The winter cold chills me,'' said she, drawing
near.

The great January raised his head. ``Why comest
thou here? What does thou seek?'' asked he.

``I am come to look for red apples,'' replied
Marouckla.

``But this is winter, and not the season for red
apples,'' observed the great January.

``I know,'' answered the girl, ``but my sister
and stepmother sent me to fetch red apples from
the mountain. If I return without them they will
kill me.''

Thereupon the great January arose and went
over to one of the elderly Months, to whom he
handed the wand saying:--

``Brother September, do thou take the highest
place.''

September moved to the highest stone, and
waved his wand over the fire. There was a flare
of red flames, the snow disappeared, but the fading
leaves which trembled on the trees were sent
by a cold northeast wind in yellow masses to the
glade. Only a few flowers of autumn were visible.