So she went straight to the stables where the most beautiful horses in the empire were feeding in the stalls , but none of them seemed quite what she wanted . Almost in despair she reached the last box of all , which was occupied by her father 's ancient war-horse , old and worn like himself , stretched sadly out on the straw . The girl 's eyes filled with tears , and she stood gazing at him . The horse lifted his head , gave a little neigh , and said softly , ` You look gentle and pitiful , but I know it is your love for your father which makes you tender to me . Ah , what a warrior he was , and what good times we shared together ! But now I too have grown old , and my master has forgotten me , and there is no reason to care whether my coat is dull or shining . Yet , it is not too late , and if I were properly tended , in a week I could vie with any horse in the stables ! ' ` And how should you be tended ? ' asked the girl . ' I must be rubbed down morning and evening with rain water , my barley must be boiled in milk , because of my bad teeth , and my feet must be washed in oil . ' ' I should like to try the treatment , as you might help me in carrying out my scheme . ' ` Try it then , mistress , and I promise you will never repent . ' So in a week 's time the horse woke up one morning with a sudden shiver through all his limbs ; and when it had passed away , he found his skin shining like a mirror , his body as fat as a water melon , his movement light as a chamois . Then looking at the princess who had come early to the stable , he said joyfully , ` May success await on the steps of my master 's daughter , for she has given me back my life . Tell me what I can do for you , princess , and I will do it . ' ' I want to go to the emperor who is our over-lord , and I have no one to advise me . Which of all the white-headed boyards shall I choose as counsellor ? ' ` If you have me , you need no one else : I will serve you as I served your father , if you will only listen to what I say . ' ' I will listen to everything . Can you start in three days ? '
` This moment , if you like , ' XXXXX the horse .
await forgotten found look makes passed promise reached said shining