up the staircase, ‘A rthur! Urgent message from the Ministry!’“亚瑟!”她冲着楼上喊道,“亚瑟!魔法部有紧急口信!”Harry flattened himself against the wall as Mr Weasl ey came clattering past with his robes on back-to-front, and hurtled out of sight. When Harry and the others entered the kitchen, they saw Mrs Weasley rummaging anxiously in the dresser drawers - ‘I’ve got a quill here somewhere!’- and Mr Weasl ey bending over the fire, talking to -哈利紧贴在墙上,韦斯莱先生噔噔噔地从他身边跑过,一眨眼就不见了,他的长袍前后都穿反了。
典范英语性格魔水读后感

典范英语性格魔水读后感英文回答:As a transformative self-help guide, "The Paradigm English Character Elixir" offers an in-depth exploration of the intricate interplay between language, personality, and success. Its pages are brimming with practical insights, thought-provoking exercises, and real-life examples that illuminate the power of words to shape our identities and alter our circumstances.One of the book's central tenets is that language is not merely a neutral tool of communication but rather a transformative force that can profoundly impact our self-perception and behavior. Through a combination oflinguistic analysis, personal anecdotes, and scientific research, the author demonstrates how the words we use can influence our thoughts, feelings, and actions.The book places particular emphasis on the importanceof developing a "success vocabulary," a lexicon of powerful and empowering words that can help us cultivate a positive mindset and attract desirable outcomes. The author provides numerous exercises and techniques to help readers expand their vocabulary and incorporate these words into theirdaily speech.Another key concept introduced in the book is thenotion of "character archetypes," which are universal personality traits that can be expressed through language. The author identifies eight distinct archetypes, each with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. By understanding our own dominant archetype, we can gain valuable insights into our motivations, values, and areas for growth."The Paradigm English Character Elixir" also underscores the importance of authenticity in communication. The author argues that true success and fulfillment canonly be achieved when we express our genuine selves through our words and actions. This involves embracing our true values, speaking our truths, and refusing to conform to societal expectations that stifle our individuality.Moreover, the book emphasizes the power of positive affirmations, which are deliberate statements that we repeat to ourselves to reinforce our desired qualities and beliefs. The author provides a wealth of examples of affirmations that can help readers build self-esteem, overcome negative thoughts, and manifest their goals.Overall, "The Paradigm English Character Elixir" is a comprehensive and actionable guide that empowers readers to transform their lives through the transformative power of language. By cultivating a success vocabulary, understanding their character archetype, embracing authenticity, and practicing positive affirmations, individuals can unlock their potential and achieve lasting success in all areas of their lives.中文回答:《典范英语性格魔水》是一本具有变革意义的自助指南,深入探索了语言、个性和成功之间的复杂相互关系。
哈利波特 主题曲英文

哈利波特主题曲英文Title: The Enchanting Melody of the Harry Potter Theme SongThe Harry Potter series has captivated millions of fans worldwide with its magical storytelling and vivid portrayal of the wizarding world. Alongside its compelling plot and beloved characters, the series is also renowned for its iconic theme song. Composed by John Williams for the first film, the Harry Potter theme song has become an emblem of the wizarding universe, summoning feelings of excitement, wonder, and nostalgia among fans of all ages.The Harry Potter theme song, also known as "Hedwig's Theme," instantly transports viewers into the mystical world of witches and wizards. With its hauntingly beautiful melody and sweeping orchestration, the song serves as a musical gateway to the enchanting realm of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.Featuring a distinctive four-note motif, the theme begins with a sense of mystery and grandeur, immediately setting the tone for the magical adventures that lie ahead. The use of soaring strings and powerful brass instruments further enhances the song's magical essence, creating an atmosphere that is both awe-inspiring and fantastical.The theme song's timeless appeal lies not only in its melodic brilliance but also in its ability to evoke emotions and memories. As soon as the first notes are heard, fans of the series are transported back to the first time they stepped into Diagon Alley, witnessed a Quidditch match, or joined Harryand his friends on a perilous mission. The song acts as a sonic time capsule, preserving the wonder and excitement of the Harry Potter universe.Moreover, the Harry Potter theme song has permeated popular culture, transcending the boundaries of the film series. Recognizable to people of all ages, even those who have not seen the movies, the theme has become synonymous with the magic and adventure that the Harry Potter franchise embodies. It has been performed at countless concerts, parodies, and even incorporated into various forms of media, cementing its place in the hearts and minds of fans