The Elves and the Shoemaker

Once there was a shoemaker named Tom. He was a kind man, but he was very sad. His shoes didn't sell, and he worried about money. He sat in his little shop, dreaming of better days. One night, he went to bed feeling very low.

In the morning, when Tom awoke, he was surprised! There were lovely shoes on his table. They were bright and shiny, with neat stitches and smooth leather. Tom picked up a shoe and smiled. "Oh, how beautiful!" he exclaimed, his heart filling with joy.

Every night, the elves returned to help Tom. They worked with speed and care, creating shoes that sparkled and shined. Tom felt thankful, but he didn't yet know their names. He wondered who could be making such magic.

One night, Tom decided to wait and see. He wanted to thank the elves for their kind work. He stayed up late, hiding behind the door of his shop. When the clock struck midnight, the elves quietly appeared, giggling and singing.

The elves, who were named Pip and Nib, were so pleased to meet Tom. They told him, "We love to help! You are kind, and we see how hard you work. We will always help you, dear shoemaker!" Tom laughed, and they danced together in the soft light.