between two high mountains. The stream that turned the great wheel was
so strong and rapid, that its current never ceased the year through.
Even in the hottest summer weather, when all other mills had to stop for
want of water, or in the depth of winter, when other mill-streams were
frozen over, this same mill could go on, ever working, and never
standing still.

For this reason people brought their grain from far and near, even from
the city on the farthest side of the lake which received the waters of
the stream.

Now it came to pass the old miller grew weary of the old mill, and as he
had made a handsome fortune by his industry, he determined to sell it
and go to the city, there to spend his days in a more social way, and of
use to his fellow-men. After having agreed with a purchaser, and
received payment, he delivered the key to him with these words--

"Friend, you have paid me honorably, and I must give you a bit of good
advice into the bargain. You may be visited sometimes by strange persons
of very small stature, who will ask favors of you. Follow my counsel,
and oblige them in what they request. You will find it for your good in
doing so." Then the old miller bade him good-by, and went his way.

The new miller took possession of the place, with his wife and only
child, whose name was Tony.

[Illustration]

Now Tony was a good boy, but very fond of playing, and in the winter
season nothing delighted him more than to go a skating with the