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diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d7b82bc --- /dev/null +++ b/.gitattributes @@ -0,0 +1,4 @@ +*.txt text eol=lf +*.htm text eol=lf +*.html text eol=lf +*.md text eol=lf diff --git a/LICENSE.txt b/LICENSE.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6312041 --- /dev/null +++ b/LICENSE.txt @@ -0,0 +1,11 @@ +This eBook, including all associated images, markup, improvements, +metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be +in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES. + +Procedures for determining public domain status are described in +the "Copyright How-To" at https://www.gutenberg.org. + +No investigation has been made concerning possible copyrights in +jurisdictions other than the United States. Anyone seeking to utilize +this eBook outside of the United States should confirm copyright +status under the laws that apply to them. diff --git a/README.md b/README.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..9afd165 --- /dev/null +++ b/README.md @@ -0,0 +1,2 @@ +Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for +eBook #52719 (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/52719) diff --git a/old/52719-0.txt b/old/52719-0.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 46fb428..0000000 --- a/old/52719-0.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,21026 +0,0 @@ -The Project Gutenberg EBook of Four and Twenty Fairy Tales, by Various - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most -other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions -whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of -the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at -www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you'll have -to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook. - -Title: Four and Twenty Fairy Tales - Selected From Those of Perrault, and other Popular Writers - -Author: Various - -Translator: J. R. Planche - -Release Date: August 4, 2016 [EBook #52719] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: UTF-8 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK FOUR AND TWENTY FAIRY TALES *** - - - - -Produced by David Edwards, Matthias Grammel and the Online -Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This -file was produced from images generously made available -by The Internet Archive) - - - - - - - - - - Fairy Tales. - - - - - [Illustration: PERRAULT] - - - - - FOUR AND TWENTY - - FAIRY TALES. - - SELECTED FROM THOSE OF - - PERRAULT, AND OTHER POPULAR WRITERS. - - - TRANSLATED - - BY J. R. PLANCHÉ. - - - WITH ILLUSTRATIONS BY GODWIN, CORBOULD, AND HARVEY. - - - LONDON: - G. ROUTLEDGE & CO., FARRINGDON STREET. - NEW YORK: 18, BEEKMAN STREET. - 1858. - - [_This Translation is Copyright._] - - - - - LONDON: - SAVILL AND EDWARDS, PRINTERS, CHANDOS STREET, - COVENT GARDEN. - - - - - TO - - THE AUTHOR - - OF - - "A TRAP TO CATCH A SUNBEAM," - - THIS VOLUME - - Is Inscribed, - - BY HER AFFECTIONATE FATHER, - - J. R. PLANCHÉ. - - - - -CONTENTS. - - - PAGE - - PREFACE ix - - BLUE BEARD 3 - - THE SLEEPING BEAUTY IN THE WOOD 8 - - MASTER CAT; OR, PUSS IN BOOTS 17 - - CINDERELLA; OR, THE LITTLE GLASS SLIPPER 22 - - RIQUET WITH THE TUFT 28 - - LITTLE THUMBLING 35 - - PERFECT LOVE 47 - - ANGUILLETTE 75 - - YOUNG AND HANDSOME 108 - - THE PALACE OF REVENGE 131 - - THE PRINCE OF LEAVES 145 - - THE FORTUNATE PUNISHMENT 163 - - FAIRER THAN A FAIRY 183 - - THE GOOD WOMAN 203 - - THE STORY OF BEAUTY AND THE BEAST 225 - - PRINCESS MINUTE AND KING FLORIDOR 329 - - THE IMPOSSIBLE ENCHANTMENT 336 - - BLEUETTE AND COQUELICOT 358 - - PRINCESS CAMION 375 - - PRINCESS LIONETTE AND PRINCE COQUERICO 416 - - PRINCE DÉSIR 477 - - PRINCE CHÉRI 483 - - THE WIDOW AND HER TWO DAUGHTERS 494 - - PRINCE FATAL AND PRINCE FORTUNÉ 498 - - APPENDIX 509 - - - - -PREFACE. - - -The success attending the publication of a new translation of the -Fairy Tales of the Countess d'Aulnoy has justified the publishers in -believing that an equally faithful version of some of the most popular -stories of her contemporaries and immediate successors, similarly -annotated, might meet with as favourable a reception. I have therefore -selected twenty-four of the best Fairy Tales, according to my judgment, -remaining in the _Cabinet des Fées_, commencing with those of Charles -Perrault, the earliest, and terminating with some of Madame Leprince -de Beaumont, the latest French writer of European celebrity in that -particular class of literature. Independently of the fact that, with -the exception of those of Madame de Beaumont, few if any in the present -volume have ever been placed in their integrity before the English -reader, I trust that the chronological order I have observed in their -arrangement will give them a novel interest in the eyes of those -"children of a larger growth," who are not ashamed to confess, with La -Fontaine-- - - Si "_Peau d'ane_" m'étoit conté - J'y prendrais un plaisir extrême. - -Or with the great Reformer, Martin Luther-- - - "I would not for any quantity of gold part with the wonderful tales - which I have retained from my earliest childhood or have met with in - my progress through life." - -The reader will by this arrangement observe, in a clearer way than -probably he has yet had an opportunity of doing, the rise, progress, -and decline of the genuine Fairy Tale--so thoroughly French in its -origin, so specially connected with the age of that "Grand Monarque" -whose reign presents us, in the graphic pages of St. Simon and -Dangeau, with innumerable pictures of manners and customs, dresses and -entertainments, the singularity, magnificence, profusion, and extent -of which scarcely require the fancy of a d'Aulnoy to render fabulous. -In my introduction to the tales of that "lively and ingenious lady," -I have already shown the progress of the popularity of this class -of composition; but in the present volume it will be seen how, in -the course of little more than half a century, the Fairy Tale, from -a fresh, sparkling, simple yet arch version of a legend as old as -the monuments of that Celtic race by whom they were introduced into -Gaul, became first elaborated into a novel, comprising an ingenious -plot, with an amusing exaggeration of the manners of the period; -next, inflated into a preposterous and purposeless caricature of its -own peculiarities; and finally, denuded of its sportive fancy, its -latent humour, and its gorgeous extravagance, subsided into the dull -common-place moral story, which, taking less hold of the youthful -imagination, was, however laudable in its intention, a very ineffective -substitute for the merry monitors it vainly endeavoured to supersede. -Too much like a lesson for the child, it was too childish for the man. -The Fairies were dismissed in consequence of the incapacity of the -writers to employ them; but they were not to be annihilated. They still -live in their own land, to laugh at those mortals who will not laugh -with them and learn while they laugh. Modern art may vainly invoke -them to perform fresh marvels, but enough power still exists in their -old spells to enchant youth, amuse manhood, and resuscitate age; and, -despite the hypercritic and the purist, they will continue to exercise -their magic influence over the human mind so long as it is capable of -appreciating wit, fancy, and good feeling. As Mademoiselle Lheritier -wrote two hundred years ago-- - - Ils ne sont pas aisées à croire, - Mais tant que dans le monde on verra des enfans, - Des mères et des mères-grands - On en gardera la memoire. - - - - - CHARLES PERRAULT. - - - - -BLUE BEARD. - - -Once on a time there was a man who had fine town and country houses, -gold and silver plate, embroidered furniture, and coaches gilt all -over; but unfortunately, this man had a blue beard, which made him -look so ugly and terrible, that there was not a woman or girl who did -not run away from him. One of his neighbours, a lady of quality, had -two daughters, who were perfectly beautiful. He proposed to marry one -of them, leaving her to choose which of the two she would give him. -Neither of them would have him; and they sent him from one to the -other, not being able to make up their minds to marry a man who had a -blue beard. What increased their distaste to him was, that he had had -several wives already, and nobody knew what had become of them. - -Blue Beard, in order to cultivate their acquaintance, took them, with -their mother, three or four of their most intimate friends, and some -young persons who resided in the neighbourhood, to one of his country -seats, where they passed an entire week. Nothing was thought of but -excursions, hunting and fishing, parties, balls, entertainments, -collations; nobody went to bed; the whole night was spent in merry -games and gambols. In short, all went off so well, that the youngest -daughter began to find out that the beard of the master of the house -was not as blue as it used to be, and that he was a very worthy man. -Immediately upon their return to town the marriage took place. At the -end of a month Blue Beard told his wife that he was obliged to take a -journey, which would occupy six weeks at least, on a matter of great -consequence; that he entreated she would amuse herself as much as she -could during his absence; that she would invite her best friends, take -them into the country with her if she pleased, and keep an excellent -table everywhere. - -"Here," said he to her, "are the keys of my two great store-rooms; -these are those of the chests in which the gold and silver plate is -kept, that is only used on particular occasions; these are the keys of -the strong boxes in which I keep my money; these open the caskets that -contain my jewels; and this is the pass-key of all the apartments. As -for this little key, it is that of the closet at the end of the long -gallery, on the ground floor. Open everything, and go everywhere except -into that little closet, which I forbid you to enter, and I forbid you -so strictly, that if you should venture to open the door, there is -nothing that you may not have to dread from my anger!" She promised to -observe implicitly all his directions, and after he had embraced her, -he got into his coach and set out on his journey. - -The neighbours and friends of the young bride did not wait for her -invitation, so eager were they to see all the treasures contained in -the mansion, not having ventured to enter it while the husband was at -home, so terrified were they at his blue beard. Behold them immediately -running through all the rooms, closets, and wardrobes, each apartment -exceeding the other in beauty and richness. They ascended afterwards to -the store-rooms, where they could not sufficiently admire the number -and elegance of the tapestries, the beds, the sofas, the cabinets, -the stands,[1] the tables, and the mirrors in which they could see -themselves from head to foot, and that had frames some of glass,[2] -some of silver, and some of gilt metal, more beautiful and magnificent -than had ever been seen. They never ceased enlarging upon and envying -the good fortune of their friend, who in the meanwhile was not in the -least entertained by the sight of all these treasures, in consequence -of her impatience to open the closet on the ground floor. - -Her curiosity increased to such a degree that, without reflecting how -rude it was to leave her company, she ran down a back staircase in such -haste that twice or thrice she narrowly escaped breaking her neck. -Arrived at the door of the closet, she paused for a moment, bethinking -herself of her husband's prohibition, and that some misfortune might -befall her for her disobedience; but the temptation was so strong -that she could not conquer it. She therefore took the little key and -opened, tremblingly, the door of the closet. At first she could discern -nothing, the windows being closed; after a short time she began to -perceive that the floor was all covered with clotted blood, in which -were reflected the dead bodies of several females suspended against -the walls. These were all the wives of Blue Beard, who had cut their -throats one after the other. She was ready to die with fright, and the -key of the closet, which she had withdrawn from the lock, fell from -her hand. After recovering her senses a little, she picked up the key, -locked the door again, and went up to her chamber to compose herself; -but she could not succeed, so greatly was she agitated. Having observed -that the key of the closet was stained with blood, she wiped it two -or three times, but the blood would not come off. In vain she washed -it, and even scrubbed it with sand and free-stone, the blood was still -there, for the key was enchanted, and there were no means of cleaning -it completely: when the blood was washed off one side, it came back on -the other. - -Blue Beard returned that very evening, and said that he had received -letters on the road informing him that the business on which he was -going had been settled to his advantage. His wife did all she could -to persuade him that she was delighted at his speedy return. The next -morning he asked her for his keys again; she gave them to him; but her -hand trembled so, that he had not much difficulty in guessing what had -occurred. "How comes it," said he, "that the key of the closet is not -with the others?" "I must have left it," she replied, "upstairs on my -table." "Fail not," said Blue Beard, "to give it me presently." After -several excuses, she was compelled to produce the key. Blue Beard -having examined it, said to his wife, "Why is there some blood on -this key?" "I don't know," answered the poor wife, paler than death. -"You don't know?" rejoined Blue Beard. "I know well enough. You must -needs enter the closet. Well, madam, you shall enter it, and go take -your place amongst the ladies you saw there." She flung herself at her -husband's feet, weeping and begging his pardon, with all the signs of -true repentance for having disobeyed him. Her beauty and affliction -might have melted a rock, but Blue Beard had a heart harder than a -rock. "You must die, madam," said he, "and immediately." "If I must -die," she replied, looking at him with streaming eyes, "give me a -little time to say my prayers." "I give you half a quarter of an hour," -answered Blue Beard, "but not a minute more." As soon as he had left -her, she called her sister, and said to her, "Sister Anne" (for so she -was named), "go up, I pray thee, to the top of the tower, and see if my -brothers are not coming. They have promised me that they would come to -see me to-day; and if you see them, sign to them to make haste." Sister -Anne mounted to the top of the tower, and the poor distressed creature -called to her every now and then, "Anne! sister Anne! dost thou not see -anything coming?" And sister Anne answered her, "I see nothing but the -sun making dust, and the grass growing green." - -In the meanwhile Blue Beard, with a great cutlass in his hand, called -out with all his might to his wife, "Come down quickly, or I will come -up there." "One minute more, if you please," replied his wife; and -immediately repeated in a low voice, "Anne! sister Anne! dost thou not -see anything coming?" And sister Anne replied, "I see nothing but the -sun making dust, and the grass growing green." "Come down quickly," -roared Blue Beard, "or I will come up there." "I come," answered -his wife, and then exclaimed, "Anne! sister Anne! dost thou not see -anything coming?" "I see," said sister Anne, "a great cloud of dust -moving this way." "Is it my brothers?" "Alas! no, sister, I see a flock -of sheep." "Wilt thou not come down?" shouted Blue Beard. "One minute -more," replied his wife, and then she cried, "Anne! sister Anne! dost -thou not see anything coming?" "I see," she replied, "two horsemen -coming this way; but they are still at a great distance." "Heaven be -praised!" she exclaimed, a moment afterwards. "They are my brothers! I -am making all the signs I can to hasten them." Blue Beard began to roar -so loudly that the whole house shook again. The poor wife descended, -and went and threw herself, with streaming eyes and dishevelled -tresses, at his feet. - -"It is of no use," said Blue Beard. "You must die!" Then seizing her by -the hair with one hand, and raising his cutlass with the other, he was -about to cut off her head. The poor wife turned towards him, and fixing -upon him her dying eyes, implored him to allow her one short moment -to collect herself. "No, no," said he; "recommend thyself heartily to -Heaven." And lifting his arm---- At this moment there was so loud a -knocking at the gate, that Blue Beard stopped short. It was opened, -and two horsemen were immediately seen to enter, who, drawing their -swords, ran straight at Blue Beard. He recognised them as the brothers -of his wife--one a dragoon, the other a musqueteer, and, consequently, -fled immediately, in hope to escape; but they pursued him so closely, -that they overtook him before he could reach the step of his door, -and, passing their swords through his body, left him dead on the spot. -The poor wife was almost as dead as her husband, and had not strength -to rise and embrace her brothers. It was found that Blue Beard had no -heirs, and so his widow remained possessed of all his property. She -employed part of it in marrying her sister Anne to a young gentleman -who had long loved her; another part, in buying captains' commissions -for her two brothers, and with the rest she married herself to a very -worthy man, who made her forget the miserable time she had passed with -Blue Beard. - - Provided one has common sense, - And of the world but knows the ways, - This story bears the evidence - Of being one of bygone days. - No husband now is so terrific, - Impossibilities, expecting: - Though jealous, he is still pacific, - Indifference to his wife affecting. - And of his beard, whate'er the hue, - His spouse need fear no such disaster. - Indeed, 'twould often puzzle you - To say which of the twain is master. - - -FOOTNOTES: - -[1] Gueridons, _i.e._, stands to place lights or china upon. -The word is now used to signify any small round table with one foot; -but the old-fashioned stand, which was higher than a table, and its top -not bigger than a dessert plate, is occasionally to be met with. - -[2] Looking-glasses with frames of the same material were much -in vogue at that period. Of silver-framed mirrors some magnificent -specimens remain to us at Knowle Park, Kent. - - - - -THE SLEEPING BEAUTY IN THE WOOD. - - -Once upon a time there was a King and a Queen, who were so vexed at -not having any children--so vexed, that one cannot express it. They -visited all the baths in the world. Vows, pilgrimages, everything was -tried, and nothing succeeded. At length, however, the Queen was brought -to bed of a daughter. There was a splendid christening. For godmothers -they gave the young Princess all the Fairies they could find in the -country (they found seven), in order that each making her a gift, -according to the custom of Fairies in those days, the Princess would, -by these means, become possessed of all imaginable perfections. After -the baptismal ceremonies all the company returned to the King's palace, -where a great banquet was set out for the Fairies. Covers were laid -for each, consisting of a magnificent plate, with a massive gold case, -containing a spoon, a fork, and a knife of fine gold, enriched with -diamonds and rubies. But as they were all taking their places at the -table, there was seen to enter an old Fairy, who had not been invited, -because for upwards of fifty years she had never quitted the tower she -resided in, and it was supposed she was either dead or enchanted. - -The King ordered a cover to be laid for her; but there was no -possibility of giving her a massive gold case such as the others had, -because there had been only seven made expressly for the seven Fairies. -The old lady thought she was treated with contempt, and muttered some -threats between her teeth. One of the young Fairies, who chanced to be -near her, overheard her, and imagining she might cast some misfortune -on the little Princess, went, as soon as they rose from table, and hid -herself behind the hangings, in order to have the last word, and be -able to repair, as fast as possible, any mischief the old woman might -do. In the meanwhile, the Fairies began to endow the Princess. The -youngest, as her gift, decreed that she should be the most beautiful -person in the world; the next Fairy, that she should have the mind of -an angel; the third, that she should evince the most admirable grace -in all she did; the fourth, that she should dance to perfection; the -fifth, that she should sing like a nightingale; and the sixth, that she -should play on every instrument in the most exquisite manner possible. -The turn of the old Fairy having arrived, she declared, while her head -shook more with malice than with age, that the Princess should pierce -her hand with a spindle, and die of the wound. This terrible fate -made all the company tremble, and there was not one of them who could -refrain from tears. At this moment the young Fairy issued from behind -the tapestry, and uttered aloud these words: "Comfort yourselves, King -and Queen--your daughter shall not die of it. It is true that I have -not sufficient power to undo entirely what my elder has done. The -Princess will pierce her hand with a spindle; but, instead of dying, -she will only fall into a deep slumber, which will last one hundred -years, at the end of which a King's son will come to wake her." - -The King, in hope of avoiding the misfortune predicted by the old -Fairy, immediately caused an edict to be published, by which he -forbade any one to spin with a spindle, or to have spindles in their -possession, under pain of death. - -At the end of fifteen or sixteen years, the King and Queen, being -absent at one of their country residences, it happened that the -Princess, while running one day about the castle, and from one chamber -up to another, arrived at the top of a tower, and entered a little -garret, where an honest old woman was sitting by herself, spinning -with her distaff and spindle. This good woman had never heard of the -King's prohibition with respect to spinning with a spindle. "What are -you doing there?" asked the Princess. "I am spinning, my fair child," -answered the old woman, who did not know her. "Oh, how pretty it is!" -rejoined the Princess. "How do you do it? Give it to me, that I may see -if I can do it as well." She had no sooner taken hold of the spindle, -than, being very hasty, a little thoughtless, and, moreover, the -sentence of the Fairies so ordaining it, she pierced her hand with the -point of it, and fainted away. The good old woman, greatly embarrassed, -called for help. People came from all quarters; they threw water in -the Princess's face; they unlaced her stays; they slapped her hands; -they rubbed her temples with Queen of Hungary's water,[3] but nothing -could bring her to. The King, who had run upstairs at the noise, then -remembered the prediction of the Fairies, and, wisely concluding that -this must have occurred as the Fairies said it would, had the Princess -conveyed into the finest apartment in the palace, and placed on a bed -of gold and silver embroidery. One would have said she was an angel, so -lovely did she appear--for her swoon had not deprived her of her rich -complexion: her cheeks preserved their crimson, and her lips were like -coral. Her eyes were closed, but they could hear her breathe softly, -which showed that she was not dead. The King commanded them to let her -repose in peace until the hour arrived for her waking. The good Fairy -who had saved her life, by decreeing that she should sleep for an -hundred years, was in the Kingdom of Mataquin, twelve thousand leagues -off, when the Princess met with her accident; but she was informed of -it instantly by a little dwarf, who had a pair of seven-league boots -(that is, boots which enabled the wearer to take seven leagues at a -stride[4]). The Fairy set out immediately and an hour afterwards they -saw her arrive in a fiery chariot, drawn by dragons. The King advanced, -to hand her out of the chariot. She approved of all he had done; but, -as she had great foresight, she considered that, when the Princess -awoke, she would feel considerably embarrassed at finding herself all -alone in that old castle; so this is what the Fairy did. She touched -with her wand everybody that was in the castle (except the King and -Queen): governesses, maids of honour, women of the bed-chamber, -gentlemen, officers, stewards, cooks, scullions, boys, guards, porters, -pages, footmen; she touched also the horses that were in the stables, -with their grooms, the great mastiffs in the court-yard, and little -Pouste, the tiny dog of the Princess, that was on the bed, beside her. -As soon as she had touched them, they all fell asleep, not to wake -again until the time arrived for their mistress to do so, in order -that they might be all ready to attend upon her when she should want -them. Even the spits that had been put down to the fire, laden with -partridges and pheasants, went to sleep, and the fire itself also. - -All this was done in a moment; the fairies never lost much time over -their work. After which, the King and Queen, having kissed their -dear daughter without waking her, quitted the Castle, and issued a -proclamation forbidding any person, whosoever, to approach it. These -orders were unnecessary, for in a quarter of an hour there grew up -around the Park so great a quantity of trees, large and small, of -brambles and thorns, interlacing each other, that neither man nor beast -could get through them, so that nothing more was to be seen than the -tops of the Castle turrets, and they only at a considerable distance. -Nobody doubted but that was also some of the Fairy's handiwork, in -order that the Princess might have nothing to fear from the curiosity -of strangers during her slumber. - -At the expiration of an hundred years, the son of the King at that -time upon the throne, and who was of a different family to that of the -sleeping Princess, having been hunting in that neighbourhood, inquired -what towers they were that he saw above the trees of a very thick wood. -Each person answered him according to the story he had heard. Some -said that it was an old castle, haunted by ghosts. Others, that all -the witches of those parts held their Sabbath in it. The more general -opinion was, that it was the abode of an ogre; and that he carried -thither all the children he could catch, in order to eat them at his -leisure, and without being pursued, having alone the power of making -his way through the wood. The Prince did not know what to believe about -it, when an old peasant spoke in his turn, and said to him, "Prince, -it is more than fifty years ago since I heard my father say that there -was in that Castle the most beautiful Princess that was ever seen. -That she was to sleep for a hundred years, and would be awakened by -a King's son for whom she was reserved." The young Prince, at these -words, felt himself all on fire. He believed, without hesitation, that -he was destined to accomplish this famous adventure; and, impelled by -love and glory, resolved to see what would come of it, upon the spot. -Scarcely had he approached the wood, when all those great trees, all -those brambles and thorns made way for him to pass of their own accord. -He walked towards the Castle, which he saw at the end of a long avenue -he had entered, and what rather surprised him was, that he found none -of his people had been able to follow him, the trees having closed -up again as soon as he had passed. He continued, nevertheless, to -advance; a young and amorous prince is always courageous. He entered -a large fore-court, where everything he saw was calculated to freeze -his blood with terror. A frightful silence reigned around. Death -seemed everywhere present. Nothing was to be seen but the bodies of -men and animals stretched out apparently lifeless. He soon discovered, -however, by the shining noses and red faces of the porters, that they -were only asleep; and their goblets, in which still remained a few -drops of wine, sufficiently proved that they had dosed off whilst -drinking. He passed through a large court-yard paved with marble; he -ascended the staircase. He entered the guard-room, where the guards -stood drawn up in line, their carbines shouldered, and snoring their -loudest. He traversed several apartments, with ladies and gentlemen -all asleep; some standing, others seated. He entered a chamber covered -with gold, and saw on a bed, the curtains of which were open on each -side, the most lovely sight he had ever looked upon--a Princess, who -seemed to be about fifteen or sixteen, the lustre of whose charms gave -her an appearance that was luminous and supernatural. He approached, -trembling and admiring, and knelt down beside her. At that moment, the -enchantment being ended, the Princess awoke, and gazing upon the Prince -with more tenderness than a first sight of him seemed to authorize, "Is -it you, Prince?" said she; "you have been long awaited." The Prince, -delighted at these words, and still more by the tone in which they were -uttered, knew not how to express to her his joy and gratitude. - - [Illustration: The Sleeping Beauty.--P. 12.] - -He assured her he loved her better than himself. His language was not -very coherent, but it pleased the more. There was little eloquence, -but a great deal of love. He was much more embarrassed than she was, -and one ought not to be astonished at that. The Princess had had time -enough to consider what she should say to him, for there is reason to -believe (though history makes no mention of it) that, during her long -nap, the good Fairy had procured her the pleasure of very agreeable -dreams. In short, they talked for four hours without having said half -what they had to say to each other. - -In the meanwhile, all the Palace had been roused at the same time -as the Princess. Everybody remembered their duty, and, as they were -not all in love, they were dying with hunger. The lady-in-waiting, -as hungry as any of them, became impatient, and announced loudly to -the Princess that the meat was on the table. The Prince assisted the -Princess to rise; she was full dressed, and most magnificently, but -he took good care not to hint to her that she was attired like his -grandmother, and wore a stand-up collar.[5] She looked, however, not -a morsel the less lovely in it. They passed into a hall of mirrors, -in which they supped, attended by the officers of the Princess. -The violins and hautbois played old but excellent pieces of music, -notwithstanding it was a hundred years since they had been performed by -anybody; and after supper, to lose no time, the grand Almoner married -the royal lovers in the chapel of the Castle. - -Early next morning the Prince returned to the city, where his father -was in great anxiety about him. The Prince told him that he had lost -himself in the forest whilst hunting, and that he had slept in a -woodcutter's hut, who had given him some black bread and cheese for -his supper. The King, his father, who was a simple man, believed him, -but his mother was not so easily satisfied; and observing that he went -hunting nearly every day, and had always some story ready as an excuse, -when he had slept two or three nights away from home, she no longer -doubted but that he had some mistress, for he lived with the Princess -for upwards of two years, and had two children by her; the first, which -was a girl, was named Aurora, and the second, a son, was called Day, -because he was still more beautiful than his sister. - -The Queen often said to her son, in order to draw from him some -avowal, that he ought to form some attachment; but he never ventured -to trust her with his secret. He feared her, although he loved her, -for she was of the race of Ogres, and the King had married her only -on account of her great wealth. It was even whispered about the Court -that she had the inclinations of an Ogress, and that when she saw -little children passing, she had the greatest difficulty in restraining -herself from pouncing upon them. The Prince, therefore, would never say -one word about his adventure. On the death of the King, however, which -happened two years afterwards, the Prince being his own master, he -made a public declaration of his marriage, and went in great state to -bring the Queen, his wife, to the palace. She made a magnificent entry -into the capital with her two children, one on each side of her. Some -time afterwards, the King went to war with his neighbour, the Emperor -Cantalabute. He left the regency of the kingdom to the Queen, his -mother, earnestly recommending to her care his wife and his children. -He was likely to be all the summer in the field, and as soon as he was -gone, the Queen-mother sent her daughter-in-law and the children to -a country house in the wood, that she might more easily gratify her -horrible longing. She followed them thither a few days after, and said -one evening to her Maître d'Hôtel, "I will eat little Aurora for dinner -to-morrow." "Ah, Madam!" exclaimed the Maître d'Hôtel. "I will," said -the Queen (and she said it in the tone of an Ogress longing to eat -fresh meat), "and I will have her served up with _sauce Robert_."[6] -The poor man seeing plainly an Ogress was not to be trifled with, took -his great knife and went up to little Aurora's room. She was then about -four years old, and came jumping and laughing to throw her arms about -his neck, and ask him for sweetmeats. He burst into tears, the knife -fell from his hands, and he went down again into the kitchen court and -killed a little lamb, and served it up with so delicious a sauce, that -his mistress assured him she had never eaten anything so excellent. In -the meanwhile, he had carried off little Aurora, and given her to his -wife, to conceal her in the lodging which she occupied at the further -end of the kitchen court. - -A week afterwards, the wicked Queen said to her Maître d'Hôtel, "I -will eat little Day for supper." He made no reply, being determined to -deceive her as before. He went in search of little Day, and found him -with a tiny foil in his hand, fencing with a great monkey, though he -was only three years old. He carried him to his wife, who hid him where -she had hidden his sister, and then cooked a very tender little kid in -the place of little Day, and which the Ogress thought wonderfully good. -All went well enough so far, but one evening this wicked Queen said to -the Maître d'Hôtel, "I would eat the Queen with the same sauce that -I had with her children." Then, indeed, did the poor Maître d'Hôtel -despair of being again able to deceive her. The young Queen was turned -of twenty, without counting the hundred years she had slept; her skin -was a little tough, though it was white and beautiful, and where was he -to find in the menagerie an animal that would pass for her. - -He resolved that, to save his own life, he would cut the Queen's -throat, and went up to her apartment with the determination to execute -his purpose at once. He worked himself up into a passion, and entered -the young Queen's chamber poniard in hand. He would not, however, take -her by surprise, but repeated, very respectfully, the order he had -received from the Queen-mother. "Do it! do it!" said she, stretching -out her neck to him. "Obey the order that has been given to you. I -shall again behold my children, my poor children, that I loved so -dearly." She had imagined them to be dead ever since they had been -carried off without explanation. "No, no, Madam!" replied the poor -Maître d'Hôtel, touched to the quick, "you shall not die, and you shall -see your children again, but it shall be in my own house, where I have -hidden them; and I will again deceive the Queen-mother by serving up -to her a young hind in your stead." He led her forthwith to his own -apartments, where leaving her to embrace her children and weep with -them, he went and cooked a hind, of which the Queen ate at her supper, -with as much appetite as if it had been the young Queen. She exulted -in her cruelty, and intended to tell the King, on his return, that some -ferocious wolves had devoured the Queen his wife, and her two children. - -One evening that she was prowling, as usual, round the courts and -poultry yards of the Castle, to inhale the smell of raw flesh, she -overheard little Day crying in a lower room, because the Queen, his -mother, was about to whip him for having been naughty, and she also -heard little Aurora begging forgiveness for her brother. The Ogress -recognised the voices of the Queen and her children, and, furious at -having been cheated, she gave orders, in a tone that made everybody -tremble, that the next morning early there should be brought into the -middle of the court a large copper, which she had filled with toads, -vipers, adders, and serpents, in order to fling into it the Queen, her -children, the Maître d'Hôtel, his wife, and his maid servant. She had -commanded that they should be brought thither with hands tied behind -them. There they stood, and the executioners were preparing to fling -them into the copper, when the King, who was not expected so early, -entered the court-yard on horseback. He had ridden post, and in great -astonishment inquired what was the meaning of that horrible spectacle? -Nobody dared to tell him, when the Ogress, enraged at the sight of the -King's return, flung herself head foremost into the copper, and was -devoured in an instant by the horrid reptiles she had caused it to -be filled with. The King could not help being sorry for it; she was -his mother, but he speedily consoled himself in the society of his -beautiful wife and children. - - Some time for a husband to wait - Who is young, handsome, wealthy, and tender, - May not be a hardship too great - For a maid whom love happy would render. - But to be for a century bound - To live single, I fancy the number - Of Beauties but small would be found - So long who could patiently slumber. - To lovers who hate time to waste, - And minutes as centuries measure, - I would hint, Those who marry in haste - May live to repent it at leisure. - Yet so ardently onwards they press, - And on prudence so gallantly trample, - That I haven't the heart, I confess, - To urge on them Beauty's example. - - -FOOTNOTES: - -[3] A celebrated distillation of spirit of wine upon rosemary, -so-called from the receipt, purporting to have been written by a Queen -Elizabeth of Hungary, and first published at Frankfort in 1659. - -[4] From the explanation contained in this parenthesis, it is -probable that we have here the earliest mention of these celebrated -articles in a French story; _Jack the Giant-killer_ and _Jack and the -Bean-stalk_ being of English origin. - -[5] _Collet-monté._ The contemporary of the ruff. In the reign -of Louis the Fourteenth it was succeeded by the _collet-rabattu_, and -totally discarded before his decease. - -[6] A sauce piquante, as ancient as the fifteenth century, -being one of the seventeen sauces named by Taillevant, chief cook to -Charles VII. of France, in 1456. - - - - -MASTER CAT; - -OR, - -PUSS IN BOOTS. - - -A Miller bequeathed to his three sons all his worldly goods, which -consisted only of his mill, his ass, and his cat. The division was -speedily made. Neither notary nor attorney were called in; they would -soon have eaten up all the little patrimony. The eldest had the mill; -the second son, the ass; and the youngest had nothing but the cat. The -latter was disconsolate at inheriting so poor a portion. "My brothers," -said he, "may earn an honest livelihood by entering into partnership; -but, as for me, when I have eaten my Cat, and made a muff of his skin, -I must die of hunger." The Cat, who had heard this speech, but without -appearing to do so, said to him, with a sedate and serious air, "Do -not afflict yourself, master; you have only to give me a bag and get a -pair of boots made for me, to go amongst the bushes in, and you will -see that you are not so badly left as you believe." Though the Cat's -master did not place much confidence in this assertion, he had seen him -play such cunning tricks in catching rats and mice, when he would hang -himself up by the heels, or lie in the flour as if he were dead, that -he was not altogether hopeless of being assisted by him in his distress. - -As soon as the Cat had what he asked for, he pulled on his boots -boldly, and hanging the bag round his neck, he took the strings of -it in his fore paws, and went into a warren where there were a great -number of rabbits. He put some bran and some sow-thistles in his bag, -and stretching himself out as if he were dead, he waited till some -young rabbit, little versed in the wiles of the world, should come and -ensconce himself in the bag, in order to eat what he had put into it. -He had hardly laid down before he was gratified. A young scatterbrain -of a rabbit entered the bag, and Master Cat instantly pulling the -strings, caught it and killed it without mercy. Proud of his prey, he -went to the King's Palace, and demanded an audience. He was ushered -up to his Majesty's apartment, into which having entered, he made a -low bow to the King, and said to him, "Sire, here is a wild rabbit, -which my Lord the Marquis de Carabas (such was the name he took a fancy -to give to his master) has ordered me to present, with his duty, to -your Majesty." "Tell your master," replied the King, "that I thank -him, and that he has given me great pleasure." Another day he went -and hid himself in the wheat, holding the mouth of his bag open, as -usual, and as soon as a brace of partridges entered it, he pulled the -strings, and took them both. He went immediately and presented them -to the King, in the same way that he had the wild rabbit. The King -received with equal gratification the brace of partridges, and gave -him something to drink his health. The Cat continued in this manner -during two or three months to carry to the King, every now and then, -presents of game from his master. One day when he knew the King was -going to drive on the banks of the river, with his daughter, the most -beautiful Princess in the world, he said to his master, "If you will -follow my advice, your fortune is made; you have only to go and bathe -in a part of the river I will point out to you, and leave the rest to -me." The Marquis de Carabas did as his cat advised him, without knowing -what good would come of it. While he was bathing, the King passed by, -and the Cat began to shout with all his might, "Help! help! My Lord -the Marquis de Carabas is drowning!" At this cry, the King looked out -of the coach window, and recognising the cat who had so often brought -game to him, ordered his guards to fly to the help of my Lord the -Marquis de Carabas. Whilst they were getting the poor Marquis out of -the river, the Cat approaching the royal coach, told the King that -during the time his master was bathing, some robbers had come and -carried off his clothes, although he had called "Thieves!" as loud -as he could. The rogue had hidden them himself under a great stone. -The King immediately ordered the officers of his wardrobe to go and -fetch one of his handsomest suits for my Lord the Marquis de Carabas. -The King embraced him a thousand times, and as the fine clothes they -dressed him in set off his good looks (for he was handsome and well -made), the King's daughter found him much to her taste; and the Marquis -de Carabas had no sooner cast upon her two or three respectful and -rather tender glances, than she fell desperately in love with him. -The King insisted upon his getting into the coach, and accompanying -them in their drive. The Cat, enchanted to see that his scheme began -to succeed, ran on before, and having met with some peasants who were -mowing a meadow, said to them, "You, good people, who are mowing here, -if you do not tell the King that the meadow you are mowing belongs to -my Lord the Marquis de Carabas, you shall be all cut into pieces as -small as minced meat!" The King failed not to ask the mowers whose -meadow it was they were mowing? "It belongs to my Lord the Marquis de -Carabas," said they altogether, for the Cat's threat had frightened -them. "You perceive, Sire," rejoined the Marquis, "it is a meadow which -yields an abundant crop every year." Master Cat, who kept in advance -of the party, came up to some reapers, and said to them, "You, good -people, who are reaping, if you do not say that all this corn belongs -to my Lord the Marquis de Carabas, you shall be all cut into pieces as -small as minced meat!" The King, who passed by a minute afterwards, -wished to know to whom all those cornfields belonged that he saw there. -"To my Lord the Marquis de Carabas," repeated the reapers, and the King -again wished the Marquis joy of his property. The Cat, who ran before -the coach, uttered the same threat to all he met with, and the King -was astonished at the great wealth of my Lord the Marquis de Carabas. -Master Cat at length arrived at a fine Château, the owner of which was -an Ogre, the richest that was ever known, for all the lands through -which the King had driven were held of the Lord of this Château. The -Cat took care to inquire who the Ogre was, and what he was able to do; -and then requested to speak with him, saying that he would not pass -so near his Château without doing himself the honour of paying his -respects to him. The Ogre received him as civilly as an Ogre could, and -made him sit down. "They assure me," said the Cat, "that you possess -the power of changing yourself into all sorts of animals; that you -could, for instance, transform yourself into a lion, or an elephant." -"'Tis true," said the Ogre, brusquely, "and to prove it to you, you -shall see me become a lion." The Cat was so frightened at seeing a -lion before him, that he immediately scampered up into the gutter, not -without trouble and danger, on account of his boots, which were not -fit to walk on the tiles with. A short time afterwards, the Cat having -perceived that the Ogre had resumed his previous form, descended, -and admitted that he had been terribly frightened. "They assure me, -besides," said the Cat, "but I cannot believe it, that you have also -the power to assume the form of the smallest animal; for instance, to -change yourself into a rat or a mouse. I confess to you I hold that -to be utterly impossible." "Impossible!" replied the Ogre; "you shall -see!" and immediately changed himself into a mouse, which began to run -about the floor. The Cat no sooner caught sight of it than he pounced -upon and devoured it. In the meanwhile, the King, who saw from the -road the fine Château of the Ogre, desired to enter it. The Cat, who -heard the noise of the coach rolling over the drawbridge, ran to meet -it, and said to the King, "Your Majesty is welcome to the Château of -my Lord the Marquis de Carabas." "How, my Lord Marquis," exclaimed the -King, "this Château also belongs to you? Nothing can be finer than -this court-yard, and all these buildings that surround it. Let us see -the inside of it, if you please." The Marquis handed out the young -Princess, and following the King, who led the way upstairs, entered a -grand hall, where they found a magnificent collation, which the Ogre -had ordered to be prepared for some friends who were to have visited -him that very day, but who did not presume to enter when they found the -King was there. The King, as much enchanted by the accomplishments of -my Lord the Marquis de Carabas as his daughter, who doted upon him, and -seeing the great wealth he possessed, said to him, after having drunk -five or six bumpers, "It depends entirely on yourself, my Lord Marquis, -whether or not you become my son-in-law." The Marquis, making several -profound bows, accepted the honour the King offered him; and on the -same day was united to the Princess. The Cat became a great lord, and -never again ran after mice, except for his amusement. - - Be the advantage ne'er so great - Of owning a superb estate, - From sire to son descended. - Young men oft find, on industry, - Combined with ingenuity, - They'd better have depended. - -ALSO - - If the son of a Miller so quickly could gain - The heart of a Princess, it seems pretty plain, - With good looks and good manners, and some aid from dress, - The humblest need not quite despair of success. - - - - -CINDERELLA; - -OR, - -THE LITTLE GLASS SLIPPER. - - -Once on a time there was a gentleman who took for a second wife the -haughtiest and proudest woman that had ever been seen. She had two -daughters of the same temper, and who resembled her in everything. The -husband, on his side, had a daughter, but whose gentleness and goodness -were without parallel. She inherited them from her mother, who was the -best creature in the world. The wedding was hardly over before the -stepmother's ill-humour broke out. She could not abide the young girl, -whose good qualities made her own daughters appear more detestable. -She employed her in all the meanest work of the house. It was she who -cleaned the plate, and the stairs, who scrubbed Madame's chamber, and -those of Mesdemoiselles, her daughters. She slept at the top of the -house, in a loft, on a wretched straw mattress, while her sisters -occupied rooms, beautifully floored, in which were the most fashionable -beds, and mirrors wherein they could see themselves from head to foot. -The poor girl bore everything with patience, and did not dare complain -to her father, who would only have scolded her, as his wife governed -him entirely. When she had done her work, she went and placed herself -in the chimney-corner, and sat down amongst the cinders, which caused -her to be called by the household in general Cindertail. The second -daughter, however, who was not so rude as her elder sister, called her -Cinderella. Notwithstanding, Cinderella, in her shabby clothes, looked -a thousand times handsomer than her sisters, however magnificently -attired. - -It happened that the King's son gave a ball, and invited to it -all persons of quality. Our two young ladies were included in the -invitation, for they cut a great figure in the neighbourhood. Behold -them in great delight, and very busy choosing the most becoming gowns -and head-dresses. A new mortification for Cinderella, for it was she -who ironed her sisters' linen, and set their ruffles. Nothing was -talked of but the style in which they were to be dressed. "I," said -the eldest, "will wear my red velvet dress and my English point-lace -trimmings." "I," said the youngest, "shall only wear my usual -petticoat; but to make up for that, I shall put on my gold-flowered -mantua, and my necklace of diamonds, which are none of the poorest." -They sent for a good milliner to make up their double-frilled caps, -and bought their patches of the best maker. They called Cinderella to -give them her opinion, for she had excellent taste. Cinderella gave -them the best advice in the world, and even offered to dress their -heads for them, which they were very willing she should do; and whilst -she was about it, they said to her, "Cinderella, shouldst thou like -to go to the ball?" "Alas! Mesdemoiselles, you make game of me; that -would not befit me at all." "Thou art right, they would laugh immensely -to see a Cindertail at a ball!" Any other but Cinderella would have -dressed their heads awry, but she was good natured, and dressed them to -perfection. They could eat nothing for nearly two days, so transported -were they with joy. More than a dozen laces were broken in making -their waists as small as possible, and they were always before their -looking-glasses. At last the happy day arrived. They set off, and -Cinderella followed them with her eyes as long as she could. When they -were out of sight, she began to cry. Her godmother, who saw her all in -tears, inquired what ailed her. "I should so like--I should so like--" -she sobbed so much that she could not finish the sentence. "Thou -wouldst so like to go to the ball--Is not that it?" "Alas! yes," said -Cinderella, sighing. "Well, if thou wilt be a good girl, I will take -care thou shalt go." She led her into her chamber, and said to her, "Go -into the garden and bring me a pumpkin." Cinderella went immediately, -gathered the finest she could find, and brought it to her godmother, -unable to guess how the pumpkin could enable her to go to the ball. -Her godmother scooped it out; and, having left nothing but the rind, -struck it with her wand, and the pumpkin was immediately changed into -a beautiful coach gilt all over. She then went and looked into the -mouse-trap, where she found six mice, all alive. She told Cinderella -to lift the door of the mouse-trap a little, and to each mouse, as it -ran out, she gave a tap with her wand, and the mouse was immediately -changed into a fine horse, thereby producing a handsome team of six -horses, of a beautiful dappled mouse-grey colour. As she was in some -difficulty as to what she should make a coachman of, Cinderella said, -"I will go and see if there be not a rat in the rat-trap; we will make -a coachman of him." "Thou art right," said her godmother. "Go and see." -Cinderella brought her the rat-trap, in which there were three great -rats. The Fairy selected one from the three, on account of its ample -beard, and having touched it, it was changed into a fat coachman, who -had the finest moustaches that ever were seen. She then said, "Go into -the garden, thou wilt find there, behind the watering-pot, six lizards, -bring them to me." She had no sooner brought them than the godmother -transformed them into six footmen, who immediately jumped up behind the -coach, with their liveries all covered with lace, and hung on to it as -if they had done nothing else all their lives. The Fairy then said to -Cinderella, "Well, there is something to go to the ball in. Art thou -not well pleased?" "Yes; but am I to go in these dirty clothes?" Her -godmother only touched her with her wand, and in the same instant her -dress was changed to cloth of gold and silver, covered with jewels. She -then gave her a pair of glass slippers, the prettiest in the world. -When she was thus attired, she got into the coach; but her godmother -advised her, above all things, not to stay out past midnight--warning -her, that if she remained at the ball one minute longer, her coach -would again become a pumpkin; her horses, mice; her footmen, lizards; -and her clothes resume their old appearance. She promised her godmother -she would not fail to leave the ball before midnight, and departed, out -of her senses with joy. - -The King's son, who was informed that a grand Princess had arrived -whom nobody knew, ran to receive her. He handed her out of the coach -and led her into the hall, where the company was assembled. There was -immediately a dead silence; they stopped dancing, and the fiddlers -ceased to play, so engrossed was every one in the contemplation of the -great attractions of the unknown lady. Nothing was heard but a low -murmur of "Oh! how lovely she is!" The King himself, old as he was, -could not take his eyes from her, and observed to the Queen, that it -was a long time since he had seen so beautiful and so amiable a person. -All the ladies were intently occupied in examining her head-dress -and her clothes, that they might have some like them the very next -day, provided they could find materials as beautiful, and workpeople -sufficiently clever to make them up. - -The King's son conducted her to the most honourable seat, and then led -her out to dance. She danced with so much grace that their admiration -of her was increased. A very grand supper was served, of which the -Prince ate not a morsel, so absorbed was he in contemplation of her. -She seated herself beside her sisters, and showed them a thousand -civilities. She shared with them the oranges and citrons which the -Prince had given to her; at which they were much surprised, for she -appeared a perfect stranger to them. Whilst they were in conversation -together, Cinderella heard the clock strike three-quarters past eleven. -She immediately made a profound curtsey to the company, and departed -as quickly as she could. As soon as she had reached home, she went -to find her godmother; and after having thanked her, said she much -wished to go to the ball again the next day, because the King's son -had invited her. While she was occupied in telling her godmother all -that had passed at the ball, the two sisters knocked at the door. -Cinderella went and opened it--"How late you are!" said she to them, -yawning, rubbing her eyes, and stretching herself as if she had but -just awoke. She had not, however, been inclined to sleep since she had -left them. "Hadst thou been at the ball," said one of her sisters to -her, "thou wouldst not have been weary of it. There came to it the most -beautiful Princess--the most beautiful that ever was seen. She paid us -a thousand attentions. She gave us oranges and citrons." Cinderella was -beside herself with delight. She asked them the name of the Princess; -but they replied that nobody knew her; that the King's son was much -puzzled about it, and that he would give everything in the world to -know who she was. Cinderella smiled and said, "She was very handsome, -then? Heavens! how fortunate you are!--Could not I get a sight of her? -Alas! Mademoiselle Javotte, lend me the yellow gown you wear every -day?" "Truly," said Mademoiselle Javotte, "I like that! Lend one's gown -to a dirty Cindertail like you!