Specimens of German Romance; Vol. II. Master Flea

A lively, slightly tongue‑in‑cheek translation of a classic German romance opens with a playful warning to impatient readers. The narrator acknowledges the old‑fashioned “once upon a time” opening, then quickly ushers us into the world of Peregrine Tyss, a curious boy whose heart races with anticipation on a bright Christmas evening.

In a darkened chamber lit only by the glitter of a lavishly decorated tree, Peregrine discovers a banquet of wondrous gifts—gleaming golden apples, delicate marchpane, and a magnificent rocking horse named Pontifer. His first attempts at mastering the toy steed end in a tumble, but his determination shines as he tames the wild horse and resumes his exploration of the glittering presents. The scene captures the joyous wonder of childhood discovery, setting the stage for further adventures that await this bright‑spirited youngster.