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Illustration for The Tinderbox

English · Beginner

The Tinderbox

By Hans Christian Andersen

A soldier finds a magical tinderbox that summons three powerful dogs.

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Scene 1

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Illustration for the scene “The soldier meets a witch”

Scene 1 · Beginner

The soldier meets a witch

English

A soldier was walking home along the main road after fighting in a war. He carried a bag on his back and a sword at his side.

English

On the road, he met a frightening old witch. Her lower lip hung down to her chest.

English

“Good evening, soldier,” she said. “You have a fine sword and a big bag. Would you like as much money as you can carry?”

English

“Thank you, old witch,” he said.

English

She pointed to a large tree beside the road. “That tree is empty inside. Climb to the top, and you’ll find a hole. You can go down through it to the ground far below. I’ll tie a rope around you and pull you up when you call.”

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