The Tales of Till Eulenspiegel

36. How Eulenspiegel bought chickens without money and the farmwife let the rooster be used as a deposit in Quedlinburg.

Translation by Carolyn Place. The number preceding the title indicates the position of this tale within the 95 original episodes published in 1515.


Artwork by Bjorn Wiinblad which decorates one of the Rosenthal steins depicting the antics of Till Eulenspiegel.

Once Eulenspiegel came to Quedlinburg on a market day. He was in need of provisions, for just as quickly as he acquired things, so they were gone. As he went along the way he thought about how he might acquire the money to get provisions. Presently, he saw a country woman in the market with a basket full of fine chickens and a rooster. Asking what they were worth, she answered him that they would cost two Stephensgroschen. Till asked, "Won't you give them to me cheaper?" The woman refused, whereupon Till took up the basket and walked toward the city tower. The woman ran after him and said, "Merchant, I don't know what to make of you. Aren't you going to pay me for my chickens?" Eulenspiegel said, "Of course, I am the scribe for the Abbess." "I didn't ask you that," said the woman. "If you want the chickens, pay me, I want nothing to do with the Abbot or Abbess. Buy or give me security to close the deal, or coins must be shown. Therefore, hear you well, pay me for the poultry." Eulenspiegel replied, "Woman, you have little faith. It isn't good when tradespeople are like this. Good stall-brethren should trust one another. But, since I know you, take the rooster as a deposit that I shall bring you back the basket and the money." The good woman believed that she was well provided for and took her own rooster as a security, but she was cheated, as Eulenspiegel remained with the chickens and his money.