In the mean time, Wainamoinen, who was building his boat for the Rainbow
Maid, found that he had forgotten three magic words with which to fasten
in the ledges and complete the boat's forecastle.
After examining in vain the mouths of the wild animals, he sought the dead
hero Wipunen, forced open his jaws, and accidentally fell into his mouth.
Wipunen quickly swallowed him; but Wainamoinen, setting up a forge in his
body, caused him such discomfort that the giant was glad to give his
information, and get rid of his unwelcome visitor. Having thus learned the
secrets of the ages, and among them the three magic words, Wainamoinen
hastened home and finished his boat.
The boat builded, he at once set out for the Northland to woo the Rainbow
Maid. The boat was bedecked with silver and gold, and the linen sails were
blue, white, and scarlet. The sails were merely for ornament, however, for
the boat moved over the ocean without the aid of oars or sails.
Wainamoinen's departure from Kalevala was observed by Anniki, the sister
of Ilmarinen, who at once told her brother. With her assistance, Ilmarinen
cleansed the black from his ruddy countenance, and jumping into his
sledge, was soon on the way to Sariola. The approach of the heroes was
perceived by Louhi. "Daughter," said she, "the old man brings thee a boat
full of treasures; take him.
Pages:
131
132
133
134
135
136
137
138
139
140
141
142
143
144
145
146
147
148
149
150
151
152
153
154
155