The Greedy Old Woman

An old man and an old woman lived in a little cottage. One day, the old man went to gather firewood and raised his axe over an ancient tree. The tree rustled,…

An old man and an old woman lived in a little cottage. One day, the old man went to gather firewood and raised his axe over an ancient tree. The tree rustled, “Do not cut me down. Tell me what you truly need.” The old man asked for dry branches, a sturdy roof, and a store of grain. The tree granted his request. The old man thanked it and put away his axe, and their home became warm and well supplied with food.

Before long, the old woman decided that this was not enough. She wished for a large house, full granaries, and fine clothes. The old man returned to the tree, but he left his axe at home. The tree sighed and gave them what they asked for, requesting in return that they care for the forest stream. Copper lanterns gleamed by the gate. The old woman rejoiced at the gifts, but she did not go to thank the tree.

A month later, she wanted everyone to call her first a lady, then a general’s wife, and then a tsarina. With each new wish, more gates, towers, and important duties appeared around the house. The old man spent all day considering the neighbors’ requests, while the old woman grew tired of watching over the chests. No quiet remained in the house at all. Yet she still could not stop.

At last, the old woman demanded that they be made masters of the entire forest. “Would you like to learn what that is like?” the tree asked. They both agreed and were turned into bears for one day. Their bear paws proved strong and careful. They saw the dried-up stream and the frightened birds and animals whose paths were blocked by the new gates. Instead of giving orders, the bears cleared the waterway and moved the fences aside.

By evening, the tree restored their human forms. The old woman asked to keep only their warm home and the supplies they needed, and she gave the extra things to their neighbors. The old man repaired the little bridge over the stream, and together they planted young rowan trees beside the ancient tree. From then on, the old woman first asked herself what was enough, and only then made a wish.