A young boy named Smolicheck lives in a secluded house in the woods with a deer named Golden Antlers. Each day, Golden Antlers instructs Smolicheck to keep the door locked and not to open it for anyone, warning him of potential dangers. One day, despite his promise, Smolicheck hears sweet voices outside begging him to open the door just a crack. Remembering his promise, he resists the temptation, earning praise from Golden Antlers for his obedience. However, the next day, the voices return, more enticing than before. Smolicheck, feeling pity for the cold voices, opens the door slightly, allowing the wood maidens to rush in and drag him away. In distress, he calls for Golden Antlers, who arrives just in time to rescue him, punishing Smolicheck for his disobedience. Days pass without incident until the maidens return, again pleading for warmth. Smolicheck, believing their lies about having fun with them, opens the door once more, only to be captured again. The maidens take him to their cave, where they fatten him up for a feast, tormenting him while providing plenty of food. Smolicheck realizes their true intentions when they prepare to roast him. In a moment of desperation, he calls for Golden Antlers again. This time, his cries go unheard for a while, but eventually, Golden Antlers bursts into the cave, saving Smolicheck just before he is cooked. After returning home, Smolicheck is punished again but learns a valuable lesson about obedience. He vows never to open the door again, and this time, he keeps his promise.
By Parker Fillmore · First published 1936 · Genre: Children's Literature, Fantasy, Fable