--I must be very mad indeed!" Cinderella -fully expected this refusal, and was delighted at it, for she would -have been greatly embarrassed if her sister had lent her her gown. - -The next day the two sisters went to the ball, and Cinderella also, -but still more splendidly dressed than before. The King's son never -left her side, or ceased saying tender things to her. The young lady -was much amused, and forgot what her godmother had advised her, so -that she heard the clock begin to strike twelve when she did not even -think it was eleven. She rose and fled as lightly as a fawn. The Prince -followed her, but could not overtake her. She dropped one of her glass -slippers, which the Prince carefully picked up. Cinderella reached home -almost breathless, without coach or footmen, and in her shabby clothes, -nothing having remained of all her finery, except one of her little -slippers, the fellow of that she had let fall. The guards at the palace -gate were asked if they had not seen a Princess go out; they answered -that they had seen no one pass but a poorly-dressed girl, who had more -the air of a peasant than of a lady. When the two sisters returned from -the ball, Cinderella asked them if they had been as much entertained as -before, and if the beautiful lady had been present. They said yes, but -that she had fled as soon as it had struck twelve, and so precipitately -that she had let fall one of her little glass slippers, the prettiest -in the world; that the King's son had picked it up; that he had done -nothing but gaze upon it during the remainder of the evening; and -that, undoubtedly, he was very much in love with the beautiful person -to whom the little slipper belonged. They spoke the truth; for a few -days afterwards the King's son caused it to be proclaimed by sound -of trumpet that he would marry her whose foot would exactly match -with the slipper. They began by trying it on the Princesses, then on -the Duchesses, and so on throughout all the Court; but in vain. It -was taken to the two sisters, who did their utmost to force one of -their feet into the slipper, but they could not manage to do so. -Cinderella, who witnessed their efforts and recognised the slipper, -said, laughingly, "Let me see if it will not fit me." Her sisters began -to laugh and ridicule her. The gentleman who had been entrusted to try -the slipper, having attentively looked at Cinderella and found her to -be very handsome, said that it was a very proper request, and that he -had been ordered to try the slipper on all girls without exception. He -made Cinderella sit down, and putting the slipper to her little foot, -he saw it go on easily and fit like wax. Great was the astonishment -of the two sisters, but it was still greater when Cinderella took the -other little slipper out of her pocket and put it on her other foot. At -that moment the godmother arrived, who having given a tap with her wand -to Cinderella's clothes, they became still more magnificent than all -the others she had appeared in. The two sisters then recognised in her -the beautiful person they had seen at the ball. They threw themselves -at her feet to crave her forgiveness for all the ill-treatment she had -suffered from them. Cinderella raised and embracing them, said that she -forgave them with all her heart, and begged them to love her dearly for -the future. They conducted her to the young Prince, dressed just as she -was. He found her handsomer than ever, and a few days afterwards he -married her. Cinderella, who was as kind as she was beautiful, gave her -sisters apartments in the palace, and married them the very same day to -two great lords of the court. - - Beauty in woman is a treasure rare - Which we are never weary of admiring; - But a sweet temper is a gift more fair - And better worth the youthful maid's desiring. - That was the boon bestowed on Cinderella - By her wise Godmother--her truest glory. - The rest was "nought but leather and prunella." - Such is the moral of this little story-- - Beauties, that charm becomes you more than dress, - And wins a heart with far greater facility. - In short, in all things to ensure success, - The real Fairy gift is Amiability! - -ALSO - - Talent, courage, wit, and worth - Are rare gifts to own on earth. - But if you want to thrive at court-- - So, at least, the wise report-- - You will find you need some others, - Such as god-fathers or mothers. - - - - -RIQUET WITH THE TUFT. - - -Once upon a time there was a Queen, who was brought to bed of a son -so ugly and so ill-shaped that it was for a long time doubtful if he -possessed a human form. A Fairy, who was present at his birth, affirmed -that he would not fail to be amiable, as he would have much good-sense. -She added, even, that he would be able, in consequence of the gift she -had endowed him with, to impart equal intelligence to the person he -should love best. All this consoled the poor Queen a little, who was -much distressed at having brought into the world so hideous a little -monkey. It is true that the child was no sooner able to speak than he -said a thousand pretty things, and that there was in all his actions an -indescribable air of intelligence which charmed one. I had forgotten -to say that he was born with a little tuft of hair on his head, which -occasioned him to be named Riquet with the Tuft; for Riquet was the -family name. - -At the end of seven or eight years, the Queen of a neighbouring kingdom -was brought to bed of two daughters. The first that came into the -world was fairer than day. The Queen was so delighted, that it was -feared her great joy would prove hurtful to her. The same Fairy who had -assisted at the birth of little Riquet with the Tuft was present upon -this occasion, and to moderate the joy of the Queen, she declared to -her that this little Princess would have no mental capacity, and that -she would be as stupid as she was beautiful. This mortified the Queen -exceedingly; but a few minutes afterwards she experienced a very much -greater annoyance, for the second girl she gave birth to, proved to -be extremely ugly. "Do not distress yourself so much, Madam," said -the Fairy to her. "Your daughter will find compensation; she will have -so much sense that her lack of beauty will scarcely be perceived." -"Heaven send it may be so," replied the Queen; "but are there no means -of giving a little sense to the eldest, who is so lovely?" "I can -do nothing for her, Madam, in the way of wit," said the Fairy, "but -everything in that of beauty; and as there is nothing in my power that -I would not do to gratify you, I will endow her with the ability to -render beautiful the person who shall please her." - -As these two Princesses grew up, their endowments increased in the -same proportion, and nothing was talked of anywhere but the beauty of -the eldest and the intelligence of the youngest. It is true that their -defects also greatly increased with their years. The youngest became -uglier every instant, and the eldest more stupid every day. She either -made no answer when she was spoken to, or she said something foolish. -With this she was so awkward, that she could not place four pieces of -china on a mantel-shelf without breaking one of them, nor drink a glass -of water without spilling half of it on her dress. Notwithstanding the -great advantage of beauty to a girl, the youngest bore away the palm -from her sister nearly always, in every society. At first they gathered -round the handsomest, to gaze at and admire her; but they soon left her -for the wittiest, to listen to a thousand agreeable things; and people -were astonished to find that, in less than a quarter of an hour, the -eldest had not a soul near her, and that all the company had formed -a circle round the youngest. The former, though very stupid, noticed -this, and would have given, without regret, all her beauty for half -the sense of her sister. The Queen, discreet as she was, could not -help reproaching her frequently with her folly, which made the poor -Princess ready to die of grief. One day that she had withdrawn into a -wood to bewail her misfortune, she saw a little man approach her, of -most disagreeable appearance, but dressed very magnificently. It was -the young Prince Riquet with the Tuft, who, having fallen in love with -her from seeing her portraits, which were sent all round the world, -had quitted his father's kingdom to have the pleasure of beholding and -speaking to her. Enchanted to meet her thus alone, he accosted her with -all the respect and politeness imaginable. Having remarked, after -paying the usual compliments, that she was very melancholy, he said to -her, "I cannot comprehend, Madam, how a person so beautiful as you are -can be so sad as you appear; for though I may boast of having seen an -infinity of lovely women, I can avouch that I have never beheld one -whose beauty could be compared to yours." "You are pleased to say so, -Sir," replied the Princess; and there she stopped. "Beauty," continued -Riquet, "is so great an advantage, that it ought to surpass all others; -and when one possesses it, I do not see anything that could very much -distress you." "I had rather," said the Princess, "be as ugly as you, -and have good sense, than possess the beauty I do, and be as stupid -as I am." "There is no greater proof of good sense, Madam, than the -belief that we have it not; it is the nature of that gift, that the -more we have, the more we believe we are deficient of it." "I do not -know how that may be," said the Princess, "but I know well enough that -I am very stupid, and that is the cause of the grief which is killing -me." "If that is all that afflicts you, Madam, I can easily put an end -to your sorrow." "And how would you do that?" said the Princess. "I -have the power, Madam," said Riquet with the Tuft, "to give as much -wit as any one can possess to the person I love the most; and as you, -Madam, are that person, it will depend entirely upon yourself whether -or not you will have so much wit, provided that you are willing to -marry me." The Princess was thunderstruck, and replied not a word. "I -see," said Riquet with the Tuft, "that this proposal pains you; and I -am not surprised at it; but I give you a full year to consider of it." -The Princess had so little sense, and at the same time was so anxious -to have a great deal, that she thought the end of that year would never -come; so she accepted at once the offer that was made her. She had no -sooner promised Riquet with the Tuft that she would marry him that day -twelve months, than she felt herself to be quite another person to what -she was previously. She found she possessed an incredible facility of -saying anything she wished, and of saying it in a shrewd, yet easy and -natural manner. She commenced on the instant, and kept up a sprightly -conversation with Riquet with the Tuft, during which she chatted away -at such a rate, that Riquet with the Tuft began to believe he had given -her more wit than he had kept for himself. When she returned to the -Palace, the whole Court was puzzled to account for a change so sudden -and extraordinary, for in proportion to the number of foolish things -they had heard her say formerly, were the sensible and exceedingly -clever observations she now gave utterance to. All the Court was in a -state of joy which is not to be conceived. The younger sister alone -was not very much pleased, as no longer possessing over her elder -sister the advantage of wit, she now only appeared, by her side, -as a very disagreeable-looking person. The King was now led by his -eldest daughter's advice, and sometimes even held his Council in her -apartment. The news of this alteration having spread abroad, all the -young Princes of the neighbouring kingdoms exerted themselves to obtain -her affection, and nearly all of them asked her hand in marriage; but -she found none of them sufficiently intelligent, and she listened to -all of them without engaging herself to any one. - -At length arrived a Prince so rich, so witty, and so handsome, that -she could not help feeling an inclination for him. Her father, having -perceived it, told her that he left her at perfect liberty to choose a -husband for herself, and that she had only to make known her decision. -As the more sense we possess, the more difficulty we find in making up -one's mind positively on such a matter, she requested, after having -thanked her father, that he would allow her some time to think of it. -She went, by chance, to walk in the same wood where she had met with -Riquet with the Tuft, in order to ponder with greater freedom on what -she had to do. While she was walking, deep in thought, she heard a dull -sound beneath her feet, as of many persons running to and fro, and -busily occupied. Having listened more attentively, she heard one say, -"Bring me that saucepan;" another, "Give me that kettle;" another, "Put -some wood on the fire." At the same moment the ground opened, and she -saw beneath her what appeared to be a large kitchen, full of cooks, -scullions, and all sorts of servants necessary for the preparation of a -magnificent banquet. There came forth a band of from twenty to thirty -cooks, who went and established themselves in an avenue of the wood -at a very long table, and who, each with larding-pin in hand and _the -queue de renard_[7] behind the ear, set to work, keeping time to a -melodious song. - -The Princess, astonished at this sight, inquired for whom they were -working. "Madam," replied the most prominent of the troop, "for Prince -Riquet with the Tuft, whose marriage will take place to-morrow." The -Princess, still more surprised than she was before, and suddenly -recollecting that it was just a twelvemonth from the day on which -she had promised to marry Prince Riquet with the Tuft, was lost in -amazement. The cause of her not having remembered her promise was, that -when she made it she was a fool, and on receiving her new mind, she -forgot all her follies. She had not taken thirty steps in continuation -of her walk, when Riquet with the Tuft presented himself before her, -gaily and magnificently attired, like a Prince about to be married. -"You see, Madam," said he, "I keep my word punctually, and I doubt not -but that you have come hither to keep yours, and to make me, by the -gift of your hand, the happiest of men." "I confess to you, frankly," -replied the Princess, "that I have not yet made up my mind on that -matter, and that I do not think I shall ever be able to do so to your -satisfaction." "You astonish me, Madam," said Riquet with the Tuft. -"I have no doubt I do," said the Princess; "and assuredly, had I to -deal with a stupid person--a man without mind,--I should feel greatly -embarrassed. 'A Princess is bound by her word,' he would say to me, -'and you must marry me, as you have promised to do so.' But as the -person to whom I speak is the most sensible man in all the world, I -am certain he will listen to reason. You know that, when I was no -better than a fool, I nevertheless could not resolve to marry you--how -can you expect, now that I have the sense which you have given me, -and which renders me much more difficult to please than before, that -I should take a resolution to-day which I could not do then? If you -seriously thought of marrying me, you did very wrong to take away -my stupidity, and enable me to see clearer than I saw then." "If a -man without sense," replied Riquet with the Tuft, "should meet with -some indulgence, as you have just intimated, had he to reproach you -with your breach of promise, why would you, Madam, that I should not -be equally so in a matter which affects the entire happiness of my -life? Is it reasonable that persons of intellect should be in a worse -condition than those that have none? Can you assert this--you who have -so much and have so earnestly desired to possess it? But let us come to -the point, if you please. With the exception of my ugliness, is there -anything in me that displeases you? Are you dissatisfied with my birth, -my understanding, my temper, or my manners?" - -"Not in the least," replied the Princess; "I admire in you everything -you have mentioned." "If so," rejoined Riquet with the Tuft, "I shall -be happy, as you have it in your power to make me the most agreeable -of men." "How can that be done?" said the Princess. "It can be done," -said Riquet with the Tuft, "if you love me sufficiently to wish that -it should be. And in order, Madam, that you should have no doubt about -it, know that the same fairy, who, on the day I was born, endowed me -with the power to give understanding to the person I chose, gave you -also the power to render handsome the man you should love, and on whom -you were desirous to bestow that favour." "If such be the fact," said -the Princess, "I wish, with all my heart, that you should become the -handsomest Prince in the world, and I bestow the gift on you to the -fullest extent in my power." - -The Princess had no sooner pronounced these words, than Riquet with the -Tuft appeared to her eyes, of all men in the world, the handsomest, -the best made, and most amiable she had ever seen. There are some who -assert that it was not the spell of the Fairy, but love alone that -caused this metamorphosis. They say that the Princess, having reflected -on the perseverance of her lover--on his prudence, and all the good -qualities of his heart and mind, no longer saw the deformity of his -body nor the ugliness of his features--that his hunch appeared to her -nothing more than the effect of a man shrugging his shoulders, and that -instead of observing, as she had done, that he limped horribly, she saw -in him no more than a certain lounging air, which charmed her. They say -also that his eyes, which squinted, seemed to her only more brilliant -from that defect, which passed in her mind for a proof of the intensity -of his love, and, in fine, that his great red nose had in it something -martial and heroic. However this may be, the Princess promised on -the spot to marry him, provided he obtained the consent of the King, -her Father. The King, having learned that his daughter entertained a -great regard for Riquet with the Tuft, whom he knew also to be a very -clever and wise prince, accepted him with pleasure for a son-in-law. -The wedding took place the next morning, as Riquet with the Tuft had -foreseen, and, according to the instructions which he had given a long -time before. - - No beauty, no talent, has power above - Some indefinite charm discern'd only by love. - - -FOOTNOTES: - -[7] See Appendix. - - - - -LITTLE THUMBLING. - - -Once upon a time there was a Woodcutter and his wife who had seven -children, all boys; the eldest was but ten years old, and the youngest -only seven. People wondered that the Woodcutter had had so many -children in so short a time; but the fact is, that his wife not only -had them very fast, but seldom presented him with less than two at a -birth. They were very poor, and their seven children troubled them -greatly, as not one of them was yet able to gain his livelihood. What -grieved them still more was that the youngest was very delicate, and -seldom spoke, which they considered a proof of stupidity instead of -good sense. He was very diminutive, and, when first born, scarcely -bigger than one's thumb, which caused them to call him Little Thumbling. - -This poor child was the scapegoat of the house, and was blamed for -everything that happened. Nevertheless he was the shrewdest and most -sensible of all his brothers, and if he spoke little, he listened -a great deal. There came a very bad harvest, and the famine was so -severe that these poor people determined to get rid of their children. -One evening, when they were all in bed, and the Woodman was sitting -over the fire with his wife, he said to her, with an aching heart, -"Thou seest clearly that we can no longer find food for our children. -I cannot let them die of hunger before my eyes, and I am resolved to -lose them to-morrow in the wood, which will be easily done, for whilst -they are occupied in tying up the faggots, we have but to make off -unobserved by them." "Ah!" exclaimed the Woodcutter's wife, "Canst -thou have the heart to lose thine own children?" Her husband in vain -represented to her their exceeding poverty; she could not consent to -the deed. She was poor, but she was their mother. Having, however, -reflected on the misery it would occasion her to see them die of -hunger, she at length assented, and went to bed weeping. - -Little Thumbling heard everything they had said, for having -ascertained, as he lay in his bed, that they were talking of their -affairs, he got up quietly, and slipped under his father's stool to -listen, without being seen. He went to bed again, and slept not a wink -the rest of the night, thinking what he should do. He rose early and -repaired to the banks of a rivulet, where he filled his pockets with -small white pebbles, and then returned home. They set out all together, -and Little Thumbling said nothing of what he had heard to his brothers. -They entered a very thick forest, wherein, at ten paces distant, they -could not see one another. The Woodcutter began to cut wood, and -his children to pick up sticks to make faggots with. The father and -mother, seeing them occupied with their work, stole away gradually, and -then fled suddenly by a small winding path. When the children found -themselves all alone, they began to scream and cry with all their -might. Little Thumbling let them scream, well knowing how he could -get home again, for as he came he had dropped all along the road the -little white pebbles he had in his pockets. He said to them then, "Fear -nothing, brothers, my father and mother have left us here, but I will -take you safely home, only follow me." They followed him, and he led -them back to the house by the same road that they had taken into the -forest. They feared to enter immediately, but placed themselves close -to the door to listen to the conversation of their father and mother. - -Just at the moment that the Woodcutter and his wife arrived at home, -the lord of the manor sent them ten crowns which he had owed them a -long time, and which they had given up all hope of receiving. This was -new life to them, for these poor people were actually starving. The -Woodcutter sent his wife to the butcher's immediately. As it was many -a day since they had tasted meat, she bought three times as much as -was necessary for the supper of two persons. When they had satisfied -their hunger, the Woodcutter's wife said, "Alas! where now are our -poor children; they would fare merrily on what we have left. But it -was thou, Guillaume, who wouldst lose them. Truly did I say we should -repent it. What are they now doing in the forest! Alas! Heaven help -me! the wolves have, perhaps, already devoured them! Inhuman that thou -art, thus to have destroyed thy children!" The Woodcutter began to lose -his temper, for she repeated more than twenty times that they should -repent it, and that she had said they would. He threatened to beat her -if she did not hold her tongue. It was not that the Woodcutter was -not, perhaps, even more sorry than his wife, but that she made such a -noise about it, and that he was like many other men who are very fond -of women who can talk well, but are exceedingly annoyed by those whose -words always come true. The wife was all in tears. "Alas! where are -now my children, my poor children?" She uttered this, at length, so -loudly, that the children, who were at the door, heard her, and began -to cry altogether, "We are here! we are here!" She ran quickly to open -the door to them, and, embracing them, exclaimed, "How happy I am to -see you again, my dear children; you are very tired and hungry. And how -dirty thou art, Pierrot; come here and let me wash thee." Pierrot was -her eldest son, and she loved him better than all the rest because he -was rather red-headed, and she was slightly so herself. They sat down -to supper, and ate with an appetite that delighted their father and -mother, to whom they related how frightened they were in the forest, -speaking almost always all together. The good folks were enchanted to -see their children once more around them, and their joy lasted as long -as the ten crowns; but when the money was spent they relapsed into -their former misery, and resolved to lose the children again, and to do -so effectually they determined to lead them much further from home than -they had done the first time. - -They could not talk of this so privately, but that they were overheard -by Little Thumbling, who reckoned upon getting out of the scrape by the -same means as before; but though he got up very early to collect the -little pebbles, he could not succeed in his object, for he found the -house door double locked. He knew not what to do, when the Woodcutter's -wife, having given them each a piece of bread for their breakfast, it -occurred to him that he might make the bread supply the place of the -pebbles by strewing crumbs of it along the path as they went, and so -he put his piece in his pocket. The father and mother led them into -the thickest and darkest part of the forest; and as soon as they had -done so, they gained a by-path, and left them there. Little Thumbling -did not trouble himself much, for he believed he should easily find -his way back by means of the bread which he had scattered wherever he -had passed; but he was greatly surprised at not being able to find a -single crumb. The birds had eaten it all up! Behold the poor children -then, in great distress, for the further they wandered the deeper they -plunged into the forest. Night came on, and a great wind arose, which -terrified them horribly. They fancied they heard on every side nothing -but the howling of wolves, hastening to devour them. They scarcely -dared to speak or look behind them. It then began to rain so heavily -that they were soon drenched to the skin; they slipped at every step, -tumbling into the mud, out of which they scrambled in a filthy state, -not knowing what to do with their hands. Little Thumbling climbed up -a tree to try if he could see anything from the top of it. Having -looked all about him, he saw a little light like that of a candle, -but it was a long way on the other side of the forest. He came down -again, and when he had reached the ground he could see the light no -longer. This distressed him greatly; but having walked on with his -brothers for some time in the direction of the light, he saw it again -on emerging from the wood. At length they reached the house where the -light was, not without many alarms, for they often lost sight of it, -and always when they descended into the valleys. They knocked loudly at -the door, and a good woman came to open it. She asked them what they -wanted. Little Thumbling told her they were poor children who had lost -their way in the forest, and who begged a night's lodging for charity. -The woman, seeing they were all so pretty, began to weep, and said -to them, "Alas! my poor children, whither have you come? Know that -this is the dwelling of an Ogre who eats little boys!" "Alas, Madam!" -replied Little Thumbling, who trembled from head to foot, as did all -his brothers; "what shall we do?--It is certain that the wolves of the -forest will not fail to devour us to-night, if you refuse to receive us -under your roof, and that being the case, we had rather be eaten by -the gentleman; perhaps he may have pity upon us, if you are kind enough -to ask him." The Ogre's wife, who fancied she could contrive to hide -them from her husband till the next morning, allowed them to come in, -and led them where they could warm themselves by a good fire, for there -was a whole sheep on the spit roasting for the Ogre's supper. Just as -they were beginning to get warm, they heard two or three loud knocks -at the door. It was the Ogre who had come home. His wife immediately -made the children hide under the bed, and went to open the door. The -Ogre first asked if his supper was ready and if she had drawn the wine, -and with that he sat down to his meal. The mutton was all but raw, but -he liked it all the better for that. He sniffed right and left, saying -that he smelt fresh meat. "It must be the calf I have just skinned that -you smell," said his wife. "I smell fresh meat, I tell you once more," -replied the Ogre, looking askance at his wife; "there is something -here that I don't understand." In saying these words, he rose from the -table and went straight to the bed--"Ah!" he exclaimed, "it is thus, -then, thou wouldst deceive me, cursed woman! I know not what hinders me -from eating thee also! It is well for thee that thou art an old beast! -Here is some game, which comes in good time for me to entertain three -Ogres of my acquaintance who are coming to see me in a day or two." He -dragged them from under the bed one after the other. The poor children -fell on their knees, begging mercy; but they had to deal with the -most cruel of all the Ogres, and who, far from feeling pity for them, -devoured them already with his eyes, and said to his wife they would be -dainty bits, when she had made a good sauce for them. He went to fetch -a great knife, and as he returned to the poor children, he whetted it -on a long stone that he held in his left hand. He had already seized -one, when his wife said to him, "What would you do at this hour of the -night? will it not be time enough to-morrow?" "Hold thy peace," replied -the Ogre, "they will be the more tender." "But you have already so -much meat," returned his wife; "Here is a calf, two sheep, and half a -pig." "Thou art right," said the Ogre; "give them a good supper, that -they may not fall away, and then put them to bed." The good woman was -enchanted, and brought them plenty for supper, but they couldn't eat, -they were so paralysed with fright. As for the Ogre, he seated himself -to drink again, delighted to think he had such a treat in store for his -friends. He drained a dozen goblets more than usual, which affected his -head a little, and obliged him to go to bed. - -The Ogre had seven daughters who were still in their infancy. These -little Ogresses had the most beautiful complexions, in consequence of -their eating raw flesh like their father; but they had very small, -round, grey eyes, hooked noses, and very large mouths, with long teeth, -exceedingly sharp, and wide apart. They were not very vicious as yet; -but they promised fairly to be so, for they already began to bite -little children, in order to suck their blood. They had been sent to -bed early, and were all seven in a large bed, having each a crown of -gold on her head. In the same room was another bed of the same size. -It was in this bed that the Ogre's wife put the seven little boys to -sleep, after which she went to sleep with her husband. - -Little Thumbling, who had remarked that the Ogre's daughters had golden -crowns on their heads, and who feared that the Ogre might regret that -he had not killed him and his brothers that evening, got up in the -middle of the night, and, taking off his own nightcap and those of his -brothers, went very softly and placed them on the heads of the Ogre's -seven daughters, after having taken off their golden crowns, which he -put on his brothers and himself, in order that the Ogre might mistake -them for his daughters, and his daughters for the boys whose throats he -longed to cut. - -Matters turned out exactly as he anticipated, for the Ogre awaking at -midnight, regretted having deferred till the morning what he might -have done the evening before. He therefore jumped suddenly out of bed, -and seizing his great knife, "Let us go," said he, "and see how our -young rogues are by this time; we won't make two bites at a cherry." -Therewith he stole on tiptoes up to his daughters' bed-room, and -approached the bed in which lay the little boys, who were all asleep -except Thumbling, who was dreadfully frightened when the Ogre placed -his hand upon his head to feel it, as he had in turn felt those of all -his brothers. - -The Ogre, who felt the golden crowns, said, "Truly, I was about to do -a pretty job! It's clear I must have drunk too much last night." He -then went to the bed where his daughters slept, and having felt the -little nightcaps that belonged to the boys. "Aha!" cried he. "Here -are our young wags! Let us to work boldly!" So saying, he cut without -hesitation the throats of his seven daughters. Well satisfied with this -exploit, he returned and stretched himself beside his wife. As soon as -Little Thumbling heard the Ogre snoring, he woke his brothers, and bade -them dress themselves quickly and follow him. They went down softly -into the garden and jumped over the wall. They ran nearly all night -long, trembling all the way, and not knowing whither they were going. - -The Ogre, awaking in the morning, said to his wife, "Get thee up stairs -and dress the little rogues you took in last night." The Ogress was -astonished at the kindness of her husband, never suspecting the sort -of dressing he meant her to give them, and fancying he ordered her to -go and put on their clothes; she went up stairs, where she was greatly -surprised to find her daughters murdered and swimming in their blood. -The first thing she did was to faint (for it is the first thing that -almost all women do in similar circumstances). The Ogre, fearing that -his wife would be too long about the job he had given her to do, went -upstairs to help her. He was not less surprised than his wife, when he -beheld this frightful spectacle. "Hah! what have I done?" he exclaimed. -"The wretches shall pay for it, and instantly!" He then threw a jugfull -of water in his wife's face, and having brought her to, said, "Quick! -give me my seven-league boots, that I may go and catch them." He set -out, and after running in every direction, came at last upon the track -of the poor children, who were not more than a hundred yards from their -father's house. They saw the Ogre striding from hill to hill, and who -stepped over rivers as easily as if they were the smallest brooks. -Little Thumbling, who perceived a hollow rock close by where they were, -hid his brothers in it, and crept in after them, watching all the while -the progress of the Ogre. The Ogre, feeling very tired with his long -journey to no purpose (for seven-league boots are very fatiguing to the -wearer), was inclined to rest, and by chance sat down on the very rock -in which the little boys had concealed themselves. As he was quite worn -out, he had not rested long before he fell asleep, and began to snore -so dreadfully that the poor children were not less frightened than they -were when he took up the great knife to cut their throats. - -Little Thumbling was not so much alarmed, and told his brothers to run -quickly into the house while the Ogre was sound asleep, and not to -be uneasy about him. They took his advice and speedily reached home. -Little Thumbling having approached the Ogre, gently pulled off his -boots, and put them on directly. The boots were very large and very -long; but as they were fairy boots, they possessed the quality of -increasing or diminishing in size according to the leg of the person -who wore them, so that they fitted him as perfectly as if they had been -made for him. He went straight to the Ogre's house, where he found his -wife weeping over her murdered daughters. "Your husband," said Little -Thumbling to her, "is in great danger, for he has been seized by a band -of robbers, who have sworn to kill him if he does not give them all his -gold and silver. At the moment they had their daggers at his throat -he perceived me, and entreated me to come and tell you the situation -he was in, and bid you give me all his ready cash, without keeping -back any of it, as otherwise they will kill him without mercy. As time -pressed, he insisted I should take his seven-league boots, which you -see I have on, in order that I might make haste, and also that you -might be sure I was not imposing upon you." - -The good woman, very much alarmed, immediately gave him all the money -she could find, for the Ogre was not a bad husband to her, although he -ate little children. Little Thumbling, thus laden with all the wealth -of the Ogre, hastened back to his father's house, where he was received -with great joy. - -There are many persons who differ in their account of this part of -the story, and who pretend that Little Thumbling never committed this -robbery, and that he only considered himself justified in taking the -Ogre's seven-league boots, because he used them expressly to run after -little children. These people assert that they have heard it from good -authority, and that they have even eaten and drunk in the Woodcutter's -house. They assure us that when Little Thumbling had put on the Ogre's -boots, he went to Court, where he knew they were in much trouble about -an army which was within two hundred leagues of them, and anxious to -learn the success of a battle that had been fought. They say he went -to seek the King, and told him that if he desired it, he would bring -him back news of the army before the end of the day. The King promised -him a large sum of money if he did so. Little Thumbling brought news -that very evening, and this first journey having made him known, he -got whatever he chose to ask; for the King paid most liberally for -taking his orders to the army, and numberless ladies gave him anything -he chose for news of their lovers, and they were his best customers. -He occasionally met with some wives who entrusted him with letters -for their husbands, but they paid him so poorly, and the amount was -altogether so trifling, that he did not condescend to put down amongst -his receipts what he got for that service. After he had been a courier -for some time, and saved a great deal of money, he returned to his -father, where it is impossible to imagine the joy of his family at -seeing him again. He made them all comfortable. He bought newly-made -offices for his father and his brothers, and by these means established -them all, making his own way at Court at the same time. - - Often is the handsome boy - Made, alone, his father's joy; - While the tiny, timid child - Is neglected or reviled. - Notwithstanding, sometimes he - Lives, of all, the prop to be. - - - - -THE COUNTESS DE MURAT. - - - - -PERFECT LOVE. - - -In one of those agreeable countries subject to the Empire of the -Fairies, reigned the redoubtable Danamo. She was learned in her art, -cruel in her deeds, and proud of the honour of being descended from -the celebrated Calypso, whose charms had the glory and the power, by -detaining the famous Ulysses, to triumph over the prudence of the -conquerors of Troy. - -She was tall, fierce-looking, and her haughty spirit had with much -difficulty been subjected to the rigid laws of Hymen. Love had never -been able to reach her heart, but the idea of uniting a flourishing -kingdom to that of which she was Queen, and another which she had -usurped, had induced her to marry an old monarch, who was one of her -neighbours. - -He died a few years after his marriage, and left the Queen with one -daughter, named Azire. She was exceedingly ugly, but did not appear so -in the eyes of Danamo, who thought her charming, perhaps because she -was the very image of herself. She was heiress also to three kingdoms, -a circumstance which softened down many defects, and her hand was -sought in marriage by all the most powerful princes of the adjacent -provinces. Their eagerness, joined to the blind affection of Danamo, -rendered her vanity insupportable. She was ardently besought--she must, -therefore, be worthy of such solicitation. It was thus that the Fairy -and the Princess reasoned in their own minds, and enjoyed the pleasure -of deceiving themselves. Meanwhile, Danamo thought only of rendering -the happiness of the Princess as perfect as she considered was her due, -and, with this object, brought up in her palace a young Prince, the son -of her brother. - -His name was Parcin Parcinet. He had a noble bearing, a graceful -figure, a profusion of beautiful fair hair. Love might have been -jealous of his power, for that deity had never, amongst his -golden-pointed arrows, any so certain to triumph irresistibly over -hearts as the fine eyes of Parcin Parcinet. He could do everything well -that he chose to undertake--danced and sang to perfection, and bore -off all the prizes in the tournament whenever he took the trouble to -contend for them. - -This young Prince was the delight of the Court, and Danamo, who had her -motives for it, made no objection to the homage and admiration which he -received. - -The King who was the father of Parcinet was the Fairy's brother. She -declared war against him without even seeking for a reason. The King -fought valiantly, at the head of his troops; but what could any army -effect against the power of so skilful a Fairy as Danamo? She allowed -the victory to remain in doubt only long enough for her unfortunate -brother to fall in the combat. As soon as he was dead, she dispersed -all her enemies with one stroke of her wand, and made herself mistress -of the kingdom. - -Parcin Parcinet was at that time still in his cradle. They brought him -to Danamo. It would have been in vain to attempt hiding him from a -Fairy. He already displayed those seductive graces which win the heart. -Danamo caressed him, and a few days afterwards took him with her to her -own dominions. - -The Prince had attained the age of eighteen, when the Fairy, desirous -at length of executing the designs which she had so many years -contemplated, resolved to marry Parcin Parcinet to the Princess, her -daughter. She never for a moment doubted the infinite delight which -that young Prince, born to a throne, and condemned by misfortune to -remain a subject, would feel at becoming in one day the sovereign of -three kingdoms. She sent for the Princess, and revealed to her the -choice she had made of a husband for her. The Princess listened to -this disclosure with an emotion which caused the Fairy to believe that -this resolution in favour of Parcin Parcinet was not agreeable to -her daughter. "I see clearly," she said to her, as she perceived her -agitation increasing, "that thou hast much more ambition, and wouldst -unite with thine own empire that of one of those kings who have so -often proposed for thee; but where is the King whom Parcin Parcinet -cannot conquer? In courage he surpasses them all. The subjects of so -perfect a prince might one day rebel in his favour. In giving thee to -him I secure to thee the possession of his kingdom. As to his person, -it is unnecessary to speak--thou knowest that the proudest beauties -have not been able to resist his charms." The Princess, suddenly -flinging herself at the feet of the Fairy, interrupted her discourse, -and confessed to her that her heart had not been able to defy the young -victor, famous for so many conquests. "But," added she, blushing, "I -have given a thousand proofs of my affection to the insensible Parcin -Parcinet, and he has received them with a coldness which distracts me." -"'Tis because he dares not raise his thoughts so high as thee," replied -the haughty Fairy. "He fears, no doubt, to offend me, and I appreciate -his respect." - -This flattering idea was too agreeable to the inclination and the -vanity of the Princess for her not to be persuaded of its truth. The -Fairy ended by sending for Parcin Parcinet. He came, and found her in -a magnificent cabinet, where she awaited him with the Princess, her -daughter. "Call all thy courage to thy assistance," said she to him as -soon as he appeared--"not to support affliction, but to prevent being -overcome by thy good fortune. Thou art called to a throne, Parcin -Parcinet, and to crown thy happiness, thou wilt mount that throne by -espousing my daughter." "I, Madam!" exclaimed the young Prince, with an -astonishment in which it was easy to perceive that joy had no share, "I -espouse the Princess," continued he, retreating a few paces. "Hah! what -deity is meddling with my fate? Why does he not leave the care of it to -the only one from whom I implore assistance?" - -These words were uttered by the Prince with a vehemence in which -his heart took too much part to allow it to be controlled by his -prudence. The Fairy imagined that the unhoped-for happiness had driven -Parcin Parcinet out of his wits; but the Princess loved him, and love -sometimes renders lovers more keen sighted than even wisdom. "From -what deity, Parcin Parcinet," said she to him with emotion, "do you -implore assistance so fondly? I feel too deeply that I have no share -in the prayers you address to him." The young Prince, who had had -time to recover from his first surprise, and who was conscious of the -imprudence he had committed, summoned his brain to the assistance -of his heart. He answered the Princess with more gallantry than she -had hoped for, and thanked the Fairy with an air of dignity that -sufficiently proved him to be worthy not only of the empire that was -offered him, but of that of the whole world. - -Danamo and her proud daughter were satisfied with his expressions, -and they settled everything before they left the apartment, the Fairy -deferring the wedding-day a short time, only to give opportunity to all -her Court to prepare for this grand solemnity. - -The news of the marriage of Parcin Parcinet and Azire was spread -throughout the Palace the moment they had quitted the Queen's cabinet. -Crowds came to congratulate the Prince. However unamiable the Princess, -it was to high fortune she conducted him. Parcin Parcinet received -all these honours with an air of indifference, which surprised his -new subjects the more, for that they detected beneath it extreme -affliction and anxiety. He was compelled, however, to endure for the -rest of the day the eager homage of the whole Court, and the ceaseless -demonstrations of affection lavished upon him by Azire. - -What a situation for a young Prince, a prey to the keenest anguish. -Night seemed to him to have delayed its return a thousand times longer -than usual. The impatient Parcin Parcinet prayed for its arrival. -It came at length. He quitted precipitately the place in which he -had suffered so much. He retired to his own apartments, and, having -dismissed his attendants, opened a door which led into the Palace -Gardens, and hurried through them, followed only by a young slave. - -A beautiful, but not very extensive, river ran at the end of the -gardens, and separated from the magnificent Palace of the Fairy a -little Château, flanked by four towers, and surrounded by a tolerably -deep moat, which was filled by the river aforesaid. It was to this -fatal spot that the vows and sighs of Parcin Parcinet were incessantly -wafted. - -What a miracle was confined in it! Danamo had the treasure carefully -guarded within it. It was a young Princess, the daughter of her -sister, who, dying, had confided her to the charge of the Fairy. Her -beauty, worthy the admiration of the universe, appeared too dangerous -to Danamo to allow her to be seen by the side of Azire. Permission was -occasionally accorded to the charming Irolite (so was she named), to -come to the Palace, to visit the Fairy and the Princess her daughter, -but she had never been allowed to appear in public. Her dawning -beauties were unknown to the world, but there was one who was not -ignorant of them. They had met the eyes of Parcin Parcinet one day at -the apartments of the Princess Azire, and he had adored Irolite from -the moment that he had seen her. Their near relationship afforded no -privilege to that young Prince; from the time Irolite ceased to be an -infant the pitiless Danamo suffered no one to behold her. - -Nevertheless Parcin Parcinet burned with a flame as ardent as such -charms as Irolite's could not fail to kindle. She was just fourteen. -Her beauty was perfect. Her hair was of a charming colour. Without -being decidedly dark or fair, her complexion had all the freshness -of spring. Her mouth was lovely, her teeth admirable, her smile -fascinating. She had large hazel eyes, sparkling and tender, and her -glances appeared to say a thousand things which her young heart was -ignorant of. - -She had been brought up in complete solitude. Near as was the Palace of -the Fairy to the Château in which she dwelt, she saw no more persons -than she might have seen in the midst of deserts. Danamo's orders to -this effect were strictly followed. The lovely Irolite passed her days -amongst the women appointed to attend her. They were few in number, -but little as were the advantages to be gained in so solitary and -circumscribed a Court, Fame, which feared not Danamo, published such -wonders of this young Princess, that ladies of the highest rank were -eager to share the seclusion of the youthful Irolite. Her appearance -confirmed all that Fame had reported. They were always finding some new -charm to admire in her. - -A governess of great intelligence and prudence, formerly attached to -the Princess who was the mother of Irolite, had been allowed to remain -with her, and frequently bewailed the rigorous conduct of Danamo -towards her young mistress. Her name was Mana. Her desire to restore -the Princess to the liberty she was entitled to enjoy, and the position -she was born to occupy, had induced her to favour the love of Parcin -Parcinet. It was now three years since he had contrived to introduce -himself one evening into the Château in the dress of a slave. He found -Irolite in the garden, and declared his passion for her. She was then -but a charming child. She loved Parcin Parcinet as if he had been her -brother, and could not then comprehend the existence of any warmer -attachment. Mana, who was rarely absent from the side of Irolite, -surprised the young Prince in the garden; he avowed to her his love -for the Princess, and the determination he had formed to perish, or -to restore her one day to liberty, and then to seek, by a personal -appeal to his former subjects, a glorious means of revenging himself on -Danamo, and of placing Irolite upon the throne. - -The noble qualities which were daily developed in the nature of -Parcin Parcinet, might have rendered probable his success in still -more difficult undertakings, and it was also the only hope of rescue -which offered itself to Irolite. Mana allowed him to visit the Château -occasionally after nightfall. He saw Irolite only in her presence, but -he spoke to her of his love, and never ceased endeavouring, by tender -words and devoted attentions, to inspire her with a passion as ardent -as his own. For three years Parcin Parcinet had been occupied solely -with this passion. Nearly every night he visited the Château of his -Princess, and all his days he passed in thinking of her. We left him on -his road through Danamo's gardens, followed by a slave, and absorbed in -the despair to which the determination of the Fairy had reduced him. He -reached the river's bank: a little gilded boat, moored to the shore, -in which Azire sometimes enjoyed an excursion on the water, enabled -the enamoured Prince to cross the stream. The slave rowed him over, -and as soon as Parcin Parcinet had ascended the silken ladder which -was thrown to him from a little terrace that extended along the entire -front of the Château, the faithful servant rowed the boat back to its -mooring-place, and remained with it there until a signal was made to -him by his master. This was the waving, for a few minutes, of a lighted -flambeau on the terrace. - -This evening the Prince took his usual route, the silken ladder was -thrown to him, and he reached, without any obstacle, the apartment of -the youthful Irolite. He found her stretched on a couch, and bathed -in tears. How beautiful did she appear to him in her affliction. Her -charms had never before affected the young Prince so deeply. - -"What is the matter, my Princess?" asked he, flinging himself on his -knees before the couch on which she lay. "What can have caused these -precious tears to flow? Alas!" he continued, sighing, "have I still -more misfortunes to learn here?" The young lovers mingled their tears -and sighs, and were forced to give full vent to their sorrow before -they could find words to declare its cause. At length the young Prince -entreated Irolite to tell him what new severity the Fairy had treated -her with. "She would compel you to marry Azire," replied the beautiful -Irolite, blushing; "which of all her cruelties could cause me so much -agony?" "Ah! my dear Princess," exclaimed the Prince, "you fear I -shall marry Azire! My lot is a thousand times more happy than I could -have imagined it!" "Can you exult in your destiny," sadly rejoined -the Princess, "when it threatens to separate us? I cannot express to -you the tortures that I suffer from this fear! Ah, Parcin Parcinet, -you were right! The love I bear to you is far different from that I -should feel for a brother!" The enamoured Prince blessed Fortune for -her severities; never before had the young heart of Irolite appeared -to him truly touched by love, and now he could no longer doubt having -inspired her with a passion as tender as his own. This unlooked-for -happiness renewed all his hopes. "No!" he exclaimed with rapture; "I no -longer despair of overcoming our difficulties, since I am convinced of -your affection. Let us fly, my Princess. Let us escape from the fury of -Danamo and her hateful daughter. Let us seek a home more favourable to -the indulgence of that love, in which alone consists our happiness!" -"How!" rejoined the young Princess with astonishment. "Depart with you! -And what would all the kingdom say of my flight?" "Away with such idle -fears, beautiful Irolite," interrupted the impatient Parcin Parcinet, -"everything urges us to quit this spot. Let us hasten--" "But whither?" -asked the prudent Mana, who had been present during the entire -interview, and who, less pre-occupied than these young lovers, foresaw -all the difficulties in the way of their flight. "I have plans which I -will lay before you," answered Parcin Parcinet; "but how did you become -so soon acquainted here with the news of the Fairy's Court?" "One of -my relatives," replied Mana, "wrote to me the instant that the rumour -was circulated through the Palace, and I thought it my duty to inform -the Princess." "What have I not suffered since that moment!" said the -lovely Irolite. "No, Parcin Parcinet, I cannot live without you!" The -young Prince, in a transport of love, and enchanted by these words, -imprinted on the beautiful hand of Irolite a passionate and tender -kiss, which had all the charms of a first and precious favour. The day -began to dawn, and warned Parcinet, too soon, that it was time for -him to retire. He promised the Princess he would return the following -night to reveal his plans for their escape. He found his faithful -slave in waiting with the boat, and returned to his apartments. He was -enraptured with the delight of being beloved by the fair Irolite, and -agitated by the obstacles which he clearly perceived would have to be -surmounted, sleep could neither calm his anxiety, nor make him for one -moment forget his happiness. - -The morning sun had scarcely lighted his chamber, when a dwarf -presented him with a magnificent scarf from the Princess Azire, who in -a note, more tender than Parcin Parcinet would have desired, entreated -him to wear it constantly from that moment. He returned an answer which -it embarrassed him much to compose; but Irolite was to be rescued, -and what constraint would he not have himself endured to restore her -to liberty. He had no sooner dismissed the dwarf than a giant arrived -to present him, from Danamo, with a sabre of extraordinary beauty. -The hilt was formed by a single stone, more brilliant than a diamond, -and which emitted so dazzling a lustre that it would light the way by -night. Upon its blade were engraven these words-- - - "For the hand of a conqueror." - -Parcin Parcinet was pleased with this present. He went to thank the -Fairy for it, and entered her apartment, wearing the marvellous sabre -she had sent him, and the beautiful scarf he had received from Azire. -The assurance of Irolite's affection for him had relieved him from all -anxiety, and filled his bosom with that gentle and perfect happiness -which is born of mutual love. An air of joy was apparent in all his -actions. Azire attributed it to the effect of her own charms, and the -Fairy to satisfied ambition. The day passed in entertainments which -could not diminish the insupportable length of it to Parcin Parcinet. -In the evening they walked in the Palace gardens, and were rowed on -that very river with which the Prince was so well acquainted. His heart -beat quickly as he stepped into that little boat. What a difference -between the pleasure to which it was accustomed to bear him, and the -dreary dulness of his present position. Parcin Parcinet could not help -casting frequent glances towards the dwelling of the charming Irolite. -She did not make her appearance upon the terrace of the Château, -for there was an express order that she was not to be permitted to -leave her chamber, whenever the Fairy or Azire was on the water. The -latter, who narrowly watched all the Prince's actions, observed that -he often looked in that direction. "What are you gazing at, Prince?" -said she. "Amidst all the honours that surround you, is the prison of -Irolite deserving so much attention?" "Yes, Madam," replied the Prince, -very imprudently, "I feel for those who have not drawn on themselves -by their own misconduct the misfortunes they endure." "You are too -compassionate," replied Azire, contemptuously; "but to relieve your -anxiety," added she, lowering her voice, "I can inform you that Irolite -will not long continue a prisoner." "And what is to become of her, -then?" hastily inquired the young Prince. "The Queen will marry her -in a few days to Prince Ormond," answered Azire. "He is, as you know, -a kinsman of ours; and, agreeable to the Queen's intentions, the day -after the nuptials he will conduct Irolite to one of his fortresses, -from whence she will never return to the Court." "How!" exclaimed -Parcin Parcinet, with extraordinary emotion; "will the Queen bestow -that beautiful Princess on so frightful a Prince, and whose vices -exceed even his ugliness? What cruelty!"