One island which they visited was divided into four parts by four fences,one of gold, one of silver, one of brass, one of crystal. In the firstdivision there dwelt kings, in the second queens, in the third warriors,and in the fourth maidens. The voyagers landed in the maidens' realm; oneof these came out in a boat and gave them food, such that every one foundin it the taste he liked best; then followed an enchanted drink, whichmade them sleep for three days and three nights. When they awakened theywere in their boat on the sea, and nothing was to be seen either of islandor maidens.The next island had in it a fortress with a brazen door and a bridge ofglass, on which every one who ascended it slipped and fell. A woman camefrom the fortress, pail in hand, drew water from the sea and returned, notanswering them when they spoke. When they reached at last the brazen doorand struck upon it, it made a sweet and soothing sound, and they went tosleep, for three days and nights, as before. On the fourth day a maidencame who was most beautiful; she wore garments of white silk, a whitemantle with a brooch of silver with studs of gold, and a gold band roundher hair. She greeted each man by his name, and said, "It is long that wehave expected you." She took them into the castle and gave them every kindof food they had ever desired.
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