Waska , my faithful little cat , is that you ? ' replied a weak voice . ' I am dying of hunger . For three days I have not tasted food . ' ` Be of good heart , dear master , ' replied Waska ; ` from this day forth you will know nothing but happiness and prosperity . If this were a moment to trouble you with riddles , I would make you guess what Schurka and I have brought you back . Only think , we have got you your ring ! ' At these words Martin 's joy knew no bounds , and he stroked her fondly , and she rubbed up against him and purred happily , while below Schurka bounded in the air , and barked joyfully . Then Martin took the ring , and threw it from one hand into the other , and instantly the twelve youths appeared and asked what they were to do . ` Fetch me first something to eat and drink , as quickly as possible ; and after that bring musicians hither , and let us have music all day long . ' Now when the people in the town and palace heard music coming from the tower they were filled with amazement , and came to the King with the news that witchcraft must be going on in Martin 's Tower , for , instead of dying of starvation , he was seemingly making merry to the sound of music , and to the clatter of plates , and glass , and knives and forks ; and the music was so enchantingly sweet that all the passers-by stood still to listen to it . On this the King sent at once a messenger to the Starvation Tower , and he was so astonished with what he saw that he remained rooted to the spot . Then the King sent his chief counsellors , and they too were transfixed with wonder . At last the King came himself , and he likewise was spellbound by the beauty of the music . Then Martin summoned the twelve youths , spoke to them , saying , ` Build up my castle again , and join it to the King 's Palace with a crystal bridge ; do not forget the trees with the golden and silver apples , and with the birds of Paradise in the branches ; and put back the church with the five cupolas , and let the bells ring out , summoning the people from the four corners of the kingdom . And one thing more : bring back my faithless wife , and lead her into the women 's chamber . ' And it was all done as he commanded , and , leaving the Starvation Tower , he took the King , his father-in-law , by the arm , and led him into the new palace , where the Princess sat in fear and trembling , awaiting her death . And Martin spoke to the King , saying , ` King and royal father , I have suffered much at the hands of your daughter . What punishment shall be dealt to her ? ' Then the mild King answered : ` Beloved Prince and son-in-law , if you love me , let your anger be turned to grace -- forgive my daughter , and restore her to your heart and favour . '
And Martin 's heart was softened and he forgave his XXXXX , and they lived happily together ever after .
air castle daughter day faithful father grace musicians thing wife