--The latter word escaped his -lips despite himself: but he could no longer be false to his courage -and his heart. "Methinks it is not for you, Parcin Parcinet," retorted -Azire, haughtily, "to complain of the cruelties of Danamo." - -This conversation would, no doubt, have been carried too far for the -young Prince, whose safety lay in dissimulation; when, fortunately for -Parcin Parcinet, some of the ladies in waiting on Azire approached -her, and a moment afterwards the Fairy having appeared on the bank -of the river, Azire signified her desire to rejoin her. On landing, -Parcin Parcinet pretended indisposition in order to obtain at least the -liberty of lamenting alone his new misfortunes. - -The Fairy, and more particularly Azire, testified great anxiety -respecting his illness. He returned to his own apartments. There he -indulged in a thousand complaints against destiny for the ills it -threatened to inflict on the charming Irolite, abandoned himself to -all his grief and all his passion, and beginning at length to seek -consolation for sufferings so agonizing to a faithful lover, wrote -a letter full of the most moving phrases that his affection could -dictate, to one of his Aunts, who was a Fairy as well as Danamo, but -who found as much pleasure in befriending the unfortunate as Danamo did -in making them miserable. Her name was Favourable. The Prince explained -to her the cruel situation to which love and fate had reduced him, -and not being able to absent himself from the Court of Danamo without -betraying the design he had formed, he sent his faithful slave with the -letter to Favourable. When every one had retired to rest, he left his -apartment as usual, crossed the gardens alone, and stepping into the -little boat, took up one of the oars without knowing whether or not he -could manage to use it: but what cannot love teach his votaries? He -can instruct them in much more difficult matters. He enabled Parcin -Parcinet to row with as much skill and rapidity as the most expert -waterman. He entered the Château, and was much surprised to find no -one but the prudent Mana, weeping bitterly in the Princess's chamber. -"What afflicts you, Mana?" asked the Prince, eagerly; "and where is my -dear Irolite?" "Alas! my Lord," replied Mana, "she is no longer here. -A troop of the Queen's Guards, and some women, in whom she apparently -confides, removed the Princess from the Castle about three or four -hours ago." - -Parcin Parcinet heard not the last of these sad words. He had sunk -insensible on the ground the instant he learned the departure of the -Princess. Mana, with great difficulty, restored him to consciousness. -He recovered from his swoon only to give way to a sudden paroxysm -of fury. He drew a small dagger from his girdle, and had pierced his -heart, if the prudent Mana, dragging back his arm as best she could, -and falling at the same time on her knees, had not exclaimed--"How, -my Lord! would you abandon Irolite? Live to save her from the wrath -of Danamo. Alas! without you, how will she find protection from the -Fairy's cruelty?" These words suspended for a moment the despair of -the wretched Prince. "Alas!" replied he, shedding tears, which all -his courage could not restrain, "whither have they borne my Princess? -Yes, Mana! I will live to enjoy at least the sad satisfaction of dying -in her defence, and in avenging her on her enemies!" After these -words, Mana conjured him to quit the fatal building to avoid fresh -misfortunes. "Hasten, Prince," said she to him; "how know we that the -Fairy has not here some spy ready to acquaint her with everything that -passes within these walls? Be careful of a life so dear to the Princess -whom you adore. I will let you know all that I can contrive to learn -respecting her." - -The Prince departed after this promise, and regained his chamber, -oppressed with all the grief which so tender and so luckless a passion -could inspire. He passed the night on a couch on which he had thrown -himself on entering the room. Daybreak surprised him there: and the -morning was advanced some hours, when he heard a noise at his chamber -door. He ran to it with the eager impatience which we feel when we -await tidings in which the heart is deeply interested. He found -his people conducting to him, a man who desired to speak with him -instantly. He recognised the messenger as one of Mana's relations, who -placed in the hand of Parcin Parcinet a letter which he took with him -into his cabinet to read, in order to conceal the emotion its receipt -excited in him. He opened it hastily, having observed it was in Mana's -handwriting, and found these words:-- - -"Mana, to the greatest Prince in the world. Be comforted, my Lord; -our Princess is in safety, if such an expression be allowable, so -long as she is subjected to the power of her enemy. She requested -Danamo to permit my attendance on her, and the Fairy consented that I -should rejoin her. She is confined in the Palace. Yesterday evening -the Queen caused her to be brought into her cabinet, ordered her to -look upon Prince Ormond as one who would be in a few days her husband, -and presented to her that Prince so unworthy of being your rival. The -Princess was so distressed that she could answer the Queen only by -tears. They have not yet ceased to flow. It is for you, my Lord, to -find, if possible, some means of escape from the impending calamity." - -At the foot of the letter were the following lines, written with a -trembling hand, and some of the words being nearly effaced. "How I pity -you, my dear Prince; your sufferings are more terrible to me than my -own. I spare your feelings the recital of what I have endured since -yesterday. Why was I born to disturb your peace? Alas! had you never -known me, perhaps you might have been happy." - -What mingled emotions of joy and grief agitated the heart of the young -Prince in reading this postscript. What kisses did he not imprint -on this precious token of the love of the divine Irolite! He was so -excited that it was with the greatest difficulty in the world that he -succeeded in writing a coherent answer. He thanked the prudent Mana; -he informed the Princess of the assistance he expected from the Fairy -Favourable; and what did he not say to her of his grief or his love! -He then took the letter to Mana's kinsman, and presented him with a -clasp set with jewels of inestimable beauty and value, as an earnest of -the reward he had deserved, for the pleasure he had given him. Mana's -kinsman had scarcely departed, when the Queen and Princess Azire sent -to enquire how the Prince had passed the night. It was easily seen by -his countenance that he was not well. He was entreated to return to his -bed, and as he felt he should be under less restraint there than in the -company of the Fairy, he consented to do so. - -After dinner, the Queen came to see him, and spoke to him of the -marriage of Irolite and Prince Ormond as of a matter she had decided -upon. Parcin Parcinet, who had at length made up his mind to control -himself, so as not to awaken suspicions which might frustrate his -designs, pretended to approve of the Fairy's intentions, and only -requested her to await his perfect recovery, as it was his wish to be -present at the festivities which would take place on the occasion of -these grand nuptials. The Fairy and Azire, who were in despair about -his illness, promised him everything he desired; and Parcin Parcinet -thus retarded, for some days at least, the threatened marriage of -Irolite. His conversation with Azire, when on the water with her, had -hastened the approach of that misfortune to the beautiful Princess he -loved so tenderly. Azire had related to the Queen the words of Parcin -Parcinet, and the pity he had expressed for Irolite. The Queen, who -never paused in the execution of what she had determined on, sent that -very evening for Irolite, and decided, in conjunction with Azire, that -the marriage of the former should immediately take place, and that her -departure should be expedited before Parcin Parcinet was established in -the higher authority his match with Azire would invest him with. Before -ten days had expired, however, the Prince's faithful slave returned -from his mission. With what delight did the Prince discover in the -letter Favourable had written to him, the proofs of her compassion and -of her friendship for him and for Irolite. She sent him a ring made of -four separate metals, gold, silver, brass, and iron. This ring had the -power to save him four times from the persecution of the cruel Danamo, -and Favourable assured the Prince that the Fairy would not order him -to be pursued more often than that ring was able to protect him. These -good tidings restored the Prince to health, and he sent with all -speed for Mana's kinsman. He entrusted him with a letter for Irolite, -informing her of the success they might hope for. There was no time to -be lost. The Queen had determined the wedding of Irolite should take -place in three days. That evening there was to be a ball given by the -Princess Azire. Irolite was to be present. Parcin Parcinet could not -endure the idea of appearing "_en négligé_," as his recent illness -might have permitted him, he dressed himself in the most magnificent -style, and looked more brilliant than the sun. He dared not at first -speak to the fair Irolite; but what did not their eyes discourse when -occasionally, they ventured to glance at each other. Irolite was in the -most beautiful costume in the world. The Fairy had presented her with -some marvellous jewels, and as she had only four days to remain in the -palace, Danamo had resolved, during that short period, to treat her -with all due honour. Her beauty, which had hitherto been unadorned, in -such splendour, appeared wonderful to the whole court, and, above all, -to the enamoured Parcin Parcinet. He even imagined he could read in -some joyous flashes of her bright eyes an acknowledgment that she had -received his letter. Prince Ormond addressed Irolite frequently; but -he was so ill-looking, notwithstanding the gold and jewels with which -he was burthened, that he was not a rival worth the jealousy of the -young Prince. The ball was nearly over, when Parcin Parcinet, carried -away by his love, wished with intense ardour for an opportunity to -speak for one moment to his Princess. "Cruel Queen, and thou, also, -hateful Azire!" he mentally exclaimed; "will ye still longer deprive -me of the delightful pleasure of repeating a thousand times to the -beautiful Irolite that I adore her! Jealous witnesses of my happiness, -why do ye not quit this spot? Love can only triumph in your absence." -Scarcely had Parcin Parcinet formed this wish, than the Fairy, feeling -rather faint, called to Azire, and passed with her into an adjoining -apartment, followed by Ormond. Parcin Parcinet had on his finger the -ring which the fairy Favourable had sent him, and which had the power -to rescue him four times from the persecutions of Danamo. He should -have reserved such certain help for the most pressing necessity; but -when did violent love obey the dictates of prudence? - -The young Prince was convinced by the sudden departure of the Fairy and -Azire, that the ring had begun to favour his love. He flew to the fair -Irolite. He spoke to her of his affection in terms more ardent than -eloquent. He felt that he had perhaps invoked the spell of Favourable -too thoughtlessly; but could he regret an imprudence which obtained -for him the sweet gratification of speaking to his dear Irolite? -They agreed as to the place and hour at which, the next day, they -would meet, to fly from their painful bondage. The Fairy and Azire, -after some time, returned to the ball-room. Parcin Parcinet separated -with regret from Irolite. He looked at the fatal ring, and perceived -that the iron had mixed with the other metals, and was no longer -distinguishable, he therefore saw too clearly that he had only three -more wishes to make. He resolved to render them more truly serviceable -to the Princess than the first had been. He confided the secret of his -flight to no one but his faithful slave, and passed the rest of the -night in making all the necessary preparations. The next morning he -calmly presented himself to the Queen, and appeared even in better -spirits than usual. He jested with Prince Ormond on his marriage, and -conducted himself in such a manner as to lull all suspicions, had any -existed as to his intentions. Two hours after midnight he repaired to -the Fairy's Park; he found there his faithful slave, who, in obedience -to his master's orders, had brought thither four of his horses. The -Prince was not kept long waiting. The lovely Irolite appeared, walking -with faltering steps, and leaning upon Mana. The young Princess felt -some pain in taking this course. It had needed all the cruelties of -Danamo, and all the bad qualities of Ormond, to induce her to do so. -Love alone had not sufficed to persuade her. - -It was autumn. The night was beautiful, and the moon, with a host of -brilliant stars, illuminated the sky, shedding around a more charming -light than that of day. The Prince eagerly advanced to meet his -beloved, there was no time for long speeches, Parcin Parcinet tenderly -kissed the hand of Irolite and assisted her to mount her horse. -Fortunately she rode admirably. It was one of the amusements she had -taken pleasure in during her captivity. She had frequently ridden with -her attendants in a little wood close to the Château she resided in, -and of which the Fairy allowed her the range. Parcin Parcinet, after -the interchange of a few words with the Princess, mounted his own -horse. The other two were for Mana and the faithful slave. The Prince -then drawing the brilliant sabre he had received from the Fairy, swore -on it to adore the beautiful Irolite as long as he should live, and to -die, if it were necessary, in defending her from her enemies. They then -set out, and it seemed as if the Zephyrs were in league with them, or -that they mistook Irolite for Flora, for they accompanied them in their -flight. - -Morning disclosed to Danamo the unexpected event. The ladies in -attendance on Irolite were surprised that she slept so much later than -usual; but, in obedience to the orders the prudent Mana had given them -over-night, they did not venture to enter the Princess's apartment -without being summoned by her. Mana slept in Irolite's chamber, and -they had quitted it by a small door that opened into a court-yard of -the Palace that was very little frequented. This door was in Irolite's -cabinet. It had been fastened up, but, with a little trouble, in two or -three evenings, they had found means to open it. The Queen at length -sent orders for Irolite to come to her. The Fairy's commands were not -to be disobeyed by any one. They accordingly knocked at the chamber -door of the Princess. They received no answer. Prince Ormond arrived. -He came to conduct Irolite to the Queen, and was much surprised to find -them knocking loudly at the door. He caused it to be broken open. They -entered, and finding the little door of the cabinet had been forced, -no longer doubted that the Princess had fled the Palace. They bore -these tidings to the Queen, who trembled with rage at hearing them. She -ordered a search to be made everywhere for Irolite, but in vain did -they endeavour to obtain a clue to her evasion, no one knew anything -about it. Prince Ormond himself set out in pursuit of Irolite. The -Fairy's Guards were despatched in all haste, and in every direction it -was thought possible she might have taken. It was observed, however, by -Azire, that amidst this general agitation, Parcin Parcinet had not made -his appearance. She sent an urgent message to him, and jealousy opening -her eyes, she felt certain that the Prince had carried off Irolite, -although she had not until that moment suspected he was in love with -her. The Fairy could not believe it; but she hastened to consult her -books, and discovered that Azire's suspicion was but too well founded. - -In the meanwhile that Princess having learned that Parcin Parcinet was -not in his apartments, and could not be found anywhere in the Palace, -sent some one to the Château in which Irolite had so long resided, to -see if they could find any evidence that would convict or acquit the -Prince. The prudent Mana had taken care to leave nothing in it that -could betray the understanding that had existed between Irolite and -Parcin Parcinet; but they found near the seat on which the Prince had -lain so long insensible, the scarf Azire had given to him. It had been -unfastened during his swoon, and the Prince and Mana, absorbed in their -grief, had neither of them subsequently observed it. What were the -feelings of the haughty Azire at the sight of this scarf? Her love and -her pride were equally wounded. She was exasperated beyond measure. -She flung into the Fairy's prisons all who had been in the service of -Irolite or of the Prince. Parcin Parcinet's ingratitude to the Queen -also goaded her naturally furious temper into madness, and she would -have willingly parted with one of her kingdoms to be revenged on the -two lovers. - - [Illustration: Perfect Love.--P. 63.] - -Meanwhile the fugitives were hotly pursued: Ormond and his troop found -everywhere fresh horses in readiness for them by the Fairy's orders. -Those of Parcin Parcinet were fatigued, and their speed no longer -answered to the impatience of their master. As they issued from a -forest, Ormond appeared in sight. The first impulse of the young Prince -was to attack his unworthy rival. He was spurring towards him with his -hand on the hilt of his sword, when Irolite exclaimed, "Prince! Rush -not into useless danger! Obey the orders of Favourable!" These words -calmed the anger of Parcin Parcinet, and in obedience to his Princess, -and to the Fairy, he wished that the beautiful Irolite was safe from -the persecution of the cruel Queen. He had scarcely formed the wish, -when the earth opened between him and Ormond, and presented to his -sight a little misshapen man in a very magnificent dress, who made a -sign to him to follow him. The descent was easy on his side, he rode -down it accompanied by the fair Irolite. Mana and the faithful slave -followed them, and the earth reclosed above them. Ormond, astonished at -so extraordinary an event, returned with all speed to inform Danamo. - -Meanwhile our young lovers followed the little man down a very dark -road, at the end of which they found a vast Palace, lighted only by a -great quantity of lamps and flambeaux. They were desired to dismount, -and entered a Hall of prodigious magnitude. The roof was supported by -columns of shining earth covered with golden ornaments. The walls were -of the same material. A little man all covered with jewels was seated -at the end of the Hall on a golden throne surrounded by a great number -of persons as misshapen as the one who had conducted the Prince to that -spot. As soon as the latter appeared leading the charming Irolite, the -little man rose from his throne and said, "Approach, Prince. The great -Fairy Favourable, who has long been a friend of mine, has requested -me to save you from the cruelties of Danamo. I am the King of the -Gnomes. You and the fair Princess who accompanies you are welcome -to my Palace." Parcin Parcinet thanked him for the succour he had -afforded them. The King and all his subjects were enchanted with the -beauty of Irolite. They looked upon her as a star that had descended -to illuminate their abode. A magnificent banquet was served up to the -Prince and Princess. The King of the Gnomes did the honours. Music -of a very melodious, though somewhat barbaric, character, formed the -entertainment of the evening. They sang the charms of Irolite, and the -following verses were frequently repeated:-- - - What lovely star hath left its sphere - This subterranean realm to cheer? - Beware! for in its dazzling light - Is more than danger to the sight. - The while its lustre we admire - It sets the gazer's heart on fire. - -After the concert the Prince and Princess were each conducted to -magnificent apartments. Mana and the faithful slave attended on them. -The next morning they were shown all over the King's Palace. He was -master of all the treasures contained in the bosom of the earth. It -was impossible to add to his riches. They presented a confused mass -of beautiful things; but art was wanting everywhere. The Prince and -Princess remained for a week in this subterranean region. Such was -the order of Favourable to the King of the Gnomes. During this time -entertainments were made for the Princess and her lover, which, though -not very tasteful, were exceedingly magnificent. The eve of their -departure, the King, to commemorate their sojourn in his empire, -caused statues of them to be erected, one on each side of his throne. -They were of gold, and the pedestals of white marble. The following -inscription, formed with diamonds, was upon the pedestal of the -Prince's statue:-- - - "We desire no longer to behold the sun,-- - We have seen this Prince; - He is more beautiful and more brilliant." - -And on that of the Princess were these words, formed in a similar -manner:-- - - "To the immortal glory - Of the Goddess of Beauty. - She descended to this spot - Under the form and name of Irolite." - -The ninth day they presented the Prince with the most beautiful horses -in the world. Their harness was of gold entirely covered with diamonds. -He quitted the gloomy abode of the Gnomes with his little troop, after -having expressed his gratitude to the King. He found himself again on -the very spot where Ormond had confronted him. He looked at his ring, -and perceived that only the silver and brazen portions of it were -discernible. He resumed his journey with the charming Irolite, and made -all speed to reach the abode of Favourable, where at length they might -feel themselves in safety, when all on a sudden, as they emerged from -a valley, they encountered a troop of Danamo's guards, who had not -given up the pursuit. The soldiers prepared to rush upon them, when the -Prince wished, and instantly a large piece of water appeared between -the party of Parcin Parcinet and that of the Fairy. A beautiful nymph, -half naked, in a little boat made of interwoven rushes, was seen in -the middle of it. She approached the shore, and requested the Prince -and Princess to enter the boat. Mana and the slave followed them. The -horses remained in the plain, and the little boat suddenly sinking, -the Fairy's Guards believed that the fugitives had perished in their -attempt to escape. But at the same moment they found themselves in -a Palace, the walls of which were only great sheets of water, which -incessantly falling with perfect regularity, formed halls, apartments, -cabinets, and surrounded gardens, in which a thousand fountains of -the most extraordinary shapes marked out the lines of the parterres. -Only the Naiades, in whose empire they were, could inhabit this -Palace, as beautiful as it was singular. To offer, therefore, a more -substantial dwelling to the Prince and the fair Irolite, the Naiade -who was their conductor led them into some grottoes of shell-work, -where coral, pearls, and all the treasures of the deep, were seen in -dazzling profusion. The beds were of moss. An hundred dolphins guarded -the grotto of Irolite, and twenty whales that of Parcin Parcinet. -The Naiades admired the beauty of the Princess, and more than one -Triton was jealous of the looks and attentions which were bestowed -on the young Prince. They served up in the grotto of the Princess a -superb collation composed of all sorts of iced fruits. Twelve Syrens -endeavoured with their sweet and charming songs to calm the anxiety of -the young Prince and the fair Irolite. The concert finished with these -verses:-- - - Wherever with Love for our leader we stray, - To render us happy he knows the sweet way. - Rejoice, Perfect Lovers, who here, in his name - The floods may defy to extinguish your flame. - -In the evening there was a banquet, at which nothing was served but -fish, but of most extraordinary size and exquisite flavour. After -the banquet the Naiades danced a ballet in dresses of fish-scales of -various colours, which had the most beautiful effect in the world. The -horns of Tritons, and other instruments unknown to mortals, performed -the music, which, though strange, was novel and very agreeable. - -Parcin Parcinet and the beautiful Irolite remained four days in this -empire. Such were the commands of Favourable. The fifth day the -Naiades assembled in crowds to escort the Prince and Princess. The two -lovers were placed in a little boat made of a single shell, and the -Naiades, half out of the water, accompanied them as far as the border -of a river, where Parcin Parcinet found his horses waiting for him, -and recommenced his journey with the more haste, as he perceived, on -examining his ring, that the silver had disappeared, and that nothing -remained but the brass; they were, however, but a short distance -from the wished-for dwelling of the Fairy Favourable. They travelled -unmolested for three more days; but on the fourth morning they saw -weapons glitter in the distance in the rays of the rising sun, and as -those who bore them advanced, they recognised Prince Ormond and his -band. Danamo had sent them back in pursuit with orders not to leave -them when seen again, nor to quit the spot where anything extraordinary -might occur to them, and, above all things, to endeavour to engage -Parcin Parcinet in single combat. Danamo had correctly imagined, from -the account of Ormond, that a Fairy protected the Prince and Princess; -but her science was so great, that she did not despair of conquering, -by spells more potent than her antagonist could cast around them. -Ormond, delighted at beholding again the Prince and Irolite, whom he -had sought with so much toil and anxiety, galloped, sword in hand, to -encounter Parcin Parcinet, according to the commands of the Fairy. -The young Prince also drew his sabre with so fierce an air, that -Ormond more than once felt inclined to waver in his course; but Parcin -Parcinet, observing Irolite bathed in tears, touched at the sight, -formed his fourth wish, and instantly a great fire rising almost to the -clouds, separated him from his enemy. This fire made Ormond and his -troop fall back, while the young Prince and Irolite, closely followed -by the faithful slave and the prudent Mana, found themselves in a -Palace, the first sight of which greatly alarmed the fair Irolite. - -It was entirely of flame; but her alarm subsided as she perceived that -she felt no more heat than from the rays of the sun, and that this -flame had only the brilliancy and blaze of fire, without its more -insupportable qualities. Crowds of young and beautiful personages, -in dresses over which light flames appeared to wanton, presented -themselves to receive the Princess and her lover. One amongst them, -whom they imagined to be the Queen of those regions, by the respect -that was paid to her, accosted them, saying, "Come, charming Princess, -and you also, handsome Parcin Parcinet; you are in the Kingdom of -Salamanders. I am its Queen, and it is with pleasure I have undertaken -to conceal you for seven days in my Palace, according to the commands -of the Fairy Favourable. I would only that your stay here might be -of longer duration." After these words they were led into a large -apartment, all of flames, like the rest of the Palace, and in which a -light shone brighter than that of day. The Queen gave that evening a -grand supper, composed of every delicacy, and well served. - -After the feast they repaired to a terrace, to witness a display of -fireworks of marvellous beauty and great singularity of design, which -were let off in a large court-yard of the Palace of Salamanders. Twelve -Cupids were seen upon as many columns of various coloured marbles. Six -of them appeared to be drawing their bows, and the other six bore a -large shield, on which these words were written in letters of fire:-- - - Irolite, that matchless fair! - Conqueror is everywhere. - In vain our flaming arrows fly; - Those that issue from her eye - Burn more fiercely, yet are found - Cherished in the hearts they wound. - -The young Princess blushed at her own fame, and Parcin Parcinet was -enchanted that the Salamanders considered her as beautiful as she -appeared to him. Meanwhile, the Cupids shot their flaming arrows, -which, crossing each other in the air, formed in a thousand places the -initials of the lovely name of Irolite, and rose up to the Heavens. - -The seven days she remained in the Palace were passed in similar -pleasures. Parcin Parcinet remarked that all the Salamanders were witty -and charmingly vivacious, very gallant and affectionate. The Queen -herself appeared not to be exempt from the influence of the tender -passion, but to be enamoured of a young Salamander of wonderful beauty. - -The eighth day they quitted with regret a retreat so congenial to their -feelings. They found themselves in a lovely country. Parcin Parcinet -looked at his ring, and discovered engraved upon the metals, which were -now all four mixed together, the following words:-- - - "You have wished too soon." - -These words sadly afflicted the Prince and Princess, but they were now -so near the abode of the Fairy Favourable, that they were in hopes of -arriving there before evening. This reflection consoled them, and they -proceeded, invoking Fortune and Love; but, alas! they are frequently -treacherous conductors. Parcin Parcinet was, in short, on the point of -entering the dominions of the Fairy Favourable; but Ormond, obeying -the commands of Danamo, had not retired far from the spot where the -fire had risen between him and his rival. He had encamped, with his -party, behind a wood, and his sentinels, who kept incessant watch, -brought him word that the Prince and Princess had re-appeared in the -plain. He ordered his men to mount, and about sunset encountered the -unfortunate Prince and the divine Irolite. Parcin Parcinet was not -dismayed at the numbers that fell upon him altogether. He charged them -with a courage that daunted them. "I fulfil my promise, beautiful -Irolite," he exclaimed, as he drew his sabre; "I will die for you or -deliver you from your enemies!" With these words he made a blow at the -foremost, and felled him to the earth. But oh, unexpected misfortune! -the wonderful sabre, which was the gift of the Fairy Danamo, flew into -a thousand pieces. She had foreseen this result of the combat. Whenever -she made a present of weapons, she charmed them in so peculiar a -manner, that the instant they were employed against her, the first blow -shivered them to pieces. - -Parcin Parcinet, then disarmed, could not make any prolonged -resistance. He was overwhelmed by numbers, taken, laden with chains, -and the young Irolite shared his fate. "Ah, Fairy Favourable," -mournfully ejaculated the Prince, "abandon me to all the severity of -Danamo, but save the fair Irolite!" "You have disobeyed the Fairy," -replied a youth of surprising beauty, who appeared in the air. "You -must suffer the penalty. Had you not been so prodigal of her favour, -we should to-day have saved you for ever from the cruelties of -Danamo. All the Empire of the Sylphs laments being deprived of the -glory of securing happiness to so charming a Prince and so beautiful -a Princess." So saying, he vanished, and Parcin Parcinet groaned at -the recollection of his imprudence: he seemed insensible to his own -misfortunes, but how deeply did he feel those of Irolite! His remorse -at having been the cause of them would have destroyed him, had not -Destiny resolved that he should live to suffer still more cruel agony. - -The young Irolite displayed a courage worthy of the illustrious race -from which she had descended, and the pitiless Ormond, far from being -affected at so touching a spectacle, strove to aggravate the misery he -occasioned them. He had the prisoners separated, and so deprived them -of the melancholy pleasure of mingling their tears over their departed -hopes. Their wretched journey ended, they were taken to the palace of -the wicked Fairy. She felt a malignant joy at seeing the young Prince -and Princess in a state that would have awakened pity in the heart of -any other creature. Even Azire commiserated Parcin Parcinet, but did -not dare to evince it before the Fairy. "I shall at length, then," said -the cruel Queen, addressing herself to the Prince, "have the pleasure -of revenging myself for thy ingratitude. Go! In lieu of ascending -the throne my favour had destined thee, enter the prison on the sea, -in which thou shalt end thy wretched life in frightful tortures." "I -prefer the most horrible dungeon," replied the Prince, looking proudly -at her, "to the favours of so unjust a Queen as thou art!" These words -increased the irritation of the Fairy. She had expected to see him -humble himself at her feet. She sent him instantly to the prison she -had fixed upon. Irolite wept as he was dragged away; Azire could not -suppress her sighs, and all the Court mourned in secret the merciless -sentence. As for the beautiful Irolite, the Queen had her removed to -the Château in which she had previously so long resided, placed a -strict guard upon her, and treated her with all the inhumanity of which -she was capable. - -The prison to which they conveyed the Prince was a frightful tower -in the midst of the sea, built on a little desert island. They shut -him up in it, laden with irons, and treated him with all the severity -imaginable. What an abode for a Prince worthy to reign over the -universe! To think of Irolite was his sole occupation. He invoked the -help of the Fairy Favourable for his dear Princess alone, and wished -a thousand times a day, to expiate by death the only injury he had -done her. His faithful slave had been consigned to the same prison, -but he had not the satisfaction of serving his illustrious master, and -Parcin Parcinet had about him none but fierce soldiers, devoted to the -Fairy, who nevertheless, while obeying her orders, respected, despite -themselves, the unfortunate captive. His youth, his beauty, and, above -all, his courage, excited in them an admiration which compelled them -to regard him as a man very superior to all others. The prudent Mana -had been dragged to the Château in which they had immured Irolite, -as the Prince's faithful slave had been to the prison on the sea. -Danamo's women alone approached the Princess, and by the Fairy's orders -overwhelmed her every moment with new misery, by their accounts of the -sufferings of Parcin Parcinet. The distresses of her lover made Irolite -forget her own, and everything renewed her tears in that spot where she -had so often heard that charming Prince swear to her eternal fidelity. -"Alas!" she murmured to herself, "why have you been so faithful, my -dear Prince? Your inconstancy would have killed me; but what of that, -you would have lived, and been happy!" - -After three months' suffering, Danamo, who had employed that period -in the preparation of a spell of extraordinary power, sent to Irolite -one morning a couple of lamps, one of gold, the other of crystal, -commanding her to keep one of the two always burning, but leaving her -to choose which she would light. Irolite, with her natural docility, -sent word that she would obey the Fairy's orders, without even seeking -to comprehend their object. - -She carried the two lamps carefully to a cabinet. The golden one was -lighted when she received it, and therefore she allowed it to burn -throughout that day and night, and the next morning she lighted the -other. In this manner she continued to obey the Fairy, lighting the -lamps alternately for fifteen days, when her health became seriously -affected. She attributed her failing strength to her sorrow, and, -to increase her grief, they informed her that Parcin Parcinet was -exceedingly ill. What tidings for Irolite! Her deep distress, her utter -prostration, affected all her attendants. One evening, when the rest -were asleep, one of them softly approached the Princess, and seeing her -about to light the crystal lamp, said to her, "Extinguish that fatal -light, your existence depends upon it. Save the life of one so lovely -from the cruel designs of Danamo." "Alas!" feebly replied the wretched -Irolite, "she has rendered my life so miserable, that it is but kind -of the Fairy to afford me such means of ending it; but," added she, -with an emotion which brought back the colour to her pale cheeks, "what -life depends upon the golden lamp, which I have been equally careful to -light in its turn?" "That of Parcin Parcinet," answered the confidante -of Danamo, for the woman was but obeying her orders in thus speaking to -the Princess. The wicked Fairy wished to torment her by this revelation -of the cruel task she had imposed upon her. At this intelligence her -agony at having unconsciously hastened the termination of her lover's -existence, deprived her for some considerable time of her senses. On -recovering them, she at the same time returned to her despair. "Hateful -Fairy!" she exclaimed, as soon as she had power to speak, "Barbarous -Fairy! will not my death satisfy thy vengeance? Wouldst thou condemn -me, inhuman, to destroy with my own hand a Prince so dear to me, and so -worthy of the most perfect and tender affection? But death, a thousand -times more merciful than thou art, will soon deliver me from all the -tortures which thy wrath hath invented, to rack such fond and faithful -hearts." - -The young Princess wept incessantly over the fatal lamp, on which -depended the life of Parcin Parcinet, and from that moment only lighted -the one that wasted her own. That she saw burn with joy, regarding it -as a sacrifice to love, and to her lover. In the meanwhile the wretched -Prince was a prey to tortures, which surpassed even his powers of -endurance. By command of the Fairy, one of his guards, feigning to -pity the misfortunes of the illustrious prisoner, informed him that -Irolite had consented to marry Prince Ormond, a few days after he -(Parcin Parcinet) had been consigned to the frightful dungeon in which -he still languished. That the Princess had appeared quite happy since -her marriage, that she had been present at all the entertainments given -in celebration of it, and had finally quitted the country with her -husband. This was the only misfortune the Prince had not anticipated, -and it was also the only one too heavy for him to bear. "What!" he -exclaimed, despairingly, "Thou art faithless to me, dear Irolite! Thou -art the bride of Ormond! Thou hast not even pitied my misfortunes. Thou -hast but thought how to end those my love brought upon thyself. Live -happy, ungrateful Irolite! Inconstant as thou art, I still adore thee, -and desire but to die for love, as thou wouldst not I should have the -glory of dying for thee!" - -Whilst Parcin Parcinet was plunged in this affliction, and the tender -Irolite wasted her own life to prolong that of her lover, Danamo was -moved by the despair of Azire, who was dying with sorrow for the -sufferings of Parcin Parcinet. The cruel Fairy perceived at length -that, to save the life of her child, it was necessary to pardon the -Prince, to permit Azire to visit him, and to promise him all the -benefits that had previously awaited him, provided he consented to -marry her, and the Fairy determined to put Irolite to death, the moment -the Prince had accepted that offer. - -The hope of again beholding Parcin Parcinet restored Azire to life, -and the Fairy allowed her to send to Irolite's Château for the golden -lamp, which she desired to keep in her own custody, that she might be -certain it was not lighted. This mandate seemed more cruel than all -the others to the afflicted Irolite. What anxiety did she not endure -respecting the fate of Parcin Parcinet. "Do not distress yourself so -much about the Prince," said the women in attendance upon her, "he is -going to marry the Princess Azire, and it is she who, interested in the -preservation of his life, has sent for the lamp on which it depends." - -The torments of jealousy had as yet been wanting, to complete the -misery of the unfortunate Irolite. At these words she felt them waking -in her heart. In the meanwhile Azire had visited the Prince, and -offered him her hand and her kingdoms; then, pretending to be ignorant -that he had been told that Irolite had married Ormond, she endeavoured -to convince him by citing this example, that he had been more than -sufficiently constant. Parcin Parcinet, to whom nothing was valuable -without the charming Irolite, preferred his prison and his sufferings -to liberty and sovereignty. Azire was distracted at his refusal, and -her affliction rendered her almost as unhappy as he was. - -During this time the Fairy Favourable, who had hitherto boasted of -her insensibility to love, had found it impossible to resist the -attractions of a young Prince residing at her Court. He had conceived -a passion for her. The Fairy had considerable difficulty in bringing -herself to let him know that his attentions had conquered her pride. -At length, however, she yielded to the desire of acquainting him with -his triumph. The pleasure of conversing with those we love appeared to -her then so charming and so desirable, that, excusing the fault she had -so severely punished, she repaired, in all haste, to the assistance of -Parcin Parcinet and the beautiful Irolite. - -A little later, and her aid would have been useless. The fatal lamp -of Irolite had but six days longer to burn, and the grief of Parcin -Parcinet was rapidly terminating his existence, when the Fairy -Favourable arrived at the Palace of Danamo. She was by far the most -powerful, and made herself obeyed despite the anger of the wicked -Fairy. The Prince was released from prison; but he would not quit it -until he was assured by Favourable that the fair Irolite might still -be his bride. He appeared, notwithstanding his pallor, more beautiful -than the day, the light of which he was once more permitted to behold. -He repaired, with the Fairy Favourable, to the Château of his Princess. -Her lamp emitted but a feeble light, and the dying Irolite would not -allow them to extinguish it until she had been assured of the fidelity -of her now happy lover. There are no words capable of expressing the -perfect joy experienced by the fond pair at this meeting. The Fairy -Favourable restored them in an instant to all their former health and -beauty, and endowed them with long life and constant felicity. Their -affection she found it impossible to increase. Danamo, furious at -beholding her authority thus overthrown, perished by her own hand. The -fate of Azire and of Ormond was left by the Prince to the decision of -Irolite. The only vengeance she took upon them was uniting them in -marriage, and Parcin Parcinet, as generous as he was constant, would -only receive his father's kingdom, leaving Azire to reign over those of -Danamo. - -The nuptials of the Prince and the divine Irolite were celebrated -with infinite magnificence, and after duly expressing their gratitude -to the Fairy Favourable, and heaping rewards on the slave and the -prudent Mana, they departed for their kingdom, where the Prince and the -charming Irolite enjoyed the rare happiness of loving as fondly and -truly in prosperity as they had done in adversity. - - - - -ANGUILLETTE. - - -To whatever greatness Destiny may elevate those it favours, there is no -worldly felicity exempt from serious sorrow. One cannot be acquainted -with Fairies, and be ignorant that the most skilful amongst them have -failed to discover a charm which would secure them from the misfortune -of being compelled to change their shape some few days in every month, -for that of some animal, terrestrial, celestial, or aquatic. - -During that dangerous period, when they are completely at the mercy of -mankind, they have frequently great difficulty in saving themselves -from the perils to which that stern necessity exposes them. - -One amongst them, who had changed herself into an Eel, was -unfortunately taken by fishermen, and flung immediately into a small -square tank in the midst of a beautiful meadow, wherein they kept -the fish that were daily required for the table of the King of that -country. Anguillette (so was the Fairy named) found in her new abode a -great many fine fish destined, like herself, to live but a few hours. -She had heard the fishermen say to one another, that that very evening -the King purposed to give a grand banquet, for the which these fine -fish had been carefully selected. - -What tidings for the unfortunate Fairy! She accused the Fates of -cruelty a thousand times! She sighed most sadly; but after hiding -herself for some time at the very bottom of the water, in order to -bewail her misfortune in solitude, the desire to escape if possible -from so urgent a peril, induced her to look about her in every -direction to see if she could not by some means get out of the -reservoir, and regain the river which ran at no great distance from -that spot. But the Fairy looked in vain. The tank was too deep for her -to hope to get out of it without help, and her distress was augmented -by seeing the fishermen who had taken her again approaching. They -began to throw in their nets, and Anguillette, by avoiding them with -great cunning, retarded for a few moments the death that awaited her. -The youngest of the King's daughters was walking at that time in the -meadow. She approached the tank to amuse herself by seeing the men fish. - -The sun, about to set, shone brilliantly on the water. The skin of -Anguillette, which was very glossy, glittered in its rays as if partly -gilt and of all the colours of the rainbow. The young Princess caught -sight of her, and thinking her exceedingly beautiful, ordered the -fishermen to try and catch that Eel for her. They obeyed, and the -unfortunate Fairy was speedily placed in the hands of the person who -would decide her fate. - -When the Princess had contemplated Anguillette for a few moments, she -was touched with compassion, and running to the riverside, put her -gently into the water. This unexpected service filled the Fairy's heart -with gratitude. She appeared on the surface, and said to the Princess, -"I owe you my life, generous Plousine (such was her name), but it is -most fortunate for you that I do so. Be not afraid," she continued, -observing the young Princess about to run away. "I am a Fairy, and will -prove the truth of my words by heaping an infinite number of favours -upon you." - -As people were accustomed in those days to behold Fairies, Plousine -recovered from her first alarm, and listened with great attention to -the agreeable promises of Anguillette. She even began to answer her; -but the Fairy interrupting her, said, "Wait till you have profited by -my favour before you express your acknowledgments. Go, young Princess, -and return to this spot to-morrow morning. Think, in the meantime, what -you would wish for, and whatever it may be I will grant it. You may, at -your choice, possess the most perfect and bewitching beauty, the finest -and most charming intellect, or incalculable riches." After these -words, Anguillette sank to the bottom of the river, and left Plousine -highly gratified with her adventure. - -She determined not to tell any one what had befallen her, "For," said -she, to herself, "if Anguillette should deceive me, my sisters will -believe that I invented this story." - -After this little reflection, she hastened to rejoin her suite, which -was composed of only a few ladies. She found them looking for her. - -The young Plousine was occupied all the succeeding night in thinking -what should be her choice. Beauty almost turned the scale; but as she -had sufficient sense to desire still more, she finally determined to -request that favour of the Fairy. - -She rose with the sun, and ran to the meadow under the pretence of -gathering flowers to make a garland, as she said, to present to the -Queen, her mother, at her levée. Her attendants dispersed themselves -about the meadow to cull the freshest and most beautiful of the flowers -with which it was everywhere enamelled. - -Meanwhile, the young Princess hastened to the riverside, and found upon -the spot where she had seen the Fairy, a column of white marble, of -the most perfect purity. An instant afterwards, the column opened and -the Fairy emerged from it, and appeared to the Princess no longer as -a fish, but as a tall and beautiful woman, of majestic demeanour, and -whose robes and head-dress were covered with jewels. - -"I am Anguillette," said she to the young Princess, who gazed upon her -with great attention; "I come to fulfil my promise. You have chosen -intellectual perfection, and you shall possess it from this very -moment. You shall have so much sense as to be envied by those who till -now have flattered themselves they were specially endowed with it." - -The youthful Plousine, at these words, felt a considerable alteration -taking place in her mind. She thanked the Fairy with an eloquence that -till then she had been a stranger to. - -The Fairy smiled at the astonishment the Princess could not conceal at -her own powers of expression. "I am so much pleased with you," said the -benignant Anguillette, "for making the choice you have done, in lieu -of preferring beauty of person, which has such charms for one of your -sex and age, that to reward you, I will add the gift of that loveliness -you have so prudently foregone. Return hither to-morrow, at the same -hour,--I give you till then to choose the style of beauty you would -possess." - -The Fairy disappeared, and left the young Plousine still more -impressed with her good fortune. Her choice of superior intellect was -dictated by reason, but the promise of surpassing beauty flattered her -heart, and that which touches the heart is always felt most deeply. - -On quitting the riverside, the Princess took the flowers presented -to her by her attendants, and made a very tasteful garland with -them, which she carried to the Queen; but what was her Majesty's -astonishment, that of the King, and of all the Court, to hear Plousine -speak with an elegance and a fluency which captivated every heart. - -The Princesses, her sisters, vainly endeavoured to contest her mental -superiority; they were compelled to wonder at and admire it. - -Night came. The Princess, occupied with the expectation of becoming -beautiful, instead of retiring to rest, passed into a cabinet hung with -portraits, in which, under the form of goddesses, were represented -several of the Queens and Princesses of her family. All these were -beauties, and she indulged a hope that they would assist her in -deciding on a style of beauty worthy to be solicited from a Fairy. The -first that met her sight was a Juno. She was fair and had a presence -such as should distinguish the Queen of the Gods. Pallas and Venus -stood beside her. The subject of the picture was the Judgment of Paris. - -The noble haughtiness of Pallas excited the admiration of the young -Princess; but the loveliness of Venus almost decided her choice. -Nevertheless, she passed on to the next picture, in which was seen -Pomona reclining on a couch of turf, beneath trees laden with the -finest fruits in the world. She appeared so charming, that the -Princess, who since morning had become acquainted with all their -stories, was not surprised that a God had taken various forms in order -to please her. - -Diana next appeared, attired as the poets represent her, the quiver -slung behind her, and the bow in her hand. She was pursuing a stag, and -followed by a numerous band of Nymphs. - -Flora attracted her attention a little further off. She appeared to be -walking in a garden, the flowers of which, although exquisite, could -not be compared to the bloom of her complexion. Next came the Graces, -beautiful and enchanting. This picture was the last in the room. - -But the Princess was struck by that which was over the mantel-piece. -It was the Goddess of Youth. A heavenly air was shed over her whole -person. Her tresses were the fairest in the world; the turn of her head -was most graceful, her mouth charming, her figure perfectly beautiful, -and her eyes appeared much more likely to intoxicate than the nectar -with which she seemed to be filling a cup. - -"I will wish," exclaimed the young Princess, after she had contemplated -with delight this lovely portrait, "I will wish to be as beautiful as -Hebe, and to remain so as long as possible." - -After this determination she returned to her bed-chamber, where the day -she awaited seemed to her impatience as if it would never dawn. - -At length it came, and she hastened again to the riverside. The Fairy -kept her word. She appeared, and threw a few drops of water in the face -of Plousine, who became immediately as beautiful as she had desired to -be. - -Some sea-gods had accompanied the Fairy. Their applause was the first -effect produced by the charms of the fortunate Plousine. She looked at -her image in the water, and could not recognise herself. Her silence -and her astonishment were for the moment the only indications of her -thankfulness. - -"I have fulfilled all your wishes," said the generous Fairy. "You -ought to be content; but I shall not be so if my favours do not far -exceed your desires. In addition to the wit and beauty I have endowed -you with, I bestow on you all the treasures at my disposal. They are -inexhaustible. You have but to wish whenever you please for infinite -wealth, and at the same moment you will acquire it, not only for -yourself, but for all those you may deem worthy to possess it." - -The Fairy disappeared, and the youthful Plousine, now as lovely as -Hebe, returned to the palace. Everybody who met her was enchanted. They -announced her arrival to the King, who was himself lost in admiration -of her, and it was only by her voice and her talent that they -recognised the amiable Princess. She informed the King that a Fairy -had bestowed all those precious gifts upon her; and she was no longer -called anything but Hebe, in consequence of her perfect resemblance to -the portrait of that Goddess. What new causes were here to engender -the hatred of her sisters against her! The beauties of her mind had -excited their jealousy much less than those of her person. - -All the Princes who had been attracted by their charms became faithless -to them without the least hesitation. In like manner were all the other -Court beauties abandoned by their admirers. No tears or reproaches -could stop the flight of those inconstant lovers, and this conduct, -which then appeared so singular, has since, it is said, become a common -custom. - -Hebe inflamed all hearts around her, while her own remained insensible. - -Notwithstanding the hatred her sisters evinced towards her, she -neglected nothing that she thought might please them. She wished for -so much wealth for the eldest--and to wish and to give were the same -thing to her,--that the greatest Sovereign in that part of the world -requested the hand of that Princess in marriage, and the nuptials were -celebrated with incredible magnificence. The King, Hebe's father, -desired to take the field with a great army. The wishes of his -beautiful daughter caused him to succeed in all his enterprises, and -his kingdom was filled with such immense wealth, that he became the -most formidable of all the monarchs in the universe. - -The divine Hebe, however, weary of the bustle of the Court, was anxious -to pass a few months in a pleasant mansion a short distance from the -capital. She had excluded from it all magnificence, but everything -about it was elegant, and of a charming simplicity. Nature alone had -taken care to embellish the walks, which Art had not been employed -to form. A wood, the paths through which had something wild in their -scenery, intersected by rivulets and little torrents that formed -natural cascades, surrounded this beautiful retreat. - -The youthful Hebe often walked in this solitary wood. One day, when her -heart felt more than usually oppressed with a tedium and lassitude to -which she was now constantly subject, she endeavoured to ascertain the -reason of it. She seated herself on the turf, beside a rivulet that -with gentle murmur courted meditation. - -"What sorrow is it," she asked herself, "that comes thus to trouble the -excess of my happiness? What Princess in all the universe is blest with -a lot so perfect as mine? The beneficence of the Fairy has accorded -me all I wished for. I can heap treasures upon all who surround me. I -am adored by all who behold me, and my heart is a stranger to every -painful emotion. No! I cannot imagine whence arises the insupportable -weariness which has for some time past detracted from the happiness of -my life." - -The young Princess was incessantly occupied by this reflection. At -length she determined to go to the bank of Anguilette's river, and -endeavour to obtain an interview with her. - -The Fairy, accustomed to indulge her inclinations, appeared on the -surface of the water. It happened to be one of the days when she was -changed into a fish. - -"It always gives me pleasure to see you, young Princess," said she -to Hebe. "I know you have been passing some time in a very solitary -dwelling, and you appear to me in a languishing state, which does not -at all correspond with your good fortune. What hails you, Hebe? Confide -in me." "There is nothing the matter," replied the young Princess, -with some embarrassment. "You have showered too many benefits upon -me for anything to be wanting to a felicity which is your own work." -"You would deceive me," rejoined the Fairy; "I see it easily. You are -no longer satisfied. Yet what more can you desire? Deserve my favour -by a frank confession," added the gracious Fairy, "and I promise you -I will again fulfil your wishes." "I know not what I wish," replied -the charming Hebe. "But nevertheless," she continued, casting down -her beautiful eyes, "I feel a lack of something, and that, whatever -it may be, it is that which is absolutely essential to my happiness." -"Ah!" exclaimed the Fairy, "it is love that you are sighing for. That -passion alone could inspire you with such strange ideas. Dangerous -disposition!" continued the prudent Fairy. "You sigh for love--you -shall experience it. Hearts are but too naturally disposed to be -affected by it. But I warn you that you will vainly invoke me to -deliver you from the fatal passion you believe to be so sweet a -blessing. My power does not extend so far." - -"I care not," quickly replied the Princess, smiling and blushing at -the same moment. "Alas! of what value to me are all the gifts you have -bestowed upon me, if I cannot in turn make with them the happiness of -another?" The Fairy sighed at these words, and sank to the bottom of -the river. - -Hebe retraced her steps to the wilderness, her heart filled with a hope -which already began to dissipate her melancholy. The warnings of the -Fairy caused her some anxiety; but her prudent reflections were soon -banished by others, as dangerous as they were agreeable. - -On reaching home she found a courier awaiting her with a message from -the King, commanding her return to the Court that very day, in order -that she might be present at an entertainment in preparation for the -succeeding one. She took her departure accordingly, a few hours after -the receipt of the message, and returned to the Court, where she was -received with great pleasure by the King and Queen; who informed her -that a foreign Prince, upon his travels, having arrived there a few -days previously, they had determined to give him a fête, that he might -talk in other countries of the magnificence displayed in their kingdom. - -The youthful Hebe, obeying a presentiment of which she was unconscious, -first inquired of the Princess, her sister, if the foreigner was -handsome. "I never yet saw any one that could be compared to him," -answered the Princess. "Describe, him to me," said Hebe, with emotion. -"He is such as they paint heroes," replied Ilerie. "His form is -graceful; his demeanour noble; his eyes are full of a fire that has -already made more than one indifferent beauty at this Court acknowledge -their power. He has the finest head in the world; his hair is dark -brown; and the moment he appears, he absorbs the attention of all -beholders." - -"You draw a most charming portrait of him," said the youthful Hebe; "is -it not a little flattered?" "No, sister," replied the Princess Ilerie, -with a sigh she could not suppress. "Alas! you will find him, perhaps, -but too worthy of admiration." - -The Queen retired, and the beautiful Hebe, as soon as she had time to -examine her heart, perceived that she had lost that tranquillity of -which, till now, she had not known the value. - -"Anguillette!" she exclaimed, as soon as she was alone. "Alas! what is -this object which you have allowed to present itself to my sight? Your -prudent counsels are rendered vain by its presence. Why do you not -give me strength enough to resist such attractive charms? It may be, -however, that their power surpasses that of any Fairy." - -Hebe slept but little that night. She rose very early, and the thought -of how she should dress herself for the fête that evening occupied her -the whole day, to a degree she had been previously a stranger to, for -it was the first time she had felt an anxiety to please. - -The young foreigner, actuated by the same desire, neglected nothing -that might make him appear agreeable to the eyes of the charming -Hebe. The Princess Ilerie was equally solicitous of conquest. She -possessed a thousand attractions, and when Hebe was not beside her, -she was considered the most beautiful creature in the world; but Hebe -outshone every one. The Queen gave a magnificent ball that evening; -it was succeeded by a marvellous banquet. The young foreigner would -have been struck by its prodigious splendour, if he could have looked -at anything besides Hebe. After the banquet, a novel and brilliant -illumination shed another daylight over the palace gardens. It was -summer-time; the company descended into the gardens for the pleasure of -an evening promenade. The handsome foreigner conducted the Queen; but -this honour did not compensate him for being deprived of the company -of his Princess, even for a few moments. The trees were decorated with -festoons of