Page 15 - Il Gatto Mammone
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remedy for this. I will teach you how to behave
with the fairies, just listen to me. First though
take a good look at me; what is there on my head
that itches so much?” The old man hung his head
low and Caterina looked over it with care; then
she said, "Here I see just gold and pearls." The
old man merrily replied, "Then you too will get
gold and pearls. But first, listen to me and obey
my instructions. When you get to the door of the
fairies, knock politely; and if they say, 'drive a
finger into the keyhole', put in a small stick. They
will break it off. Then when they open the door,
they will lead you straight to a room, where
many cats will be sitting. One of them is cooking,
another spinning, and another knitting; you will
see them all busy at their tasks. Help them
without waiting for any request and ______
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