The old man really wanted his wife to be content, and he supposed she did have a point, so he went back to the spot where he had caught the flounder, and called out to him again. After a few moments, the fish returned and poked his head up from the water.

“What is it now?” the fish asked.

The old man goes back to talk to the flounder again.

“Well, I did catch you, and my wife is just really not happy with the little cottage you gave us, and it would only be fair for you to give me another wish, since I let you go,” explained the old man humbly.

“Very well,” said the fish, “What would you wish?”

“Well…if it wouldn’t be too much trouble, could I just have a nice house like the mayor’s?”

“Of course,” the fish said immediately. “It shall be just as you wish. Go and see the big house that I have provided for you and your dear wife. It is the least I can do for you, since you spared my life.”