girl went weeping up the mountain, across the deep snow, and on toward the fire round which were the Twelve Months. Motionless they sat there, and on the highest stone was the great January.
“Men of God, may I warm myself at your fire? 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. At first Marouckla looked in vain for red apples. Then she espied a tree which grew at a great height, and from the branches of this hung the bright, red fruit. September ordered her to gather some quickly. The girl was delighted and shook the tree. First one apple fell, then another.
“That is enough,” said September; “hurry home.”
Thanking the Months she returned joyfully. Helen and the stepmother wondered at seeing the fruit.
“Where did you gather them?” asked the stepsister.
“There are more on the mountain-top,” answered Marouckla.
“Then, why did you not bring more?” said Helen angrily. “You must have eaten them on your way back, you wicked girl.”
“No, dear sister, I have not even tasted them,” said Marouckla. “I shook the tree twice. One apple fell each
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