flowers, and the lamps which formed the illumination were -disposed in a manner to represent, in every direction, bows, arrows, -and other weapons of Cupid, together, in some places, with inscriptions. - -The company entered a little grove, illuminated like the rest of the -gardens, and the Queen seated herself beside a pleasant fountain, -around which had been arranged seats of turf, ornamented with garlands -of pinks and roses. Whilst the Queen was engaged in conversation with -the King and a host of courtiers that surrounded them, the Princesses -amused themselves by reading the sentences formed by small lamps under -the various devices. The handsome foreigner was at that moment close -to the beautiful Hebe. She turned her eyes towards a spot in which -appeared a shower of darts, and read aloud these words, which were -displayed beneath them:-- - - "Some are inevitable." - -"They are those which are shot from the eyes of the divine Hebe," -quickly added the Prince, looking at her tenderly. The Princess heard -him, and felt confused; but the Prince drew from her embarrassment a -happy augury for his love, as it appeared unmingled with anger. The -fête terminated with a thousand delightful novelties. The charms of the -stranger had touched too sensibly the heart of Ilerie for her to be -long without perceiving that he loved another. The Prince had paid her -some attention previous to the arrival of Hebe at Court; but since he -had seen the latter, he had been wholly engrossed by his passion. - -In the meanwhile the young stranger endeavoured, by every proof of -affection, to touch the heart of the beautiful Princess. He was -devoted, amiable--her fate compelled her to love, and the Fairy -abandoned her to the inclinations of her heart. What excuses for -yielding! She could no longer struggle against herself. The charming -Stranger had informed her that he was the son of a King, and that his -name was Atimir. This name was known to the Princess. The Prince had -performed wonders in a war between the two kingdoms; and as they had -always been opposed to each other, he had not chosen to appear at the -Court of Hebe's royal father under his real name. - -The young Princess, after a conversation during which her heart fully -imbibed the sweet and dangerous poison of which the Fairy had warned -her, gave permission to Atimir to disclose to the King his rank and his -love. The young Prince was transported with delight; he flew to the -King's apartments, and urged his suit with all the eloquence his love -could inspire him with. - -The King conducted him to the Queen. This proposed marriage, assuring -the establishment of a lasting peace between the two kingdoms, the -hand of the beautiful Hebe was promised to her happy lover as soon -as he had received the consent of the King, his father. The news was -soon circulated, and the Princess Ilerie suffered anguish equal to her -jealousy. She wept--she groaned; but it was necessary to control her -emotion and conceal her vain regrets. - -The beautiful Hebe and Atimir now saw each other continually; their -affection increased daily, and in those happy days the young Princess -could not imagine why the Fairies did not employ all their skill to -make mortals fall in love when they wished to insure their felicity. - -An ambassador from Atimir's royal father arrived at Court. He had -been awaited with the utmost impatience. He was the bearer of the -required consent, and preparations were immediately commenced for the -celebration of those grand nuptials. Atimir had therefore no longer any -reason for anxiety--a dangerous state for a lover one desires to retain -faithful. - -As soon as the Prince felt certain of his happiness, he became less -ardent. One day that he was on his way to meet the fair Hebe in the -palace gardens, he heard the voices of females in conversation in -a bower of honeysuckles. He caught the sound of his name, and this -awakened his curiosity to know more. He approached the bower softly, -and easily recognised the voice of the Princess Ilerie. "I shall -die before that fatal day, my dear Cléonice," said she, to a young -person seated beside her. "The gods will not permit me to behold the -ungrateful object of my love united to the too fortunate Hebe. My -torments are too keen to endure much longer." "But, madam," replied -her female companion, "Prince Atimir is not faithless; he has never -avowed love for you. Destiny alone is to blame for your misfortunes, -and amongst all the princes who adore you, you might find, perhaps, one -more amiable than he is, did not a fatal prepossession engross your -heart." "More amiable than him!" rejoined Ilerie. "Is there such a -being in the universe? Powerful Fairy!" she added, with a sigh, "of all -the blessings with which you have laden the fortunate Hebe, I but covet -that of Atimir's devoted attachment to her." The words of the Princess -were interrupted by her tears. Ah! how happy would she have been had -she known how much those tears had moved the heart of Atimir! - -She rose to leave the bower, and the Prince hid himself behind some -trees to escape observation. The tears and the love of Ilerie had -affected him deeply, but he imagined they were but the emotions of pity -which he felt for a beautiful Princess whom he had unintentionally -made so miserable. He proceeded to join Hebe, and the contemplation of -her charms banished for the moment all other thoughts from his mind. -In passing through the gardens, as he returned with the Princess Hebe -to the Palace, he trod upon something which attracted his attention. -He picked it up, and found it was a set of magnificent tablets. It was -not far from the bower in which he had overheard the conversation of -Ilerie and her attendant. He feared if Hebe saw the tablets, she would -obtain some knowledge of his adventure. He hid them, therefore, without -her having observed them. She happened at that moment to be occupied in -re-adjusting some ornament in her head-dress. - -That evening Ilerie did not make her appearance in the Queen's -apartments. It was reported that she had felt indisposed on returning -from her walk. Atimir perfectly understood that her object was to -conceal the agitation to which he had seen her a prey in the bower of -honeysuckles. This reflection increased his compassion for her. - -As soon as he had retired to his own chamber he opened the tablets he -had picked up. On the first leaf he saw a cipher formed of a double A, -crowned with a wreath of myrtle, and supported by two little Cupids, -one of whom appeared to be wiping the tears from his cheeks with the -end of the ribbon that bandaged his eyes, and the other breaking his -arrows. The sight of this cipher agitated the young Prince. He knew -that Ilerie drew admirably. He turned over the leaf quickly to gain -further information, and on the opposite side found the following -lines:- - - Hither all-conquering Love thy footsteps led; - At thy first glance sweet peace my bosom fled; - Oh, cruel one, to try on me the dart - With which you meant to wound another's heart! - -The handwriting, which he recognised, but too clearly proved to him -that the tablets were those of the Princess Ilerie. He was affected -by the great tenderness of these sentiments, which far from being -nourished by his love and attentions, were not even encouraged by hope. -These verses reminded him that previous to the arrival of Hebe at Court -he had thought Ilerie lovely. He began to consider himself unfaithful -to that Princess, and he became too seriously so to the charming Hebe. - -He struggled, however, against these first emotions; but his heart was -accustomed to range, and so dangerous a habit is rarely corrected. - -He threw Ilerie's tablets on a table, resolving not to look at them any -more; but he took them up again a moment afterwards, despite himself, -and found in them a thousand things which completed the triumph of -Ilerie over the divine Hebe. - -The Prince's heart was occupied all night by conflicting feelings. In -the morning he waited on the King, who named the day he had fixed on -for his marriage with Hebe. Atimir replied with an embarrassment which -the King mistook for a proof of his passion--(how little do we know -of the human heart!) It was the effect of his inconstancy! The King -desired to visit the Queen; the Prince was obliged to follow him. He -had been there but a short time when the Princess Ilerie appeared with -an air of melancholy which made her more lovely in the eyes of the -inconstant Atimir, who was aware of its cause. He approached her, and -talked to her for some time. He gave her to understand that he was no -longer ignorant of her affection for him. He spoke with ardour of his -feelings for her. It was too much for Ilerie. Ah! how is it possible to -receive calmly the assurance of so great so unexpected a happiness. - -The charming Hebe entered the Queen's apartments shortly afterwards. -Her sight brought the blood into the cheeks both of the Princess -Ilerie and of the fickle Atimir. "How beautiful she is!" exclaimed -Ilerie, looking at the Prince with an emotion she could not conceal. -"Avoid her, sir, or end at once my existence." The Prince had not -power to answer her. Hebe approached them with a grace and charm -which unconsciously loaded with reproaches the ungrateful Atimir. He -could not long endure his position. He quitted the Princess, saying -that he was anxious to despatch a courier to his father. She was so -prepossessed in his favour that she never noticed some eloquent glances -at Ilerie, which he cast on leaving her. - -While Ilerie triumphed in secret, the beautiful Hebe learned from the -King and Queen that in three days she was to be the bride of Atimir. -How unworthy was he of the sensations which this news awakened in the -heart of the lovely Hebe. - -The faithless Prince, though pre-occupied by his new passion, passed -part of the day in Hebe's company. Ilerie was present, and was a -thousand times ready to die with jealousy. Her love had redoubled since -she had entertained hope. - -On returning to his own apartments in the evening, the Prince was -presented with a note by an unknown messenger. He opened it hastily, -and found in it these words:-- - -"I yield to a passion a thousand times stronger than my reason. Since I -can no longer attempt to conceal sentiments which chance has revealed -to you, come, Prince, come, and learn the determination to which I am -driven by the love you have inspired me with. Oh, how happy will it be -for me if it cost me but my life!" - -The bearer of the note informed the Prince that he was commissioned to -conduct him to the spot where the Princess Ilerie awaited him. Atimir -did not hesitate a moment to follow him, and after several turnings, -he was introduced into a little pavilion at the end of a very dark -avenue. The interior of the pavilion was sufficiently lighted. He found -in it Ilerie with one of her attendants; the rest were walking in the -gardens. When she had retired to this apartment, no one entered it -without her orders. Ilerie was seated on a pile of cushions of crimson -and gold embroidery. Her dress was rich and elegant, the material being -of yellow and silver tissue. Her hair, which was black and exceedingly -beautiful, was ornamented with ribbons of the same colour as the dress, -and ties of yellow diamonds. At her sight, Atimir could not persuade -himself that infidelity was a crime. He knelt at her feet, and Ilerie, -gazing upon him with a tenderness sufficiently indicative of the -emotion of her heart, said, "Prince, I have not caused you to come -hither in order to persuade you to break off your marriage; I know too -well it is determined upon, and the expressions with which you have -endeavoured to alleviate my misfortune and flatter my affection do not -induce me to believe that you would abandon Hebe for me; but," she -continued, with a gush of tears, which completed the conquest of the -heart of Atimir, "I will not endure the life which you have rendered -so wretched. I will sacrifice it without regret to my love, and this -poison," she added, showing a little box which she had in her hand, -"will save me from the fearful torment of seeing you the husband of -Hebe." - -"No, beautiful Ilerie!" exclaimed the fickle Prince, "I will never be -her husband. I will abandon all for your sake; I love you a thousand -times better than I loved Hebe; and despite my duty and my faith so -solemnly plighted, I am ready to fly with you to a spot where no -obstacle shall exist to our happiness." "Ah, Prince!" said Ilerie, with -a sigh, "can I confide, then, in one so faithless?" "He will never be -faithless to you," rejoined Atimir. "And the King, your father, who -gave Hebe to me, will not refuse to sanction my union with the lovely -Ilerie, when she is already mine." "Away, then, Atimir," said the -Princess, after a few minutes' silence. "Let us hasten whither our -destiny leads us. Whatever misery the step entails on me, nothing can -weigh against the sweet delights of loving and being beloved." - -After these words, they consulted together respecting their flight. -There was no time to lose. They determined to depart the following -night. They separated with regret, and, notwithstanding the vows of -Atimir, Ilerie still feared the power of Hebe's attractions. The rest -of that night and all the next day she was a prey to that anxiety. - -In the meanwhile, the Prince hurriedly gave all the necessary orders -for keeping his departure secret, and the next day, as soon as -everybody in the palace had retired to their apartments, he hastened -to join Ilerie in the pavilion in the garden, where she awaited him, -attended only by Cléonice. They set out, and made incredible haste to -pass the frontiers of the kingdom. - -The following morning the news was made public, by a letter which -Ilerie had written to the Queen, and another which Atimir had addressed -to the King. They were couched in touching language, and it was easy to -perceive that love had dictated them. The King and Queen were extremely -enraged; but no words can express the agony of the unfortunate and -charming Hebe. What despair! what tears! what petitions to the Fairy -Anguillette to terminate torments equal to the most cruel she had -predicted! But the Fairy kept her word. In vain did Hebe seek the -riverside. Anguillette did not appear, and she abandoned herself to all -the horrors of desperation. The Princes who had been discouraged by the -success of the ungrateful Atimir now felt their hopes revive; but their -attentions and professions only increased the torture of the faithful -Hebe. - -The King ardently desired that she should select for herself a husband, -and had several times urged her to do so; but that duty appeared -too cruel to her affectionate heart. She determined to fly from her -father's kingdom; but, before her departure, she went once more in -search of Anguillette. The Fairy could no longer resist the tears of -the beautiful Hebe. She appeared to her, and at her sight the Princess -wept still more, and had not the power to speak to her. - -"You have now experienced," said the Fairy, "what that fatal pleasure -which I would never willingly have accorded to you is; but Atimir has -too severely punished you, Hebe, for your neglect of my advice. Go! -Fly these scenes, where everything recalls to you the remembrance of -your love. You will find a vessel on the coast, which will bear you to -the only spot in the world where you can be cured of your unfortunate -attachment; but take care," added Anguillette, raising her voice, "when -your heart shall have regained its tranquillity, that you never seek -to behold again the faithless Atimir, or it will cost you your life!" -Hebe wished more than once to see that Prince again at whatever price -Love might compel her to pay for that gratification; but a whisper -of Reason, and respect for her own honour, induced her to accept the -Fairy's offer. She thanked her for this last favour, and departed the -next morning for the sea-coast, followed by such of her women as she -had most confidence in. - -She found the vessel Anguillette had promised her. It was gilt all -over. The masts were of marqueterie of the most admirable pattern; the -sails, of rose-colour and silver tissue; and in every part of it was -inscribed the word "Liberty." The crew were attired in dresses of the -same colours as the sails. All appeared to breathe in this atmosphere -the sweet air of freedom. - -The Princess entered a magnificent cabin. The furniture was admirable, -and the paintings perfect. She was as much a prey to sorrow in this new -abode as she was in her father's Court. They strove in vain to amuse -her by a thousand pleasures; she was not yet in a state of mind to pay -the slightest attention to them. - -One day while she was contemplating a painting in her cabin, which -represented a landscape, she remarked in it a young shepherd, who, with -a smiling countenance, was depicted cutting nets to set at liberty a -great number of birds that had been caught in them, and some of these -little creatures seemed to be soaring to the skies with marvellous -velocity. All the other pictures displayed similar subjects. None -suggested an idea of love, and all appeared to boast the charms of -Liberty. "Alas!" exclaimed the Princess, sorrowfully, "will my heart -never enjoy that sweet happiness which reason prays for so often in -vain?" - -The unfortunate Hebe thus passed her days, struggling between her love -and her desire to forget it. The ship had been a month at sea without -touching anywhere, when one morning that the Princess was on deck she -saw land at a distance, which appeared to be that of a very lovely -country. The trees were of surprising height and beauty, and as the -vessel neared them, she perceived they were covered with birds of the -most brilliant plumage, whose songs made a charming concert. Their -notes were very soft, and it appeared as if they were afraid of making -too much noise. They landed on this beautiful shore. The Princess -descended from the vessel, followed by her women, and from the moment -she breathed the air of this island, some unknown power seemed to set -her heart at rest, and she fell into an agreeable slumber, which for a -short time sealed up her beautiful eyes. - -This pleasant country, to which she was a stranger, was the Peaceful -Island. The Fairy Anguillette, a near relation of the Princes who -reigned in these parts, had conferred upon it, for two thousand years, -the happy power of curing unfortunate attachments. It is confidently -asserted that it still possesses that power; but the difficulty is to -find the island. - -The Prince who reigned in it at that period, was descended in a right -line from the celebrated Princess Carpillon and her charming husband, -of whom a modern Fairy, wiser and more polished than those of ancient -times, has so gracefully recounted the wonderful adventures.[8] - -While the fair Hebe enjoyed a repose, the sweetness of which she had -not tasted for six months, the Prince of the Peaceful Island was taking -an airing in the wood that fringed the shore. He was seated in his car, -drawn by four young white elephants, and surrounded by a portion of -his Court. The sleeping Princess attracted his attention. Her beauty -astonished him. He descended from his car with a haste and vivacity -unusual to his nature. He felt at the sight of her all the love which -the charms of Hebe were worthy to inspire. The noise awoke her, and -on opening her lovely eyes, she was struck by a thousand beauties in -the young Prince. He was of the same age as Hebe--just nineteen. He -was perfectly handsome, his figure full of grace, his height above -the ordinary standard, and his hair, which fell in rich curls down to -his waist, was of the same colour as Hebe's. His dress was composed -of feathers of a thousand different colours, over which he wore a -sort of mantle, with a train all made of swan's-down, and fastened on -his shoulders by the finest jewels in the world. His girdle was of -diamonds, from which hung by golden chains a small sabre, the hilt and -sheath of which were entirely covered with rubies. A sort of helmet, -made of feathers like the rest of his attire, crowned his handsome -head, and on one side of it, fastened by a diamond of prodigious size, -was a plume of heron's feathers, which added greatly to the effect of -his appearance. - -The Prince was the first object that presented itself to the eyes -of the young Princess at her waking. He appeared worthy of her -observation, and for the first time in her life she looked upon another -than Atimir with some interest. - -"Everything assures me," said the Prince of the Peaceful Island to -the Princess, "that you can be no other than the divine Hebe. Alas! -who else could possess so many charms?" "Who, my Lord," replied the -young Princess, blushing, as she rose to her feet, "could have so soon -informed you of my having landed on this island?" "A powerful Fairy," -answered the young monarch, "who, desirous of making me the happiest -Prince in the world, and this country the most fortunate, had promised -to lead you hither, and had even permitted me to indulge in the -proudest hopes; but I am too well aware," he added, with a sigh, "that -my fate depends much more upon your favour than upon hers." - -After this speech, to which she replied with much propriety, the -Prince requested her to enter his car, that she might be conducted to -the palace; and out of respect to her, he would have declined taking -his place in it, but as she had gathered from his language and his -attendants that he was the sovereign of the island, she insisted on -his seating himself beside her. Never had two such beautiful persons -been seen in the same car. All the Prince's courtiers at the sight -involuntarily burst into a tumult of applause. On the road, the young -Prince entered into conversation with Hebe, with great animation and -tenderness; and the Princess, happy to find her heart once more at -ease, had recovered all her natural vivacity. - -They reached the palace; it was not far from the sea-coast. It was -approached through long and beautiful avenues, bordered by canals of -running water. It was built entirely of ivory and roofed with agate. - -The Prince's guards were drawn up in line in all the courts. In the -first, they were clothed with yellow feathers, and carried quivers, -bows and arrows of silver. In the second, they were all clothed with -flame-coloured feathers, and wore sabres with golden hilts, and sheaths -ornamented with turquoises. The royal party entered the third court, -in which the guards were dressed in white feathers, and held in their -hands demi-lances painted and gilt, and entwined with garlands of -flowers. There was never any war in that country, so that they did not -carry any formidable weapons. - -The Prince, descending from his car, led the lovely Hebe to a -magnificent apartment. His Court was numerous, the ladies were -beautiful; the men gallant and graceful; and although everybody in the -Island was dressed in feathers only, they evinced so much taste in the -arrangement of the colours, that the effect was very agreeable. - -That evening, the Prince of the Peaceful Island gave a superb banquet -to the beautiful Hebe, which was followed by a concert of flutes, -lutes, theorbos and harpsichords. In that country they were not fond of -any noisy instruments. The music was very charming; when it had lasted -some time, a very sweet voice sang the following words:-- - - Ever to be thy beauty's slave I swear, - Nor can my heart conceive a happier state - Than constant bondage in a chain so fair-- - Faithful as fond--on thee depends my fate. - -The Prince gazed on Hebe while this tender air was sung, with an -expression which persuaded her that the verses but declared his own -sentiments. - -When the concert was over, the Prince of the Peaceful Island, as it was -late, led the Princess to the apartment selected for her. It was the -most beautiful room in the palace. She found in it a great many ladies, -who had been chosen by the Prince to have the honour of attending upon -her. - -The Prince quitted the beautiful Hebe the most enamoured of men. The -Princess retired to rest, the ladies of the Court withdrew, and no one -remained in the bed-chamber except the attendants she had brought with -her. "Who could have believed it?" said she to them, as soon as they -were left together, "my heart is tranquil. What deity has appeased my -sufferings? I no longer love Atimir. I can think that he is the husband -of Ilerie without dying of grief. Is not all this a dream which passes -around me? No," she continued, after a moment's pause; "for even my -dreams were never so free from agitation." She then returned thanks a -thousand times to Anguillette, and fell asleep. - -When she awoke the next morning the Fairy appeared to her with a -gracious smile upon her countenance, which she had not seen her wear -since the fatal day she had requested the gift of love. "At length," -said the kind Fairy, "I have fortunately brought you hither. Your heart -is free, and therefore it may be happy. I have cured you of a baneful -passion; but, Hebe, may I trust that the fearful torments to which you -have been exposed will sufficiently induce you to shun for ever those -places in which you might chance to meet the ungrateful Atimir." What -promises did not the young Princess make to the Fairy! How repeatedly -did she abjure love and her faithless lover! "Remember, at least, your -promises," rejoined the Fairy, with an air that inspired respect. "You -will perish with Atimir should you ever seek again to behold him; -but everything around you here ought to prevent your entertaining a -desire so fatal to your existence. I will no longer conceal from you -what I have determined upon in your favour. The Prince of the Peaceful -Island is my kinsman. I protect him and his empire. He is young, he -is amiable, and no Prince in the world is so worthy of being your -husband. Reign, then, fair Hebe, in his heart and over his realm. Your -royal father consents to your union. I was in his palace yesterday. I -informed him and the Queen of your present position, and they gave me -full power to care for your future fortunes." - -The Princess was greatly tempted to ask the Fairy what news had been -heard of Atimir and Ilerie since her departure, but she dared not, -after so many favours, run the risk of displeasing her. She employed to -thank her all the eloquence the Fairy had gifted her with. - -Her attendants now entered the chamber, and the Fairy disappeared. As -soon as Hebe had arisen, twelve children of the most perfect beauty, -dressed as Cupids, brought to her from the Prince twelve crystal -baskets, filled with the most brilliant and fragrant flowers in the -world. These flowers covered sets of jewels of all colours and of -marvellous beauty. In the first basket presented to her, she found a -note containing these lines:-- - - TO THE DIVINE HEBE. - - That I adored thee yesterday I swore - An hundred times; and broken ne'er can be - The vows I uttered from my fond heart's core; - For Love himself dictated them to me, - And beauty such as thine ensureth constancy. - -After what the Fairy had ordained, the Princess comprehended that she -ought to receive these attentions from her new admirer as those of a -Prince who was shortly to be her husband. - -She received the little Cupids very graciously, and they had scarcely -taken their departure, when twenty-four dwarfs, fancifully, but -magnificently attired, appeared, bearing other presents. They consisted -of dresses made entirely of feathers; but the colours, the work, and -the jewels with which they were ornamented were so beautiful, that the -Princess admitted she had never seen anything so elegant. - -She chose a rose-coloured dress to wear that day. Her head-dress -was composed of plumes of the same colour. She appeared so charming -with these new ornaments, that the Prince of the Peaceful Island, -who came to see her as soon as she was dressed, felt his passion for -her redoubled. All the Court hastened to admire the Princess. In the -evening the Prince proposed to the fair Hebe to descend into the -palace gardens, which were admirably laid out. - -During the promenade, the Prince informed Hebe that the Fairy had, for -the last four years, led him to expect that Princess's arrival in the -Peaceful Island; "but shortly after that period," added the Prince, "on -my pressing her to fulfil her promise, she appeared distressed, and -said to me, 'The Princess Hebe is destined by her father to another; -but if my science does not deceive me, she will not marry the Prince -who has been chosen for her husband. I will let you know the issue.' -Some months afterwards the Fairy returned to the island. 'Fate favours -you,' said she to me: 'the Prince who was to have married Hebe will -not be her husband, and in a short time you will behold here the most -beautiful Princess in the world.'" - -"It is true," replied Hebe, blushing, "that I was to have married the -son of a King whose dominions were adjacent to those of my father; -but, after several events, the love he conceived for the Princess, my -sister, induced him to fly with her from my father's kingdom." - -The Prince of the Peaceful Island said a thousand tender things to the -beautiful Hebe respecting the happy destiny which, in accordance with -the Fairy's desire, had brought the Princess into his dominions. She -listened to him with greater pleasure, as it interrupted her account of -her own adventures, for she feared she could not speak of her faithless -lover without the Prince's observing how great had been her affection -for him. - -The Prince of the Peaceful Island led Hebe into a grotto, highly -decorated, and embellished by wonderful fountains. The further end -of the grotto was dark; there were a great many niches in it, filled -with statues of nymphs and shepherds, but they could scarcely be -distinguished in the obscurity. As soon as the Princess had remained a -few minutes in the grotto, she heard some agreeable music. A sudden and -very brilliant illumination disclosed to her that it was a portion of -these statues who were performing this music, whilst the rest advanced, -and danced before her a very elegant and well-conceived ballet. It was -intermixed with sweet and tender songs. - -They had placed all the actors in this divertissement in the depths of -the grotto, to surprise the Princess more agreeably. - -After the ballet wild men appeared, and served up a superb collation -under an arbour of jasmine and orange flowers. - -The entertainment had nearly reached its termination, when suddenly the -Fairy Anguillette appeared in the air, seated in a car drawn by four -monkeys. She descended, and announced to the Prince of the Peaceful -Island a delightful piece of good fortune, by apprising him that it -was her desire he should become the husband of Hebe, and that that -beautiful Princess had promised her consent. - -The Prince, transported with joy, was uncertain at the moment whether -his first thanks were due to Hebe or to Anguillette; and although joy -does not inspire one with such affecting expressions as sorrow, he -nevertheless acquitted himself with much talent and grace. - -The Fairy determined not to leave the Prince and Princess before the -day fixed for their union. It was to be in three days. She made superb -presents to the fair Hebe and to the Prince of the Peaceful Island, and -at length, on the day she had named, they repaired, followed by their -whole Court and an infinite number of the inhabitants of the Island, to -the temple of Hymen. - -It was constructed simply of branches of olive and palmtrees -interlaced, and which, by the power of the Fairy, never withered. - -Hymen was therein represented by a statue of white marble, crowned with -roses, elevated on an altar, decorated only with flowers, and leaning -on a little Cupid of exquisite beauty, who, with a smiling countenance, -presented to him a crown of myrtle. - -Anguillette, who had erected this temple, resolved that everything in -it should be marked by the greatest simplicity, to show that love alone -could render Hymen happy. The difficulty is to unite them. As it was a -miracle worthy the power of a Fairy, she had joined them indissolubly -in the Peaceful Island, and, contrary to the custom in other kingdoms, -one could there be married, and remain fond and faithful. - -In this temple of Hymen the fair Hebe, led by Anguillette, plighted her -troth to the Prince of the Peaceful Island, and received his vows with -pleasure. She did not feel for him the same involuntary inclination -which she had done for Atimir; but her heart, being at that moment free -from passion, she received this husband, by command of the Fairy, as a -Prince worthy of her by his personal merit, and still more so by the -affection he bore to her. - -The marriage was celebrated by a thousand splendid entertainments, and -Hebe found herself happy with a Prince who adored her. - -In the meanwhile the King, Hebe's father, had received some ambassadors -from Atimir, who sent them to request permission for him to espouse -Ilerie. The King, Atimir's father, was dead, and that Prince was -consequently absolute master in his own country. The hand of the -Princess he had carried off was accorded to him with joy. After the -marriage Queen Ilerie sent other ambassadors to her royal parents -to request permission for her to revisit their Court, and to obtain -their forgiveness for the fault which love had caused her to commit, -and which the merit of Atimir might be pleaded in excuse of. The -King consented, and Atimir proceeded to the Palace with his bride. -A thousand entertainments marked the day of their arrival. Shortly -afterwards the fair Hebe and her charming husband sent ambassadors also -to the King and Queen, to announce their marriage to them. Anguillette -had already informed them of the event, but they did not on that -account receive the ambassadors with less delight or distinction. - -Atimir was with the King when they were introduced to their first -audience. The lovely form of Hebe could never be effaced from a heart -in which she had reigned with such supreme power. Atimir sighed, in -spite of himself, at the recital of the happiness of the Prince of the -Peaceful Island. He even accused Hebe of being inconstant, forgetting -how much reason he had given her for becoming so. - -The ambassadors of the Prince of the Peaceful Island returned to their -sovereign laden with honours and presents. They related to the Princess -how much delight the King and Queen had manifested at the tidings of -her happy marriage. But, oh! too faithful chroniclers, they informed -her at the same time that the Princess Ilerie and Atimir were at the -Court. These names, so dangerous to her peace, renewed her anxiety. -She was happy; but can mortals command uninterrupted felicity? - -She could not resist her impatience to return to the Court of the King, -her father. It was only, she said, to see once more him and her mother. -She believed this herself; and how often, when we are in love, do we -mistake our own feelings! - -Notwithstanding the threats uttered by the Fairy, in order to prevent -her from revisiting the spot where she might again behold Atimir, she -proposed this voyage to the Prince of the Peaceful Island. At first -he refused. Anguillette had forbidden him to let Hebe go out of his -dominions. She continued to press him. He adored her, and was ignorant -of the passion she had formerly entertained for Atimir. Is it possible -to refuse anything to those we love? - -He hoped to please Hebe by his blind obedience. He gave orders for -their departure, and never was there seen such magnificence as was -displayed in his equipage and on board his vessels. - -The sage Anguillette, indignant at the little respect paid by Hebe and -the Prince of the Peaceful Island to her instructions, abandoned them -to their destiny, and did not make her appearance to renew the prudent -advice by which they had so little profited. - -The Prince and Princess embarked, and after a very prosperous voyage, -arrived at the Court of Hebe's father. The King and Queen were -extremely delighted to behold once more that dear Princess. They were -charmed with the Prince of the Peaceful Island: they celebrated the -arrival of the royal pair by a thousand entertainments throughout the -kingdom. Ilerie trembled on hearing of the return of Hebe. It was -decided that they should meet, and that no reference whatever should be -made to past events. - -Atimir requested to be allowed to see Hebe. It appeared to Ilerie, -indeed, that he preferred his request with a little too much eagerness. - -The Princess Hebe blushed when he entered her apartment, and they both -felt an embarrassment out of which all their presence of mind could not -extricate them. - -The King, who was present, remarked it. He joined in their -conversation; and to render the visit shorter, proposed to the Princess -to descend into the Palace Gardens. - -Atimir dared not offer his hand to Hebe. He bowed to her respectfully, -and retired. - -But what thoughts and what feelings did he not carry away with him in -his heart! All the deep and tender passion he had formerly felt for -Hebe was rekindled in a moment. He hated Ilerie; he hated himself. -Never was infidelity followed by so much repentance, nor by so much -suffering. - -In the evening he went to the Queen's apartments. The Princess Hebe -was there. He had no eyes but for her. He sought assiduously for -an opportunity of speaking to her. She continued to avoid him; but -her glances were too clearly comprehended by him for his peace. He -persisted for some time in compelling her to observe that her eyes had -regained their former empire over him. - -Hebe's heart was alarmed by it. Atimir appeared to her still too -charming. She determined to shun him as carefully as he sought her. She -never spoke to him but in presence of the Queen, and then only when she -could not possibly avoid it. She resolved also to advise the Prince of -the Peaceful Island to return speedily to his own kingdom. But with -what difficulty do we endeavour to fly from those we love! - -One evening that she was reflecting on this subject, she shut herself -up in her cabinet, in order to indulge in her musings without -interruption. She found in her pocket a note, which had been slipped -into it unperceived by her, and the handwriting of Atimir, which she -recognised, threw her into an agitation which cannot be described. She -considered she ought not to read it; but her heart triumphed over her -reason, and opening it she found these lines:-- - - No more my love can to your heart appeal-- - For me indifference alone you feel. - Your heart, fair Hebe, faithless is in turn, - So soon my fatal falsehood could it learn. - Alas, why can you not, with equal speed, - Back to its early faith the truant lead? - - The happy time is past when Hebe fair, - Love's pains and pleasures deigned with me to share. - Both have their fetters broken, it is true, - But I my bondage hasten to renew. - Alas! for my sad fault must I atone, - By languishing in this sweet chain alone? - -"Ah, cruel one!" exclaimed the Princess. "What have I done to you that -you seek to rekindle in my soul a passion which has cost me so much -agony?" The tears of Hebe interrupted her utterance. - -In the meanwhile Ilerie was tortured by a jealousy which was but too -well founded. Atimir, carried away by his passion, lost all control -over himself. The Prince of the Peaceful Island began to perceive his -attachment to Hebe; but he was desirous of examining more narrowly the -conduct of Atimir before he spoke to the Princess on the subject. He -adored her with unabating constancy, and feared by his remarks to draw -her attention to the passion of his rival. - -A few days after Hebe had received Atimir's note, a tournament was -proclaimed. The Princes, and all the young noblemen of the Court, were -invited to break a lance in honour of the ladies. - -The King and Queen honoured the tournament with their presence. The -fair Hebe and the Princess Ilerie were to confer the prizes with their -own hands. One was a sword, the hilt and sheath of which were entirely -covered with jewels of extraordinary beauty. The other, a bracelet of -brilliants of the finest water. - -All the knights entered for the lists made their appearance with -marvellous magnificence, and mounted on the finest horses in the world. -Each wore the colours of his mistress, and on their shields were -pictured gallant devices, expressive of the sentiments of their hearts. - -The Prince of the Peaceful Island was superbly attired, and rode a -dun-coloured horse with black mane and tail of incomparable beauty. In -all his appointments rose colour was predominant. It was the favourite -colour of Hebe. An ample plume of the same hue floated above his light -helmet. He drew down the applause of all the spectators, and looked so -handsome in his brilliant armour, that Hebe mentally reproached herself -a thousand times for entertaining such feelings as the unhappiness of -another had inspired her with. - -The retinue of the Prince of the Peaceful Island was numerous. They -were all attired according to the fashion of their country. Everything -around him was elegant and costly. An esquire bore his shield, and all -were eager to examine the device. - -It was a heart pierced with an arrow; a little Cupid was depicted -shooting many others at it to inflict fresh wounds, but all except the -first appeared to have been shot in vain. Beneath were these words:-- - - "I fear no others." - -The colour and the device of the Prince of the Peaceful Island, -rendered it obvious that it was as the champion of the fair Hebe he had -chosen to enter the lists. - -The spectators were still admiring his magnificent array, when Atimir -appeared, mounted on a proud and fiery steed, entirely black. The -prevailing colour of the dress he had assumed for that day was what is -usually termed "dead-leaf," unadorned with gold, silver, or jewels; but -on his helmet he wore a tuft of rose-coloured feathers, and although he -affected great negligence in his attire, he was so handsome, and bore -himself so proudly, that from the moment he entered the lists no one -looked at anything else. On his shield, which he carried himself, was -painted a Cupid trampling upon some chains, while at the same time he -was loading himself with others that were heavier. Around the figure -were these words:-- - - "These alone are worthy of me." - -The train of Atimir were attired in dead-leaf and silver, and on them -he had showered jewels. It was composed of the principal noblemen of -his Court, and although they were all fine-looking men, it was easy -to see by the air of Atimir that he was born to command them. It is -impossible to describe the various emotions which the sight of Atimir -awakened in the hearts of Hebe and Ilerie, and the poignant jealousy -which the Prince of the Peaceful Island felt when he saw floating over -the helmet of Atimir, a plume of the same colour as his own. - -The motto of his device kindled his anger into a fury, which he -controlled for the moment, only to choose a better time to vent it on -his rival. - -The King and Queen saw clearly enough the audacity and imprudence of -Atimir, and were exceedingly angry with him; but it was not the time to -show it. - -The tilting was commenced amidst a flourish of trumpets which rent -the air. It was exceedingly good. All the young knights made proof of -their skill. The Prince of the Peaceful Island, although a prey to his -jealousy, signalized himself particularly, and remained conqueror. - -Atimir, who was aware that the prize for the first encounter would be -given by Ilerie, did not present himself to dispute the victory with -the Prince of the Peaceful Island. The judges of the field declared -the latter victor; and, amidst the acclamation and applause of all the -spectators, he advanced with the greatest possible grace to the spot -where the Royal Family were seated, to receive the diamond bracelet. - -The Princess Ilerie presented it to him. He received it with due -respect, and having saluted the King, Queen, and Princesses, returned -to his place in the lists. - -The mournful Ilerie had too clearly observed the contempt with which -the fickle Atimir had treated the prize destined to be accorded by -her hand. She sighed sadly, while the fair Hebe felt a secret joy -which reason vainly endeavoured to stifle in her heart. Other courses -were run with results similar to those which had preceded them. The -Prince of the Peaceful Island, animated by the presence of Hebe, -performed wonders, and was a second time conqueror; but Atimir, weary -of beholding the glory of his rival, and flattered by the idea of -receiving the prize from the hand of Hebe, presented himself at the -opposite end of the lists. - -The rivals gazed at each other fiercely, and the impending encounter -between two such great Princes was distinguished by the fresh agitation -which it excited in the two Princesses. The Princes ran their course -with equal advantage. Each broke his lance fairly without swerving in -his saddle. The acclamations were redoubled, and the Princes, without -giving their horses time to breathe, returned to their places, received -fresh lances, and ran a second course with the same address as the -first. The King, who feared to see Fortune give the victory to either -of these rivals, and in order to spare the feelings of both, sent in -all haste to them to say that they ought to be satisfied with the glory -they had acquired, and to request them to let the tilting terminate for -that day with the course they had just run. - -The King's messenger having approached them, they listened with -impatience to the royal request, particularly Atimir, who, seizing the -first opportunity to reply, said, "Go, tell the King that I should be -unworthy the honour he does me in taking an interest in my glory, if I -could remain satisfied without conquest." - -"Let us see," rejoined the Prince of the Peaceful Island, clapping -spurs to his horse, "who best deserves the esteem of the King and the -favours of Fortune!" - -The King's messenger had not retraced his steps to the royal balcony -before the two rivals, animated by stronger feelings than the mere -desire to carry off the prize of the joust, had met in full career. - -Fortune favoured the audacious Atimir: he was the conqueror. The horse -of the Prince of the Peaceful Island, fatigued with the many severe -courses he had run, fell, and rolled his master in the dust. - -What joy for Atimir! and what fury for the unfortunate Prince of the -Peaceful Island! Leaping to his feet again instantly, and advancing -to his rival before any one could reach to part them,--"Thou hast -conquered me in these games, Atimir," said he, with an air which -sufficiently expressed his wrath, "but it is with the sword that our -quarrel must be decided." "Willingly," replied the haughty Atimir. -"I will await thee to-morrow at sunrise in the wood that borders the -palace gardens." The Judges of the Field joined them as these last -words were uttered, and the Princes mutually affected unconcern, for -fear the King should suspect and frustrate their intentions. The Prince -of the Peaceful Island remounted his horse, and rode with all the speed -he could urge it to, from the fatal spot where he had been defeated by -Atimir. In the meanwhile that Prince proceeded to receive the prize -of the joust from the hand of Hebe, who presented it to him with a -confusion sufficiently betraying the conflicting emotions in her bosom; -while Atimir, in receiving it, displayed all the extravagancies of a -passionate lover. - -The King and Queen, who kept their eyes upon him, could not fail to -observe this, and returned to the Palace much discontented with the -termination of the day. Atimir, occupied only by his passion, left -the lists, forbidding any of his train to accompany him; and Ilerie, -smarting with grief and jealousy, retired to her apartments. - -What then were the feelings of Hebe! "I must depart," she said to -herself. "What other remedy is there for the evil I anticipate?" - -In the meanwhile, the King and the Queen determined to request Atimir -would return to his own dominions, to avoid the painful consequences -which his love might entail upon them. They resolved also to make the -same proposition to the Prince of the Peaceful Island, in order not to -show any preference for either; but ah! too tardy prudence! whilst they -were deliberating how best to secure the departure of the two Princes, -the rivals were preparing to meet in mortal combat. - -Hebe, on returning from the lists, immediately inquired for the Prince -of the Peaceful Island. She was answered that he was in the palace -gardens; that he had desired he might not be followed, and that he -appeared very melancholy. The fair Hebe thought it was her duty to seek -and console him for the slight mischances which had happened to him, -and therefore, without staying a moment in her own apartment, descended -into the gardens, followed only by a few of her women. - -In the course of her search for the Prince of the Peaceful Island, she -entered a shady alley, and came suddenly on the enamoured Atimir, who, -transported by his passion, and listening only to its promptings, threw -himself on his knees at a short distance from the Princess, and drawing -the sword which he had that day received from her hand, exclaimed, -"Hear me, beautiful Hebe! or see me die at your feet!" - -Hebe's attendants, terrified by the actions of the Prince, rushed upon -him, and endeavoured to force from his grasp the sword, the point of -which he had directed towards himself with desperate resolution. Hebe, -the unhappy Hebe, would have flown from the spot; but how many reasons -concurred to detain her near him she loved! - -The desire to suppress the scandal this adventure might create; the -intention to implore Atimir to endeavour to stifle a passion which -was so perilous to them; the pity naturally awakened by so affecting -an object,--everything, in short, conspired to arrest her flight. She -approached the Prince. Her presence suspended his fury. He let fall -his sword at the feet of the Princess. Never was so much agitation, -so much love, so much anguish, displayed in an interview that lasted -but a few minutes. No words can express the feelings of those wretched -lovers during that brief period. Hebe, alarmed at finding herself in -the company of Atimir, almost, perhaps, in sight of the Prince of -the Peaceful Island, made a great effort to depart, and left him -with a command never to see her more. What an order for Atimir! But -for the recollection of the combat to which he had been challenged -by the Prince of the Peaceful Island, he would have turned his sword -an hundred times against his own breast; but he trusted to perish in -revenging himself on his rival. - -In the meanwhile, the fair Hebe shut herself up in her own chamber, -to avoid more surely the sight of Atimir. "Relentless Fairy," she -cried, "thou didst only predict my death as the consequence of my again -beholding this unhappy Prince; but the tortures I suffer are a much -more dreadful penalty." Hebe sent her attendants to seek for the Prince -of the Peaceful Island in the gardens, and throughout the Palace; but -he was nowhere to be found, and she became extremely anxious on his -account. They hunted for him all night long, but in vain, for he had -concealed himself in a little rustic building in the middle of the -wood, to be more certain that no one could prevent his proceeding to -the spot fixed on for the combat. He was on the ground at sunrise, and -Atimir arrived a few minutes afterwards. The two rivals, impatient -for revenge and victory, drew their swords. It was the first time the -Prince of the Peaceful Island had wielded his in earnest, for war was -unknown in his island. - -He proved, however, not a less redoubtable antagonist on that account -to Atimir. He had little skill, but much bravery, and great love. He -fought like a man who set no value on his life, and Atimir worthily -sustained in this combat the high reputation he had previously -acquired. The Princes were animated by too many vindictive feelings -for their encounter not to terminate fatally. After having fought with -equal advantage for a considerable period, they dealt each other at the -same instant so furious a blow, that both fell to the earth which was -speedily red with their blood. - -The Prince of the Peaceful Island fainted with the loss of his; and -Atimir, mortally wounded, uttered but the name of Hebe as he expired -for her sake. - -One of the parties in search of the Prince of the Peaceful Island -arrived on the spot, and were horror-struck at the sight of this cruel -spectacle. - -The Princess Hebe, urged by her anxiety, had descended into the -gardens. She hastened towards the place from whence she heard the -exclamations of her people, who uttered in confusion the names of the -two Princes, and beheld these fatal and affecting objects. She believed -the Prince of the Peaceful Island was dead as well as Atimir, and at -that moment there was little difference to be distinguished between -them. "Precious lives," exclaimed Hebe, despairingly, after gazing for -an instant on the unfortunate Princes,--"precious lives, which have -been sacrificed for me; I hasten to avenge you by the termination of my -own!" With these words she flung herself upon the fatal sword Atimir -had received from her hands, and buried the point in her bosom before -her people, astonished at this dreadful scene, had power to prevent her. - -She expired, and the Fairy Anguillette, moved by so much misery despite -of all the obstacles her science had enabled her to raise, appeared -on the spot which had witnessed the destruction of these beautiful -beings. The Fairy upbraided Fate, and could not restrain her tears. -Then hastening to succour the Prince of the Peaceful Island, who she -knew was still breathing, she healed his wound, and transported him in -an instant to his own island, where, by the miraculous power she had -conferred on it, the Prince consoled himself for his loss, and forgot -his passion for Hebe. - -The King and Queen, who had not the advantage of such assistance, -gave themselves up entirely to their sorrow; and time only brought -them consolation. As to Ilerie, nothing could exceed her despair. She -remained constant to her grief, and to the memory of the ungrateful -Atimir. - -Meanwhile, Anguillette, having transported the Prince of the Peaceful -Island to his dominions, touched with her wand the sad remains of the -charming Atimir and the lovely Hebe. At the same instant they were -transformed into two trees of the most perfect beauty. The Fairy gave -them the name of _Charmes_,[9] to preserve for ever the remembrance of -the charms which had been so brilliantly displayed in the persons of -these unfortunate lovers. - - -FOOTNOTES: - -[8] This compliment, so deservedly paid to the Countess -d'Aulnoy, proves that this story was written after the production of -that lady's popular fairy tale entitled "La Princesse Carpillon." - -[9] _Charmes_ is the French name for that species of elm -called the yok elm. - - - - -YOUNG AND HANDSOME. - - -Once on a time there was a potent Fairy, who endeavoured to resist -the power of Love; but the little god was more potent than the Fairy. -He touched her heart without even employing all his power. A handsome -Knight arrived at the Court of the Fairy in search of adventures. He -was amiable, the son of a king, and had acquired renown by a thousand -noble achievements. His worth was known to the Fairy. Fame had wafted -the report of it even into her dominions. - -The person of the young Prince corresponded so entirely with his high -reputation, that the Fairy, moved by so many charms, accepted in a very -short time the proposals which the handsome Knight made to her. The -Fairy was beautiful, and he was sincerely in love with her. She married -him, and by that marriage made him the richest and most powerful King -in the world. They lived a long time most happily together after their -union. - -The Fairy grew old, and the King, her husband, although he kept pace -with her in years, ceased to love her as soon as her beauty had -departed. He attached himself to some young beauties of his Court, and -the Fairy was tormented by a jealousy which proved fatal to several -of her rivals. She had had but one daughter by her marriage with the -handsome Knight. She was the object of all her tenderness, and was -worthy of the affection lavished on her. - -The Fairies, who were her relations, had endowed her from her birth -with the finest intelligence, the sweetest beauty, and with graces -still more charming than beauty. Her dancing surpassed anything that -had ever been seen, and her voice subdued all hearts. - -Her form was perfect symmetry. Without being too tall, her appearance -was noble. Her hair was of the most beautiful black in the world. Her -mouth small and exquisitely formed, her teeth of surprising whiteness. -Her lovely eyes were black, sparkling, and expressive, and never did -glances so piercing and yet so tender awaken love in the bosoms of all -beholders. - -The Fairy had named her Young and Handsome. She had not as yet endowed -her herself. She had postponed that favour in order to judge the -better in process of time by what sort of benefit she could ensure the -happiness of a child that was so dear to her. - -The King's inconstancies were an eternal source of affliction to the -Fairy. The misfortune of ceasing to be loved induced her to believe -that the most desirable of blessings was to be always lovely. And this, -after a thousand reflections, was the gift she bestowed on Young and -Handsome. She was then just sixteen: and the Fairy employed all her -science in the formation of a spell which should enable the Princess to -remain for ever exactly as she appeared at that moment. What greater -benefit could she bestow on Young and Handsome than the happiness of -never ceasing to be like herself? The Fairy lost the King, her husband, -and although he had been long unfaithful to her, his death caused her -such deep sorrow, that she resolved to abandon her empire, and to -retire to a castle which she had built in a country quite a desert, and -surrounded by so vast a forest that the Fairy alone could find her way -through it. - -This resolution sadly afflicted Young and Handsome. She wished not to -quit her mother; but the Fairy peremptorily commanded her to remain; -and before she returned to her wilderness, she assembled in the most -beautiful palace in the world all the pleasures and sports she had long -banished, and composed from them a Court for Young and Handsome, who in -this agreeable company gradually consoled herself for the absence of -the Fairy. - -All the Kings and Princes who considered themselves worthy of her (and -in those days people flattered themselves much less than they do now) -came in crowds to the Court of Young and Handsome, and endeavoured by -their attentions and their professions to win the heart of so lovely a -Princess. - -Never had anything equalled the magnificence and amusements of the -palace of Young and Handsome. Each day was distinguished by some new -entertainment. Everybody composing it was happy, except her lovers, -who adored