Ralph and the Pixie

It had been blamed on a local simpleton, the assistant of a travelling peddlar who from his wagon sharpened implements by means of a huge whetstone, which was turned by the simpleton; such menial tasks were all that he was equipped to perform. He had the mental capacity of a six-year-old, many said, but this was untrue. Even a child was possessed of greater and more nimble wit. As well, even the most average child was possessed of far greater intelligence.

But the simpleton was well-known to the local children, and much loved. He spent all his earnings on sweets, which he gave away to the youngest children; those too young to comprehend that he was not a normal adult in every way.

One day, the peddlar chanced to pass Haloch’s home. Haloch’s wife waved and smiled to the fellow, who sent his simpleminded assistant into the home to collect whatever it was the young woman wanted sharpened.

After several long minutes, perhaps fifteen or twenty, when his assistant didn’t reappear, the peddlar began to worry. He went to the door and knocked, but recieved no reply. Instead of entering (the thought could never have entered his head- a man of his station did not enter the home of his betters unless invited) he stopped a passing soldier on horseback, and sought his assistance in the matter.