worldwide.The enduring popularity and impact of the Harry Potter theme song can be attributed to the masterful composition and musicianship of John Williams. A renowned composer known for his iconic scores in films such as Star Wars, Jurassic Park, and Jaws, Williams perfectly captured the essence of J.K. Rowling's wizarding world with his enchanting melody. His ability to create music that resonates with people on such a deep level is a testament to his extraordinary talent and understanding of the power of music in storytelling.In conclusion, the Harry Potter theme song is a musical masterpiece that has left an indelible mark on the hearts of fans across the globe. Its enchanting melody, sweeping orchestration, and timeless appeal serve as a testament to the magical world crafted by J.K. Rowling and the artistic brilliance of John Williams. Whether it's igniting a sense of excitement, stirring feelings of nostalgia, or simply reminding us of the wonder of the wizarding universe, this iconic theme song continues to captivate audiences and transport them into the spellbinding world of Harry Potter.。
The Enchanted Mirror

The Enchanted MirrorOnce upon a time, in the mystical kingdom of Eldoria, where whispers of magic flowed through the air like a gentle breeze, there existed a peculiar mirror with extraordinary powers. This mirror, known as the Celestial Looking Glass, was said to reveal the true essence of one's heart and grant a glimpse into the enchanting realms beyond reality.Princess Seraphina, a curious and kind-hearted royal, had always been intrigued by the legends surrounding the Celestial Looking Glass. It was said that the mirror could transport those who gazed into it to realms of wonder and mystery, unlocking the doorways to fantastical adventures.One shimmering night, under the silvery glow of the Eldorian moon, Princess Seraphina discovered the Celestial Looking Glass hidden in the deepest chambers of the royal palace. As she approached the mirror, a soft hum emanated from its ornate frame, inviting her to peer into its magical depths.With a mix of excitement and trepidation, Princess Seraphina gazed into the Celestial Looking Glass. The surface rippled like liquid moonlight, and soon, an ethereal doorway emerged, revealing a breathtaking world filled with floating islands, vibrant creatures, and castles made of stardust.Without hesitation, Princess Seraphina stepped through the mirror and found herself in a realm known as the Astral Archipelago. The air sparkled with the glow of enchanted fireflies, and the landscapes shifted like dreams brought to life. Seraphina marveled at the beauty surrounding her, her heart brimming with awe.As she explored the Astral Archipelago, Princess Seraphina encountered whimsical beings – luminous pixies, wise talking trees, and gentle moonlit creatures. Each encounter unveiled a new layer of the enchanted realm, and Seraphina's heart danced with joy at the magic that unfolded before her.In her quest through the Astral Archipelago, Princess Seraphina discovered a celestial key, a shimmering gem that held the power to unlock the secrets of the Celestial Looking Glass. Guided by the advice of a starry oracle, Seraphina returned to Eldoria, eager to unlock the mirror's full potential.As Princess Seraphina held the celestial key before the Celestial Looking Glass, the mirror responded with a radiant glow. The ornate frame transformed into a portal, revealing the true magic that lay within. With a courageous heart, Seraphina stepped through the mirror once more, this time unlocking the ability to weave her dreams into reality.Princess Seraphina, now a master of the Celestial Looking Glass,shared the magic with the people of Eldoria. Together, they embarked on fantastical journeys, exploring the realms beyond the mirror and discovering the boundless wonders that existed in the tapestry of dreams.The enchanted mirror became a cherished artifact in Eldoria, a symbol of the kingdom's connection to the magical realms beyond. Princess Seraphina, the guardian of the Celestial Looking Glass, ruled with wisdom and kindness, ensuring that the people of Eldoria continued to find inspiration and joy in the realms of enchantment.And so, the tale of Princess Seraphina and the Celestial Looking Glass became a legendary story in Eldoria, a reminder that within the heart of every dreamer lies the power to transform fantasy into reality and to unlock the wonders hidden within the mirrors of imagination.。
典范英语性格魔水读后感

典范英语性格魔水读后感I recently finished reading "The Picture of Dorian Gray" by Oscar Wilde, and I must say it left a lasting impression on me. 近来我读完了奥斯卡·王尔德的《道林·格雷的画像》,我必须说它给我留下了深刻的印象。
The novel delves into the concept of vanity, self-indulgence, and the destructive nature of pursuing external beauty at all costs. 小说深入探讨了虚荣、自我放纵以及追求外在美所带来的破坏性。
Dorian Gray, the main character, starts off as a young, innocent man who is corrupted by his desire to remain youthful and beautiful forever. 道林·格雷,主人公,在小说开始时是一个年轻天真的男子,却因渴望永保青春美貌而堕落。
The painting that ages in his place serves as a physical representation of his moral decay, while he remains untouched and unchanged by his hedonistic lifestyle. 他的代替掉面貌的画像象征着他道德的腐化,而他却因纵欲的生活方式而保持不变。
