now balna's son was a bright, clever boy, so he said, "do not fear, dear mother; the first thing to do is to discover how far the magician's power extends, in order that we may be able to liberate my father and uncles, whom he has imprisoned in the form of rocks and trees. you have spoken to him angrily for twelve long years; now rather speak kindly. tell him you have given up all hopes of again seeing the husband you have so long mourned, and say you are willing to marry him. then endeavour to find out what his power consists in, and whether he is immortal, or can be put to death."