Think Before You Speak; Or, The Three Wishes

by Catherine Ann Turner Dorset

"Think Before You Speak; Or, The Three Wishes" by Catherine Dorset is a fairy tale written in the early 19th century. This narrative unfolds the tale of a humble couple, exploring themes of wishful thinking and the consequences that follow. The story serves as a whimsical yet cautionary reminder about the importance of prudent decision-making. In this tale, a poor couple named Homespun and Susan are granted three wishes by a fairy who they saved from a hare's fate. Initially excited by the prospect of their newfound fortune, the couple fantasizes about wealth and status. However, their first wish leads to unintended consequences when Susan impulsively wishes for a pudding, which ultimately lands on her nose due to a quarrel with her husband. Their second wish spirals further into trouble until they realize that their foolishness brought about their predicament. In the end, they learn a valuable lesson about moderation and the importance of thoughtful choices as they reclaim their sense of humility and gratitude.