The town is preparing for an election, and all the people have gathered in the marketplace. At the appointed hour, I am released from my cage, and it is my job to appoint the new ruler by lighting on his shoulder.

I need only circle once over the heads of the crowd before the matter is settled, for only one man here knows the language of birds.

He was not expecting to be appointed, but as the great crowd conducts us to the Governor’s house, I assure him that he will have my assistance.

The Electing Eagle in Bobino, Grey Fairy Book. Illustration by H.J. Ford.