As Dorian becomes more consumed by his obsession with beauty and pleasure, he loses his humanity and descends into a world of sin and debauchery. 随着道林越来越沉湎于对美和快乐的迷恋,他失去了自己的人性,陷入了罪恶和放荡的世界。
edelweiss edelweiss 英文儿歌

edelweiss edelweiss 英文儿歌Edelweiss, Edelweiss, a beloved song that has captured the hearts of many across the globe. This enchanting melody, with its gentle serenade and captivating lyrics, has become a symbol of the majestic Swiss Alps, a testament to the enduring beauty of nature and the human spirit.The story of Edelweiss begins high in the rugged mountain ranges, where the delicate white flowers of the same name bloom in the harsh yet breathtaking environment. These resilient plants, with their star-like petals and velvety texture, have long been revered for their resilience and symbolic significance. They have become a cherished emblem of the Swiss Alps, representing the strength and resilience of the people who call these mountains home.The song Edelweiss, which was first introduced in the beloved musical The Sound of Music, has since become a beloved classic, transcending its origins to become a global phenomenon. The lyrics, with their poetic descriptions of the flower's beauty and the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Swiss Alps, have resonated with audiences worldwide, capturing the essence of the region's natural splendor and the timeless human connection to the natural world.The melody itself is a masterpiece of simplicity and elegance, with a soothing, lullaby-like quality that evokes a sense of peace and tranquility. The gentle rise and fall of the notes, coupled with the tender harmonies, create a musical tapestry that is both captivating and comforting, transporting the listener to the serene alpine meadows where the Edelweiss blooms.But the significance of Edelweiss extends far beyond its musical charm. The flower has long been a symbol of resilience, courage, and the indomitable spirit of the Swiss people. In the harsh, unforgiving environment of the Alps, the Edelweiss has managed to thrive, its delicate petals a testament to the power of nature to overcome adversity.This spirit of resilience is reflected in the song's lyrics, which speak of the flower's ability to withstand the harsh winds and the unforgiving elements of the mountain landscape. The lyrics also convey a sense of reverence and respect for the natural world, reminding us of the importance of preserving and protecting the fragile ecosystems that sustain us.Beyond its symbolic significance, the song Edelweiss has also become a beloved part of the cultural heritage of Switzerland and the broader Alpine region. It is a song that is often sung at specialevents, celebrations, and gatherings, a shared experience that brings people together and reinforces the sense of community and connection that is so integral to the Swiss identity.In recent years, the song has also gained a new level of global recognition, with its melodic beauty and poetic lyrics resonating with audiences around the world. It has become a beloved standard in the repertoire of choirs, orchestras, and musical ensembles, a testament to the enduring power of this timeless classic.As we reflect on the legacy of Edelweiss, we are reminded of the enduring beauty and resilience of the natural world, and the ways in which art and music can serve as a bridge between cultures and communities. Whether we are listening to the soothing strains of the song or marveling at the delicate petals of the Edelweiss flower, we are reminded of the power of nature to inspire, to heal, and to bring us together in a shared appreciation of the wonders of the world around us.。
英语故事-The Magic Mirror

英语故事The Magic MirrorOnce upon a time, in years long past, there lived a king of great renown and very rich. He had more money and gems than ten kings taken together.Because he was so rich the king took it into his head that he would never grow old. But this was not to be: old age comes to all, rich or poor. The king was much put out about this. How could such a thing be? Was there no difference between him and the last beggar in his kingdom? He was as rich as ten kings taken together, but his hair was turning white and falling out just the same.“That is not the way things should be,” the king decided and he summoned his sons to his side.Now, he had three sons but he only summoned the two older ones, for his youngest son was a simple soul who was mocked at and called a fool by his brothers. But so good-natured was he that he never took offence at this.The two sons came at his bidding, and the king saidto them:“When I was a child I heard that there was a magic mirror somewhere on earth in which one had only to look to turn young again. I will give half my kingdom to whichever of you brings me this mirror. Find it for me, and you will make me happy and yourselves, too. Prepare to set off at once and take with you whatever you need.”The sons were overjoyed and asked the king to give them a coach and six horses and a whole sack of gold besides.The king gave them all they asked for, and the sons saddled the horses, put the sack of gold in the coach and called the coachman. Then they got into the coach and set off on their journey.The youngest son learned of this and he came to his father and asked to be sent in search of the magic mirror. too.Said the king, laughing:“Where would a fool like you go? Your foolishness will be the end of you. Better go and take a walk, your brothers will do well enough without you.”But the fool was very hurt at being thought too young and foolish to join his brothers and would not be put off.