They sat for two days and two nights in the corn , and grew so hungry that they nearly died ; but if they were to venture out , it was certain death . They said at last , ` What use was it our deserting ? We must perish here miserably . ' Whilst they were speaking a fiery dragon came flying through the air . It hovered near them , and asked why they were hidden there . They answered , ` We are three soldiers , and have deserted because our pay was so small . Now if we remain here we shall die of hunger , and if we move out we shall be strung up on the gallows . ' ` If you will serve me for seven years , ' said the dragon , I will lead you through the midst of the army so that no one shall catch you . ' ` We have no choice , and must take your offer , ' said they . Then the dragon seized them in his claws , took them through the air over the army , and set them down on the earth a long way from it . He gave them a little whip , saying , ` Whip and slash with this , and as much money as you want will jump up before you . You can then live as great lords , keep horses , and drive about in carriages . But after seven years you are mine . ' Then he put a book before them , which he made all three of them sign . ' I will then give you a riddle , ' he said ; ` if you guess it , you shall be free and out of my power . ' The dragon then flew away , and they journeyed on with their little whip . They had as much money as they wanted , wore grand clothes , and made their way into the world . Wherever they went they lived in merrymaking and splendour , drove about with horses and carriages , ate and drank , but did nothing wrong . The time passed quickly away , and when the seven years were nearly ended two of them grew terribly anxious and frightened , but the third made light of it , saying , ` Do n't be afraid , brothers , I was n't born yesterday ; I will guess the riddle . ' They went into a field , sat down , and the two pulled long faces .
An old woman passed by , and XXXXX them why they were so sad .
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