As he went on his way , he continually inquired whether that were the right road to the famous garden . But none of the country people knew anything about the matter , and many looked as if they would have laughed at the question , if the stranger had not carried so very big a club . So he journeyed on and on , still making the same inquiry , until , at last , he came to the brink of a river where some beautiful young women sat twining wreaths of flowers . `` Can you tell me , pretty maidens , '' asked the stranger , `` whether this is the right way to the garden of the Hesperides ? '' The young women had been having a fine time together , weaving the flowers into wreaths , and crowning one another 's heads . And there seemed to be a kind of magic in the touch of their fingers , that made the flowers more fresh and dewy , and of brighter lines , and sweeter fragrance , while they played with them , than even when they had been growing on their native stems . But , on hearing the stranger 's question , they dropped all their flowers on the grass , and gazed at him with astonishment . `` The garden of the Hesperides ! '' cried one . `` We thought mortals had been weary of seeking it , after so many disappointments . And pray , adventurous traveller , what do you want there ? '' `` A certain king , who is my cousin , '' replied he , `` has ordered me to get him three of the golden apples . '' `` Most of the young men who go in quest of these apples , '' observed another of the damsels , `` desire to obtain them for themselves , or to present them to some fair maiden whom they love . Do you , then , love this king , your cousin , so very much ? '' `` Perhaps not , '' replied the stranger , sighing . `` He has often been severe and cruel to me . But it is my destiny to obey him . '' `` And do you know , '' asked the damsel who had first spoken , `` that a terrible dragon , with a hundred heads , keeps watch under the golden apple-tree ? '' `` I know it well , '' answered the stranger , calmly . `` But , from my cradle upwards , it has been my business , and almost my pastime , to deal with serpents and dragons . ''
The young women looked at his massive club , and at the shaggy lion 's skin which he wore , and likewise at his heroic limbs and figure ; and they whispered to each other that the stranger appeared to be one who might reasonably expect XXXXX perform deeds far beyond the might of other men .
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