“Oh, very well!” the king finally agreed. “Letit be as you ask. Only don’t think that I’ll trust you with six horses and a sack of gold. Go as you are, and if you get into trouble blame yourself.”But the fool was very pleased, for it was enough for him that he had been allowed to go.He counted his money and found that he had only ten thalers, which meant that, however much he wanted to, he could not buy himself a good horse. In the end, all he could get was a very old and run-down grey nag.The fool got on the nag’s back and set off. The nag dragged painfully along, going into a jog-trot now and then,but this did not trouble the fool, for, thought he, I am on my way, so what more do I need!Toward evening he rode up to a large inn. A coach and six stood at its door.“This means my brothers are here!” said he to himself. “I’ll go in and find them and perhaps they will take me with them.”He tethered his nag and came into the inn and when his brothers saw him they burst out laughing.“Where are you off to?” asked they.“I want to find the magic mirror,” said the fool.“Take me with you and we’ll be all the gayer for it.”“Go away, fool! If anything happens to you we’ll be the ones to answer for it.”Now, this made the fool feel very bad indeed. He left the inn, got on the nag’s back again and rode on.And the two older brothers stayed in the inn and would go no further in search of the mirror.“The wolves will eat up the fool together with his grey nag!” laughed they. “A fine mirror he’ll get then.”On and on rode the fool and at last he came to a great leafy forest. He was about to ride round it when he saw a narrow little path leading into it. This he decided to follow, for,thought he, it is in a forest that one always finds things.The whole day long he rode, and, feeling bored and lonely, broke a branch off a tree and cut out a little pipe for himself.He rode for a day, he rode for a second day, and on the third day he reached a small glade in which, beneath a mighty oak, stood a poor. little hut.Wanting to come into the hut, he decided to ride up closer, but before he could do so, a grey little old woman came out on to the porch.“Well, well! Someone to see me at last!” said she. ‘I saw the forest die and rot away and another grow up,so long have I been here. but not once in all this time did I see living soul. What brings you here?““I am looking for a mirror, Grandma,” the fool explained. “Not an ordinary one mind, but a magic one, in which one has only to look to turn young again. And as my father does not want to grow old, he sent me in search of it. Do you know where I can find it. Grandma?”“No. my son, I don’t, this is the first I hear of such a mirror. But I have a sister who is even older than I am and she may know something about it. Why don’t you go to see her? It will take you three days to get to her house.”The fool thanked her and rode on and in three days’time he reached the house of the old woman’s older sister. And was she surprised to see him!“What brings you here?” asked she.The fool told her about the mirror and asked where it was to be found.“That is something I can’t tell you,” said the old woman. “I heard about some such thing in my youth, but where it is I don’t know. But perhaps my older sister knows.She is the wisest and the oldest of’the three of us. Why don’t you go to see her? It will take you three days to get to her house.”The fool thanked her and rode on and in three day’s time he reached the house of the oldest of the old women. And she was more surprised to see him than any of them!“What brings you here?” asked she.The fool told her about the mirror and asked where it was to be found.“That is something I can’t tell you,” said the old woman. “I heard about some such thing in my youth, but where it is I don’t know. But perhaps one of my servants knows. You’d better get off your horse and come into my house.”The fool came into the hut and it was so bright and clean there that he was fairly dazzled.The old woman took a long, carved whistle from a shelf and came out on to the porch with it. She blew hard once,and lo! - the whole forest came alive and rustled as if the grass were being trod by many, many feet. The fool looked out of the window and saw that all the beasts of the forest had gathered by the hut.The old woman talked to them and came back to herguest again.“No, my forest servants know nothing about the mirror,” said she. “I’ll call my other servants――perhaps they have heard something about it.”And she took another carved whistle from the shelf,and, coming out on to the porch again, blew even harder than before.And again a rustling began in the forest-only it was not the grass that rustled this time but the branches, making a sound like the arms of many windmills whirling round and round. The fool looked out of the window and saw that all the birds of the air had flocked to the hut.The old woman talked to them and came back to her guest again.