Then they sat down , and for some time they were too tired even to notice anything ; but by-and-by they saw that under the tiles of the roof a number of swallows were sitting , chattering merrily to each other . Of course the swallows had no idea that the children understood their language , or they would not have talked so freely ; but , as it was , they said whatever came into their heads . ` Good evening , my fine city madam , ' remarked a swallow , whose manners were rather rough and countryfied to another who looked particularly distinguished . ` Happy , indeed , are the eyes that behold you ! Only think of your having returned to your long-forgotten country friends , after you have lived for years in a palace ! ' ' I have inherited this nest from my parents , ' replied the other , ` and as they left it to me I certainly shall make it my home . But , ' she added politely , ' I hope that you and all your family are well ? ' ` Very well indeed , I am glad to say . But my poor daughter had , a short time ago , such bad inflammation in her eyes that she would have gone blind had I not been able to find the magic herb , which cured her at once . ' ` And how is the nightingale singing ? Does the lark soar as high as ever ? And does the linnet dress herself as smartly ? ' But here the country swallow drew herself up . ' I never talk gossip , ' she said severely . ` Our people , who were once so innocent and well-behaved , have been corrupted by the bad examples of men . It is a thousand pities . ' ` What ! innocence and good behaviour are not to be met with among birds , nor in the country ! My dear friend , what are you saying ? ' ` The truth and nothing more .
Imagine , when we returned here , we met some linnets who , just XXXXX the spring and the flowers and the long days had come , were setting out for the north and the cold ?
Of after as at by from in into that to