Friday, April 26, 2024

W is for Wales

"The Castle of Melvales" (1894) by John D. Batten

An Old King and His Three Sons in England

A king fell sick and the only thing that could heal the man was a magic apple. His three sons went in search of it. The youngest, Jack, made it to the enchanted castle with the help of three old Romani brothers who tested his resolve. He finds a Sleeping Beauty in the palace and switches her garter, handkerchief, and watch with his (and kisses her). After escaping the castle, rejuvenating the old men, and arriving at the rendezvous point, he falls asleep. His big bros steal his apples. They trick their father and condemn the youngest prince to execution. The butcher spares him leaves him in the woods. The princess eventually shows up - with an army! - and she exonerates her man before they return to her castle.


Source: Gypsy Folk Tales by Francis Hindes Groome

Tale Type: 551, "The Water of Life"

1 comment:

  1. I think there's a missing word at the beginning.

    How does the princess know that guy was her man? She was sleeping. I don't get the switching of garter, handerchief and watch but that probably should be a clue.

    Have a lovely day.

    ReplyDelete

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