“No,” said she,“these servants of mine know no more than the first. But I have one other servant, the wisest of them all. If he has not heard of the mirror, then that means that no such thing exists.”The old woman took a third carved whistle from the shelf and led the way to the porch.“‘You can hear for yourself what the wisest of my servants has to say,” said she. And she blew so hard that thefool’s ears felt stopped up.And now there came a rumbling sound and so loud was it that it seemed as if a storm were passing over the forest.A large two-headed hawk came down on to the glade,and, perching on a stone, asked with a wave of his wings:“What is it -the Mother of the Forest wishes?”“I wish to know where the magic mirror is found,”said the old woman.“I can tell you where,” the hawk replied,“but it won’t do you any good, for no man can ever hope to reach it. It is hidden in the chamber of a princess who lives on an island in the middle of the sea, and so high are the rocks that surround the island that no ship can put in to shore.”“What a man cannot do, you can,” said the old woman. “Put this guest of mine on your back and carry him to the island!”The hawk spread out his wings, the fool got on his back and up they soared to the sky.For nine days and nine nights they flew and at last they reached the island in the middle of the sea.Said the hawk:“When night comes you will go into the castle andsteal the mirror from the princess. But mind you don’t stay there too long or it’ll be the end of us. The princess keeps the mirror at the head of her bed. Don’t be afraid of waking her. She sleeps so soundly, at midnight that she would not awake even if you were to ride into her bed-chamber on horseback. Just seize the mirror and run!”The hawk plucked out two feathers from his tail with his beak and said to the fool again:“When you reach the gate you will see two bears. Throw each of them a feather and you’ll be able to pass by.”The fool took the feathers and went to the castle.The bears saw him and at once reared up on their hind paws. But the fool quickly threw them the feathers and the bears snatched them up and fell asleep.The fool now came into the castle,and though everyone in it seemed to be sleeping, it was as light there as on the sunniest day and it did not take him long to find the princess. He took the magic mirror from under the pillow,thrust it in his bosom and was about to slip out when he saw a table set with food and drink.“There’s time enough to run away,” thought he. “I’ll eat first.”And he set to and began to eat with great gusto.Said he to himself when he had gorged himself and could eat and drink no more:“I wonder what the princess is like. I think I’d better take a look!He came up to the bed and so lovely was the princess that he could not get his fill gazing at her! And on her finger there shone, bright as the sun, a most beautiful ring! The fool could not stop himself but took it off very gently and,this done, made off at it run for the gate.The hawk was so angry at his long absence that he seized him by his caftan with his beak and soared up into the air. The bears were awake and they started up and rushed,growling, at the hawk but he was high overhead by then and out of their reach.They flew over the sea and the hawk dropped down,dipped the fool in the water to his knees and rose up again.A little farther on he dropped down a second time and dipped the fool in the water to his chest, and then, again,to his neck. The fool was terribly frightened and yelled and screamed in a frenzied voice every time. After a while he came to a little and asked of the hawk:“What did you dip me in the sea like that for? Why,my heart was in my shoes I was so frightened. That is no way to joke.”“Let it be a lesson to you,” said the hawk. “Now you’ll know what it was I went through waiting at the gate while you dawdled in the castle. You were frightened when I dipped you in the water to your knees. Well, so had I been when you were looking over the princess’s bed-chamber and the bears lifted their heads. You were frightened when I dipped you in the water to your chest. Well, so had I been when you started eating and the bears sat up. You were frightened when I dipped you in the water to your neck. Well,so had I been-badly so-when you began to take off the ring from the princess’s finger and the bears reared up on their hind legs. Why, had the princess wakened, they’d have torn me to pieces and don’t think you’d have escaped alive, either!”“Thank God she did not wake!” the fool thought.They flew to the house of the oldest of the old women and showed her the mirror, and the old woman said:“I have no use for it, I am much too old for it to do me any good. But you may have need of these.”And she gave the fool three switches.“Just wave these switches,” said she,“and your every wish will come true.”The fool thanked her, got on the back of his old nag again and rode off. He came to the house of the second old woman and showed her the mirror.“I have no use for it, I am much too old for it to do me any good,” said the old woman. “But you may have need of this.”And she gave the fool a little bag.