her without hope. She looked with favour upon none; but -they saw her daily, and her most indifferent glances were sufficiently -attractive to detain them there for ever. - -One day Young and Handsome, content with the prosperity and popularity -of her reign, wandered into a pleasant wood, followed only by some -of her nymphs, the better to enjoy the charm of solitude. Absorbed -by agreeable reflections, (what could she think of that would not be -agreeable?) she emerged from the wood unconsciously, and walked towards -a charming meadow enamelled with thousands of flowers. - -Her beautiful eyes were occupied in contemplating a hundred various and -pleasing objects, when they lighted in turn on a flock of sheep which -was quietly feeding in the meadow on the bank of a little brook that -murmured sweetly as it rippled over the pebbles in its path. It was -overshadowed by a tuft of trees. A young shepherd, stretched on the -grass beside the rivulet, was calmly sleeping; his crook was leaning -against a tree, and a pretty dog, which appeared to be more a favourite -of its master than the guardian of his flock, lay close to the shepherd. - -Young and Handsome approached the brook, and cast her eyes upon the -youth. What a beautiful vision! Cupid himself sleeping in the arms of -Psyche did not display such charms. - -The young Fairy stood gazing, and could not restrain some gestures -of admiration, which were quickly succeeded by more tender emotions. -The handsome shepherd appeared to be about eighteen, of a commanding -form; his brown hair, naturally curling, fell in wavy locks upon his -shoulders, and was in perfect harmony with the most charming face in -the world. His eyes, closed in slumber, concealed from the Fairy, -beneath their lids, new fires reserved by Love to redouble her passion -for the shepherd. - -Young and Handsome felt her heart agitated by an emotion to which it -had hitherto been a stranger, and it was no longer in her power to stir -from the spot. - -Fairies possess the same privilege as goddesses. They love a shepherd -when he is loveable, just as if he were the greatest monarch in the -universe. For all classes of mortals are equally beneath them. - -Young and Handsome found too much pleasure in her new sensations to -endeavour to combat them. She loved fondly, and from that moment only -indulged in the happy idea of being loved in return. She did not dare -to wake the handsome shepherd, for fear he should remark her agitation; -and pleasing herself with the notion of discovering her love for him in -a gallant and agreeable manner. She rendered herself invisible to enjoy -the astonishment she was about to cause him. - -Immediately arose a strain of enchanting music. What an exquisite -symphony! It went straight to the heart. The delicious sound awoke -Alidor (such was the name of the handsome shepherd), who for some -moments imagined he was in an agreeable dream; but what was his -surprise when, on rising from the grass on which he had been lying, he -found himself attired in the most tasteful and magnificent fashion. -The colours of his dress were yellow and grey, laced with silver. -His wallet was embroidered all over with the initials of Young and -Handsome, and suspended by a band of flowers. His crook was of the most -marvellous workmanship, ornamented with precious stones of different -colours set in elegant devices. His hat was composed entirely of -jonquils and blue hyacinths most ingeniously woven together. - -Delighted and astonished at his new attire, he gazed at himself -reflected in the neighbouring stream. Young and Handsome, meanwhile, -feared an hundred times for him the fate of the beautiful Narcissus. - -The wonder of Alidor was still further increased at seeing his sheep -covered with silk whiter than snow, in lieu of their ordinary fleeces, -and adorned with a thousand knots of ribbons of various colours. - -His favourite ewe was more decorated than any of the others. She came -skipping over the grass to him, appearing proud of her ornaments. - -The shepherd's pretty dog had a golden collar, on which bands of small -emeralds formed these four lines:-- - - Alas! how many fears and doubts alarm - The maiden who on love her hopes would rest; - A look, a word, her youthful heart may charm, - But constancy alone can make it blest. - -The handsome shepherd judged by these verses that he was indebted to -Love for his agreeable adventure. The sun, by this time, had set. -Alidor, absorbed in a delightful reverie, bent his steps towards his -cottage. He did not observe any change in its exterior, but he had -scarcely crossed the threshold when a delicious fragrance announced to -him some agreeable novelty. He found the walls of his little hut hung -with a tissue of jasmine and orange flowers. The curtains of his bed -were of the same materials, looped up by garlands of pinks and roses. -An agreeable atmosphere kept all these flowers perfectly fresh and -beautiful. - -The floor was of porcelain, on which were represented the stories of -all the goddesses who had been in love with shepherds. Alidor observed -this;--he was very intelligent. The shepherds of that country were not -ordinary shepherds. Some of them were descended from Kings or great -Princes, and Alidor could trace his pedigree up to a Sovereign who had -long sat on the throne of those realms before they became a portion of -the dominions of the Fairies. - -Up to this period the handsome shepherd had been insensible to the -charms of Love; but he now began to feel, even without having as yet -distinguished the particular object, that his young heart burned to -surrender itself a prisoner. He was dying with impatience to become -acquainted with the Goddess or Fairy who had bestowed upon him such -tasteful and beautiful proofs of her affection. He paced his chamber -with a sweet anxiety which he had never before experienced. As night -fell, an agreeable illumination appeared to shed a new daylight -throughout the cottage. The musings of Alidor were interrupted by -the sight of a rich and delicate banquet, which was served up to him -by invisible hands. "What!" exclaimed the shepherd, smiling; "still -new pleasures, and no one to partake them with me?" His little dog -attempted to play with him, but he was too much pre-occupied to -encourage his gambols. - -Alidor seated himself at the table. A little Cupid appeared and -presented him with wine in a cup made of one entire diamond. The -shepherd made a tolerable supper for the hero of such adventures. He -endeavoured to question the little Cupid; but, instead of answering, -the boy shot arrows at him, which, the moment they struck, became drops -of exquisitely scented water. Alidor comprehended clearly by this sport -that the little Cupid was forbidden to explain the mystery. The table -disappeared as soon as Alidor had ceased eating, and the little Cupid -flew away. - -A charming symphony stole upon the ear, awaking a thousand tender -sensations in the heart of the young shepherd. His impatience to -learn to whom he was indebted for all these pleasures increased every -instant, and it was with great joy he heard a voice sing the following -words:-- - - Under what form, Love, wilt thou cast thy dart - At the young shepherd who enthrals my heart? - Once should he know he is the master there, - Will he my form and face account less fair? - Of my affection he will be too sure, - But that may not his love for me secure. - With greater power to charm, my smiles endue, - I need no aid to make me fond or true. - -"Appear, thou charming being!" exclaimed the shepherd; "and by your -presence crown my happiness. I believe you to be too beautiful to fear -that I should ever be faithless." - -No answer was returned to this adjuration. The music ceased shortly -afterwards; a profound silence reigned in the cottage and invited the -shepherd to sweet repose. He threw himself on his bed, but it was some -time before he could sleep, agitated as he was by his curiosity and his -new-born passion. - -The song of the birds awoke him at daybreak. He quitted his cottage and -led his pretty flock to the same spot where the preceding day his good -fortune had commenced. Scarcely had he seated himself beside the brook, -when a canopy, composed of a most brilliant stuff of flame-colour and -gold was attached to the branches of the nearest trees to shelter -Alidor from the rays of the sun. Some young shepherds and pretty -shepherdesses of the neighbourhood arrived at the spot. They were in -search of Alidor. His canopy, his flock, and his dress excited in them -great astonishment. - -They advanced hastily, and eagerly asked him the origin of all these -marvels. Alidor smiled at their surprise, and recounted to them what -had occurred to him. More than one shepherd felt jealous, and more -than one shepherdess reddened with mortification. There were few of the -latter in those parts who had not had designs upon the heart of the -handsome shepherd, and a goddess or a fairy appeared to them by far too -dangerous a rival. - -Young and Handsome, who rarely lost sight of her shepherd, endured with -considerable impatience the conversation of the shepherdesses. Some -amongst them were very charming, and one so lovely that she might be a -formidable rival even to a goddess. - -The indifference with which Alidor treated them all re-assured the -young Fairy. The shepherdesses quitted Alidor reluctantly, and led -their flocks further into the meadow. - -Shortly after they had departed, leaving only a few shepherds with -Alidor, a delicious banquet appeared, set out upon a marble table. -Seats of green turf arose around it, and Alidor invited his friends, -the shepherds who had come to join him, to share his repast. On seating -themselves at the table, they discovered that they were all attired in -handsome dresses, though less magnificent than that of Alidor, which at -the same moment became dazzling with jewels. - -The neighbouring echoes were suddenly awakened by rustic, but graceful, -music, and a voice was heard singing the following words:-- - - Of Alidor, envy the pleasure supreme, - He only could love to this bosom impart; - Ye shepherds, who beauty and worth can esteem, - Do honour to him as the choice of my heart. - -The astonishment of the shepherds increased every moment. A troop of -young shepherdesses approached the banks of the rivulet. The melody of -the music was not so much the attraction which led them to this spot, -as the desire to see Alidor. They began to dance beneath the trees, -forming an agreeable little _bal-champêtre_. - -The young Fairy, who was present all the time, but invisible, assumed -in an instant, with six of her nymphs, the prettiest shepherdesses' -dresses that had ever been seen. Their only ornaments were garlands of -flowers. Their crooks were adorned with them, and Young and Handsome, -with a simple wreath of jonquils, which produced a charming effect in -her beautiful black hair, appeared the most enchanting person in the -world. The arrival of these fair shepherdesses surprised the whole -company. All the beauties of the district felt mortified. There was not -a shepherd who did not eagerly exert himself to do the honours of the -_fête_ to the new-comers. - -Young and Handsome, though unknown to them as a Fairy, did not receive -less respect or attract less attention. The sincerest homage is always -paid to beauty. Young and Handsome felt flattered by the effect of her -charms unaided by the knowledge of her dignity. - -As to Alidor, the instant she appeared amongst them, forgetting that -the love which a goddess or a fairy bore to him bound him to avoid -anything that might be displeasing to her, he flew towards Young -and Handsome, and accosting her with the most graceful air in the -world:--"Come, beautiful shepherdess," said he, "come and occupy a -place more worthy of you. So exquisite a person is too superior to -all other beauties to remain mingled with them." He offered his hand, -and Young and Handsome, delighted with the sentiments which the sight -of her had begun to awaken in the breast of her shepherd, allowed -herself to be led by Alidor beneath the canopy which had been attached -to the trees as soon as he had arrived at the spot that morning. A -troop of young shepherds brought, by his orders, bundles of flowers -and branches, and constructed with them a little throne, on which -they seated Young and Handsome. Alidor laid himself at her feet. Her -nymphs seated themselves near her, and the rest of the party formed a -large circle, in which everybody took their places according to their -inclinations. - -This spot, adorned with so much beauty, presented the most agreeable -spectacle in the world. The murmur of the brook mingled with the music, -and it seemed as if all the birds in the neighbourhood had assembled -there to take their parts in the concert. A great number of shepherds -advanced, in separate groups, to pay their court to Young and Handsome. -One amongst them, named Iphis, approaching the young Fairy, said to -her, "However distinguished may be the place Alidor has induced you -to accept, it is one, perhaps, very dangerous to occupy." "I believe -so," answered the Fairy, with a smile that had power to captivate all -hearts. "The shepherdesses of this village will find it difficult -to forgive me the preference which Alidor appears to have accorded -to me amongst so many beauties more deserving of it." "No," rejoined -Iphis; "our shepherdesses will be more just; but Alidor is beloved -by a goddess." And thereupon Iphis related to Young and Handsome the -adventure which had befallen the beautiful shepherd. When he had -finished his story, the young Fairy, turning towards Alidor with a -gracious air, said to him, "I do not desire to provoke so terrible an -enemy as the goddess by whom you are beloved. Evidently she did not -intend me to occupy this position, and therefore I resign it to her." - -She rose as she said these words, but Alidor, gazing fondly upon her, -exclaimed, "Stay, lovely shepherdess; there is no goddess whose love -I would not sacrifice for the delight of adoring you; and she of whom -Iphis speaks is not over wise, at least in matters of the heart, -since she has permitted me to behold you!" Young and Handsome could -not make any reply to Alidor. The shepherds at that moment came to -request her to dance, and never was more grace displayed than on this -occasion. Alidor was her partner, who surpassed himself. Never had the -most magnificent _fêtes_ at the Court of Young and Handsome afforded -her so much pleasure as this rural entertainment. Love embellishes -every spot in which we behold the object of our affections. Alidor -felt his passion increasing every instant, and made a thousand vows -to sacrifice all the goddesses and fairies in the world to the ardent -love with which his shepherdess had inspired him. Young and Handsome -was delighted with the evident attachment of the beautiful shepherd; -but she wished to make a momentary trial of his affection. Iphis was -amiable, and, if Alidor had not been present, would no doubt have -been much admired. The young Fairy spoke to him twice or thrice very -graciously, and danced several times with him. - -Alidor burned with a jealousy as intense as his love. Young and -Handsome observed it, and feeling more sure of her shepherd's heart, -she ceased paining it, spoke no more to Iphis during the rest of the -day, and bestowed on Alidor her most encouraging glances. Heavens! what -glances! they would have filled the most insensible hearts with love. - -Evening having arrived, the lovely company separated with regret. -A thousand sighs followed Young and Handsome, who forbade any of -the shepherds to accompany her; but she promised Alidor, in a few -brief words, that he should see her again in the meadows the next -morning. She departed, followed by her nymphs and watched by the -shepherds, who were in hopes that, by following her at a distance, -they might discover, without her perceiving them, the village to -which these divine beings belonged; but the moment that Young and -Handsome had entered a little wood which concealed her from the sight -of the shepherds, she rendered herself and her nymphs invisible, and -they amused themselves for some time in seeing the shepherds vainly -endeavouring to trace the road they had taken. Young and Handsome -observed with pleasure that Alidor was amongst the most eager of the -party. - -Iphis was in despair that he had not followed them closely enough, and -several of the shepherds, who had been captivated by the nymphs, passed -half of the night in hunting the woods and the neighbourhood. Some -authors have asserted that the nymphs, following the example of the -young Fairy, thought some of these shepherds more charming than all the -kings they had ever seen in their lives. - -Young and Handsome returned to her palace, and, although a Fairy, -always occupied by a thousand different affairs, might absent herself -without causing much surprise, she found all her lovers exceedingly -uneasy at not having seen her the whole day, but not one of them -ventured to reproach her for it. It was necessary to be a very -submissive and respectful suitor in the palace of Young and Handsome, -or she would speedily issue an order for him to quit her Court. Her -admirers did not even dare to speak to her of their passion. It was -only by their attentions, their respect, and their constancy, that they -could hope eventually to touch her heart. - -Young and Handsome appeared little interested in what was passing -around. She ate scarcely any supper, fell into frequent fits of musing, -and the princes, her lovers, attentive to all her actions, imagined -that they heard her sigh several times. She dismissed all the Court -very early, and retired to her apartments. - -When one is looking forward to a meeting with those we love, everything -that presents itself in the interim appears very poor and very -troublesome. - -The young Fairy, with the nymphs who had followed her all the day, -concealed in a cloud, were transported in an instant to the hut of the -handsome shepherd. He had returned to it, very much vexed at not being -able to ascertain the road his divine shepherdess had taken. Everything -in his cottage was as charming as when he had left it; but as in musing -he cast his eyes upon the floor of his little chamber, he perceived -a change in it. In lieu of paintings from the stories of goddesses -who had been in love with shepherds, he perceived the subjects were -composed of terrible examples of unfortunate lovers who had proved -unworthy of the affection of those divinities. - -"You are right," exclaimed the handsome shepherd, on observing these -little pictures; "you are right, Goddess. I deserve your anger; but -wherefore did you permit so lovely a shepherdess to present herself to -my sight? Alas! what divinity could defend a heart from the effects of -such charms!" Young and Handsome had arrived in the cottage when Alidor -uttered these words. She felt all the tenderness of them, and her -affection was redoubled by them. - -As on the previous day, a magnificent repast appeared, but Alidor did -not enjoy it as he did the first. He was in love, and even a little -jealous; for it often recurred to him that his shepherdess had spoken -with some interest to Iphis. The promise, however, that she had made -him, that he should see her the next day in the meadow, soothed a -little his vexation. - -The little Cupid waited on him during his repast, but Alidor, occupied -by his new anxiety, spoke not a word to him. The table disappeared, -and the child, approaching Alidor, presented him with two magnificent -miniature cases, and then flew away. - -The handsome shepherd opened one of the cases hastily. It contained the -portrait of a young female of such perfect beauty, that imagination can -scarcely conceive it. Under this marvellous miniature was written, in -letters of gold-- - - "Thy happiness depends on her affection." - -"One must have seen my shepherdess," said Alidor, gazing on this -beautiful portrait, "not to be enchanted by so lovely a person." He -closed the case, and flung it carelessly on a table. - -He then opened the other case which the little Cupid had given to him; -but what was his astonishment at the sight of the portrait of his -shepherdess, resplendent with all the charms that had made so lively an -impression on his heart! - -She was painted as he had seen her that very day--her hair dressed -with flowers, and the little that appeared of her dress was that of -a shepherdess. The handsome shepherd was so transported with his -love, that he gazed on it for a long time without perceiving that the -following words were written beneath the portrait:-- - - "Forget her attractions, or thy love will be fatal to thee." - -"Alas!" exclaimed Alidor, "without her could there be any happiness?" -This ecstasy delighted Young and Handsome. The beautiful face he had -contemplated unmoved was only a fancy portrait. The young Fairy was -desirous of ascertaining whether her shepherd would prefer her to so -beautiful a person, and who appeared to be a goddess or a fairy. - -Convinced of the love of Alidor, she returned to her palace, after -having assembled her nymphs by a signal that had been agreed upon. It -was the illumination of the sky by some harmless lightning, and since -that time such is often to be seen on a summer evening, unaccompanied -by thunder. The nymphs rejoined her: they had also desired to hear -something more of their lovers. Some of them were sufficiently pleased. -They had found their swains occupied with recollections of them, and -speaking of them with ardour, but others were less satisfied with the -effect of their beauty. They found their shepherds fast asleep. A man -may sometimes appear very much in love during the day, who is not -sufficiently so for his passion to keep him awake all night. - -The young Fairy retired to rest as soon as she arrived at her palace, -charmed with the sincere affection of her shepherd. She had no other -anxiety than the agreeable one arising from her impatience to see him -again. As to Alidor, he slept a little, and without alarming himself at -the warnings which he had read beneath the two miniatures. He thought -only of returning to the meadow: he hoped to see his shepherdess there -during the day. It seemed to him that he could not get there soon -enough. - -He led his charming flock to the fortunate spot where he had seen Young -and Handsome; his pretty dog took good care of it. The comely shepherd -could think of nothing but his shepherdess. - -Young and Handsome was, much against her will, occupied that morning -receiving the ambassadors of several neighbouring monarchs. Never were -audiences so short; yet, notwithstanding, a considerable portion of the -day passed in the performance of these tiresome ceremonies. The young -Fairy suffered as much as her shepherd, whose keen impatience caused -him a thousand torments. - -The sun had set. Alidor had no longer any hope of seeing his -shepherdess that day. How great was his grief! - -He deplored his fate. He sighed incessantly. He made verses on her -absence, and with the ferrule of his crook engraved them on the trunk -of a young elm. - - You on whom Venus looks with envious eyes, - While round your steps her truant Graces play,-- - You on whose glances Cupid so relies - That he has thrown all other darts away; - How wretched in your absence must I be - Who prize you ev'ry earthly bliss above!-- - And yet my sorrow has a charm for me, - Its gloom is but the shadow of my love. - -As he finished carving these lines, Young and Handsome appeared -in the meadow at a distance, with her nymphs all still attired as -shepherdesses. Alidor recognised her a long way off. He ran--he flew -towards Young and Handsome, who received him with a smile so charming, -that it would have increased the felicity of the gods themselves. - -He told his love to her with an ardour capable of persuading a heart -less tenderly inclined towards him than that of the young Fairy. She -desired to see what he had carved on the tree, and was charmed with -the talent and affection of her shepherd. He related to her all that -happened to him the preceding evening, and offered a thousand times to -follow her to the end of the world to fly from the love which a goddess -or a fairy had unfortunately conceived for him. "My loss would be too -great should you fly from that fairy," replied Young and Handsome, in -her sweetest manner. "It is no longer necessary for me to disguise my -sentiments from you, as I am convinced of the sincerity of yours. It -is I, Alidor!" continued the charming Fairy--"It is I who have given -you these proofs of an affection which, if you continue faithful to me, -will ensure your happiness and mine for ever!" - -The handsome shepherd, transported with love and joy, flung himself at -her feet, his silence appeared more eloquent to the young Fairy than -the most finished oration. She bade him rise, and he found himself -superbly attired. The Fairy then touching the ground with her crook, -there appeared a magnificent car, drawn by twelve white horses of -surpassing beauty. They were harnessed four abreast. Young and Handsome -stepped into the car, and caused the comely shepherd to take his seat -beside her. Her nymphs found room in it also, and as soon as they had -all taken their places, the beautiful horses, who had no occasion for -a driver to intimate to them the intentions of their mistress, swiftly -conveyed the whole party to a favourite château belonging to the young -Fairy. She had adorned it with everything that her art could furnish -her with in the way of wonders. It was called the Castle of Flowers, -and was the most charming residence in the world. - -The young Fairy and her happy lover arrived with the attendant nymphs -in a spacious court-yard, the walls of which were formed out of thick -hedges of jasmines and lemon-trees. They were only breast-high. Beneath -them ran a lovely river, which encompassed the court-yard; beyond it a -charming grove, and then fields stretching as far as the eye could see, -through which the said river made a thousand windings, as unwilling to -quit so beautiful a home. - -The castle was more to be admired for its architecture than for its -size. It contained twelve apartments, each of which had its peculiar -beauty. They were very spacious; but there was not room enough in them -for the residence of Young and Handsome, and all her Court, which was -the most numerous and magnificent in the universe. The young Fairy used -this castle but as a place of retreat. She was accompanied thither -generally by only her most favourite nymphs and the officers of her -household. - -She led the shepherd into the Myrtle Room. All the furniture was made -of myrtles in continual blossom, interlaced with an art that displayed -the power and good taste of the young Fairy, even in the most simple -things. All the rooms in the castle were furnished in the same manner, -with flowers only. The air breathed in them was always fragrant and -pure. - -Young and Handsome, by her power, had banished for ever from the spot -the rigours of winter, and if the heats of summer were ever permitted -to penetrate these agreeable bowers, it was only to render more -enjoyable the beautiful baths attached to the building, which were -delicious. - -The apartment was of white and blue porphyry, exquisitely sculptured; -the baths being of the most curious and agreeable forms. That in which -Young and Handsome bathed, was made out of a single topaz, and placed -on a platform in an alcove of porcelain. Four columns, composed of -amethysts of the most perfect beauty, supported a canopy of magnificent -yellow and silver brocade, embroidered with pearls. Alidor, absorbed -by the happiness of beholding the charming Fairy, and remarking her -affection for him, scarcely noticed all these marvels. - -A delightful and tender conversation detained these happy lovers for -a long time in the Myrtle Room. A splendid supper was served in the -Jonquil Saloon. An elegant entertainment followed. The nymphs acted to -music the loves of Diana and Endymion. - -Young and Handsome forgot to return to her palace, and passed the -night in the Narcissus Chamber. Alidor, entranced with love, was long -before he tasted the sweets of slumber in the Myrtle Room, to which he -was conducted by the nymphs, on the termination of the entertainment. -Young and Handsome, who forbore to use her power to calm such agreeable -emotions, also laid awake till nearly daybreak. - -Alidor, impatient to behold again the charming Fairy, awaited the happy -moment for some time in the Jonquil Saloon. He had neglected nothing -in his attire which could add a grace to his natural attractions. -Young and Handsome appeared a thousand times more lovely than Venus. -She passed a part of the day with Alidor and the nymphs in the garden -of the castle, the beauties of which surpassed the most marvellous -description. There was an agreeable little _fête champêtre_ in a -delicious grove, wherein Alidor, during a favourable opportunity, had -the sweet pleasure of professing his ardent love to Young and Handsome. - -She desired, that same evening, to return to her palace; but promised -Alidor to come back to him the next day. Never has an absence of a -few hours been honoured by so many regrets. The handsome shepherd -passionately desired to follow the young Fairy, but she commanded him -to remain in the Castle of Flowers. She wished to hide her attachment -from the eyes of all her Court. No one entered this castle without her -order, and she had no fear that her nymphs would disclose her secret. -The secrets of a Fairy are always safe. They are never divulged; the -punishment would follow the offence too swiftly. - -Young and Handsome asked Alidor for the pretty dog which had always -followed him, that she might take it with her. Everything is dear to us -that pleases those we love. - -After the departure of the young Fairy, the shepherd, to indulge in -his anxiety, rather than to dissipate it, plunged deeper into the -woods to muse on his adorable mistress. In a little meadow, enamelled -with flowers, and watered by an agreeable spring, which arose near the -middle of the wood, he perceived his flock gambolling in the grass. It -was watched by six young female slaves, with handsome features, dressed -in blue and gold, with golden chains and collars. His favourite sheep -recognised her master and ran to him. Alidor caressed her, and was -deeply touched by the attentions of Young and Handsome to everything -which concerned him. - -The young slaves showed Alidor their hut. It was not far from the spot, -at the end of a beautiful and very shady alley. This little dwelling -was built of cedar. The initials of Young and Handsome and Alidor -entwined together, appeared in every part of it, formed with the rarest -woods. The following inscription was written in letters of gold upon a -large turquoise:-- - - Let the flock of him I love - In these meads for ever rove. - By that Shepherd loved, the lot - Of the Gods I envy not. - -The handsome shepherd returned to the Castle of Flowers, enchanted by -the kindness of the young Fairy. He declined any entertainment that -evening. When absent from those we love, what care we for amusements! - -Young and Handsome returned the next day, as she had promised, to her -happy lover. What joy was theirs to behold each other again! All the -power of the young Fairy had never procured for her so much felicity. - -She passed nearly all her time at the Castle of Flowers, and rarely now -appeared at Court. In vain did the princes, her suitors, grieve almost -to death at her absence, everything was sacrificed to the fortunate -Alidor. - -But could so sweet a happiness last long untroubled? Another Fairy, -besides Young and Handsome, had seen the beautiful shepherd, and felt -her heart also touched by his charms. - -One evening that Young and Handsome had gone to show herself for -a few moments to her Court, Alidor, engrossed by his passion, sat -deeply musing in the Jonquil Saloon, when his attention was awakened -by a slight noise at one of the windows, and on looking towards it he -perceived a brilliant light, and the next moment he saw on a table, -near which he was seated, a little creature about half a yard high, -very old, with hair whiter than snow, a standing collar, and an -old-fashioned farthingale. "I am the Fairy Mordicante," said she to -the handsome shepherd; "and I come to announce to thee a much greater -happiness than that of being beloved by Young and Handsome." "What can -that be?" inquired Alidor, with a contemptuous air. "The gods have none -more perfect for themselves!" "It is that of pleasing me," replied the -old Fairy, haughtily. "I love thee, and my power is far greater than -that of Young and Handsome, and almost equals that of the Gods. Abandon -that young Fairy for me. I will revenge thee on thine enemies, and on -all whom thou wouldst injure." - -"Thy favours are useless to me," answered the young shepherd, with a -smile; "I have no enemies, and I would injure no one; I am too well -satisfied with my own lot; and if the charming Fairy I adore were but a -simple shepherdess, I could be as happy with her in a cottage as I am -now in the loveliest palace in the world." At these words the wicked -Fairy became suddenly as tall and as large as she had hitherto been -diminutive, and disappeared making a horrible noise. - -The next morning, Young and Handsome returned to the Castle of Flowers. -Alidor related his adventure. They both knew the Fairy Mordicante. -She was very aged, had always been ugly, and exceedingly susceptible. -Young and Handsome and her happy lover made a thousand jokes upon her -passion, and never for a moment felt the least uneasiness as to the -consequences of her fury. - -Can one be a happy lover and think of future misfortunes? - -A week afterwards, Young and Handsome and the lovely shepherd took an -excursion in a fine barge, gilt all over, on the beautiful river which -encircled the Castle of Flowers, followed by all their little Court -in the prettiest boats in the world. The barge of Young and Handsome -was shaded by a canopy formed of a light blue and silver tissue. The -dresses of the rowers were of the same material. Other small boats, -filled with excellent musicians, accompanied the happy lovers, and -performed some agreeable airs. Alidor, more enamoured than ever, could -gaze on nothing but Young and Handsome, whose beauty appeared that day -more charming than can be described. - -In the midst of their enjoyment they saw twelve Syrens rise out of the -water, and a moment afterwards twelve Tritons appeared, and joining the -Syrens, encircled with them the little barque of Young and Handsome. -The Tritons played some extraordinary airs on their shells, and the -Syrens sang some graceful melodies, which for a while entertained the -young Fairy and the beautiful shepherd. Young and Handsome, who was -accustomed to wonders, imagined that it was some pageant which had -been prepared by those whose duty it was to contribute to her pleasure -by inventing new entertainments; but all on a sudden these perfidious -Tritons and Syrens, laying hold of the young Fairy's boat, dragged it -under water. - -The only danger which Alidor feared was that which threatened the -young Fairy. He attempted to swim to her, but the Tritons carried him -off despite his resistance, and Young and Handsome, borne away by the -Syrens in the meanwhile, was transported into her palace. - -One Fairy having no power over another, the jealous Mordicante was -compelled to limit her vengeance to the making Young and Handsome -endure all the misery so cruel a bereavement would necessarily -occasion. In the meanwhile Alidor was conveyed by the Tritons to a -terrible castle guarded by winged dragons. It was there that Mordicante -had determined to make herself beloved by the beautiful shepherd, -or to be revenged on him for his disdain. He was placed in a very -dark chamber. Mordicante, blazing with the most beautiful jewels in -the world, appeared to him, and professed her affection for him. The -shepherd, exasperated at being torn from Young and Handsome, treated -the wicked Fairy with all the contempt she deserved. What could equal -the rage of Mordicante? But her love was still too violent to permit -her to destroy the object of it. After detaining Alidor several days -in this frightful prison, she resolved to endeavour to conquer the -faithful shepherd by new artifices. She transported him suddenly to -a magnificent palace. He was served with a sumptuousness which had -not been exceeded in the Castle of Flowers. Endeavours were made to -dissipate his grief by a thousand agreeable entertainments, and the -most beautiful nymphs in the universe, who composed his Court, appeared -to dispute with each other the honour of pleasing him. Not a word more -was said to him respecting the passion of the wicked Fairy; but the -faithful shepherd languished in the midst of luxury, and was in no less -despair at his separation from Young and Handsome, when witnessing the -gayest entertainments, than he had been whilst immured in his dreadful -prison. - -Mordicante trusted, however, that the absence of Young and Handsome, -the continual round of pleasures provided for Alidor's amusement, and -the presence of so many charming women, would at length overcome the -fidelity of the shepherd; and her object in surrounding him with so -many beautiful nymphs, was but to take herself the figure of the one -which might most attract his attention. With this view, she mingled -amongst them in disguise, sometimes appearing as the most charming -brunette, and at others as the fairest beauty in the universe. - -Love, who is all-powerful in human hearts, had subdued for a time her -natural cruelty; but desperation at being unable to shake the constancy -of Alidor re-awakened her fury so powerfully, that she determined to -destroy the charming shepherd, and make him the victim of the faithful -love he cherished for Young and Handsome. One day, without being -seen, she was watching him in a beautiful gallery, the windows of -which opened upon the sea; Alidor, leaning over a balustrade, mused in -silence for a considerable time. But, at length, after a heavy sigh, he -uttered such tender and touching lamentations, depicting so vividly his -passion for the young Fairy, that Mordicante, transported with fury, -appeared to him in her natural shape; and, after having loaded him with -reproaches, caused him to be carried back to his prison, and announced -to him that in three days he should be sacrificed to her hatred, and -that the most cruel tortures should avenge her slighted affection. - -Alidor regretted not the loss of a life which had become insupportable -to him, deprived of Young and Handsome; and satisfied that he had -nothing to fear on her account from the wrath of Mordicante, the power -of the young Fairy being equal to hers, he calmly awaited the death he -had been doomed to. - -In the meanwhile, Young and Handsome, as faithful as her shepherd, -mourned over his loss. The Syrens who had wafted her back to her palace -had disappeared as soon as their task was accomplished, and the young -Fairy was convinced that it was the cruel Mordicante who had bereft her -of Alidor. The excess of her grief proclaimed at the same time to all -her Court, her love for the young shepherd, and her loss of him. - -How many monarchs were envious of the misery even into which the wicked -Fairy had precipitated Alidor? What vexation for these enamoured -princes to learn that they had a beloved rival, and to behold Young and -Handsome occupied only in weeping for this fortunate mortal! His loss, -however, revived their hopes. They had discovered at last that Young -and Handsome could feel as well as inspire affection. They redoubled -their attentions. Each flattered himself with the sweet hope to occupy -some day the place of that fortunate lover; but Young and Handsome, -inconsolable for the absence of Alidor, and worried by the advances of -his rivals, abandoned her Court, and retired to the Castle of Flowers. -The sight of those charming scenes, where everything recalled to her -heart the recollection of the lovely shepherd, increased her melancholy -and her affection. - -One day, as she was walking in her beautiful gardens, and gazing on -the various objects with which they were adorned, she exclaimed aloud, -"Alas! ye were formerly my delight; but I am now too much absorbed -by my sorrow to take any further interest in your embellishment." -As she ceased speaking, she heard the murmur of a gentle breeze -that, agitating the flowers of this beautiful garden, arranged them -instantaneously in various forms. First, they represented the initials -of Young and Handsome; then those of another name, which she was not -acquainted with; and a moment afterwards, they formed distinctly entire -words, and Young and Handsome, astonished at this novelty, read these -verses, written in so singular a fashion:-- - - Bid fond Zephyr tend thy bowers, - At his breath awake the flowers. - Thus for Flora, every morn, - Doth he mead and grove adorn. - How much more his pride 'twould be, - Fairer Nymph, to sigh for thee! - -Young and Handsome was pondering on these verses, when she saw the -Deity named in them appear in the air, and hasten to declare his -passion to her. He was in a little car of roses, drawn by a hundred -white canary birds, harnessed ten and ten, with strings of pearl. The -car approached the earth, and Zephyr descended from it close to the -young Fairy. He addressed her with all the eloquence of a very charming -and very gallant Divinity; but the young Fairy, in lieu of feeling -flattered by so brilliant a conquest, replied to him like a faithful -lover. Zephyr was not disheartened by the coldness of Young and -Handsome. He hoped to soften her by his attentions. He paid his court -to her most assiduously, and neglected nothing that he thought could -please her. - -The glory of Alidor was now complete. He had a God for his rival, and -was preferred to him by Young and Handsome. - -Nevertheless, this fortunate mortal was on the point of being destroyed -by the fury of Mordicante. A year had nearly elapsed since the young -Fairy and the beautiful shepherd had been torn from each other, when -Zephyr, who had given up all hopes of shaking the constancy of Young -and Handsome, and was moved by the tears which he saw her unceasingly -shed for the loss of Alidor, exclaimed one day, on finding her more -depressed than usual, "Since it is no longer possible for me to -flatter myself, charming Fairy, that I shall ever have the good fortune -to gain your affections, I am desirous of contributing at least to your -felicity. What can I do to make you happy?" - - [Illustration: Young and Handsome.--P. 128.] - -"To make me happy," replied Young and Handsome, with a look so full of -tenderness that it was enough to revive all the love of Zephyr, "you -must restore to me my Alidor. I am powerless against another Fairy, -but you, Zephyr, you are a God, and can destroy all the spells of my -cruel rival!" "I will endeavour," rejoined Zephyr, "to subdue the -tender sentiments you have inspired me with sufficiently to enable me -to render you an agreeable service." So saying, he flew away, leaving -Young and Handsome to indulge in a sweet hope. Zephyr did not deceive -her. He was not in the habit of loving for any length of time, without -the certainty of eventual success; and it was evident to him that the -young Fairy was too constant for him to hope that he could ever make -her forget Alidor; he therefore flew to the horrible prison where the -beautiful shepherd awaited nothing less than death. An impetuous wind, -swelled by six northern breezes, that had accompanied Zephyr, blew open -in an instant the gates of the dungeon, and the beautiful shepherd, -enveloped in a very brilliant cloud, was wafted to the Castle of -Flowers. - -Zephyr, after he had seen Alidor, was less surprised at the constancy -of Young and Handsome; but he did not make himself visible to the -shepherd until he had restored him to the charming Fairy. - -Who could describe the perfect joy of Alidor and Young and Handsome at -seeing each other once more? How lovely each appeared, and how fondly -was each beloved! What thanks did not these fortunate lovers render -to the Deity who had secured their happiness. He left them shortly -afterwards to return to Flora. - -Young and Handsome was anxious that all her Court should share in her -felicity. They celebrated it by a thousand festivities throughout her -empire, despite the vexation of the princes, her less fortunate lovers, -who were the spectators of the triumphs of the beautiful shepherd. - -In order to have nothing more to fear for Alidor from the wrath of -Mordicante, Young and Handsome taught him the Fairy Art, and presented -him with the gift of continual youth. Having thus provided for his -happiness, she next considered his glory. She gave him the Castle of -Flowers, and caused him to be acknowledged king of that beautiful -country, over which his ancestors had formerly reigned. Alidor became -the greatest monarch in the universe, on the same spot where he had -been the most charming shepherd. He loaded all his old friends with -favours; and, retaining for ever his charms, as well as Young and -Handsome, we are assured that they loved each other eternally, and that -Hymen would not disturb a passion which formed the happiness of their -existence. - - - - -THE PALACE OF REVENGE. - - -Once on a time there was a King and Queen of Iceland, who, after twenty -years of married life, had a daughter. Her birth gave them the greatest -pleasure, as they had so long despaired of having children to succeed -to their throne. The young Princess was named Imis; her dawning charms -promised from her infancy all the wonderful beauty which shone with so -much brilliancy when she arrived at a maturer age. - -No one in the universe would have been worthy of her had not Cupid, -who thought it a point of honour to subject to his empire, some day, -so marvellous a person, taken care to cause a Prince to be born in the -same Court equally charming with that lovely Princess. He was called -Philax, and was the son of a brother of the King of Iceland. He was two -years older than the Princess, and they were brought up together with -all the freedom natural to childhood and near relationship. The first -sensations of their hearts were mutual admiration and affection. They -could see nothing so beautiful as themselves, consequently they found -no attraction in the world that could interfere with the passion each -felt for the other, even without yet knowing its name. - -The King and Queen saw this dawning affection with pleasure. They loved -young Philax. He was a Prince of their blood, and no child had ever -awakened fairer hopes. Everything seemed to favour the designs of Cupid -to render Prince Philax some day the happiest of men. The Princess was -about twelve years old when the Queen, who was exceedingly fond of -her, desired to have her daughter's fortune told by a Fairy, whose -extraordinary science was at that time making a great sensation. - -She set out in search of her, taking with her Imis, who, in her -distress at parting with Philax, wondered a thousand and a thousand -times how anybody could trouble themselves about the future when the -present was so agreeable. Philax remained with the King, and all the -pleasures of the Court could not console him for the absence of the -Princess. - -The Queen arrived at the Fairy's castle. She was magnificently -received; but the Fairy was not at home. Her usual residence was on the -summit of a mountain at some distance from the castle, where she lived -all alone and absorbed in that profound study which had rendered her -famous throughout the world. - -As soon as she heard of the Queen's arrival, she returned to the -castle. The Queen presented the Princess to her, told her her name -and the hour of her birth, which the Fairy knew as well as she did, -though she had not been present at it. The Fairy of the Mountain knew -everything. She promised the Queen an answer in two days, and then -returned to the summit of the mountain. On the morning of the third day -she came back to the castle, bade the Queen descend into the garden, -and gave her some tablets of palm leaves closely shut, which she was -ordered not to open except in the presence of the King. - -The Queen, to satisfy her curiosity in some degree, asked her several -questions respecting the fate of her daughter. "Great Queen," replied -the Fairy of the Mountain, "I cannot precisely tell you what sort of -misfortune threatens the Princess. I perceive only that love will -have a large share in the events of her life, and that no beauty -ever inspired such violent passions as that of Imis will do." It was -not necessary to be a fairy to foresee that the Princess would have -admirers. Her eyes already seemed to demand from all hearts the love -which the Fairy assured the Queen would be entertained for her. In -the meanwhile Imis, much less uneasy about her future destiny than at -being separated from Philax, amused herself by gathering flowers; but -thinking only of his love, and in her impatience to depart, she forgot -the bouquet she had begun to compose, and unconsciously flung away the -flowers she had amassed at first with delight. She hastened to rejoin -the Queen, who was taking her leave of the Fairy of the Mountain. -The Fairy embraced Imis, and gazing on her with the admiration she -deserved--"Since it is impossible for me," she exclaimed, after a -short silence, which had something mysterious in it--"since it is -impossible for me, beautiful Princess, to alter in your favour the -decrees of destiny, I will at least endeavour to enable you to escape -the misfortunes it prepares for you." So saying, she gathered with her -own hands a bunch of lilies of the valley, and addressing the youthful -Imis--"Wear always these flowers which I give to you," said she; "they -will never fade, and as long as you have them about your person, they -will protect you from all the ills with which you are threatened by -Fate." She then fastened the bouquet on the head-dress of Imis, and the -flowers, obedient to the wishes of the Fairy, were no sooner placed in -the hair of the Princess, than they adjusted themselves, and formed -a sort of aigrette, the whiteness of which seemed only to prove that -nothing could eclipse that of the complexion of the fair Imis. - -The Queen took her departure, after having thanked the Fairy a thousand -times, and went back to Iceland, where all the Court impatiently -awaited the return of the Princess. Never did delight sparkle with more -brilliancy and beauty than in the eyes of Imis and of her lover. The -mystery involved in the plume of lilies of the valley was revealed to -the King alone. It had so agreeable an effect in the beautiful brown -hair of the Princess, that everybody took it simply for an ornament -which she had herself culled in the gardens of the Fairy. - -The Princess said much more to Philax about the grief she felt at her -separation from him than about the misfortunes which the Fates had -in store for her. Philax was, nevertheless, alarmed at them; but the -happiness of being together was present, the evils, as yet, uncertain. -They forgot them, and abandoned themselves to the delight of seeing -each other again. - -In the meanwhile, the Queen recounted to the King the events of her -journey, and gave him the Fairy's tablets. The King opened and found in -them the following words, written in letters of gold:-- - - Fate for Imis hides despair - Under hopes that seem most fair; - She will miserable be, - Through too much felicity. - -The King and Queen were much distressed at this oracle, and vainly -sought its explanation. They said nothing about it to the Princess, -in order to spare her an unnecessary sorrow. One day that Philax was -gone hunting, a pleasure he indulged in frequently, Imis was walking -by herself in a labyrinth of myrtles. She was very melancholy because -Philax was so long absent, and reproached herself for giving way -to an impatience which he did not partake. She was absorbed in her -thoughts, when she heard a voice, which said to her, "Why do you -distress yourself, beautiful Princess? If Philax is not sensible of -the happiness of being beloved by you, I come to offer you a heart a -thousand times more grateful--a heart deeply smitten by your charms, -and a fortune sufficiently brilliant to be desired by any one except -yourself, to whom the whole world is subject." The Princess was much -surprised at hearing this voice. She had imagined herself alone in -the labyrinth, and, as she had not uttered a word, she was still more -astonished that this voice had replied to her thoughts. She looked -about her, and saw a little man appear in the air, seated upon a -cockchafer. "Fear not, fair Imis," said he to her; "you have no lover -more submissive than I am; and although this is the first time that -I have appeared to you, I have long loved you, and daily gazed upon -you." "You astonish me!" replied the Princess. "What! You have daily -beheld me, and you know my thoughts? If so, you must be aware that it -is useless to love me. Philax, to whom I have given my heart, is too -charming ever to cease being its master, and although I am displeased -with him, I never loved him so much as I do at this moment. But tell me -who you are, and where you first saw me." "I am Pagan the Enchanter," -replied he, "and have power over everybody but you. I saw you first -in the gardens of the Fairy of the Mountain. I was hidden in one of -the tulips you gathered. I took for a happy omen the chance which had -induced you to choose the flower I was concealed in. I flattered myself -that you would carry me away with you; but you were too much occupied -with the pleasure of thinking of Philax. You threw away the flowers -as soon as you had gathered them, and left me in the garden the most -enamoured of beings. From that moment I have felt that nothing could -make me happy but the hope of being loved by you. Think favourably of -me, fair Imis, if it be possible, and permit me occasionally to remind -you of my affection." With these words he disappeared, and the Princess -returned to the palace, where the sight of Philax dissipated the alarm -she had felt at this adventure. She was so eager to hear him excuse -himself for the length of time he had been hunting, that she had nearly -forgotten to inform him of what had occurred to her; but at last she -told him what she had seen in the labyrinth of myrtles. - -The young Prince, notwithstanding his courage, was alarmed at the -idea of a winged rival, with whom he could not dispute the hand of -the Princess upon equal terms. But the plume of lilies of the valley -guaranteed him against the effect of enchantments, and the affection -Imis entertained for him would not permit him to fear any change in her -heart. - -The day after the adventure in the labyrinth, the Princess, on awaking, -saw fly into her chamber twelve tiny nymphs, seated on honey-bees, and -bearing in their hands little golden baskets. They approached the bed -of Imis, saluted her, and then went and placed their baskets on a table -of white marble, which appeared in the centre of the apartment. As soon -as the baskets were set upon it, they enlarged to an ordinary size. -The nymphs having quitted them, again saluted Imis, and one of them, -approaching the bed nearer than the rest, let something fall upon it, -and then they all flew away. - -The Princess, despite the astonishment which so strange a sight -occasioned, took up what the nymph had dropped beside her. It was an -emerald of marvellous beauty. It opened the moment the Princess touched -it, and she found it contained a rose leaf, on which she read these -verses. - - Let the world learn, to its surprise, - The wondrous power of thine eyes. - Such is the love I bear to thee, - It makes e'en torture dear to me. - -The Princess could not recover from her astonishment. At length she -called to her attendants, who were as much surprised as Imis at the -sight of the table and the baskets. The King, the Queen, and Philax -hastened to the spot on the news of this extraordinary event. The -Princess, in her relation of it, suppressed nothing except the letter -of her lover. She considered she was not bound to reveal that to any -one but Philax. The baskets were carefully examined, and were found to -be filled with jewels of extraordinary beauty, and of so great a value -as to double the astonishment of the spectators. - -The Princess would not touch one of them, and having found an instant -when nobody was listening, she drew near to Philax and gave him the -emerald and the rose leaf. He read his rival's letter with much -disquietude. Imis, to console him, tore the rose leaf to pieces before -his face; but ah! how dearly did they pay for that act! - -Some days elapsed without the Princess hearing anything of Pagan. She -fancied that her contempt for him would extinguish his passion, and -Philax flattered himself by indulging in a like belief. That Prince -returned to the chase as usual. He halted alone by the side of a -fountain, to refresh himself. He had about him the emerald which the -Princess had given him, and recollecting with pleasure the little value -she set on it, he drew it from his pocket to look at it. But scarcely -had he held it a moment in his hand when it slipped through his -fingers, and, as soon as it touched the ground, changed into a chariot. -Two winged monsters issued from the fountain and harnessed themselves -to it. Philax gazed on them without alarm, for he was incapable of -fear, but he could not avoid feeling some emotion when he found himself -transported into the chariot by an irresistible power, and at the same -moment raised into the air, through which the winged monsters caused -the chariot to fly with a prodigious rapidity. In the meanwhile night -came, and the huntsmen, after searching throughout the wood in vain for -Philax, repaired to the Palace, whither they imagined he might have -returned alone; but he was not to be found there, nor had any one seen -him since he had set out with them for the chase. - -The King commanded them to go back and renew their search for the -Prince. All the Court shared in his Majesty's anxiety. They returned to -the wood, they ran in every direction around it, and did not retrace -their steps to the Palace before daybreak, but without having obtained -the least intelligence of the Prince. Imis had passed the night in -despair at her lover's absence, of which she could not comprehend -the cause. She had ascended a terrace of the Palace to watch for the -return of the party that had gone in search of Philax, and flattered -herself she should see him arrive in their company; but no words can -express the excess of her affliction when no Philax appeared, and she -was informed that it had been impossible to ascertain what had become -of him. She fainted; they carried her into the Palace, and one of her -women, in her haste to undress and put her to bed, took out of the hair -of the Princess the plume of lilies of the valley which preserved her -from the power of enchantments. The instant it was removed a dark cloud -filled the apartment, and Imis disappeared. The King and Queen were -distracted at this loss, and