The Woodcutter of Gutech

The ground was uneven, his load heavy, and the weather warm. Still he trudged bravely on, consoling himself by giving forth, in rich full tones, a hymn of Hans Sachs of Nuremburg, the favourite poet of Protestant Germany in those days.

Thus he went on climbing up the steep side of the hill, out of which dark rocks and tall trees protruded in great confusion. At last he got into what looked like a path. ÒAll right now,Ó he said to himself; Òthis must lead somewhere, and I have still an hour of daylight to find my way out of the forest. When I get to the top of this hill I shall probably be better able to judge what direction to take.Ó He trudged on as before, now and then stopping to take breath, and then once more going on bravely. At length the sound of a woodmanÕs axe caught his ear.

ÒAll right,Ó said he. ÒI should not have allowed my heart to doubt about the matter. The Good One who has protected me hitherto will still continue to be my Guide and Friend.Ó