And they told each other in whispers that they could not stay there any longer , but must go into the world and seek their fortunes . So next day they arose as early as the birds and stole downstairs without anybody hearing them . One window was open , and they crept softly out and ran to the side of the river . Then , feeling as if they had found a friend , they walked along its banks , hoping that by-and-by they should meet some one to take care of them . The whole of that day they went steadily on without seeing a living creature , till , in the evening , weary and footsore , they saw before them a small hut . This raised their spirits for a moment ; but the door was shut , and the hut seemed empty , and so great was their disappointment that they almost cried . However , the boy fought down his tears , and said cheerfully : ` Well , at any rate here is a bench where we can sit down , and when we are rested we will think what is best to do next . ' Then they sat down , and for some time they were too tired even to notice anything ; but by-and-by they saw that under the tiles of the roof a number of swallows were sitting , chattering merrily to each other . Of course the swallows had no idea that the children understood their language , or they would not have talked so freely ; but , as it was , they said whatever came into their heads . ` Good evening , my fine city madam , ' remarked a swallow , whose manners were rather rough and countryfied to another who looked particularly distinguished . ` Happy , indeed , are the eyes that behold you ! Only think of your having returned to your long-forgotten country friends , after you have lived for years in a palace ! ' ' I have inherited this nest from my parents , ' replied the other , ` and as they left it to me I certainly shall make it my home . But , ' she added politely , ' I hope that you and all your family are well ? ' ` Very well indeed , I am glad to say . But my poor daughter had , a short time ago , such bad inflammation in her eyes that she would have gone blind had I not been able to find the magic herb , which cured her at once . ' ` And how is the nightingale singing ? Does the lark soar as high as ever ? And does the linnet dress herself as smartly ? ' But here the country swallow drew herself up . '
I never talk gossip , ' she XXXXX severely .
am countryfied go looked ran rested said seeing soar walked