nothing could ever console them. - -The Princess, on recovering from her swoon, found herself in a chamber -of various-coloured coral, floored with mother-of-pearl, and surrounded -by nymphs, who waited upon her with the most profound respect. They -were very beautiful, and magnificently and tastefully attired. Imis -first asked them where she was. "You are in a place where you are -adored," said one of the nymphs to her. "Fear nothing, fair Princess, -you will find in it everything you can desire." "Philax is here, -then!" exclaimed the Princess, her eyes sparkling with joy. "I desire -only the happiness of seeing him again." "You cherish too long the -recollection of an ungrateful lover," said Pagan, at the same moment -rendering himself visible to the Princess, "and as that Prince has -deserted you, he is no more worthy your affection. Let resentment and -respect for your own pride combine with the passion I entertain for -you. Reign for ever in these regions, lovely Princess; you will find in -them immense treasures, and all imaginable delights will attend your -steps." Imis replied to Pagan's address with tears alone. He left her, -fearing to embitter her grief. The nymphs remained with her, and used -all their endeavours to console her. A magnificent repast was served up -to her. She refused to eat; but at length, on the following morning, -her desire to behold Philax once more made her resolve to live. She -took some food, and the nymphs, to dissipate her sorrow, conducted -her through various portions of the Palace. It was built entirely of -shining shells, mixed with precious stones of different colours, which -produced the finest effect in the world; all the furniture was of gold, -and of such wonderful workmanship that you might easily see it could -only have come from the hands of Fairies. - -After they had shown Imis the Palace, the nymphs led her into the -gardens, which were of a beauty not to be described. She found in them -a very brilliant car, drawn by six stags, who were driven by a dwarf. -She was requested to enter the car. Imis complied; the nymphs seated -themselves at her feet. They were driven to the seaside, where a nymph -informed the Princess that Pagan, who reigned in this island, had -made it by the power of his art the most beautiful in the universe. -The sound of instruments interrupted the narration of the nymph. -The sea appeared to be entirely covered with little boats, built of -flame-coloured coral, and filled with everything that could be required -to compose a brilliant aquatic entertainment. In the midst of the small -craft, there was a barque of much larger size, on which the initials of -Imis were seen in every part, formed with pearls. It was drawn by two -dolphins. It approached the shore. The Princess entered it, accompanied -by her nymphs. As soon as she was on board, a superb collation appeared -before her, and her ears were regaled at the same time by exquisite -music which proceeded from the boats around her. Songs were sung, of -which her praise alone was the theme. But Imis paid no attention to -anything. She remounted her car, and returned to the Palace overwhelmed -with sadness. In the evening Pagan again presented himself. He found -her more insensible to his love than ever; but he was not discouraged, -and trusted to the effect of his constancy. He had yet to learn that in -love the most faithful are not always the most happy. - -Every day he offered the Princess entertainments worthy of exciting the -admiration of all the world, but which were lost upon her for whom they -were invented. Imis thought of nothing but the absence of her lover. - -That unhappy Prince had been transported in the meanwhile, by the -winged monsters, into a forest which belonged to Pagan. It was called -the Dismal Forest. As soon as Philax had arrived in it, the emerald -chariot and the monsters disappeared. The Prince, surprised by this -adventure, summoned up all his courage to his assistance, and it was -the only aid on which he could reckon in that place. He first explored -several of the roads through the forest. They were dreadful, and the -sun never penetrated their gloom. No human being was to be found in -them; not an animal even of any description; it seemed as though the -beasts themselves had a horror of this dreary dwelling. - -Philax lived upon the wild fruit he found in it. He passed his days -in the deepest sorrow. The loss of the Princess distracted him, and -sometimes, with his sword, which he had retained, he occupied himself -with carving the name of Imis on the trunks of the trees, which were -not adapted for so tender a practice; but when we are truly in love we -frequently make things serviceable to our passion which appear to be -least favourable for the purpose. - -The Prince continued daily to travel through the forest, and he had -been nearly a year on his journey, when one night he heard some -plaintive voices, but could not distinguish any words. Alarming as -these wailing sounds were at such an hour and in a place where the -Prince had never yet met with mortal soul, the desire to be no longer -alone, and to find at least some one as wretched as himself with whom -he could weep over the misfortunes that had befallen them, made him -wait with impatience for morning, when he might seek out the persons -whose voices he had heard. He walked towards that part of the forest -whence he fancied the sounds had proceeded, but hunted all day in vain; -at length, however, towards evening, he discovered, in a spot which -was clear of trees, the ruins of a castle which appeared to have been -of great size and magnificence. He entered a court-yard, the walls -of which were of green marble, and seemed still tolerably perfect. -He found in it nothing but trees of prodigious height, standing -irregularly in various parts of the enclosure. He advanced towards a -spot where he perceived something elevated upon a pedestal of black -marble. It proved to be a confused pile of armour and weapons, heaped -one upon the other: helmets, shields, and swords of an ancient form, -which composed a sort of ill-arranged trophy. He looked for some -inscription which might inform him to whom these arms had formerly -appertained. He found one engraved on the pedestal. Time had nearly -effaced the characters, and it was with much difficulty that he -deciphered these words:-- - - TO THE IMMORTAL RECOLLECTION OF THE GLORY OF THE FAIRY CEORA. - - IT WAS HERE - THAT ON THE SAME DAY - SHE TRIUMPHED OVER CUPID - AND PUNISHED HER FAITHLESS LOVERS. - -This inscription did not afford Philax all the information he desired; -he therefore would have continued his search through the forest if -night had not overtaken him. He seated himself at the foot of a -cypress, and scarcely had been there a moment, before he heard the same -voices which had attracted his attention the previous evening. He was -not so much surprised at this as at perceiving that it was the trees -themselves which uttered these complaints, just as if they had been -human beings. The Prince arose, drew his sword, and struck with it the -cypress which was nearest to him. He was about to repeat the blow, when -the tree exclaimed, "Hold! hold! Assault not an unhappy Prince who is -no longer in a state to defend himself!" Philax stayed his hand, and -becoming accustomed to this supernatural circumstance, inquired of the -cypress by what miracle it was thus a man and a tree at the same time. -"I am willing to inform you," replied the cypress; "and as, during two -thousand years, this is the first opportunity Fate has afforded me of -relating my misfortunes, I will not lose it. All the trees you behold -in this court-yard were princes, renowned in their time for the rank -they held in the world, and for their valour. The Fairy Ceora reigned -in this country. She was beautiful, but her science rendered her more -famous than her beauty. She therefore made use of other charms to -subject us to her sway. She had become enamoured of the young Oriza, a -prince, whose admirable qualities rendered him worthy of a better fate. -I should premise to you," added the cypress, "it is the oak which you -see beside me." Philax looked at the oak, and heard it breathe a heavy -sigh, drawn from it, no doubt, by the recollection of its misfortune. -"To attract this prince to her Court," continued the cypress, "the -Fairy caused a tournament to be proclaimed. We all hastened to seize -this opportunity of acquiring glory. Oriza was one of the princes who -disputed the prize. It consisted of fairy armour which would render -the wearer invulnerable. Unfortunately, I was the conqueror. Ceora, -irritated that Fate had not favoured her inclinations, resolved to -avenge herself upon us. She enchanted the looking-glasses, with -which a gallery of her castle was entirely lined. Those who saw her -reflected but once in these fatal mirrors, could not resist feeling -for her the most violent passion. It was in this gallery she received -us the day after the tournament. We all saw her in these mirrors, -and she appeared to us so beautiful, that those amongst us who had -hitherto been indifferent to love, ceased to be so from that instant; -and those who were in love with others became as suddenly faithless. -We no longer thought of leaving the Fairy's palace: our only anxiety -was to please her. In vain did state affairs demand our presence in -our own dominions; nothing seemed of consequence to us save the hope -of being beloved by Ceora. Oriza was the only one she favoured, and -the passion of the other princes but gave the Fairy opportunities of -sacrificing them to this lover who was so dear to her, and caused the -fame of her beauty to be spread throughout the world. Love appeared for -some time to have softened the cruel nature of Ceora; but at the end -of four or five years she displayed her former ferocity. She revenged -herself on the kings, her neighbours, for the smallest slight by the -most horrible murders, and abusing the power which her enchantments -gave her over us, she made us the ministers of her cruelties. Oriza -strove in vain to prevent her injustice. She loved him; but she would -not obey him. Having returned one day from fighting and subduing a -giant whom I had challenged by her orders, I caused the arms of the -vanquished to be brought into her presence. She was alone in the -Gallery of Looking-glasses. I laid the giant's spoils at her feet, and -pleaded my passion to her with inconceivable ardour, augmented, no -doubt, by the power of the enchantment by which I was surrounded. But -far from evincing the least gratitude for the success of my combat, -or for the love I felt for her, Ceora treated me with the utmost -contempt; and, retiring into a boudoir, left me alone in the gallery, -in an indescribable state of despair and rage. I remained there some -time, not knowing what resolution to take; for the enchantments of -the Fairy did not permit us to fight with Oriza. Careful of the life -of her lover, the cruel Ceora excited our jealousy, but took from -us the natural desire to revenge ourselves on a fortunate rival. At -length, after having paced the gallery for some time, I remembered that -it was in this place I had first fallen in love with the Fairy, and -exclaimed, 'It is here that I first felt that fatal passion which now -fills me with despair; and you, wretched mirrors, who have so often -represented the unjust Ceora to me, with a beauty which has enslaved my -heart and reason, I will punish you for the crime of offering her to -my view with too great attraction.' At these words, snatching up the -giant's club, which I had brought to present to the Fairy, I dashed the -mirrors to pieces. No sooner were they broken than I felt even greater -hatred for Ceora than I had formerly felt love for her. The princes, -my rivals, felt at the same moment their charms broken, and Oriza -himself was ashamed of the love which the Fairy had for him. Ceora in -vain attempted to retain her lover by her tears; he was insensible -to her grief, and in spite of her cries, we set out all together, -determined to fly from the terrible place, but in passing through the -court-yard, the sky appeared to be on fire; a frightful clap of thunder -was heard, and we found it was impossible for us to move. The Fairy -appeared in the air, riding on a great serpent, and addressing us in -a tone of voice which betrayed her rage,--'Inconstant princes,' said -she, 'I am about to punish you, by a torture which will never end, for -the crime you have committed in breaking my chains, which were too -great an honour for you to bear; and as for you, ungrateful Oriza, I -triumph after all in the love you have felt for me. Content with this -victory, I shall visit you with the same misfortune as your rivals; and -I command,' added she, 'in memory of this adventure, that when the use -of mirrors shall be known to all the world, the breaking of these fatal -glasses shall always be a certain sign of the infidelity of a lover.' -The Fairy disappeared in the air after having pronounced these words. -We were changed into trees; but the cruel Ceora, no doubt with the idea -of increasing our suffering, left us our reason. Time has destroyed the -superb castle, which was the victim of our misfortune; and you are the -only visitor we have seen during the two thousand years that we have -been in this frightful forest." - -Philax was about to reply to this speech of the cypress tree, when he -was suddenly transported into a beautiful garden; he there found a -lovely nymph, who approached him with a gracious air, saying, "If you -wish it, Philax, I will allow you in three days to see the Princess -Imis." - -The Prince, transported with joy at so unexpected a proposition, threw -himself at her feet to express his gratitude. At that same moment -Pagan was in the air, concealed in a cloud with the Princess Imis: he -had told her a thousand times that Philax was unfaithful, but she had -always refused, on the word of a jealous lover, to believe it. He now -conducted her to this spot, he said, to convince her of the fickleness -of the Prince she so unjustly preferred to him. The Princess saw Philax -throw himself, with an air of extreme delight, at the feet of the -nymph; and was in despair that she could no longer deceive herself on -a point which she feared to believe more than anything in the world. -Pagan had placed her at a distance from the earth, which prevented her -hearing what Philax and the nymph said; and it was by his orders that -the latter had presented herself to him. - -Pagan led Imis back to his island, where after having convinced her of -the infidelity of Philax, he found he had only redoubled the grief of -that beautiful Princess without rendering her at all more favourable to -himself. - -In despair at finding this pretended infidelity, from which he had -expected so much success, was useless to him, he resolved to be -revenged on the constancy of the lovers: he was not cruel, like the -Fairy Ceora, his ancestress, so he bethought him of a different -punishment to that with which she had visited her unfortunate lovers. -He did not wish to destroy either the Princess, whom he had so tenderly -loved, nor even Philax, whom he had already made suffer so much; so, -confining his revenge to the destruction of a passion which had so -opposed his own, he erected in his island a Crystal Palace, and took -care to put into it everything that would render life agreeable but the -means of leaving it; he shut up in it nymphs and dwarfs to wait on Imis -and her lover; and, when everything was prepared for their reception, -he transported them both there. They at first thought themselves on -the summit of happiness, and blessed Pagan a thousand times for the -mildness of his anger. As for Pagan, although at first he could not -bear to see them together, he expected that this spectacle would one -day be less painful to him. But in the meanwhile, he departed from the -Crystal Palace, after having, with a stroke of his wand, engraved on it -this inscription:-- - - Absence, danger, pleasure, pain, - Were all employ'd, and all in vain, - Imis' and Philax' hearts to sever. - Pagan, whose power they dared defy, - Condemned them, for their constancy, - To dwell together here for ever! - -They say that at the end of some years, Pagan was as much avenged as -he desired to be; and that the beautiful Imis and Philax fulfilled -the prediction of the Fairy of the Mountain, by wishing as fervently -to recover the aigrette of lilies in order to destroy the agreeable -enchantment, as they had formerly desired to preserve it as a safeguard -against the evils which had been foretold would befal them. - - Until that moment a fond pair, so blest, - Had cherished in their hearts Love's constant fire: - But Pagan taught them by that fatal test, - That e'en of bliss the human heart could tire. - - - - -THE PRINCE OF LEAVES. - - -In one of those parts of the world, commonly called Fairyland, on which -poets alone have the right to bestow names, there formerly reigned a -King so renowned for his rare qualities, that he attracted the esteem -and admiration of all the Princes of his time. He had, many years -past, lost his wife, the Queen, who had never brought him a son; but -he had ceased to desire one since the birth of a daughter of such -marvellous beauty, that from the moment she was born he lavished all -his affection and tenderness upon her. She was named Ravissante, by a -Fairy, a near relative of the Queen, who predicted that the wit and the -charms of the young Princess would surpass all that had ever before -been known or even could be expected from her present beauty; but she -added to this agreeable prediction, that the perfect felicity of the -Princess would depend entirely on her heart remaining faithful to its -first love. In such a case, who can feel assured of a happy destiny? -The King, who desired nothing so much as the happiness of Ravissante, -heartily wished that it had been attached to any other condition,--but -we cannot command our own fates. He begged the Fairy, a thousand times, -to bestow on the young Ravissante the gift of constancy, as he had -seen her give to others the gifts of intelligence and of beauty. But -the Fairy, who was sufficiently wise not to deceive him respecting the -extent of her power, frankly informed the King that it did not extend -to the qualities of the heart. She, however, promised to use her utmost -endeavour to impress the young Princess with the sentiments that would -be likely to ensure her happiness. Upon the faith of this promise, the -King confided Ravissante to her care from the time she attained her -fifth year, preferring to deprive himself of the pleasure of seeing her -rather than run any risk of marring her fortune. The Fairy therefore -carried off the little Princess, who was very soon consoled for leaving -the Court of her father, by the delight and novelty of passing through -the air in a brilliant little car. - -On the fourth day after her departure the flying car stopped in the -middle of the sea, upon a rock of a prodigious size--it was one entire -shining stone, the colour of which was exactly that of the sky. The -Fairy remarked with pleasure that the young Ravissante was enchanted -with this colour, and she drew from it a happy omen for the future, -as it was the colour which signifies fidelity. Shortly after they had -landed on it, the Fairy touched the rock with a golden wand which she -held in her hand. The rock immediately opened, and Ravissante found -herself with the Fairy, in the most beautiful palace in the world; -the walls were of the same material as the rock, and the same colour -prevailed in all the paintings and furniture, but it was so ingeniously -mixed with gold and precious stones, that far from wearying the -eye, it equally pleased in all. The young Ravissante dwelt in this -agreeable palace, with several beautiful maidens, whom the Fairy had -transported from various countries to attend on and amuse the Princess, -and she passed her infancy in the enjoyment of every pleasure suited -to her age. When she had attained her fourteenth year the Fairy again -consulted the stars, in order to learn precisely when the heart of -Ravissante would be touched with a passion which pleases even more -than it alarms, however formidable it may appear to some; and she read -distinctly in the stars that the fatal time approached when the destiny -of the young Princess would be fulfilled. The Fairy had a nephew who -was indescribably dear to her: he was of the same age as Ravissante, -born on the same day and at the same hour. She had found, in consulting -the stars also for him, that they promised him the same fate as the -Princess--that is to say, perfect happiness, provided he possessed -fidelity which nothing could vanquish. In order to make him both loving -and faithful she had only to let him behold Ravissante. No one could -resist her eyes, and the Fairy hoped that the attentions of the young -Prince would one day touch her heart. He was the son of a King, brother -of the Fairy; he was amiable; and the young Princess not only had never -had a lover, she had not even seen a man since she had lived on the -rock. The Fairy consequently flattered herself that the novelty of the -pleasure of being tenderly beloved would perhaps inspire the Princess -with a feeling of love in return. She therefore transported the Prince, -who was named Ariston, to the same rock which served both as palace -and prison for the beautiful Ravissante. He there found her amusing -herself with the young maidens of her Court, by weaving garlands of -flowers in a forest of blue hyacinths, where they were then walking, -for the Fairy, in bestowing on the rock the power of producing plants -and trees, had limited the colour of them to that of the rock itself. -She had already, some time since, apprised the Princess that Prince -Ariston would soon visit the island, and she had added, in speaking -of the Prince, everything that she thought likely to prejudice her in -his favour; but she deceived herself this time; and on the arrival of -Ariston, she observed nothing of that emotion or surprise which is the -usual presage of a tender passion. As for the Prince, his sentiments -were in perfect accordance with the wishes of the Fairy: he became -passionately in love from the moment he first set eyes on Ravissante; -and it was not possible to see her without adoring her, for never were -grace and beauty so perfectly united as in the person of this amiable -princess. She had the most exquisite complexion, and her dark brown -hair added to its dazzling whiteness; her mouth had infinite charms, -her teeth were more purely white than pearls; her eyes, the most -beautiful in the world, were deep blue, and they were so brilliant, and -at the same time so touching in their expression, that it was hardly -possible to sustain their glances without yielding the heart at once -to the fatal power which love had bestowed on them. She was not very -tall, but perfectly beautiful, and all her movements were peculiarly -graceful. Everything she did and said pleased invariably, and often a -smile or a single word sufficed to prove that the charms of her mind -equalled those of her person. - -Such, and a thousand times more amiable than I can paint her, it had -indeed been difficult for Ariston not to have become distractedly in -love; but the Princess received his attentions with indifference, and -did not appear in the least touched by them. The Fairy remarked it, and -felt a grief which was only surpassed by that of the Prince. She had -remarked in the stars that he who was destined to possess Ravissante -would extend his power not only over the earth, but even over the sea. -Therefore her ambition made her wish that her nephew should touch the -heart of the Princess as much as he desired the same effect from his -love. She thought, however, that if the Prince were as learned as she -was in the magic art, he might perhaps find some mode of rendering -himself more attractive in the eyes of Ravissante; but the Fairy, who -had never loved, was ignorant that the art of pleasing is not always -to be discovered, although sought for with the utmost ardour and -eagerness. She taught the Prince, therefore, in a short time, all those -sciences which are known only to the fairies. He had no pleasure in -learning them, nor had he any idea of employing them but with regard -to his passion for Ravissante. He began to make use of them by giving -every day a new fête to the Princess. She admired the wonders produced, -she deigned even sometimes to praise what appeared the most gallant in -these efforts of the Prince to please her; but after all, she received -his devotion and his attentions as the just homage due to her beauty, -and she considered them amply repaid by her condescending to receive -them without anger. - -Ariston began to despair of the success of his passion, but he was too -speedily obliged to confess that this very time, which he complained -of so justly, and in which he felt so keenly the hopelessness of his -love, had, notwithstanding, been the most happy period of his life. -A year after his arrival on the island he celebrated the return of -that memorable day on which he had first beheld Ravissante. In the -evening he gave her a fête in the forest of hyacinths. Marvellous music -was heard in every part of the forest without any one being able to -discover from whence the sounds proceeded. All that was sung by these -invisible musicians tenderly expressed the love of Ariston for the -Princess; they concluded their admirable concert by these words, which -were repeated several times:-- - - Nor reason nor relentless Fate - My sufferings can terminate! - Without one ray of hope to cheer, - I feel my heart consuming here. - How great his power Love never knew - Till from those eyes his arrows flew. - -After the music, there appeared suddenly an elegant collation under -a tent of silver gauze, elegantly looped up with ropes of pearls; it -was open on the side towards the sea, which bounded the forest in that -direction; and was illuminated by a great number of chandeliers formed -of brilliants, which emitted an effulgence nearly equal to that of the -sun. It was by this light that the nymphs of the court of Ravissante -pointed out to her an inscription at the entrance of the pavilion, -written in letters of gold upon a ruby of immense magnitude, supported -by twelve little cupids, who flew away as soon as the Princess had -heard this inscription read, which consisted of these lines:-- - - Where'er throughout the world those lovely eyes - May the devoted hearts of men enchain, - For one as true as in this desert sighs - Those lovely eyes may search, sweet maid, in vain. - But through that world your glory to proclaim, - And every mortal to your altar bring, - Princess, we haste to bid the trump of Fame - With praise of beauty so divine to ring. - -The fête continued, and Prince Ariston had at least the pleasure -of engrossing the leisure of the Princess, if he could not occupy -her heart. But he was deprived even of this gratification by a -surprising spectacle which appeared far out at sea, and attracted -the curiosity and attention of Ravissante and of all the court. The -object approached, and they distinguished that it was an arbour formed -of interlaced myrtle and laurel branches, closed on all sides, and -propelled with great rapidity by an infinite number of winged fish. -This sight was the more novel to Ravissante as she had never before -seen anything of the colour of this arbour. The Fairy having foreseen -that it would cause some misfortune to her nephew, had absolutely -banished it from her island. The Princess watched for the approach -of the strange object with an impatience which appeared to Ariston a -bad omen for his love. She had not long to wait, for the winged fish -brought the arbour in a few moments to the foot of the rock, and the -attention of the young Princess and of all the Court was redoubled. - -The arbour opened, and out of it came a young man of marvellous beauty, -who appeared about sixteen or seventeen years of age. He was clothed -in branches of myrtle, curiously interlaced, with a scarf composed of -various-coloured roses. This handsome stranger experienced as much -astonishment as he occasioned. The beauty of Ravissante did not leave -him at liberty to amuse himself by observing the rest of the splendid -scene, the brilliancy of which had attracted him from a distance. He -approached the Princess with a grace which she had never observed but -in herself. "I am so surprised," said he to her, "at all I find on -these shores, that I have lost the power of expressing my astonishment. -Is it possible," continued he, "that such a goddess (for a goddess you -surely must be) has not temples throughout the universe?" "I am not a -goddess," said Ravissante, colouring; "I am an unfortunate princess -banished from the states of the King, my father, to avoid I know not -what misfortune, which they assure me has been predicted from the -moment of my birth." "You appear to me much more formidable," replied -the handsome stranger, "than those stars which may have some evil -influence on your fate, and over what misfortune could not such perfect -beauty triumph! I feel that it can vanquish everything," he added, -sighing, "since it has conquered in a moment a heart which I had always -flattered myself should remain insensible; but, Madam," continued he, -without giving her time to reply, "I must, against my will, withdraw -from this charming place, where I see you only, and where I have lost -my peace of mind; I will return soon, if Cupid prove favourable to me." -After these words, he re-entered the arbour, and in a few moments he -was lost to sight. - -Prince Ariston was so astounded and distressed by this adventure, that -he had not at first the strength to speak; a rival had appeared in a -manner as wonderful as unexpected; this rival had seemed to him only -too charming, and he thought he had observed in the beautiful eyes of -the Princess, whilst the stranger addressed her, a languor which he -had often desired to see, but which till then he had never detected. -Agonized by a despair which he dared not betray, he conducted -Ravissante to the Palace, where she passed part of the night, occupied -by the recollection of her agreeable adventure, and made her nymphs -relate each circumstance over and over again, as though she had not -been herself present. As for Prince Ariston, he went to consult the -Fairy, who, he hoped, might possess some charm to allay the violent -grief under which he laboured; but she had no antidote for jealousy, -and they do say none has ever been discovered to this day. The Prince -and the Fairy, however, redoubled their enchantments to defend the -entrance to the rock from this formidable stranger, whom they took -for a magician. They surrounded the island with frightful monsters, -who occupied a great space on the sea, and who, excited by their own -natural ferocity, and by the power of the spell, seemed to assure -Ariston and the Fairy that it would be an impossibility to take from -them the beautiful Princess whom they so jealously guarded. Ravissante -seemed to feel more vividly the power of the charms of the handsome -stranger by the grief which she experienced at the obstacles opposed -to his return to the island; and she resolved, at all events, to be -revenged on Prince Ariston. She began to hate him, and that alone was -ample vengeance. Ariston was inconsolable at finding he had provoked -the hatred of Ravissante by a passion which it appeared to him should -have produced just the contrary effect. The Princess mourned in secret -the forgetfulness of the stranger: it appeared to her that love should -have ere this made him keep his promise to return. Sometimes, also, she -ceased to desire it, when she remembered the dangers with which Ariston -and the Fairy had surrounded the approach to the island. One day that -she was occupied in these various reflections whilst walking alone on -the sea-shore--for Ariston dared not, as formerly, follow her, and the -Princess refused even to attend the fêtes with which he was accustomed -to entertain her,--she arrived at the same spot which the adventure -with the unknown visitor had rendered so remarkable, and was struck -by the appearance of a tree of extraordinary beauty floating towards -the rock. The colour, which was the same as that of the myrtle arbour -of the stranger, gave her a sensation of joy. The tree approached the -rock, and the monsters attempted to defend the entrance, but a little -breeze agitated the leaves of the tree, and having blown off a few, -and driven them against the monsters, they yielded to these light and -harmless weapons, and even ranged themselves with a show of respect in -a circle around the tree, which approached the rock without further -impediment, and opened, disclosing to view the stranger seated on a -throne of verdure; he rose precipitately at the sight of Ravissante, -and spoke to her with so much eloquence and so much love, that after -she had in a few words acquainted him with her history, she could not -conceal from him that she was touched by his devotion, and rejoiced -at his return. "But," said she, "is it fair that you should know the -sentiments with which you have inspired me before I am informed of the -name even of him who has called them forth?" - -"I had no intention of concealing it from you," replied the charming -unknown; "but when near you, one can speak of nothing but you; however, -as you wish to know, I obey you, and beg to acquaint you that I am -called the Prince of Leaves: I am the son of Spring and of a sea nymph, -a relation of Amphitrite, which is the cause of my power extending over -the sea: my empire comprises all parts of the earth which recognise -the influence of Spring; but I chiefly inhabit a happy island where -the gentle season which my father bestows reigns perpetually. There -the air is always pure, the fields ever covered with flowers; the sun -never scorches, but only approaches sufficiently near to illuminate -it; night is banished, and it is therefore called the Island of Day. -It is inhabited by a people as amiable as the climate is agreeable. -It is in this place that I offer you an empire, sweet and calm, and -where my heart above all things will acknowledge your sovereignty. You -must, however, beautiful Princess, consent to be carried off from this -rock, where you are retained in veritable bondage: notwithstanding the -honours they pay you with a view to disguise the real state of the -case." Ravissante could not, however, make up her mind to follow the -Prince of Leaves into his empire, in spite of the fear which she had -of the power of the Fairy, and the suggestions of her love; she hoped -that her perseverance in rejecting the vows of Ariston, would at length -cause him to resolve to conquer his passion, and that the Fairy would -then restore her to her father, from whom the Prince of Leaves might -demand her hand. - - [Illustration: The Prince of Leaves.--P. 152.] - -"But I should at least wish," said she to him, "to be able to send -you word of what happens in this island, and I know not how that is -possible, as everything I do is suspected and watched." "I will leave -with you here," said the Prince, "the subjects of a friend of mine, -who is also a prince. They will constantly attend on you, and by them -you can often send me intelligence; but remember, beautiful Princess, -with what impatience I shall wait for it!" After these words, he -approached the tree which had conveyed him, and having touched some of -the leaves, two butterflies appeared, the one white and flame-colour, -the other yellow and light-grey--the most beautiful in the world. As -Ravissante gazed on them, the Prince of Leaves said, smiling, "I see -you are surprised at the appearance of the confidants I give you; -but these butterflies are not merely what they appear to be; it is a -mystery which they will explain if you will permit them to talk to -you." As he spoke, Ravissante perceived in the distance some of her -nymphs, who came to seek her in her solitude, and she begged the Prince -of Leaves to re-embark; he obeyed, notwithstanding the infinite regret -he felt at quitting her, but he did not depart quickly enough to avoid -observation; they informed Ariston and the Fairy of his return to the -island, and from that moment, in order to take away from the beautiful -Ravissante the means, and even the hope of seeing him again, they -erected a tower on the summit of the rock formed of the same stone; -and in order to render it more entirely secure, as the guard of living -monsters had proved insufficient, they caused the tower and rock to be -invisible to all those who should come to seek her, not daring again -to trust to ordinary enchantments. Ravissante was in despair at being -immured in so cruel and impregnable a prison. Prince Ariston had not -concealed from her that he had rendered it invisible; he had even -attempted to make her accept this care for her safety as a proof of -his tender devotion; but Ravissante felt her hatred and contempt for -him increase daily, and he dared no longer enter her presence. The -butterflies, however, had not quitted her, and she often regarded them -with pleasure as having come from the Prince of Leaves. One day that -she was still more sad than usual, and musing, on a terrace at the top -of the tower, the flame-coloured butterfly flew on to one of the vases -filled with flowers, which ornamented the balustrade. "Why," said he, -all of a sudden to the Princess, "do you not send me to the Prince of -Leaves, he will undoubtedly come to your relief?" Ravissante was at -first so astonished at hearing the butterfly speak, although her lover -had prepared her for the novelty, that she was for some minutes unable -to answer; however, the name of the Prince of Leaves assisting to -dissipate her surprise, "I was so astonished," said she at length, "to -hear a butterfly speak like ourselves, that I could not sooner reply -to you. I can well believe that you could go to apprise the Prince of -Leaves of my misfortune, but what can he do?--only distress himself -uselessly. He cannot find me in a place which the cruelty of my enemies -has taken care to render invisible." - -"It is less so than you think," replied the yellow butterfly, flying -round the Princess in order to join in the conversation: "a little -while ago, I surveyed your prison, I flew and even swam round it; it -disappears when one is on the water, but when one is elevated in the -air it ceases to be invisible. No doubt the Fairy did not consider that -road so easy as to require the same defence as that by the sea. I was -about to give you this hint," continued the butterfly, "when my brother -broke the silence which we have hitherto preserved." This agreeable -piece of news restored hope to the Princess. "Is it possible," said -she, "that Ariston can have neglected any precaution which could -gratify his cruelty and his love? No doubt his power, like that of the -Fairy, which is unbounded over earth and sea, does not extend to the -air." This was precisely the reason which had prevented the Prince and -the Fairy from rendering the tower and the rock invisible from the -sky. "But," added Ravissante, after some minutes' reflection, "can the -Prince of Leaves have any power in the air?" "No, Madam," replied the -flame-coloured butterfly, "he can do nothing, and your prison would be -invisible to him though he be a demi-god, as it would be to a mortal; -but--" "The Prince will then be as miserable as myself," interrupted -the sorrowful Ravissante, bursting into a flood of tears, which added -to her beauty, and which affected extremely the two butterflies; "and -I feel I shall be more distressed at his sorrows than at my own! -What ought I, then, to do?" continued she, sighing. "Send me off at -once," replied the flame-coloured butterfly, briskly; "I will go and -apprise the Prince of Leaves of your misfortunes, and he will come -to the rescue: although his power does not extend to the air, he has -a prince amongst his friends who can do anything in it, and of whom -he can dispose as of himself--but my brother can inform you of all -this during my absence. Adieu, beautiful Princess," continued the -butterfly, flying over the balustrade; "cease to weep, and count on my -diligence, I will fly as rapidly as your wishes." After these words, -the butterfly was lost in the air; and the Princess felt that charming -and lively sensation of joy which the hope of soon beholding a beloved -one inspires. She returned to her apartment, and the yellow butterfly -followed her; she was extremely impatient to know from what prince her -lover hoped for assistance; to end her doubts, she begged the yellow -butterfly to tell her all that could contribute to augment or flatter -her hopes. She placed him on a little basket of flowers, which she -carried to a table near her, and the butterfly, who considered it an -honour to please her, commenced his recital. - -"Near the Island of Day, where the Prince of Leaves reigns, there is -another, smaller but equally agreeable; the ground there is always -covered with flowers, and they affirm that it is a boon granted to our -country by Flora, to immortalize the memory of the happy days when she -came there to find Zephyr: for they contend that it was on our island -that they used to meet, when their love was still new and secret. It -is called the "Island of Butterflies." The inhabitants are not of the -form that you see me under. They are little winged men, very pretty, -very gallant, very amorous, and so volatile that they hardly love -the same thing for even one day. Whilst the golden age reigned on -the earth, Cupid, who at that time flattered himself that the hearts -of all mankind would be ever fond and faithful, feared that by the -facility with which we flew about the world, we might teach mortals -the agreeable art of changing in love, which this god called an error -capable of utterly destroying the happiness of his empire. In order to -interdict all communication between us and the rest of the universe, -he came to our island, touched the ground with one of his arrows, -and rising again upon a brilliant cloud which had borne him thither, -'If again,' said he, to the inhabitants of the island, 'you wish to -traverse the air, like the gods, I have taken sure means of vengeance; -you can no longer, by your dangerous society, trouble the happiness -of my empire.' After these words he disappeared. The threats of Cupid -did not, however, take from the Butterflies the desire for change, -nor even for flying, if it was only for the pleasure of occasionally -quitting the earth. Some of them mounted into the air, and found that -they had the same facility as they possessed before Cupid had forbidden -them to do so; but as soon as they passed the limits of the Island -they were changed into little insects, such as you now behold me, all -of different colours, avenging Cupid having intended to mark by this -variety how much they were given to inconstancy. Surprised at their -metamorphosis, they returned to our island, and as soon as they touched -the ground they were restored to their original form. Since that fatal -time the vengeance of Cupid has always continued amongst us; when we -quit the earth, nothing of our nature, as men, remains, except our -mind and the liberty of speaking like them; but we have never made use -of it out of our island, not choosing to make this act of vengeance -celebrated by publishing it ourselves to the universe, or to alarm -those who, like us, are inclined to inconstancy. We have, however, the -pleasure of seeing, in our travels through the world, that fate has -revenged us on Cupid without our assistance; for Inconstancy reigns -with equal power to his own in the whole extent of his empire. Some -centuries after this change took place in the realm of the butterflies, -the Sun, that seemed to take pleasure in making it bring forth flowers, -was so enchanted with his handiwork, that he fell in love with a rose -of extraordinary beauty; he was tenderly beloved by her, and she -sacrificed to him all the care bestowed on her by the zephyrs. At the -end of some time the rose became of a different form to the rest; the -Sun immediately caused others to blow, resembling her, in order that -she might be less remarked in this quantity of flowers, which then -appeared a new kind of plant. It has since been called 'the rose of -a hundred leaves.' At length, from the Sun and this rose sprung a -demi-god, whom the Sun destined to reign for ever in our island. Until -then we had had no sovereign, but the son of a god who favoured so -constantly our earth was received as our ruler with extreme joy; they -called him the Prince of the Butterflies. It is this Prince, beautiful -Princess, who can assist you in the air, and whom the adventure I am -about to relate has rendered such a fast friend of the Prince of Leaves. - -"In a country far removed from that of the butterflies there reigns a -Fairy, who dwells in a very dark cavern: they call her the Fairy of -the Grotto. She is of an immense size; her complexion is a mixture -of blue, green, and yellow. Her face is almost as formidable as her -power, and she is so dreaded by mortals that there is not one bold -enough to approach the country which she inhabits. One day the Prince -of the Butterflies, travelling for his pleasure in the neighbourhood -of his empire, perceived the Fairy, and surprised at this rencontre -he followed her for some time to see what would become of so fearful -a monster. She did not remark that she was observed, for the Prince, -although the offspring of the Sun, had not been able to obtain from -fate the liberty of travelling under any other form than that which -we all took on leaving the kingdom, because he was born since the -time when Cupid had made us feel his vengeance. However, he was not -inconstant, like all his subjects, and Cupid, by way of showing him -a little favour on that account, had permitted him, when he changed -his form, to be of one colour only, and that colour should be the one -which signifies Fidelity. Under this form he followed the Fairy as -far as he pleased, and he saw her enter her dismal abode. Impelled -by curiosity, he flew in after her; but what a sight awaited him at -the bottom of this cavern! He there saw a young lady, more beautiful -and more brilliant than the day, reclining on a bed of turf, and who -appeared in extreme grief. From time to time she dried the tears -which fell from her lovely eyes; her distress and the languor of her -appearance added to her charms. The Prince of the Butterflies remained -so entranced by this spectacle, that he forgot the form under which he -appeared, and only remembered that he was desperately in love, and that -he was burning to say so. He was roused from this sweet reverie by the -awful voice of the Fairy, who spoke to the young lady with frightful -severity. This filled his heart with sorrow and anger, as well as with -despair, at not daring to express either one or the other. The Fairy, -who by a natural restlessness could not remain long in the same place, -went out of the cavern; the Prince then approached the young person -with whom he was so charmed; he flew round her, and wishing to enjoy -the only liberty which his form permitted, he alighted on her hair, -which was the fairest in the world, and at length upon her cheek. He -was dying to tell her how much he was touched with her beauty and her -grief, but by what means could he convince her that he was son of the -Sun, without being able to appear before her in his own form; and how -could he inform her of the vengeance of Cupid, and the inconstancy -so natural to the inhabitants of the island, at the very time that -he wished to persuade her that he would never cease to love her? He -remained several days in the cavern, or in the forest with which it was -surrounded; he could not resolve to quit this beauty that he so adored, -and although he dared not speak to her, he saw her, and that was enough -to make him prefer this hideous abode to the agreeable scenes where -he had the pleasure of reigning, and of being acknowledged the most -beautiful Prince in the world. - -"During the time he remained with this young creature he always saw -the Fairy treat her with incredible inhumanity, and he learnt from -their conversation that this beautiful person was the Princess of the -Linnets, whom the Fairy, being a relative, had carried off at a tender -age, in order more easily to usurp her kingdom, which was a little -island situated near to that of the Butterflies. He had heard of the -Princess having been carried away, and that no one knew what had become -of her. This country was called the Land of the Linnets, on account -of the great quantity of those little birds that was found there. The -Prince of the Butterflies pitied sincerely this unfortunate Princess, -and, in the hope of being able to deliver her, he determined at length -to tear himself away from her. He flew to the Island of Day without -resting for a moment; he there found the Prince of Leaves, with whom -he was united in the most tender bond of friendship, and who was about -to pass a part of the year in the Island of Butterflies. He related -his adventure to the Prince, and after discussing every means by which -it would be possible to set the young Princess at liberty, the Prince -of Leaves resolved to go himself into the forest of the Fairy, to -inform the Princess of the Linnets of the violent love which the Prince -of the Butterflies felt for her, and the reason which would always -prevent that unfortunate sovereign from appearing before her under -his proper form, unless she consented to be transported to the Island -of Butterflies. But the Prince of Leaves appeared to his friend too -formidable a rival to be entrusted with the commission; for he feared, -with reason, that the Princess might be more touched by the charms of -so perfect a prince than by the recital of the love entertained for -her by another prince whom she had never seen nor even heard speak. -He deplored the cruelty of his destiny, and sought some other mode of -declaring his love to the Princess, but without success. - -"None but a demi-god could approach the dwelling of the Fairy without -feeling immediately the direful effect of her fury. He embarked, -therefore, with the Prince of Leaves, agitated by a jealous fear. -It appeared to him that this Prince could not preserve for a single -moment, on beholding the beautiful Princess, the insensibility on which -he had always piqued himself. - -"Cupid, touched at the sad state to which he was reduced, wished at -least to re-assure him on this point, and at the same time triumph over -the insensible heart of the Prince of Leaves. It was by you, beautiful -Princess," continued the Butterfly, "that the God expected to gain this -victory, and you alone are worthy of it. - -"It was on the same day that the two princes embarked that they saw -from afar, upon this rock, an illumination so brilliant, that the -Prince of Leaves, impelled by his destiny more than by curiosity, -ordered the winged fish which conducted the arbour of myrtle in -which he travelled, to approach the spot from which the bright light -emanated. You know the remainder of this adventure. The Prince of -Leaves found you in the forest of hyacinths, and left at your feet the -liberty which he had held so dear, and which, till that moment, he -had always preserved. Hurried away by the impatience of the Prince of -the Butterflies, who had suffered nothing but regret at the delay, he -tore himself, with infinite pain, from a spot where his heart and his -wishes would have made him desire to remain for ever. They continued -their voyage, and the Prince of the Butterflies was so delighted to see -that the Prince of Leaves was so deeply in love, and so far from being -likely to become his rival, that he did not doubt of its being a happy -omen, and that he might count on a successful issue to his enterprise. - -"They arrived in the forest of the Fairy of the Grotto; they entered -her dreary abode, and Cupid, who had resolved to favour them, caused -them to find the Princess of the Linnets alone and asleep. There was -no time to be lost--the Prince of Leaves carried her off in the myrtle -arbour, whilst the Prince of the Butterflies followed. - -"The Fairy returned at this moment; she uttered the most horrible -shrieks at the sight of this abduction; she thought she could prevent -it by her art, and revenge herself on those who had thus dared to -rescue the Princess of the Linnets. But her enchantments were powerless -over the Prince of Leaves, who soon was far away from the dismal shore. -In the meanwhile the Princess awoke, and was agreeably surprised at -finding herself where she was, and at the presence of the Prince of -Leaves. But it was an agreeable surprise, which increased when that -Prince conversed with her, and informed her of the effect of her -beauty, and that she would henceforth, being delivered from the tyranny -of the Fairy, reign in her own empire, and in one also even finer than -her own. The Prince of the Butterflies then spoke of his love with -so much vivacity and tenderness, that the Princess felt excessive -curiosity to see him in his true form, of which she confessed to have -formed a very exalted idea from the time she heard his voice. They -continued to float on, and after some days arrived at the Island of -Butterflies, when the Prince hastened to land, in order to appear at -length in his own person to the Princess. The Princess of Linnets then -sent to inform her subjects in her own island of her adventures: they -flocked to see her, and it was in their presence that she accepted the -heart and empire of the happy Prince of the Butterflies. The Prince of -Leaves, however, left her immediately that he had safely conducted her -to that island, in order to return hither, beautiful Princess, where -his anxiety and his ardent love made him impatient to be." - -Ravissante listened with extreme attention to the Butterfly, when -she saw Prince Ariston enter her chamber with such fury in his -countenance, that she dreaded its effects. "Fate threatens me," he -cried, on entering; "and as it is with some great misfortune, it must, -no doubt, be that of losing you; none other would affect my heart, or -be worthy of being so predicted. See, Madam," he continued, addressing -Ravissante, "the colour which the walls of this tower are assuming--it -is a certain sign of approaching misfortune!" - -As the misfortunes of Ariston were a happiness to Ravissante, she -looked without distress at that which he pointed out to her notice, -and perceived, indeed, that the blue stones were losing their original -colour, and beginning to turn green. She was delighted to see this, -as she augured from it the certain approach of the Prince of Leaves. -The joy which the unhappy Ariston remarked in her eyes redoubled his -despair. What did he not then say to Ravissante? And rendered sincere -by the excess of his grief, he told her that his love was so great -as not to allow of his ceasing to adore her, although he was sure of -being miserable all his life. "I cannot doubt it," said he to the -Princess, "for the Fates foretold to me as to you--that I should always -be miserable if I were not always faithful to the first impressions -love made on my heart. And by what means could I ever obey this cruel -mandate? After one has seen you, however he may have loved before, he -must forget everything--even the preservation of his own happiness in -loving and seeking to please you. A young princess of the Court of the -King, my father, once appeared to me worthy of my regard. I thought -fully that I should be sighing to return to her after remaining here -for a short time; but the first sight of you subverted all my previous -plans. My reason and my heart were equally inclined for the change, and -I thought nothing impossible to the tender love with which you inspired -me. I flattered myself even that it might overcome fate; but your -austerity, which never relaxed, has taught me that I was deceived, and -that there remains for me no other hope but that of dying speedily for -your sake." - -The Prince Ariston finished speaking these words, which made Ravissante -even think him worthy of some pity, when they saw in the air a throne -of foliage, supported by an immense number of butterflies. One -amongst them, which was entirely blue, and by whose colour Ravissante -recognised the son of the Sun, flew to her, and said, "Come, beautiful -Princess, to-day you shall resume your liberty, and make the most -amiable Prince in the world happy." - -The butterflies placed the throne near Ravissante; she seated herself -on it, and they bore her away. Ariston, distracted at the loss of the -Princess, in a paroxysm of despair, flung himself into the sea. The -Fairy immediately abandoned the rock which this suicide had rendered -so fatal and melancholy; and to mark her fury, she shivered both it -and the tower into a thousand pieces by a clap of thunder, and the -fragments were carried by the wind and waves to different sea-coasts. -It is of this species of stone that they now make rings, which they -call turquoise. Those which are still called "de la Vieille Roche" are -made of the remains of this shattered rock, and the others are only -stones which resemble them. The remembrance of the misfortune predicted -to Prince Ariston by the change of colour in the walls of the tower has -descended to our time. They say still that these rings become green -when any misfortune is about to happen to the wearers, and that these -misfortunes are generally connected with love affairs. - -Whilst the Fairy gave vent to her grief by the destruction of the -island, the Prince of the Butterflies, satisfied at having rendered to -the Prince of Leaves a similar service to that he had received from -him, conducted the beautiful Ravissante, flying before her, to a boat -of rushes, ornamented with garlands of flowers, in which the Prince -of Leaves awaited her with all the impatience which the violence of -his love inspired. It is impossible to convey an idea of the pleasure -he felt at the arrival of the Princess; never were joy and love so -apparent as in the heart and language of this Prince. He sailed -immediately to the Island of Day. The Prince of the Butterflies flew -off to rejoin the amiable Princess of Linnets as speedily as possible. -Ravissante sent two butterflies to the King, her father, to inform him -of her good fortune; the good King thanked the Fates, and set out as -soon as he could for the Island of Day, where the Prince of Leaves and -Ravissante reigned with all imaginable felicity, and were always happy, -because they never ceased to be fond and faithful. - - The lot of Ravissante with envy view-- - Born to be blest could she prove only true. - How many hapless lovers had succeeded, - Had constancy been all their idols needed! - - - - -THE FORTUNATE PUNISHMENT. - - -There was once upon a time a King, who fell desperately in love with a -Princess of his Court. As soon as he loved her he told her so. Kings -are more privileged than common lovers. The Princess was not offended -at a love which might place her on the throne, and the King found -her as virtuous as she was charming. He married her: the wedding was -incredibly