A wealthy farmer named Lukas loses all his property due to his careless management, leaving him and his wife in dire poverty. Just as they face starvation, his wife gives birth to a daughter, whom they name Marishka. Struggling to find a godmother for the child, Lukas approaches various neighbors, but they all refuse due to his impoverished state. Eventually, he meets an old woman at a crossroads who agrees to be the godmother. At the christening, the old woman surprises everyone by offering a ducat to the priest, ensuring the ceremony is conducted with great respect. Afterward, she gifts Lukas a second ducat for Marishka, promising that it will provide for her upbringing and future happiness. The old woman then magically creates a rosebush and disappears, leaving Lukas bewildered. Upon returning home, Lukas and his wife discover that the single ducat has multiplied into a handful of ducats. They rejoice and decide to use the money wisely, planning to buy back their old property and improve their lives. Lukas goes to town, and with the help of the burgomaster's wife, they begin to restore their fortunes. As they rebuild their lives, Marishka grows into a beautiful young woman, admired by all. Eventually, she captures the heart of a prince, fulfilling the old godmother's prophecy of a happy marriage. Lukas and his wife, having learned valuable lessons from their hardships, live happily, cherishing their daughter and the blessings that came from their godmother.
By Parker Fillmore · First published 1944 · Genre: Fairy Tale, Fable, Children's Literature