“If you have nothing to eat, undo this bag,” said she,“and loaves of bread will come spilling out of it.”The fool thanked her, said goodbye and rode on again.He came to the house of the youngest of the old women and showed her the mirror, and she said:“I have no use for it, I am much too old for it to do me any good! But you may have need of these.”And she gave him a pair of scissors.“If your clothes wear out,” said she,“just click these scissors.”The fool thanked her, said goodbye and rode on.He rode up, to the selfsame inn and saw that thecoach and six stood by it just as before.“I’ll go in and find my brothers,” said the fool to himself and he came into the inn.His brothers saw him and said:“Well, have you found the mirror?”“So I have!” the fool replied.The brothers then began to ply him with food and drink, and, when he was quite drunk, said:“Come, fool, show us the mirror! What if it isn’t a magic mirror after all?“Oh, yes it is!” said the fool and he brought out the mirror. The brothers looked in it and saw that it was indeed a magic mirror.“A treasure if there ever was one!” said they. “You don’t need it, we’ll take it for ourselves.”And taking the mirror, they went off with it.“Now haven’t we been lucky!” said they. “But don’t try to give us away, fool, or we’ll give you a drubbing you won’t forget.”They came to their father and gave him the mirror and the moment he looked in it he turned young again.“What fine clever fellows you are!” said he. “Here,take half my kingdom, for that is what I promised you.”Now the fool came running and he wept and sobbed.“It was I who found the mirror,” said he. “My older brothers took it away from me! They stayed in the inn and never went anywhere at all.”“What a fool you are!” said his father.“A fool like that should not be allowed to live!”said the older brothers. “Have him put to death!”The fool tried to explain how he had found the mirror and how he had flown on the hawk’s back, but this only made the king angrier than ever.“Take him to the seashore,” said he to his older sons,“put him in a boat with no oars in it and push the boat into the sea.”The brothers seized the fool, put him in a boat with no oars in it and pushed it into the sea.“The hawk will help you!” cried they, laughing.The wind sent the fool’s boat out into the open sea and the waves tossed it about for a long time till at last they flung it on to some rocks. The fool looked to all sides of him and saw that he was on an island in the middle of the sea.“My end has come,” thought he. “To find myselfon a desert island, of all places! I’d better try to drag lie boat on to the shore at least.”He tried dragging the boat but found that this was more than he could do, for something that lay in his bosom was hindering him.He thrust his hand in his shirt, and lo! found the three switches that the oldest of the old women had given him.“I forgot all about the old women’s gifts!” thought he. “Now we’ll see if they are truly magic gifts.”He took the switches, waved them once and said:“Let a town grow up here and let there be many,many people in it!”And no sooner were the words out of his mouth than a town rose up from out of the ground and, as if out of thin air, many, many people appeared, naked the day they were born the poor things!The fool took out the scissors, clicked them once and then again and said:“Come, now, scissors, dress the townsfolk!”And at once many carts loaded with clothing drove up. All the townsfolk had to do was to come up and dress themselves!But this was not the end of it, for there was nothing for them to eat.The fool got out his bag and untied it and at once loaves of bread came spilling out of it, one after another,enough for ten kingdoms!The fool became king on the island and all the islanders were well pleased with him, which was only natural,for thanks to the switches, the scissors and the bag they never lacked for anything.One fine day the young king was out taking a stroll on the sea-shore when he saw a ship far out at sea.“Quick. now, where is my boat?” asked he.A boat was brought him and he got into it and rowed up to the ship.No sooner was he near her than he saw a princess on board, the very same one from whom he had stolen the magic mirror.The king greeted the princess and invited her to visit his kingdom.“Thank you, but I can’t come with you,” said the princess. “I must sail on. My magic mirror has been stolen from me, you see, and so has my golden ring. And whoever hasmy ring is the one I must marry. And what if he turns out to be an old man in his dotage or a wicked magician or some such monster? With my magic mirror to help him he’ll live another hundred years and never rest till he finds me. But he won’t think to look for me at sea, so that’s why I have decided to live out the rest of my life sailing the seas.”At this the king took her ring off his finger and gave it to the princess, and the princess was overjoyed, for wasn’t her husband-to-be young, handsome, and a king besides!They stepped out on to the shore, and all who saw them greeted them joyously.Soon afterwards the king and the princess were married and their wedding was celebrated in grand style, the townsfolk feasting and making merry for many a month on end.As for the magic mirror, it was lost and has not been found to this day.。