magnificent; and what was even more remarkable, he became a -husband without ceasing to be a lover. The felicity of this love-match -was only disturbed by the fact of their having no children to succeed -to their happiness and to their kingdom. The King, in order to obtain -at least the comfort of hope on this point, resolved to consult a -fairy, whom he believed to be particularly friendly. She was called -Formidable, although she had not always been so to the King. It is said -even that in the old collections of the time in that country are to be -found ballads which tell a great deal about them. So bold have poets -been in all ages! For the Fairy was very much respected, and appeared -so stern that it was almost impossible to imagine she could ever have -felt the power of love; but where are the hearts that escape? The -King, who had always been very gallant, and who had a great deal of -discernment, was well aware that appearances are often very deceptive. -He had first met with Formidable in a wood where he had been hunting; -she appeared to his eyes under a form so graceful, and with so charming -an air, that the King did not doubt for a moment her desire to please: -it is seldom such charms are displayed without that intention. The -King fell in love with her; the Fairy felt more pleasure in being -loved than in always inspiring terror. This affection lasted several -years; but one day when she reckoned on the heart of her lover as on a -property it was impossible for her to lose, she let the King see her -in her real form: she was no longer young or handsome. She repented -immediately when she perceived by the altered expression of the King's -face that she had been too confident of her power, and discovered that, -however tender hearts may be, they cannot excite or retain love if -they are not united with an agreeable person. The King was ashamed at -finding he had been in love with only an imaginary beauty; he ceased -to love the Fairy, and thenceforth only treated her with attention and -respect. Formidable, with a pride that was natural to her, assumed so -well the appearance of being contented with the esteem of the King, -that she persuaded him she was one of his best friends. She even went -to his wedding, in company with all the other fairies of the country, -who were invited, in order not to give any one reason to fancy from her -refusal that she had any dislike to the marriage. - -The King, therefore, counting on the friendship of his old -mistress, went to visit her in her residence, which was a palace of -flame-coloured marble in the midst of a vast forest. The approach to -it was by an avenue of immense length, bordered on both sides by a -hundred flame-coloured lions. Formidable liked only this colour, and -she had therefore by her magic art caused all the animals born in the -forest to be of the same hue. At the end of the avenue was a large -square, wherein a troop of Moors, clothed in flame-colour and gold, -magnificently armed, kept perpetual guard. - -The King traversed the forest alone; he knew the way perfectly well; he -even passed through the avenue of lions without danger, for he threw -them, as he entered, some ranunculuses, which the Fairy had formerly -given him to use when passing those terrible beasts. As soon as the -King had thrown them those beautiful flowers, they became gentle and -quiet. He at length reached the Moorish guard, who at first bent their -bows at him, but the King threw them some pomegranate blossoms, which -he had received from the Fairy with the ranunculuses, and the Moors -shot their arrows into the air, and drew themselves up in line to -allow him to pass. He entered the palace of Formidable: she was in a -saloon, seated on a throne of rubies, in the midst of twelve Moorish -women, clothed in flame-coloured gauze and gold. The Fairy's dress was -of the same fashion and colour, but so covered with precious stones -that it shone like the sun; yet it did not make her appear any the -more beautiful. The King looked and listened for a few minutes before -he entered the saloon. Near the Fairy was a quantity of books on a -table of red marble: he saw that she took one and began to instruct -the slaves in those secrets which render fairies so powerful; but -Formidable taught them none but such as would be inimical to the -happiness and comfort of mankind; she took good care to prevent their -learning anything that would contribute to human felicity. The King -felt he hated the Fairy; and entering the apartment, interrupted -the fatal lesson, and surprised Formidable by his appearance; but -recovering herself immediately, she dismissed her Moors, and regarding -the King with an air of pride and anger,--"What seek you here, -inconstant Prince?" she exclaimed. "Wherefore do you come to disturb -by your odious presence the repose I endeavour to obtain in this -seclusion?" The King was quite surprised by so unexpected a mode of -address; and the Fairy, opening one of the books, continued: "I see -clearly what you want. Yes, you shall have a daughter by this Princess -whom you have so unjustly preferred to me, but do not hope to be happy: -it is time for me to be avenged. The daughter that shall be born to you -ere long shall be as much hated by all the world as I formerly loved -you!" The King did everything in his power to soften the anger of the -Fairy; but it was useless; hatred had succeeded to love, and nothing -but love could soften the Fairy's heart; for pity and generosity were -sentiments quite unknown to her. She haughtily commanded the King to -leave the palace, and opening a cage, a flame-coloured parrot flew out. -"Follow this bird," said she to the King, "and bless my clemency for -not delivering you to the fury of my lions and guards." - -The bird flew off, and the King followed, and was conducted by a road -hitherto unknown to him, and much shorter than the one he had come by, -into his own kingdom. The Queen, who on his return remarked his extreme -sadness, begged to know the reason so importunately, that the King -at length told her of the cruel prediction of the Fairy, but without -informing her of all that had occurred between them in former times, -in order not to add to the troubles of his beautiful wife. This young -Princess knew that one fairy could not positively prevent anything -predicted by another of her own class, but that she might mitigate the -punishment which that other had inflicted. - -"I shall go," said the Queen, "in search of Lumineuse, Sovereign of -the Happy Empire; she is a celebrated fairy who delights in protecting -the unfortunate. She is a relation of mine; she has ever favoured me, -and she even predicted the good fortune to which love would lead me." -The King quite approved of the expedition of the Queen, and hoped much -from it. Her equipage being ready, she set off to seek Lumineuse. The -Fairy bore this name because her beauty was so dazzling that it was -hardly possible to endure the brilliancy of it, and the grandeur of her -soul quite equalled her extreme loveliness. The Queen arrived in a vast -plain, and perceived, at a great distance, a large tower; but although -it was in sight, it was very long before she could approach it, owing -to the many windings in the road. It was built of white marble, and had -no doors, but arched windows of crystal; a beautiful river, of which -the waves appeared of liquid silver, bathed the foot of the tower, and -wound nine times around it. The Queen, with all her Court, arrived on -the bank of the river, at the point where it began its first circle -round the dwelling of the Fairy. The Queen crossed it on a bridge of -white poppies, which the power of Lumineuse had rendered as safe and -as durable as if it had been built of brass. But although it was only -made of flowers, it was nevertheless to be feared, for it had the power -of putting people to sleep for seven years who attempted to pass it -contrary to the wish of the Fairy. The Queen perceived on the other -side of the bridge, six young men, magnificently attired, sleeping on -beds of moss, under tents of foliage. These were princes enamoured of -the Fairy: and as she never would hear love spoken of, she had not -allowed them to pass any farther. The Queen, after having crossed the -bridge, found herself in the first spot which the river left free; it -was occupied by a charming labyrinth of laurestinus and jasmine; there -were none but white, for that was the colour Lumineuse preferred. After -having admired this lovely maze, and easily threaded its paths, which -were only difficult for those the Fairy did not wish should enter her -agreeable dwelling, the Queen again crossed the river by a bridge of -white anemones; it took at this place its second turn, and the space -which it left before it made its third circle was occupied by a forest -of acacias always in full bloom; the roads through it were charming, -and so overshadowed that the rays of the sun never penetrated; a number -of white doves whose plumage might have put the snow to shame were seen -in all directions, and the trees were covered with countless white -canary-birds, that made a delicious concert. Lumineuse, with a touch -of her wand, had taught them the most beautiful and charming songs in -the world. They left this lovely forest by a bridge of tube-roses, and -they then entered a fair plain, wooded with trees laden with such fine -and delicious fruit, that the least of them would have put to shame the -famous gardens of the Hesperides. Every evening the Queen found the -most beautiful tents in the world prepared for her, and a magnificent -repast was served as soon as she arrived, without her seeing any of -the skilful and active officers who prepared it. The Fairy, who had -learnt by her books of the arrival of the Queen, took care that her -journey should not be in the least degree fatiguing to her. The Queen, -leaving this marvellous spot, passed the river again, by a bridge of -white pinks, and entered the park of the Fairy. It was as beautiful as -all the rest. The Fairy sometimes came to hunt there; it was filled -with an infinite number of white stags and does, with other animals of -the same colour; a pack of white greyhounds were scattered over the -park, and lying on the turf with the deer and white rabbits, and other -animals usually wild, but they were not so in this place, the art of -the Fairy had tamed them; and when the dogs chased some beast for the -amusement of Lumineuse, it appeared as if they understood it was only -in play, for while they hunted it in the best style, they never did -the animal any harm. In this place, the river made its fifth circuit -round the dwelling of the Fairy. The Queen, in quitting the park, -crossed the water on a bridge of white jasmine, and found herself in -a charming hamlet. All the little cottages were built of alabaster. -The inhabitants of this pleasant place were subjects of the Fairy, -and tended her flocks; their garments were of silver gauze; they were -crowned with chaplets of flowers; and their crooks were brilliantly -studded with precious stones. All the sheep were of surprising -whiteness; all the shepherdesses were young and handsome; and Lumineuse -loved the colour of white too well to have forgotten to bestow on them -a complexion so beautiful that even the sun itself seemed to have only -helped to render it more dazzling. All the shepherds were amiable, and -the sole fault that could be found with this agreeable country was that -there was not a single brunette to be seen there. The shepherdesses -came to receive the Queen, and presented her with porcelain vases, -filled with the most beautiful flowers in the world. The Queen and all -her Court were charmed with their agreeable journey, and drew from it a -happy presage of obtaining what she desired of the Fairy. - -As she was about to leave the hamlet, a young shepherdess advanced -towards the Queen, and presented her with a little white greyhound on -a cushion of white velvet, embroidered with silver and pearls: it was -hardly possible to distinguish the dog from the cushion, the colour -was so exactly the same. "The Fairy Lumineuse, Sovereign of the Happy -Empire," said the young shepherdess to the Queen, "has commanded me to -present you, in her name, with 'Blanc-blanc,' which is the name of this -little greyhound; she has the honour of being beloved by Lumineuse, -whose art has made a marvel of her, and who has commanded her to -conduct you to the tower. You will have nothing to do, Princess, but to -let her go, and follow." - -The Queen received the little dog with much pleasure, and was charmed -at the attentions shown her by the Fairy. She caressed Blanc-blanc, -who, after having returned her endearments with much intelligence and -grace, jumped lightly to the ground, and began to frisk before the -Queen, who followed her with all her Court. They arrived at the bank -of the river, which there made its sixth turn, and were surprised to -find no bridge by which to cross it. The Fairy did not wish to be -troubled by the shepherds in her retreat, so there was never a bridge -at that point, except when she desired herself to pass or to receive -any of her friends. The Queen was pondering on this adventure, when -she heard Blanc-blanc bark three times; immediately a light breeze -agitated the trees on the banks of the river, and shook from them such -a great quantity of orange-flowers into the water, that they formed -a bridge of themselves, and the Queen crossed the river by it. She -rewarded Blanc-blanc by caresses, and found herself in an avenue of -myrtles and orange-trees, which having traversed without any feeling -of fatigue, although it was an immense length, she found herself again -on the bank of the river, which made its seventh turn at that spot. -She saw no bridge, but the adventure of the morning re-assured her. -Blanc-blanc struck the ground three times with her little paw, and in -a moment there appeared a bridge of white hyacinths. The Queen crossed -it, and entered a meadow enamelled with flowers. Her beautiful tents -were already pitched in it. She rested a short time, and then resumed -her journey, till she again found herself on the bank of the river. -There was again no means of crossing it; but Blanc-blanc advanced and -drank a little of the beautiful stream, whereupon a bridge of white -roses appeared, and the Queen was thereby enabled to enter the garden -of the Fairy. It was so filled with wonderful flowers, extraordinary -fountains, and statues of superior beauty, that it is impossible to -give an exact description of it. If the Queen had not felt the utmost -impatience to avert the evils with which the cruel Formidable menaced -her, she would have lingered some time in this charming place. All the -Court left it with regret; but they were obliged to follow Blanc-blanc, -who conducted the Queen to the spot where the river made its last -circuit round the dwelling of Lumineuse. The Queen then saw the Palace -of the Fairy quite near to her. Nothing but the river divided her from -it. She gazed on it with pleasure as the goal of her journey, and read -this inscription, written on the tower in letters of gold:-- - - Of perfect bliss behold the charming seat, - By Lumineuse to pleasure dedicated. - Love only may not enter this retreat, - Although 'twould seem for Love alone created. - -This inscription had been composed in honour of Lumineuse by the most -celebrated fairies of her time. They had wished to leave to posterity -the expression of their friendship and esteem for her. Whilst the Queen -thus amused herself on the banks of the river, Blanc-blanc swam across -the stream, and diving brought up a shell of mother-of-pearl, which she -again let fall into the water. At this signal six beautiful nymphs, -in brilliant attire, opened a large crystal window, and a staircase of -pearls issued from it and slowly approached the Queen. Blanc-blanc ran -up it quickly, till the arrival at the window of the Fairy, and entered -the tower: the Queen followed, but as she ascended, the steps of the -pretty staircase which she had mounted disappeared behind her, and -prevented any one else from following her. She entered the beautiful -tower of Lumineuse, and the window was immediately closed. - -All the suite of the Queen were in despair when they lost sight of -her, and found they were unable to follow, for they loved her most -sincerely; their lamentations were heard even in the place where -Lumineuse conversed with the Queen, and in order to re-assure these -unfortunates, the Fairy sent one of her nymphs to conduct them to the -hamlet, where they could await the return of the Queen. The staircase -of pearls re-appeared and revived their hopes; the nymph descended, -and the Queen from the window commanded them to follow and obey the -messenger. The Queen remained with the Fairy, who entertained her -with prodigious magnificence, and with a charm of manner which won -all hearts. The Queen stayed with her for three days, which were not -sufficient, however, for the inspection of all the marvels of the -tower of Lumineuse; it would have taken centuries to see and admire -everything which the Fairy had to show. The fourth day Lumineuse, -after having laden the Queen with presents as elegant as they were -magnificent, said to her, "Beautiful Princess, I am sorry not to be -able to repair the misfortune with which Formidable threatens you; but -that is the fault of destiny, which allows us to bestow good gifts -on those whom we favour, but forbids us to undo or avert the evils -inflicted by other fairies. However, to console you for the misfortune -that has been predicted for you, I promise that before a year be over, -you shall have a daughter so beautiful that all those who behold her -shall be enchanted with her, and I will take care," added the Fairy, -"to cause a Prince to be born who shall be worthy of her hand." - -So favourable a prophecy made the Queen forget for a time the hatred of -Formidable, and the misfortune she had threatened her with. Lumineuse -did not tell the Queen the reason of Formidable being her enemy. -Fairies, even when they quarrel amongst themselves, keep jealously -secret everything which would render them contemptible in the eyes of -mortals, and 'tis said they are the only women who have the generosity -not to speak ill of one another. After a thousand thanks on the part -of the Queen, Lumineuse ordered twelve of her nymphs to take charge -of the presents, and to conduct the Queen to the hamlet, she herself -accompanying her as far as the staircase of pearls, which appeared as -soon as they opened the window. When the Queen and nymphs were at the -foot of the stairs they saw a silver car drawn by six white hinds: -their harness was covered with diamonds; a young child, lovely as the -day, drove the car, and the nymphs followed on white horses which might -have vied in beauty with those of the sun. In this elegant equipage the -Queen arrived at the hamlet; she there found all her Court, who were -rejoiced to see her again; the nymphs then took leave of the Queen, and -presented her with the twelve beautiful animals enchanted by the Fairy, -so that they were never tired, informing her that Lumineuse begged she -would offer them in her name to the King. The Queen, overwhelmed by -the kindness of the Fairy, returned to her kingdom; the King met and -received her at the frontier; he was so charmed at her return, and -the agreeable news which she announced on the part of Lumineuse, that -he ordered public rejoicings, the renown of which reached the ear of -Formidable, and thereby redoubled her hate and anger against the King. - -Soon after the return of the Queen she found she was about to become -a mother, and felt assured that the beautiful Princess who was to -charm all hearts would be ere long presented to the King by her, for -Lumineuse had promised her birth should take place before the end of -the year, and Formidable had not prescribed the time when her vengeance -should be accomplished; but she had no idea of postponing it long. The -Queen gave birth to two princesses, and did not doubt for a moment -which was the daughter promised to her by Lumineuse, from the eagerness -she felt to embrace the one which first saw the light. She found her -quite worthy of the praises of the Fairy; nothing in the world could -be so beautiful; the King and all who were present hastened to admire -the first-born little Princess, and they entirely forgot the other; -but the Queen, judging by the general neglect, that the prediction of -Formidable was also accomplished, gave orders several times that the -same care should be taken of her as of the eldest. - -The waiting-women obeyed with a repugnance which they could not -overcome, and for which the King and Queen dared scarcely blame them, -as they felt the same themselves. Lumineuse arrived with all speed, -upon a cloud, and named the beautiful Princess Aimée, significant of -the destiny which she had promised her. The King paid Lumineuse all the -respect she deserved. She promised the Queen always to protect Aimée, -but she bestowed on her no gift, for she had already given her all in -her power. As for the other Princess, it was in vain that the King gave -her the name of one of his provinces; insensibly every one accustomed -themselves to call her Naimée, in cruel contradistinction to her sister -Aimée. When the two Princesses had attained the age of twelve years, -Formidable desired them to be sent away from the Court, in order, -as she said, to diminish the love and the hate which they inspired. -Lumineuse let Formidable have her way; she was sure that nothing -would prevent the beautiful Aimée from reigning in the kingdom of her -father, and in the hearts of his subjects. She had endowed her with -such charms that no one could see her and have any doubt about it. The -King, in the hope of appeasing the hatred of Formidable, which extended -to all his family, resolved to obey her. He therefore sent the two -young Princesses, with a youthful and agreeable Court, to a marvellous -castle which he possessed in a remote part of his empire: it was called -the Castle of Portraits, and was a place worthy of the learned fairy -who had built it four thousand years before. The gardens and all the -promenades surrounding it were lovely, but the most remarkable thing -was the gallery, of immense length, which contained portraits of all -the princes and princesses of the blood royal of that and all the -neighbouring countries. As soon as they attained their fifteenth year -their portraits were placed here, painted with an art which could be -but feebly imitated by any but a fairy. This custom was to be observed -until the time when the most beautiful princess in all the world should -enter the castle. - -This gallery was divided into two vast and magnificent apartments: the -two Princesses occupied them; they had the same masters, the same -education; they taught nothing to the charming Aimée which was not also -taught to her sister; but Formidable came and instilled lessons into -the latter which spoilt all the rest, while Lumineuse, on her side, -rendered Aimée, by her instructions, worthy of the admiration of the -whole universe. After the Princesses had been in this castle, excluded -from the Court for three years, they heard one day a strange noise, -which was followed by the sound of charming music; they looked about -everywhere to find from whence the noise and the concert proceeded, -when they perceived three portraits occupying three places which a -moment before had been vacant. The first represented a lady being -crowned by two Cupids with flowers, one of whom regarded the beautiful -portrait with all the attention it merited, and seemed to have -forgotten to let fly an arrow at it which was fixed in his bent bow; -the other held a little streamer, on which were these verses:-- - - Aimée received from Nature at her birth - Those beauties which immortal are, alone. - The Graces added loveliness to worth, - And Venus yielded up to her her zone. - -It was not necessary to announce this as the portrait of the beautiful -Aimée; one saw in it all her features depicted with that charming grace -which attracted every heart; she had an exquisitely fair complexion, -the most beautiful colour in the world, a round face, lovely light -hair, blue eyes, which shone with so much brightness that those who had -the pleasure of seeing them thought it useless that Lumineuse should -have bestowed on Aimée a gift which she was sure of possessing from -her own personal beauty: her mouth was charming, her teeth as white -as her skin, and Venus seemed to have given her the power of smiling -like herself. It was this divine portrait which occupied the end of the -gallery. The second was that of Naimée: she was fair, and did not want -beauty; but notwithstanding, like the original, the portrait failed to -please. These words were inscribed beneath it in letters of gold:-- - - Naimée, of more than common charms possest, - Can in no mortal heart a dwelling find. - Learn that in vain we are with beauty blest, - Wanting the rarer graces of the mind. - -These two portraits occupied all the attention of the two Princesses -and of their juvenile Court, when Aimée, who was not proud of her own -personal charms, and leaving to the others the task of admiring them, -turned her eyes towards the third portrait, which had appeared at the -same time with her own. She found it well worth looking at. It was that -of a young Prince, a thousand times handsomer than Cupid himself; he -had more the air of a god than a mortal; his black hair fell in large -curls on his shoulders, and his eyes bespoke as much intelligence as -his person displayed manly beauty. These words were written underneath -the portrait:--"This is the Prince of the Pleasant Island." Its beauty -surprised everybody, but it affected the lovely Aimée particularly--her -young heart experienced an unknown emotion; and Naimée even, at the -sight of this handsome portrait, found she was not exempt from a -passion which she could not herself inspire. The adventure itself did -not so much astonish any one, for they were accustomed to see wonderful -things in that country. The King and Queen came to the Castle to visit -the Princesses, and had a great many copies made of their portraits, -which they sent to all the neighbouring kingdoms. But Aimée, as soon as -she was alone, carried away by an involuntary impulse, returned to the -gallery of portraits, where that of the Prince of the Pleasant Island -engrossed all her attention, and was every way worthy of it. - -Naimée, who had nothing in common with her sister, save an equal -admiration of the portrait of the Prince, also passed nearly all her -time in the gallery. This growing passion so increased the hatred of -Naimée for her sister, that not being able herself to injure her, she -incessantly implored the fairy Formidable to punish her for possessing -superior charms. The cruel Fairy never neglected an opportunity of -doing harm; so, following her own inclination, while yielding to the -solicitations of Naimée, she went in search of the amiable Princess, -who was walking on the bank of the river which flowed at the foot -of the Castle of Portraits: "Go!" said Formidable to her, touching -her with an ebony wand which she carried in her hand,--"Go! Follow -continually the winding of this river, until the day when thou shalt -meet a person who hates thee more than I do, and until that hour -thou shalt not stop to rest in any place in the world!" The Princess, -at this terrible order, began to weep. Such tears! In all the -universe no heart but that of Formidable could be found incapable of -being softened by them. Lumineuse hastened to the assistance of the -beautiful and unhappy Aimée. "Be comforted," said she; "the journey to -which Formidable has condemned thee shall terminate in a delightful -adventure, and during it thou shalt have nothing but pleasure." Aimée, -after this favourable prediction, departed with one single regret, -which was that she should see no more the beautiful portrait of the -Prince of the Pleasant Island; but she dared not express her sorrow -to the Fairy. She therefore set out on her journey, and everything -appeared sensible of her charms. None but the gentlest airs breathed -in the places through which she passed. Everywhere she found nymphs -ready to wait on her with the utmost respect; the meadows were covered -with flowers at her approach; and when the sun became too powerful, the -trees increased their foliage to protect her from its beams. - -While the beautiful Princess made so pleasant a journey, Lumineuse -did not merely limit her exertions to neutralizing the evil designs -of Formidable; she sought Naimée, and striking her with an ivory -wand--"Begone!" said she. "Follow in thy turn the banks of the river, -and never shalt thou rest until thou shalt find a person who loves thee -as much as thou deservest to be hated!" Naimée departed, and no one -regretted her absence. - -Even Formidable, who was always well pleased when she caused pain, -thought no more of Naimée, and did not condescend to protect her any -longer. The two Princesses thus continued their journey, Naimée with -all the fatigue possible, the most beautiful flowers changing into -thorns in her path; and the lovely Princess, with all the pleasures -which Lumineuse had led her to hope for,--indeed, she found them still -greater than she had expected. - -At the close of a beautiful day, at the hour when the sun sank to rest -in the arms of Thetis, Aimée seated herself on the bank of the river. -Immediately an infinite number of flowers, springing up around her, -formed a sort of couch, the charms of which she would have admired -for a much longer time had she not perceived an object on the river -which prevented her from thinking of anything else; it was a little -boat made of amethyst, ornamented with a thousand streamers of the same -colour, inscribed with cyphers and gallant devices. Twelve young men, -clothed in light garments of grey and silver, crowned with garlands -of amaranths, rowed with so much diligence, that the boat was very -soon sufficiently close to the shore to allow Aimée to remark its -various beauties. It was with a feeling of agreeable surprise that -she perceived in every part of it her name and her initials. A moment -after, the Princess recognised her portrait upon a little altar of -topaz, raised in the centre of the boat; and beneath the portrait she -read these words. - - "If this be not love, what is it?" - -After the first emotion of surprise and admiration, she feared to see -the stranger land who appeared to be so very gallant. "Everything -informs me of the love of an unknown admirer," said Aimée to herself; -"but I feel that the Prince of the Pleasant Island is alone worthy -to inspire me with that sentiment which I too plainly perceive is -entertained for me by another. Fatal portrait!" she exclaimed; "why did -destiny present it to my view at a time when, so far from defending -myself from its influence, I was even ignorant that it was possible to -love anything more tenderly than flowers." - -This reflection was followed by many sighs, and she would have remained -longer buried in her sweet reverie, if the agreeable sound of divers -instruments had not roused her from it. She looked towards the boat -from whence these pleasing sounds proceeded. A man, whose face she -could not see, clothed in a robe of that same magnificent colour which -was displayed in his entire equipage, appeared to be entirely occupied -in the contemplation of her portrait, whilst six beautiful nymphs -formed a charming concert, and accompanied these words, which were sung -by him who did not take his eyes off the picture of the Princess. The -air was Duboulai's:--[10] - - Let all things witness to my passion bear, - And vaunt the beauties of my matchless fair! - Aimée more charms than Venus' self displays! - Ye Nymphs in turn your tuneful voices raise. - Let all things witness to my passion bear, - And vaunt the beauties of my matchless fair! - - The Graces gladly quit the Queen of Love - To follow one whose smile far more they prize. - To see and serve her is a bliss above - All that the gods can offer in the skies. - Aimée more charms, &c. - - One glance from her sweet eyes my heart subdued. - All yield to her! all to her empire bow! - And till the moment man her beauty viewed - None could have loved as all the world must now! - Aimée more charms, &c. - -The sweetness of the music detained the beautiful Aimée on the bank of -the river. When it was finished, the stranger turned his face towards -her, and enabled her to recognise, with as much confusion as pleasure, -the agreeable features of the Prince of the Pleasant Island. What a -surprise, what joy to see this charming Prince, and to find he thought -of nothing but her! One must know how to love as they did in the days -of the Fairies, to understand all that the young Princess felt. - -The Prince of the Pleasant Island was equally astonished. He hastened -to land on the fortunate shore which presented to his view the divine -Aimée. She had not the heart to fly from so perfect a prince, though -she upbraided fate a thousand times for her own weakness. On such -occasions fate generally bears the blame. - -It is impossible to express what the young lovers said to each other. -Often, indeed, they understood each other without speaking. Lumineuse, -who had conducted to this place both the pretty boat and the steps of -Aimée, appeared all at once to re-assure the timid Princess, who had at -length made up her mind to avoid so charming and dangerous a Prince. -She told them that they were destined to love each other, and to be for -ever united. "But," added the Fairy, "before this happy time arrives, -you must finish the journey commanded by Formidable." - -It is impossible to disobey the Fairies; so the beautiful Aimée and -the Prince were satisfied with the pleasure of being together, and -felt that anything which did not separate them was only too delightful. -They continued, therefore, their route, sometimes in the pretty boat, -sometimes wandering on foot through a vast, but beautiful wilderness, -which the river fertilized with its waters. It was in this tranquil -seclusion that the Prince of the Pleasant Island completely lost his -peace of mind. He informed the beautiful Princess of all he had felt -for her since the happy day when her divine portrait had been brought -to his Court, and that one morning as he was walking on the banks of -the river, and dreaming of her, Lumineuse had appeared, and, showing -him the amethyst boat, commanded him to embark in it, promising him -success in his voyage and a favourable issue to his love. Whilst the -Prince and the beautiful Aimée obeyed the orders of Formidable, their -affection increased each day. They became so happy, that they dreaded -arriving at the end of their journey, for fear of being occupied with -anything else but their love. Naimée, meanwhile, also continued her -painful progress. - -The course of the river which the two Princesses followed conducted -them insensibly to the Pleasant Island, and they arrived there exactly -at the same moment. Lumineuse did not fail to be present also. She -informed Aimée that the revenge of Formidable was accomplished, -because, in meeting her sister, she had found the only person in the -world who could hate her. "And the journey of Naimée is also finished, -then," said the beautiful Princess, "for nothing has been able to -diminish my regard for her." She then begged the Fairy to mitigate, if -possible, the sad fate of her sister; but this favour was useless to -Naimée. The moment she saw the Prince of the Pleasant Island, whom she -recognised easily as the original of the exquisite portrait which had -touched her heart, and heard him tell Lumineuse that the time of his -marriage with Aimée approached, she threw herself into that river, the -course of which she had followed for twelve months with so much pain, -yet without having resorted to self-destruction; but the woes of love -affect us more deeply than any other misfortunes. - -Lumineuse, who saw the Princess plunge into the water, changed her -into a little animal, which evinces still, by its manner of walking, -the contrariness of the unhappy Naimée. Her fate followed her even -after death, for she was not regretted. It cost Aimée, however, a few -tears; but what troubles could not be consoled by the Prince of the -Pleasant Island? She was so engrossed by his affection, that she cared -but little for the fêtes which they gave to celebrate her arrival in -the kingdom, and the Prince himself took but a trifling share in them. -When one is really in love, there is no true pleasure but that of being -loved in return. - -The King and Queen, apprised by Lumineuse of what had occurred, -hastened to rejoin their amiable daughter; and in their presence the -generous Fairy declared that the lovely Aimée had had the honour of -putting an end to the adventure of the Castle of Portraits, because -nothing had ever appeared so beautiful as herself in all the world. - -The love of the Prince of the Pleasant Island was too violent to endure -delay, so he begged the King and Queen to consent to the fulfilment of -his happiness. Lumineuse herself honoured with her presence a day so -fair and so much desired. The nuptials were celebrated with all the -magnificence which might be expected from fairies and kings; but happy -as was the day, I will not attempt a description of it, for, however -agreeable to the lovers themselves, a wedding is almost always a dull -affair to the general company. - - While Love in turn upon the tender strings - Of human hearts with hope and fear can play, - Lovers and poets have a thousand things, - More or less sweet and eloquent, to say. - But soon as entered Hymen's happy state - Apollo and the Muses all seem dumb. - Of author and of husband 'tis the fate - To fail in an Epithalamium! - - -FOOTNOTES: - -[10] A Michel Duboulay, or Duboulai, was the author of two -operas, entitled, _Zephyr et Flore_ and _Orphée_; but the music of -these is said to have been composed by Lulli. - - - - -MADEMOISELLE DE LA FORCE. - - - - -FAIRER THAN A FAIRY. - - -There was once upon a time, in Europe, a King, who having already -several children by a princess whom he had married, took it into his -head to travel from one end of his kingdom to the other. He passed -his time in visiting one province after another very pleasantly; but -while he was staying in a beautiful castle at the extremity of his -dominions, the Queen, his wife, was brought to bed there of a daughter, -who appeared so exceedingly lovely at the moment of her birth, that the -courtiers, either on account of the child's beauty, or to ingratiate -themselves with the parents, named her "Fairer than a Fairy;" and it -will be seen how well she merited so illustrious a title. The Queen -had scarcely recovered, when she was obliged to follow the King, her -husband, who had departed in haste to defend a distant province which -his enemies had invaded. - -Little Fairer than a Fairy was left behind with her governess and the -ladies who attended on her; they brought her up with the utmost care, -and as her father was involved in a long and cruel war, she had plenty -of time during his absence to increase in stature and beauty. That -beauty rendered her famous in all the surrounding countries; nothing -else was spoken of, and at twelve years old she might more easily be -taken for a divinity than for a mortal. One of her brothers came to see -her during a truce, and conceived the most perfect affection for her. - -Meanwhile, however, the fame of her beauty and the name she bore so -irritated the fairies against her, that there was nothing they did not -think of to revenge themselves on her, for the presumption implied by -such a title, and to destroy a beauty of which they were so jealous. - -The Queen of the Fairies was not one of those good fairies who are -the protectors of virtue, and who have no pleasure but in doing good. -Many centuries having elapsed since she had attained royalty by her -profound learning and art, her great age had caused her to dwindle in -stature, and she was now only called by the nickname of Nabote. Nabote -accordingly summoned a council, and made known to them her resolution -to avenge, not only the beauties of her own court, but those of the -entire world; that she had determined to go and see for herself, and -carry off this paragon whose reputation was so injurious to their -charms. It was no sooner said than done. She set out, and, clothed in a -very plain garb, transported herself to the castle which contained this -marvellous creature. She soon made herself at home in it, and induced -by her cunning the ladies of the Princess to receive her amongst them. -But Nabote was struck with astonishment when, after having carefully -examined the castle, she discovered by means of her art that it had -been constructed by a great magician, and that he had endowed it with -a virtue by the power of which no one could leave its walls or the -surrounding pleasure-grounds but of their own free will, and that -it was not possible to use any sort of enchantment against those -persons who inhabited it. This secret was not unknown to the governess -of Fairer than a Fairy, who, well aware of the invaluable treasure -committed to her charge, still felt no alarm on her account, knowing -that no one in the world could take from her this young princess, -so long as she should not go outside the castle or the gardens. She -had expressly forbidden her to do so, and Fairer, who had already a -large share of discretion, had never failed in taking this precaution. -A thousand lovers had made fruitless efforts to carry her off; but -knowing herself secure within those limits, she did not fear their -violence. - -Nabote did not require much time to insinuate herself into her good -graces; she taught her to do beautiful kinds of work, and rendered her -lessons agreeable by recounting pleasant stories. She neglected nothing -which could divert her, and naturally pleased her so much, that at -length one was never seen without the other. - -Amidst all her attentions, however, Nabote was not less occupied with -her schemes of revenge; she sought for an opportunity of inducing -Fairer than a Fairy, by some cunning pretence, only to put her foot -over the threshold of one of the castle gates. She was always prepared -to pounce on and fly away with her. One day that she had led her into -the garden, and the young maidens of her Court, having gathered some -flowers, had crowned with them the beautiful head of Fairer than a -Fairy, Nabote opened a little door which led into the fields, and -passing out at it, played an hundred antics, which caused the Princess -and the young folks who surrounded her to laugh heartily. All at once -the wicked Nabote pretended to be taken ill, and the next minute she -fell down, as if swooning away. Some of the young maidens ran to assist -her, and Fairer flew also to her side. But hardly had the unhappy child -passed the fatal gate than Nabote sprang up, seized her with a powerful -arm, and making a circle with her wand, a thick black fog arose, which -dispersing again almost immediately, the ground was seen to open -and two moles emerged, with wings formed of rose-leaves, drawing an -ebony car, and Nabote placing herself in it with Fairer than a Fairy, -it ascended into the air, and cleaving it with incredible velocity, -disappeared entirely from the sight of the young maidens, who by their -cries and tears soon announced to all the castle the loss they had -sustained. - -Fairer than a Fairy only recovered from her first astonishment to -fall into another still more fearful; the rapidity with which the car -passed through the air had so bewildered her that she almost lost -consciousness; at length, reviving a little, she cast down her eyes. -What was her alarm to find nothing beneath her but the vast extent of -the shoreless ocean. She uttered a piercing cry, turned round, and -seeing near her her dear Nabote, she embraced her tenderly and held her -close in her arms as one naturally would to re-assure oneself. But the -Fairy repulsed her rudely:--"Off! audacious child," said she. "Behold -in me your mortal foe. I am the Queen of the Fairies, and you are about -to pay to me the penalty of your insolence in assuming the proud name -which you bear." - -Fairer, trembling at these words more than if a thunderbolt had fallen -at her feet, felt greater alarm at them than at the dreadful road she -was travelling. At length, however, the car alighted in the midst -of the magnificent court-yard of the most superb palace that ever -was seen. The sight of so beautiful a palace somewhat re-assured the -timid Princess, especially when she descended from the car, and she -saw an hundred young beauties, who came with much deference to pay -their respects to the Fairy. So charming a residence did not appear to -announce misfortune to her. She had also one consolation which does -not fail to flatter one in similar situations: she remarked that all -those beautiful persons were struck with admiration on beholding her, -and she heard a confused murmur of praise and envy which gratified her -marvellously. - -But how speedily was this little feeling of vanity extinguished! Nabote -imperiously commanded them to strip Fairer of her beautiful clothes, -thinking thereby to take from her a portion of her charms. They pulled -them off, accordingly, but only to increase the fury of Nabote, for -what beauties were then disclosed to view, and to what shame did they -put all the fairies in the world! They re-clothed her in old shabby -garments. But in this state, one would have said her natural and -simple loveliness was determined to show how independent it was of the -assistance of the most costly ornaments; never did she appear more -charming! Nabote then ordered them to conduct her to the place which -she had prepared for her, and to set her her task. Two fairies took her -and made her pass through the most beautiful and sumptuous apartments -that could possibly be seen. Fairer noticed them, in spite of her -misery, and said to herself, "Whatever torments they may prepare for -me, my heart tells me I shall not always be miserable in this beautiful -palace." - -They made her descend a large staircase of black marble, which had more -than a thousand steps: she thought she was going into the bowels of -the earth, or rather, that they were conducting her into the infernal -regions. At length they entered a small cabinet, wainscoted with ebony, -where they told her she would have to sleep on a little straw, and that -there was an ounce of bread with a cup of water for her supper. From -thence they made her pass into a great gallery, the walls of which -were entirely composed of black marble, and which had no light but -that afforded by five lamps of jet, which threw a sombre glare over -the place, more alarming than cheering. These gloomy walls were hung -with cobwebs from top to bottom, and such was their peculiarity, that -the more they were swept away the more they multiplied. The two fairies -told the Princess that this gallery must be swept clean by break of -day, or that she would be made to suffer the most frightful torments, -and after placing a ladder, and giving her a broom of rushes, they bade -her set to work, and left her. - -Fairer than a Fairy sighed, and not knowing the peculiarity of those -cobwebs, courageously resolved, notwithstanding the great length of -the gallery, to execute the task imposed on her. She took her broom, -and mounted the ladder nimbly, but, O Heavens! what was her surprise -when, as she endeavoured to sweep the marble and clear off the cobwebs, -she found they increased in proportion to her exertions! She fatigued -herself by persevering for some time, but perceiving sorrowfully, at -length, that it was all in vain, she threw down her broom, descended -the ladder, and seating herself on the last step of it, began to weep -bitterly, and to foresee the extent of her misfortune. Her sobs came -at length so fast that she could no longer support herself, when, -raising her head a little, her eyes were dazzled by a brilliant light. -The gallery was in an instant illuminated from end to end, and she saw -kneeling before her a youth so beautiful and charming, that at the -first glance she took him for Cupid, but she remembered that Love is -always painted naked, and this handsome youth was dressed in a suit -of clothes covered with jewels. She was not sure, also, that all the -light she perceived did not proceed from his eyes, so beautiful and -brilliant did they appear to her. This young man continued to gaze upon -her, still kneeling. She felt inclined to kneel too. "Who art thou?" -she exclaimed, in amazement. "Art thou a God? Art thou Love?" "I am not -a God," he replied, "but I have more love in me than is to be found in -heaven or earth beside. I am Phratis, son of the Queen of the Fairies, -who loves you and will aid you." Then, taking up the broom which she -had thrown down, he touched all the cobwebs, which immediately turned -to cloth-of-gold of marvellous workmanship, the lamps becoming bright -and shining; Phratis then, giving a golden key to the Princess, said, -"In the principal panel of your cell you will find a lock; open it -gently. Adieu, I must retire for fear of being suspected: go to rest; -you will find all that is necessary for your repose." Then placing one -knee on the ground, he respectfully kissed her hand and disappeared. - -Fairer, more surprised at this adventure than at anything else which -had happened to her during the day, re-entered her little apartment, -and looked about for the lock of which he had spoken, when, on -approaching the wainscot, she heard the most gentle voice in the -world apparently deploring some misfortune, and she imagined it must -proceed from some wretched being persecuted as she was. She listened -attentively. "Alas! what shall I do?" said the voice. "They bid me -change this bushel of acorns into oriental pearls!" Fairer than a -Fairy, less astonished than she would have been two hours before, -struck two or three times on the panel, and said pretty loudly, "If -they impose hard tasks in this place, miracles are at the same time -performed here--therefore, hope! But tell me, I pray, who you are, and -I will tell you who I am." "It is more agreeable to me to satisfy your -curiosity than to continue my employment," replied the other person. -"I am the daughter of a King; they say I was born charming, but the -fairies did not assist at my birth, and you know they are cruel to -those whom they have not taken under their protection directly they -come into the world." "Ah! I know it too well," replied Fairer; "I -am handsome, like yourself, the daughter of a King, and unfortunate, -because I am agreeable without the assistance of their gifts." "We -are, then, companions in misfortune," returned the other. "But are -you in love?" "Not far from it," said Fairer, in a low voice; "but -continue your story," said she aloud, "and do not question me more." -"I was considered," continued the other, "the most charming creature -that had ever existed, and everybody loved me and wished to possess -me: they called me Désirs; my will was law, and I was treasured in -all hearts. A young prince, the most enthusiastic of my adorers, -abandoned everything for me. My encouragement of his hopes transported -him with delight. We were about to be united for ever, when the -fairies, jealous at beholding me the object of universal admiration, -and detesting the sight of attractions which they had not bestowed, -carried me off one day in the midst of my triumphs, and consigned me -to this horrid place. They have threatened that they will strangle me -to-morrow morning if I have not performed a preposterous task which -they have imposed upon me. Now, tell me quickly, who are you?" "I have -told you all," replied Fairer, "but my name. They call me Fairer than -a Fairy." "You must, then, be very beautiful," replied the Princess -Désirs; "I should like excessively to see you." "I am quite as anxious -to see you," replied Fairer. "Is there a door hereabouts, for I have -a little key which perhaps may be of use to you." Looking narrowly -round, she discovered one which she was able to open, and pushing it, -the two Princesses met face to face, and were equally surprised at the -marvellous beauty of each other. - -After embracing affectionately, and saying many civil things to -one another, Fairer began to laugh at seeing the Princess Désirs -continually rubbing her acorns with a little white stone, as she had -been ordered to do. She told her of the task which they had imposed -upon her, and how miraculously she had been assisted by a charming -unknown being! "But who can it be?" said the Princess Désirs. "I think -it is a man," replied Fairer. "A man!" cried Désirs. "You blush--you -love him!" "No, not yet," replied Fairer; "but he has told me he loves -me; and if he loves me as he says, he shall assist you." Hardly had -she uttered these words, when the bushel measure began to shake, and -agitating the acorns, as the oak on which they had grown might have -done, they were instantly changed into the most beautiful pear-shaped -pearls of the first water. It was one of these which Cleopatra -dissolved in wine at the costly banquet she made for Mark Antony. - -The two Princesses were delighted at the exchange, and Fairer than a -Fairy, who began to be accustomed to wonders, leading Désirs by the -hand, returned into her own chamber, and finding the panel containing -the lock of which the stranger had spoken, she opened it with her -golden key, and entered an apartment, the magnificence of which both -surprised and affected her, as she saw in everything it contained the -attention of her lover. It was strewn with the most beautiful flowers, -and exhaled a divine perfume. At one end of this charming room there -was a table covered with all that could gratify the most refined taste, -and two fountains of liqueurs which flowed into basins of porphyry. -The young Princesses seated themselves in two ivory chairs, enriched -with emeralds; they ate with a good appetite, and when they had supped, -the table disappeared, and in its place arose a delicious bath, into -which they stepped together. At a few paces from them they observed -a superb toilet-table, and large baskets of gold wire full of linen -of such exquisite purity that it made them long to make use of it. A -bed of singular form and extraordinary richness, occupied the further -end of this marvellous chamber, which was lined with orange-trees in -golden boxes studded with rubies, while rows of cornelian columns -sustained the sumptuous roof, divided only by immense crystal mirrors -which reached from the ground to the ceiling. Several consoles, of rare -materials, supported vases of precious stones, filled with all sorts of -flowers. - -The Princess Désirs admired the good fortune of her companion, -and, turning to her, observed, "Your lover is indeed gallant; he -can do much, and he will do everything for you; your happiness is -extraordinary." A clock striking midnight repeated at each stroke the -name of Phratis. Fairer than a Fairy coloured, and threw herself on the -couch. She trusted to repose, but her sleep was troubled by the image -of Phratis. - -The next morning there was great astonishment in the Court of -the Fairies at seeing the gallery so richly decorated, and the -bushel-measure full of beautiful pearls. They had hoped to punish the -young Princesses: their cruelty was disappointed. They found each -alone in her little chamber. After consulting together again, in order -to devise some tasks which could not possibly be accomplished, they -told Désirs to go to the sea-shore and write on the sand, with express -orders to take care that what she wrote there could never be effaced. -And they commanded Fairer to go to the foot of Mount Adventurous, to -fly to the top, and bring them a vase full of the water of immortality. -For this purpose they gave her a quantity of feathers and wax, in -hopes that, by making wings for herself, she might perish like another -Icarus. Désirs and Fairer looked at each other on hearing these -dreadful commands, and, embracing tenderly, they separated, as if -taking an eternal farewell. The fairies conducted one to the sea-shore -and the other to the foot of Mount Adventurous. - -When Fairer was left by herself she took the feathers and wax, and -made some vain attempts to form wings with them. After having worked -for some time most ineffectually, her thoughts reverted to Phratis. "If -you loved me," said she, "you would come to my assistance." Hardly had -she finished the last word when she saw him stand before her, looking -a thousand times more beautiful than on the preceding night. The full -light of day was an advantage to him. "Do you doubt my affection?" said -he. "Is anything difficult to him who loves you?" He then requested -her to take off some portion of her dress, and having kissed her hand -as a recompense, he transformed himself suddenly to an eagle. She was -rather sorry to see so charming a person thus metamorphosed, but, -placing himself at her feet, he extended his wings, and made her easily -comprehend his design. Reclining upon him, she encircled his proud neck -with her beautiful arms, and he rose with her gently into the air. -It would be difficult to say which was the most gratified--she, at -escaping death in the execution of the order given her, or he, at being -permitted to bear such a precious burden. - -He carried her gently to the summit of the mountain, where she heard -an harmonious concert warbled by a thousand birds that came to render -homage to the divine bird which bore her. The top of this mountain was -a flowery plain, surrounded by fine cedars, in the midst of which was a -little stream, whose silvery waves rolled over golden sands strewn with -brilliant diamonds. Fairer than a Fairy knelt down, and first of all -took some of this precious water in her hand, and drank it. After this -she filled her vase, and, turning towards her eagle, said, "Ah, how I -wish that Désirs had some of this water!" Scarcely had she spoken these -words than the Eagle flew down, took one of the slippers of Fairer, -and returning with it, filled it with water, and carried it to the -sea-shore, where the Princess Désirs was occupied in fruitless attempts -to write indelibly on the sand. - -The Eagle returned to Fairer, and resumed his beautiful burden. "Alas!" -said she, "what is Désirs doing? Take me to her." He obeyed. They found -her still writing, and as fast as she wrote, a wave came and effaced -what she had written. "What cruelty," said the Princess to Fairer, -"to command what it is impossible to accomplish! I imagine, from the -strange mode of your conveyance, that you have succeeded." Fairer -alighted, and, moved by the misfortune of her companion, she turned -towards her lover, and thus addressed him, "Give me proof of your -omnipotence." "Or rather of my love," interrupted the Prince, resuming -his proper form. Désirs, observing the beauty and grace of his person, -cast on him a look of surprise and delight. Fairer coloured, and by -a movement over which she had no control, placed herself before him -so as to hide him from her companion. "Do as you are told," continued -she, with a charming air of uneasiness. Phratis knew his happiness, and -wishing to terminate as speedily as possible her trouble, "Read," said -he, and disappeared swifter than a flash of lightning. - -At the same instant a wave broke at the feet of Fairer, and in retiring -left behind a brazen tablet, as firmly fixed in the sand as if it had -been there from all eternity, and would remain immovable to the end of -the world. As she looked at it, she perceived letters forming on it, -deeply engraved, which composed these lines:-- - - The vows of common love in sand are traced, - And, even 'graved in brass, may be effaced; - But those which are inspired by your bright eyes, - In starry words are written in the skies. - Nought can destroy those characters divine, - Eternal as the heavens in which they shine. - -"I understand," cried Désirs: "he who loves you, must always love! -How well your charming swain expresses his feelings." She then -embraced Fairer than a Fairy, who soon, in her arms, recovered from -the confusion occasioned by the little feeling of jealousy she had -experienced, and confessed it to her friend, who accused her of it; -and both, confirmed in their friendship, abandoned themselves to the -pleasure of an agreeable and affectionate conversation. - -Queen Nabote sent messengers to the foot of the mountain to find what -was become of Fairer than a Fairy. They found the scattered feathers, -and a part of her clothes, and consequently believed she had been -dashed to pieces, as they desired. - -Full of this idea, the fairies ran to the sea-shore; they exclaimed at -the sight of the brazen tablet, and were overwhelmed at perceiving the -two Princesses calmly seated in conversation on a jutting piece of -rock. They called to them. Fairer presented her vase full of the water -of immortality, and laughed in secret with Désirs at the fury of the -fairies. - -The Queen was not to be jested with. She knew that a power as great -as her own must have assisted them, and her rage increased to such a -pitch, that without hesitating an instant, she determined on effecting -their ruin by a final and most cruel trial. - -Désirs was condemned to go on the morrow to the Fair of Time, to fetch -the Rouge of Youth, and Fairer than a Fairy to proceed to the Wood of -Wonders, and capture the Hind with Silver Feet. - -The Princess Désirs was conducted to a vast plain, at the end of which -was an immense building, divided into galleries full of shops so superb -that no comparison could be found for them but in the recollections of -the magnificent entertainments at Marly.[11] These shops were kept by -young and agreeable fairies, assisted by their favoured lovers. - -As soon as Désirs appeared, her charms fascinated everybody. She took -possession of all hearts. In the first shops she entered she excited -much commiseration by asking for the Rouge of Youth. None would tell -her where to find it, because, when it was not a fairy who came in -search of it, it was a sure sign of torment to the person who was -charged with this dangerous commission. The good fairies told Désirs -to return, and to inquire no further for what she sought. She was so -beautiful that they ran before her wherever she went, in order to gaze -at her. Her ill-luck, however, led her to the shop of a wicked fairy. -Hardly had she asked for the Rouge of Youth, on the part of the Queen -of the Fairies, than, darting a terrible glance at her, she told her -that she had it, and that she would give it her the next morning, and -ordered her to enter a room and wait till it was prepared for her. They -led her into a dark and pestilential place, where she could not see her -hand before her. She was overcome with terror. "Ah!" she exclaimed, -"charming lover of Fairer than a Fairy, haste to my rescue, or I am -lost!" - -But he was deaf to her appeal, or unable to act as he had done in -other places. Désirs tormented herself half the night and slept the -remainder, when she was awakened by a good-looking girl, who brought -her a little food, telling her that it was sent her by the favourite -of the Fairy, her mistress, who was resolved to assist her, and that -it would be fortunate for her if such were the case, because the Fairy -had sent for an evil spirit, who, by breathing on her face, would make -her hideous, and in that frightful state she would be ignominiously -sent back to the Queen of the Fairies, who, with all her Court, would -triumph in her misfortunes. - -The Princess Désirs felt frightened to death at this threat of losing -in a moment all her beauty, and wished rather to die outright. Her -agony was horrible; she groped about her dark prison in vain hope of -discovering some mode of escape, when some one took her by the arm, -and she felt in her heart a sensation of pleasure. She was gently led -towards a spot where she began to perceive a little light, and when -her eyes became accustomed to it, she was struck by the appearance -of what was to her the most charming object in the world, for she -recognised that dear Prince who loved her so truly, and from whom -they had separated her on the eve of her wedding. Her transport, her -delight, was extreme. "Is it you?" she exclaimed a hundred times. -At length, when fully persuaded of the fact, and forgetting all her -own troubles--"But are you the favourite of this wretched Fairy?" -she continued. "Is it with this fine title that I again behold you." -"Undoubtedly," replied he; "and we shall owe to it the end of our -troubles, and the certainty of our happiness." - -He then recounted to her how, in despair at her being carried off, he -had gone to seek a wise old man, who had informed him where she was, -and assured him that he would never recover her but in the Kingdom -of the Fairies; that he had furnished him with the means of finding -it, but that he had been arrested in his pursuit of her by this cruel -Fairy, who had fallen in love with him; that, following the advice of -the sage, he had dissembled, and by his docility had obtained such an -influence over her, that he had the care of all her treasure, and was -the minister of all her power; that she had just departed on a journey -of six thousand leagues; that she would not return for twelve days; -and that, therefore, they should lose no time in escaping; that he -was going into his cabinet to fetch a part of the gem of the ring of -Gyges[12]; that she should put it on, and thereby becoming invisible, -she could pass anywhere: as for himself, he could show himself as he -pleased. "Do not forget," said she, "the Rouge of Youth; I wish to put -some on, and to give some to one of my companions." - -The Prince smiled. "Whither shall we go?" continued she. "To the Queen -of the Fairies," he replied. "No, that will never do," she exclaimed; -"we shall perish there!" "The sage who counselled me," pursued he, -"told me to lead you back to the place from whence you came last, if -I wished to be assured of happiness: he has never yet deceived me in -anything whatever." "Well, then, so be it," said Désirs; "we will go -there." - -The Prince brought her a valuable box, in which was the Rouge of -Youth; and with the hope of making herself appear more beautiful still -in the eyes of her lover, she rubbed some hastily all over her face, -forgetting that she was invisible by means of the gem which he had -given her. She took him by the arm. They traversed in this manner the -whole of the Fair, and were soon close to the palace of the Queen. -There the Prince resumed the gem of Gyges. The beautiful Désirs became -visible, and he became invisible, to the great regret of the Princess, -whom he took by the arm in his turn, and presented her before Nabote -and her Court. All the fairies looked at each other in excessive -astonishment at seeing Désirs return with the Rouge of Youth, and the -Queen, frowning awfully, desired them to guard her strictly. "Our arts -are vain," said she. "We must put her to death, without trying any more -experiments." - -The sentence was pronounced. Désirs trembled with fear; her lover -re-assured her as much as he could. - -But we must return to Fairer than a Fairy. They had conducted her to -the Wood of Wonders, and here is the reason why they had condemned her -to chase the Silver-footed Hind:-- - -Once upon a time there had been a Queen of the Fairies who had -succeeded in due course to that grand title; she was beautiful, good, -and wise. She had had several lovers, whose affections and attentions -had, however, been lost upon her. Entirely occupied in protecting -virtue, she found no amusement in listening to the sighs of her -adorers. There was one whom her coldness rendered the most unhappy, -because he loved her better than any of the others. - -One day, seeing that he could not move her to pity him, he protested, -in his despair, that he would kill himself. She was not affected even -at this threat, considering it merely as one of those extravagances -in which lovers sometimes indulge, but which never have any serious -result. However, some time after, he really did throw himself into the -sea. - -A sage, who had brought up this young man, complained to the supreme -authorities, and the insensible Fairy was condemned to do penance for -her severity in the form of a hind, for the term of one hundred years, -unless an accomplished beauty could be found, who, by venturing to hunt -her for ten days in the Wood of Wonders, could take her and restore her -to her original shape. Forty years had already elapsed since she had -been first transformed. - -At the commencement of her penance several beauties had risked the -trial of this fine adventure, from which so much honour was to be -derived. Each hoped to be the fortunate huntress; but as they lost -themselves in the pursuit, and at the end of ten days were no more -heard of, this ardour began to cool, and for some time past no beauty -had voluntarily offered herself; those who had recently undertaken the -task being condemned to it by the Fairies, in order to ensure their -destruction. It was, thus, to get rid of Fairer that they led her to -the Wood of Wonders. They gave her a small portion of food, for form's -sake, and placed in her hand a silken cord, with a running noose to -catch the deer. That was all her outfit for the chase. She deposited -what they gave her at the foot of a tree, and when she found herself -alone she cast a look round this vast forest, in the profound silence -and solitude of which she saw nothing but despair. - -She was anxious to remain at the skirt of the forest, and not to enter -it too far, so in order to know the spot again, she placed a mark -at the point from which she started. But, alas! how did she deceive -herself! Every one lost themselves in this forest, without being -able to issue from it. In one of the paths she caught sight of the -Silver-footed Hind walking slowly. She approached it, with her silken -cord in her hand, thinking to take it; but the deer, feeling itself -pursued, started off at full speed, stopping from time to time, and -turning its head towards Fairer. They were in sight of each other all -day without being any nearer. At last night separated them. - -The poor huntress was very tired and very hungry, but she no longer -knew where to find the little provision she had had given her, and -there was nothing but the hard ground for her to repose upon. She -lay down, therefore, very sadly, under a tree; she could not sleep -for a long time--she was frightened; the least thing alarmed her: a -leaf shaken by the wind made her tremble. In this miserable state she -turned her thoughts on her lover, and called him several times; but -finding him fail her in her great distress, she exclaimed, with tears -in her eyes, "Phratis! Phratis! you have abandoned me!" She was just -dropping asleep, when she felt a movement beneath her, and it seemed to -her as though she was in the best bed in the world. She slept soundly -for a considerable time, without any interruption. She was awoke in -the morning by the song of a thousand nightingales, and, turning her -beautiful eyes around, she found she was raised two feet from the -earth, the turf having sprung up under her lovely form, and thus made -a delicious couch. A large orange-tree threw its branches over her -like a tent, and she was covered with flowers. By her side were two -turtle-doves, who announced to her, by their love for each other, what -she might hope for with Phratis. The ground was entirely covered with -strawberries and all sorts of excellent fruits; she ate of them, and -found herself as well satisfied and as much strengthened by them as -though they had been the richest and best kind of meats. A stream which -flowed close by served to allay her thirst. "Oh, ye tender cares of my -lover," cried she, when she had refreshed herself, "how much I needed -you! I murmur no longer. Give me less, dearest, and let me see you!" - -She would have continued in this strain had she not perceived, -stretched close to her, the Silver-footed Hind, quietly gazing at her. -She thought this time she must catch it: with one hand she held out -to it a bunch of grass, and with the other grasped the cord; but the -deer bounded lightly away, and when it had gone a short distance, it -stopped, and looked back at her. It kept up this game all day. Another -night came, and passed like the one before it. She awoke under similar -circumstances, and four days and nights elapsed in the like manner. -At length, on the fifth morning, Fairer than a Fairy, on opening her -eyes, thought she saw a light more brilliant than that of day, when she -perceived, in those of her lover, seated near her, all the affection -with which she had inspired him. He fervently kissed one of her feet; -his presence and this respectful action gratified her greatly. "You -are there, then," said she. "If I have not beheld you all these days, -I have, at all events, received the proofs of your goodness." "Say of -my love, Fairer than a Fairy," replied he. "My mother suspects that it -is I who assist you: she has placed me in confinement. I have escaped a -moment, by means of a fairy of my acquaintance. Adieu! I came only to -encourage you. You shall see me this evening, and if fortune smiles, -to-morrow we shall be happy." He departed, and she hunted again all -day. When night came, she perceived near her a little light, which -sufficed to show her her lover. "Here is my illuminated wand," said he: -"place it before you, and go without fear wherever it will lead you. -Where it stops you will perceive a great heap of dry leaves; set fire -to it, enter the place; you will see and you will find the skin of a -beast; burn it. The stars, our friends, will do the rest. Adieu!" - -Fairer than a Fairy would have desired far more ample instructions; -but seeing there was no remedy, she placed the wand before her, which -showed her the way. She followed it nearly two hours, very much vexed -at doing nothing else. It stopped at last, and there, truly enough, she -perceived a large heap of dried leaves, to which she did not fail to -set fire. The light was soon so great that she could see a very high -mountain, in which she observed an opening half hid by brambles. She -separated them with her wand, and entered a dark hole; but soon after -she found herself in a vast saloon, of admirable architecture, and -lighted with numberless lamps. But what struck her with the greatest -astonishment was the sight of the skins of several wild and terrible -beasts, hung on golden hooks, which at first she mistook for the -beasts themselves. She turned away her eyes with horror, and they -were arrested in the centre of the saloon by the sight of a beautiful -palm-tree, upon one of the branches of which was suspended the skin -of the Hind with the silver feet. Fairer than a Fairy was enchanted -at seeing it, and taking it down with the aid of her wand, she -carried it quickly to the fire which she had lighted at the entrance -of the cavern. It was consumed in a moment, and re-entering joyfully -the saloon, she penetrated into several magnificent apartments. She -stopped in one, where she saw several small couches placed upon Persian -carpets, and one more beautiful than the rest under a canopy of -cloth-of-gold. But she had not much time to contemplate arrangements -which appeared to her singular, for she heard hearty peals of laughter -and several persons in loud conversation. Fairer than a Fairy turned -her steps in the direction from which the sounds proceeded, and entered -a wonderful place, where she found fifteen young ladies of celestial -beauty. - -She did not surprise them less than she was surprised herself: the -extreme loveliness of her appearance took away their breath, and a deep -silence succeeded to cries of admiration. But one of these beautiful -persons, more beautiful than all the rest, advanced, with a smiling -air, towards our charming Princess. "You are my deliverer," said she, -addressing her; "I cannot doubt it; no one can enter here who is not -clothed in the skin of one of the beasts which you saw at the entrance -of the cavern; that has been the fate of all these beautiful persons -whom you see with me. After ten days of useless pursuit of me, they -were changed into so many animals during the day; but at night we -resume our human forms: and you, charming Princess, if you had not -delivered me, would have been changed into a white rabbit." "A white -rabbit!" exclaimed Fairer. "Ah, Madam, it is indeed better that I -should preserve my ordinary form, and that so wonderful a person as you -should be no longer a deer." "You have restored us all to liberty," -replied the Fairy; "let us now pass the rest of the night as joyously -as may be, and to-morrow we will go to the Palace, and fill all the -Court with astonishment." - -It is impossible to express the joy which resounded in this charming -spot, and the delight which all these young persons felt at the sweet -sensation of finding themselves once more in the land of the living, -so to speak--they were all still of the same age as when they commenced -their unfortunate chase in the Wood of Wonders, and the eldest was not -yet twenty. - -The Fairy desired to take three or four hours' repose. She made Fairer -lie down beside her, and relate her adventures. She did so with so -touching a voice, her discourse was so unaffected and so full of truth, -that she engaged the Fairy without reserve to assist her love and -render her happy. She did not forget to speak to her of Désirs, and the -Fairy was immediately interested in her favour. - -They went to sleep, after a long conversation, which they had agreeably -interrupted, from time to time, by the interchange of affectionate -caresses. - -The next day they all set out for the Palace, wishing pleasantly -to surprise the fairies. They quitted, without regret, the Wood of -Wonders, and quickly arrived at the Palace. As they approached the -inner court, they heard a thousand melodious sounds, which composed -an excellent concert. "Here is a fête going on," said the Fairy; "we -have arrived _à propos_;" and advancing, they found the court filled -with an incredible number of people. The Fairy caused the gate to be -opened, and entered with her train. The first persons who recognised -her, uttered the loudest exclamations of delight, and the cause of this -great joy was quickly made known to the multitude. But on advancing, -the Fairy was struck by a strange spectacle. She saw a young girl more -lovely than the Graces, and with the form of Venus, bound to a stake -near a pile of wood, where apparently she was about to be burnt to -death. - -Fairer than a Fairy uttered a loud cry, as she recognised Désirs; but -she was much astonished when, at the same moment, she lost sight of -her, and a young man appeared in her place, so handsome and so well -made that one might never be tired of looking at him. At this sight -Fairer uttered a still louder cry, and running towards him, without -any regard to appearances, she flung herself on his neck, exclaiming -a thousand times, "It is my brother! it is my brother." It was her -brother, who was also the fortunate lover of Princess Désirs, and who, -fearing they would put her to death, had given her the Gem of Gyges to -rescue her from the cruelty of Queen Nabote, and by so doing, became -himself visible. - -The brother and sister lavished a hundred caresses on each other; the -invisible Désirs added hers, and her voice was heard, although she -was not to be seen, whilst the fairies, in unparalleled astonishment, -expressed in every variety of manner their rapture at again beholding -their virtuous Queen. The good fairies came and threw themselves at -her feet, kissing her hand and her garments. Some wept, some were -unable to speak; each testified her joy according to her peculiar -character. The bad fairies, the partisans of Nabote, also pretended to -be delighted, and policy gave an air of sincerity to their hypocritical -demonstrations. Nabote herself, in despair at this return, controlled -herself with an art of which she alone was capable. She offered at -once to resign her power to the rightful sovereign, who, with a grave -and majestic air, demanded of her why the young girl whom she had seen -bound to the stake merited such a punishment, and since when they had -been accustomed to celebrate a cruel execution by fêtes and sports. -Nabote excused herself very lamely, and the Queen listened impatiently -when the lover of Désirs spoke thus: "They punish this Princess," said -he, "because she is too amiable; they torment for the same reason the -Princess my sister. They were both born as handsome as you now behold -them." He then begged his lady-love to cover up the Gem of Gyges, and -she immediately appeared again. Désirs charmed all who saw her. "They -are beautiful," pursued he; "they possess a thousand virtues which -they do not derive from the fairies; that is why they are roused up -to persecute them. What injustice, to tyrannize over all those whose -charms do not emanate from yourselves." The Prince paused: the Queen -turned towards the assembly with an agreeable air. "I demand," said -she, "that these three persons shall be given up to me; they shall -enjoy the most happy fate that can fall to the lot of mortals. I owe -much to Fairer than a Fairy, and she shall be rewarded for the service -she has done me by uninterrupted felicity. You shall continue to reign, -Madam," added she, turning to Nabote: "this empire is sufficiently -large for you and me. Go to the Beautiful Islands, which belong to you. -Leave me your son; I will share my power with him, and I will marry him -to Fairer than a Fairy; this union will reconcile us to one another." - -Nabote was enraged at all these decisions of the Queen, but it was of -no use to complain, she was not the strongest. She had but to obey. -She was about to do so with a bad grace, when the beautiful Phratis -arrived, followed by a gallant train of youths who composed his Court; -he came to pay his homage to the Queen, and manifest his joy at her -return. But in passing, he cast a look at Fairer than a Fairy, and made -her comprehend by his passionate glances that she was the first object -of his devotion. - -The Queen embraced him, and presented him to Fairer, begging him to -accept her at her hands. There is no need to say he obeyed joyfully, -exclaiming with transport, - - "Oh Love! for all my tender care and aid, - By this rich guerdon I am overpaid!" - -The two marriages were celebrated on the same day. Both couples were -so happy, that 'tis said they are the only pairs who have ever really -gained the golden Vine,[13] and that those who have been since named as -having done so are purely fabulous personages. - -Thus innocence triumphs over the misfortunes with which it is assailed. -Envy and jealousy only serve to increase its lustre; and often the -justice of Heaven renders its possessors happier for the trials they -have undergone. There is a Providence which watches over the conduct of -mortals, and delights in rewarding the worthy, even in this world. - - -FOOTNOTES: - -[11] A favourite palace of Louis XIV., four leagues west -of Paris, and the scene of many celebrated entertainments. It was -destroyed in the Revolution of 1789. - -[12] A shepherd who, according to the story told by Plato, was -possessed of a ring which he took off the finger of a dead man enclosed -in the body of a brazen horse, and which rendered the wearer invisible. -By means of this ring he became King of Lydia. - -[13] _La vigne d'or_, more commonly _la vigne de l'évêque_. -"On dit d'un mari et d'une femme qui passent la première année de leur -mariage sans s'en repentir, qu'ils auront la vigne de l'evêque."--P. -J. Le Roux, _Dictionnaire Comique_. In the only English version I have -seen of this story, "the golden vine" is of course transformed into -"the flitch of bacon." - - - - -THE GOOD WOMAN. - - -There was once upon a time a Good Woman, who was kind, candid, and -courageous. She had experienced all the vicissitudes which can agitate -human existence. - -She had resided at Court, and had endured all the storms to which it -is so subject:--treasons, perfidies, infidelities, loss of wealth, -loss of friends. So that, disgusted with dwelling in a place in which -dissimulation and hypocrisy have established their empire, and weary -of an intercourse wherein hearts never appear as they really are, she -resolved to quit her own country and go to a distance, where she could -forget the world, and where the world would hear no more of her. - -When she believed herself far enough off, she built a small house in -an extremely agreeable situation. All she could then do was to buy a -little flock of sheep, which furnished her with food and clothing. - -She had hardly made trial of this mode of life before she found herself -perfectly happy. "There is, then, some state of existence in which -one may enjoy content," said she; "and the choice I have made leaves -me nothing to desire." She passed each day in plying her distaff and -tending her flock. She would sometimes have liked a little society, but -she feared the danger of it. She was insensibly becoming accustomed -to the life she led, when one day, as she was endeavouring to collect -her little flock, it began to scatter itself over the country and -fly from her. In fact, it fled so fast that in a very short time she -could scarcely see one of her sheep. "Am I a devouring wolf?" cried -she: "what means this wonder?" She called to a favourite ewe, but it -appeared not to know her voice. She ran after it, exclaiming, "I -will not care for losing all the rest of the flock if thou dost but -remain to me!" But the ungrateful creature continued its flight, and -disappeared with the rest. - -The Good Woman was deeply distressed at the loss she had sustained. -"I have now nothing left," cried she; "maybe I shall not find even -my garden; or my little cottage will be no longer in its place." She -returned slowly, for she was very tired with the race she had had. She -lived upon fruit and vegetables for some time after exhausting a small -stock of cheese. - -She began to see the end of all this. "Fortune," said she, "thou hast -in vain sought to persecute me even in this remote spot; thou canst not -prevent me from being ready to behold the gates of death without alarm, -and after so much trouble I shall descend with tranquillity into those -peaceful shades." - -She had nothing more to spin, she had nothing more to eat: leaning on -her distaff, she bent her steps towards a little wood, and looking -round for a place to rest in, she was astonished at seeing run towards -her three little children, more beautiful than the fairest day. She -was delighted to see such charming company. They loaded her with a -hundred caresses, and as she seated herself on the ground, in order to -receive them more conveniently, one threw its little arms round her -neck, the other encircled her waist from behind, and the third called -her "mother." She waited a long time, to see if some one would not come -to fetch them, believing that those who had led them thither would not -fail to return for them. All the day passed without her seeing any one. - -She resolved to take them to her own home, and thought Heaven had sent -her this little flock instead of the one she had lost. It was composed -of two girls, who were only two or three years old, and a little boy of -five. Each had a little ribbon round its neck, to which was attached -a small jewel. One was a golden cherry enamelled with crimson, and -engraved with the name of "Lirette." She thought that this must be -the name of the little girl who wore it, and she resolved to call her -by it. The other was a medlar, on which was written "Mirtis;" and the -little boy had an almond of green enamel, around which was written -"Finfin." The Good Woman felt perfectly satisfied that these were their -names. - -The little girls had some jewels in their head-dresses, and more than -enough to put the Good Woman in easy circumstances. She had very soon -bought another flock, and surrounded herself with everything necessary -for the maintenance of her interesting family. She made their winter -clothing of the bark of trees, and in the summer they had white cotton -dresses of the finest bleaching. - -Young as they were, they tended their flock. And this time the flock -was faithful, and was more docile and obedient to them than towards the -large dogs which guarded them; and these dogs were also gentle, and -attached to the children. They grew visibly, and passed their days most -innocently; they loved the Good Woman, and were all three excessively -fond of each other. They occupied themselves in tending their sheep, -fishing with a line, spreading nets to catch birds, working in a little -garden of their own, and employed their delicate hands in cultivating -flowers. - -There was one rose-tree, which the young Lirette was especially fond -of; she watered it often, and took the greatest care of it; she thought -nothing so beautiful as a rose, and loved it above all other flowers. -She had a fancy one day to open a bud, and try to find its heart, when -in so doing she pricked her finger with a thorn. The pain was sharp, -and she began to cry; the beautiful Finfin, who very seldom left her, -approached, and began to cry too, at seeing her suffer. He took her -little finger, pressed it, and squeezed the blood gently from it. - -The Good Woman, who saw their alarm at this accident, approached, and -learning the cause of it, "Why so inquisitive" said she; "why destroy -the flower you loved so much?" "I wanted its heart," replied Lirette. -"Such desires are always fatal," replied the Good Woman. "But, mother," -pursued Lirette, "why has this flower, which is so beautiful, and -which pleases me so much, thorns?" "To show you," said the Good Woman, -"that we must distrust the greater part of those things which please -our eyes, and that the most agreeable objects hide snares which may be -to us most deadly." "How?" replied Lirette. "Must one not then love -everything which is pleasant?" "No, certainly," said the Good Woman, -"and you must take good care not to do so." "But I love my brother with -all my heart," replied she; "he is so handsome and so charming." "You -may love your brother," replied her mother; "but if he were not your -brother you ought not to love him." - -Lirette shook her head, and thought this rule very hard. Finfin -meanwhile was still occupied with her finger; he squeezed on the wound -the juice of the rose-leaves, and wrapped it in them. The Good Woman -asked him why he did that? "Because I think," said he, "that the remedy -may be found in the same thing which has caused the evil." The Good -Woman smiled at this reason. "My dear child," replied she, "not in -this case." "I thought it was in all cases," said he; "for sometimes, -when Lirette looks at me, she troubles me greatly; I feel quite -agitated; and the moment after those same looks cause me a pleasure -which I cannot express to you. When she scolds me sometimes, I am very -wretched; but let her speak at length one gentle word to me, I am all -joy again." - -The Good Woman wondered what these children would think of next; she -did not know their relation to each other, and she dreaded their loving -each other too much. She would have given anything to learn if they -were brother and sister; her ignorance on this point caused her great -anxiety, but their extreme youth re-assured her. Finfin was already -full of attention to the little Lirette; he loved her much better -than Mirtis. He had at one time given her some young partridges, the -prettiest in the world, which he had caught. She reared one, which -became a fine bird, with very beautiful plumage; Lirette loved it -excessively, and gave it to Finfin. It followed him everywhere, and he -taught it a thousand diverting tricks. He had one day taken it with -him when going to tend his flock; on returning home he could not find -his partridge; he sought for it everywhere, and distressed himself -greatly at its loss. Mirtis tried to console him, but without success. -"Sister," he replied, "I am in despair. Lirette will be angry; all -you say to me does not diminish my grief." "Well, brother," said she, -"we will get up very early to-morrow and go in search of another; I -cannot bear to see you so miserable." Lirette arrived as she said this, -and having learnt the cause of Finfin's sorrow, she began to smile. -"My dear brother," said she to him, "we will find another partridge; -it is nothing but the state in which I see you that gives me pain." -These words sufficed to restore serenity and calm to the heart and -countenance of Finfin. - -"Why," said he to himself, "could Mirtis not restore my spirits, with -all her kindness, while Lirette has done it with a single little word? -Two is one too many--Lirette is enough for me." On the other hand, -Mirtis saw plainly that her brother made a difference between her and -Lirette. "We are not enough here, being three," said she. "I ought -to have another brother, who would love me as much as Finfin does my -sister." - -Lirette was now twelve years old, Mirtis thirteen, and Finfin fifteen, -when one evening, after supper, they were all seated in front of the -cottage with the Good Woman, who instructed them in a hundred agreeable -things. The youthful Finfin, seeing Lirette playing with the jewel on -her neck, asked his dear mamma what it was for? She replied that she -had found one on each of them when they fell into her hands. Lirette -then said, "If mine would but do as I tell it, I should be glad." "And -what would you have it do?" asked Finfin. "You will see," said she; and -then taking the end of the ribbon, "Little cherry," she continued, "I -should like to have a beautiful house of roses." - -At the same moment they heard a slight noise behind them. Mirtis turned -round first, and uttered a loud cry; she had cause; for instead of the -cottage of the Good Woman, there appeared one of the most charming that -could possibly be seen. It was not lofty, but the roof was formed of -roses that would bloom in winter as well as in summer. They entered it, -and found the most agreeable apartments, furnished magnificently. In -the midst of each room was a rose-tree in full flower, in a precious -vase; and in the first which they entered, they found the partridge -Finfin had lost, which flew on to his shoulder and gave him an hundred -caresses. - -"Is it only to wish?" said Mirtis; and taking the ribbon of her jewel -in her hand, "Little medlar," she continued, "give us a garden more -beautiful than our own." Hardly had she finished speaking, when a -garden was presented to their view of extraordinary beauty, and in -which everything that could be imagined to delight the senses appeared -in the highest perfection. - -The young folks began immediately to run through the beautiful alleys, -amongst the flower-beds and round about the fountains. - -"Do you wish something, brother," said Lirette. "But I have nothing -to wish for," said he; "except to be loved by you as much as you are -loved by me." "Oh," replied she, "my heart can satisfy you on that -point. That does not depend on your almond." "Well, then," said Finfin, -"almond, little almond, I wish that a great forest should rise near -here, in which the King's son shall come to hunt, and that he shall -fall in love with Mirtis." - -"What have I done to you," replied the beautiful girl. "I do not wish -to leave the innocent life which we lead." "You are right, my child," -said the Good Woman, "and I admire the wisdom of your sentiments; -besides which, they say that this King is a cruel usurper, who has put -to death the rightful sovereign and all his family: perhaps the son may -be no better than his father." - -The Good Woman, however, was quite astonished at the strange wishes -of these wonderful children, and knew not what to think of them. When -night was come, she retired into the house of roses, and in the morning -she found that there was a large forest close to the house. It formed a -fine hunting ground for our young shepherds. Finfin often hunted down -in it deer, harts, and roebucks. - -He gave a fawn whiter than snow to the lovely Lirette; it followed her -as the partridge followed Finfin; and when they were separated for a -short period, they wrote to each other, and sent their notes by these -messengers. It was the prettiest thing in the world. - -The little family lived thus tranquilly, occupied with different -employments, according to the seasons. They always attended to their -flocks, but in the summer their occupations were most pleasant. They -hunted much in the winter; they had bows and arrows, and sometimes went -such long distances that they returned, with slow steps and almost -frozen, to the house of roses. - -The Good Woman would receive them by a large fire; she did not know -which to begin to warm first. "Lirette, my daughter Lirette," she -would say, "place your little feet here." And taking Mirtis in her -arms,--"Mirtis, my child," continued she, "give me your beautiful hands -to warm; and you my son, Finfin, come nearer." Then, placing them -all three on a sofa, she would pay them every attention in the most -charming and gentle manner. - -Thus they passed their days in peace and happiness. The Good Woman -wondered at the sympathy between Finfin and Lirette, for Mirtis was -as beautiful, and had no less amiable qualities; but certainly Finfin -did not love her as fervently as the other. "If they are brother and -sister, as I believe," said the Good Woman, "by their matchless beauty, -what shall I do? They are so similar in everything, that they must -assuredly be of the same blood. If it be so, this affection is very -dangerous; if not, I might render it legitimate by letting them marry; -and they both love me so much, that their union would ensure joy and -peace to my declining days." - -In her uncertainty, she had forbidden Lirette, who was fast advancing -to womanhood, to be ever alone with Finfin, and for better security -she had ordered Mirtis to be always with them. Lirette obeyed her with -perfect submission, and Mirtis did also as she had commanded her. The -Good Woman had heard speak of a clever fairy, and resolved to go in -search of her, and endeavour to enlighten herself respecting the fate -of these children. - -One day, when Lirette was slightly indisposed, and Mirtis and Finfin -were out hunting, the Good Woman thought it a convenient opportunity to -go in search of Madam Tu-tu, for such was the name of the fairy. She -left Lirette, therefore, at the House of Roses; but she had not got far -on her way before she met Lirette's fawn, which was going towards the -forest, and at the same time she saw Finfin's partridge coming from it. -They joined each other close to her. It was not without astonishment -that she saw round the neck of each a little ribbon, with a paper -attached. She called the partridge, which flew to her, and taking the -paper from it, she read these lines:-- - - To Lirette, dear bird, repair-- - Absent from her sight I languish,-- - All my love to her declare-- - Secret joy and silent anguish. - Much too cold her heart, I fear, - Such a passion e'er to know - Were I to her but half as dear, - No greater bliss I'd crave below. - -"What words!" cried the Good Woman,--"what phrases! Simple friendship -does not express itself with so much warmth." Then stopping the fawn, -which came to lick her hand, she unfastened the paper from its neck, -opened it, and found in it these words:-- - - The sun is setting,--you are absent yet, - Although you left me by its earliest light! - Return, dear Finfin; surely you forget-- - Without you, day to me is endless night! - -"Just as they did when I was in the world," continued the Good Woman; -"who could have taught Lirette so much in this desert? What can I do to -cut betimes the root of so pernicious an evil?" "Eh, Madam, what are -you so anxious about?" said the partridge; "let them alone--those who -conduct them know better than you." - -The Good Woman remained speechless: she knew well that the partridge -spoke by means of supernatural art. The notes fell from her hands in -her fright; the fawn and the partridge picked them up: the one ran and -the other flew; and the partridge called so often "Tu-tu," that the -Good Woman thought it must be that powerful fairy who had caused it to -speak. She recovered herself a little after this reflection, but not -feeling equal to the journey she had undertaken, she retraced her steps -to the House of Roses. - -Meanwhile Finfin and Mirtis had hunted the livelong day, and, being -tired, they had placed their game on the ground, and sat down to rest -under a tree, where they fell asleep. - -The King's son also hunted that day in the forest. He missed his suite, -and came to the place where our young shepherd and shepherdess were -reposing. He contemplated them for some time with wonder. Finfin had -made a pillow of his game-bag, and the head of Mirtis reclined on the -breast of Finfin. - -The Prince thought Mirtis so beautiful, that he precipitately -dismounted from his horse to examine her features with more attention. -He judged, by their scrips and the simplicity of their apparel, that -they were only some shepherd's children. He sighed from grief, having -already sighed from love, and this love, even, was followed in an -instant by jealousy. The position in which he found these young people -made him believe that such familiarity could only result from the -affection which united them. - - [Illustration: The Good Woman.--P. 210.] - -In this uneasy state of mind, not being able to tolerate their -prolonged repose, he touched the handsome Finfin with his spear. He -started up, and, seeing a man before him, he passed his hand over the -face of Mirtis, and awoke her, calling her "sister," a name which -dissipated in a moment the alarm of the young Prince. - -Mirtis rose up, quite astonished; she had never seen any one but -Finfin. The young Prince was the same age as herself. He was superbly -attired, and had a face full of charming expression. - -He began saying many sweet things to her. She listened to him with a -pleasure which she had never before experienced, and she responded to -them in a simple manner, full of grace. Finfin saw that it was getting -late, and the fawn having arrived with Lirette's letter, he told his -sister it was time to go home. "Come, brother," said she to the young -Prince, giving him her hand, "come with us into the House of Roses." -For as she believed Finfin to be her brother, she thought that every -one who was handsome, like him, must be her brother also. - -The young Prince did not require much pressing to follow her. Finfin -threw on the back of his fawn the game he had shot, and the handsome -Prince carried the bow and the game-bag of Mirtis. - -In this order they arrived at the House of Roses. Lirette came out to -meet them. She gave the Prince a smiling reception, and turning towards -Mirtis, "I am delighted," said she, "that you have had such good sport." - -They went all together to seek the Good Woman, to whom the Prince made -known his high birth. She paid due attention to so illustrious a guest, -and gave him a handsome apartment. He remained two or three days with -her, and this was long enough to complete his conquest by Mirtis, -according to Finfin's request to his little almond. - -Meanwhile, the suite of the Prince had been much surprised at his -absence. They had found his horse, and they believed that some -frightful accident had befallen him. They sought him everywhere, and -the wicked King, who was his father, was in a great fury at their not -being able to find him. The Queen, his mother, who was very amiable, -and sister of the King whom her husband had cruelly murdered, was in -an inconceivable state of grief at the loss of her son. - -In her extreme distress, she sent secretly in search of Madam Tu-tu, -who was an old friend of hers, but whom she had not seen for some -time, because the King hated her, and had done her much injury -with a person she dearly loved. Madam Tu-tu arrived, without being -perceived, in the cabinet of the Queen. After they had embraced each -other affectionately--for there is not much difference between a Queen -and a Fairy, they having almost equal power,--the Fairy Tu-tu told -her that she would very soon see her son. She begged her not to make -herself uneasy, and not to be at all distressed at anything that might -happen--that either she was very much deceived, or she could promise -her a delight which was quite unexpected by her, and that she would be -one day the happiest of creatures. - -The King's people made so many inquiries for the Prince, and sought him -with so much care, that at length they found him at the House of Roses. - -They led him back to the King, who scolded him brutally, as though he -were not the most beautiful youth in the world. He remained very sad -at the Court of his father, and thinking of his beautiful Mirtis. At -length his grief was so visible on his countenance, that he was obliged -to take his mother into his confidence, who consoled him extremely. -"If you will mount your beautiful palfrey," said he, "and come to the -House of Roses, you will be charmed with what you will see." The Queen -consented willingly, and took her son with her, who was enchanted at -seeing his dear mistress again. - -The Queen was astonished at the great beauty of Mirtis, and also at -that of Lirette and Finfin. She embraced them with as much tenderness -as if they had been all her own children, and conceived an immense -friendship from that moment for the Good Woman. She admired the house, -the garden, and all the curiosities she saw there. When she returned, -the King desired her to give an account of her journey; she did so -naturally, and he took a great fancy to go also and see the wonders -which she described. His son asked permission to accompany him; he -consented with a sullen air, for he never did anything with a good -grace. As soon as he saw the House of Roses he coveted it; he paid -not the least attention to the charming inhabitants of this beautiful -place, and, by way of commencing to take possession of their property, -he said that he would sleep there that evening. - -The Good Woman was very much vexed at such a resolution. She heard an -uproar, and saw a disorder in her household, which frightened her. -"What has become," cried she, "of the happy tranquillity which I once -enjoyed here! The least breath of fortune destroys all the calm of -life!" - -She gave the King an excellent bed, and withdrew into a corner of the -dwelling with her little family. The wicked King went to bed, but found -it impossible to go to sleep, and opening his eyes, he saw at the -foot of his couch a little old woman, who was not half a yard high, -and about as broad; she had great spectacles, which covered all her -face, and she made frightful grimaces at him. The base are generally -cowards. He was in a terrible fright, and felt at the same time a -thousand points of needles pricking him all over. In this tormenting -state of body and mind, he was kept awake the entire night, and made -a great noise about it. The King stormed and swore in language which -was not at all consistent with his dignity. "Sleep, sleep, sire," said -the partridge, "or let us sleep: if the condition of royalty is so -full of anxiety, I prefer being a partridge to being king." The King -was more than ever alarmed at these words; he commanded them to seize -the partridge, which roosted in a porcelain vase; but she flew away -at this order, beating his face with her wings. He still saw the same -vision, and felt the same prickings; he was dreadfully frightened, and -his anger became more furious. "Ah!" said he, "it is a spell of this -sorceress, whom they call the Good Woman. I will rid myself of her and -all her race by putting them to death!" - -He got up, not being able to rest in bed; and as soon as day broke, -he commanded his guards to seize all the innocent little family, and -fling them into dungeons. He had them dragged before him, that he -might witness their despair. Those charming faces, bedewed with tears, -touched him not; on the contrary, he felt a malignant joy at the sight. -His son, whose tender heart was rent by so sad a spectacle, could not -turn his eyes upon Mirtis without an agony which nothing could exceed. -A true lover, on such occasions, suffers more than the person beloved. - -They seized these poor innocents, and were leading them away, when the -young Finfin, who had no arms with which to oppose these barbarians, -took the ribbon on a sudden from his neck. "Little almond," cried he, -"I wish that we were out of the power of the King!" "And with his -greatest enemies, my dear cherry!" continued Lirette. "And that we -might take away with us the handsome Prince, my medlar!" added Mirtis. -They had hardly uttered these words when they found themselves with -the Prince, the partridge, and the fawn, all together in a car, which -rising with them in the air, they soon lost sight of the King and the -House of Roses. - -Mirtis had no sooner expressed her wish than she repented of it. She -knew well that she had inconsiderately allowed herself to be carried -away by an impulse of which she was not the mistress; therefore, during -all the journey, she kept her eyes cast down, and felt much abashed. -The Good Woman gave her a severe glance. "My daughter," said she, "you -have not done well to separate the Prince from his father; however -unjust he may be, he ought not to leave him." "Ah, Madam," replied the -Prince, "do not complain that I have the happiness of following you. I -respect the King, my father; but I should have left him a hundred times -had it not been for the virtue, the kindness, and tenderness of the -Queen, my mother, which have always detained me." - -As he finished these words, they found themselves in front of a -beautiful palace, where they alighted and were received by Madam Tu-tu. -She was the most lovely person in the world--young, lively, and gay. -She paid them a hundred compliments, and confessed to them that it -was she who had given them all the pleasures which they had enjoyed -in their lives, and had also bestowed on them the cherry, the almond, -and the medlar, the virtues of which were at an end, as they had now -arrived in her dominions. Then, addressing the Prince in private, she -told him that she had heard speak a thousand times of the annoyance -he had met with from his father; but, in order that he should not -attribute to her any evil that might hereafter befal the King, she -frankly admitted she had played him some tricks, but that was the full -extent of her vengeance. - -After that, she assured them that they would be all very happy with -her; that they should have flocks to keep, crooks, bows, arrows, and -fishing-rods, in order that they might amuse themselves in a hundred -different ways. She gave them shepherds' dresses of the most elegant -description, including the Prince with the others,--their names and -devices being on their crooks; and that very evening the young Prince -exchanged crooks with the charming Mirtis. - -The next day Madame Tu-tu led them to the most delightful promenade in -the world, and showed them the best pasturage for their sheep, and a -fine country for the chase. - -"You can go," said she, "on this side as far as that beautiful river, -but never to the opposite shore; and you may hunt in this wood; but -beware," said she, "of passing a great oak, which is in the midst of -the forest; it is very remarkable, for it has roots and trunk of iron. -If you go beyond it, misfortunes may happen to you, from which I cannot -protect you; and, besides that, I should not perhaps be in a position -to assist you promptly, for a fairy has plenty of occupation." - -The young shepherds assured her that they would do exactly as she -prescribed; and all four, leading their flocks into the meadows, left -Madam Tu-tu alone with the Good Woman. She remarked some anxiety in her -manner. "What is the matter, madam?" said the Fairy; "what cloud has -come over your mind?" "I will not deny," said the Good Woman, "that -I am uneasy at leaving them all thus together. I have for some time -perceived with sorrow that Finfin and Lirette love each other more -than is desirable, and here, to add to my trouble, another attachment -springs up: the Prince and Mirtis do not dislike each other, and I fear -to leave their youth exposed to the wandering of their hearts." - -"You have brought up these two young girls so well," replied Madam -Tu-tu, "that you need fear nothing: I will answer for their discretion; -I will enlighten you as to their destiny." - -She then informed her that Finfin was the son of the wicked King, and -brother of the young Prince; that Mirtis and Lirette were sisters, and -daughters of the deceased King, who had been murdered, and who was the -brother of the Queen, whom the cruel usurper had married,--so that -these four young persons were near relations; that the wicked King had -ascended the throne after having committed a hundred atrocities, which -he wished to crown by the murder of the two Princesses; that the Queen -did all she could to prevent him, and not being able to succeed, she -had called her (the Fairy) to her assistance; that she then told the -Queen she would save them, but that she could only do so by taking with -them her eldest son; that she undertook to promise she should see them -again some day in happiness; that on those conditions, the Queen had -consented to a separation, which appeared at first very hard; that she -had carried them all three off, and that she had confided them to the -care of the Good Woman as the person most worthy of such an office. - -After this the Fairy begged her to be at ease, assuring her that the -union of these young Princes would restore peace to the kingdom, -wherein Finfin would reign with Lirette. The Good Woman listened to -this discourse with great interest; but not without letting fall -some tears. Madam Tu-tu was surprised at this emotion, and asked the -cause. "Alas!" said she, "I fear they will lose their innocence by -this grandeur to which they will be elevated, and that so brilliant a -fortune will corrupt their virtue." - -"No," replied the Fairy, "do not fear so great a misfortune; the -principles you have instilled into them are too excellent. It is -possible to be a king and yet an honest man. You know that there is one -in the universe who is the model of perfect monarchs.[14] Therefore set -your mind at rest; I shall be with you as much as possible, and I hope -you will not be melancholy here." - -The Good Woman believed her, and after a short time felt perfectly -satisfied. The young shepherds were so happy also that they desired -nothing but the continuance of their agreeable mode of life. Their -pleasures, although tranquil, were not without interest: they saw each -other every day, and the days only appeared to them too short. - -The bad King learnt that they were with Madam Tu-tu, but all his power -could not take them away from her. He knew by what magic spells she -protected them; he saw clearly that he could only get the better of -them by stratagem; he had not been able to inhabit the House of Roses -in consequence of the continual tricks played on him by Madam Tu-tu; he -hated her more than ever, as well as the Good Woman; and his hatred now -extended also to his son. - -He employed all kinds of artifice in order to get into his power -some one of the four young shepherds, but his art did not extend to -the dominions of Madam Tu-tu. One unlucky day (there are some which -we cannot avoid), these amiable shepherds had bent their steps in the -direction of the fatal oak, when the beautiful Lirette perceived upon -a tree, about twenty paces distant, a bird of such rare plumage, that -she let fly an arrow at it on the impulse of the moment, and seeing the -bird fall dead, ran to pick it up. All this was done instantaneously, -and without reflection; but the poor Lirette found, to her cost, that -she was caught herself. It was impossible for her to return; she -desired, but had no power to do so. She discovered her error, and -all she could do was to extend her arms for pity to her brothers and -sisters. Mirtis began to cry, and Finfin, without hesitation, ran to -her. "I will perish with you," he cried, and in a moment had joined her. - -Mirtis wished to follow them, but the young Prince detained her. "Let -us go and apprise Madame Tu-tu of this," said he; "that is the best -assistance we can render them." At the same moment they saw the people -of the wicked King seize them, and all they could do was to cry adieu -to each other. - -The King had caused this beautiful bird to be placed there by his -hunters, to serve as a snare for the shepherds: he fully expected what -had come to pass. They led Lirette and Finfin before the cruel monarch, -who abused them terribly, and had them confined in a dark and strong -prison: it was then they began to lament that their little cherry and -almond had lost their virtue. The fawn and the partridge sought for -them, but the fawn not being able to see them, shed some tears of -grief, and finding the King had given orders that she should be taken -and burnt alive, she saved herself by running fast to Mirtis. The -partridge was more fortunate, for she saw them every day through the -grating of their prison: happily for them, the King had not thought of -separating them. When one loves, it is a pleasure to suffer together. - -The partridge flew back every day, and came to tell the news to Madame -Tu-tu, the Good Woman, and Mirtis. Mirtis was very unhappy, and without -the handsome Prince she would have been inconsolable. She resolved to -write to these poor captives by the faithful partridge, and hung a -little bottle of ink to her neck, with some paper, and put a pen in her -beak. The good partridge, thus loaded, presented herself at the bars of -the prison, and it was a great delight to our young shepherds to see -her again. Finfin put out his hand and took from her all she brought -him, after which they began to read as follows:[15] - - _Mirtis and the Prince to Lirette and Finfin._ - - "Know you how we languish during this cruel separation; that we sigh - incessantly, and that perhaps it may kill us. We should already have - died, had we not been sustained by hope. That hope has supported us - ever since Madam Tu-tu has assured us that you still lived. Believe - us, dear Lirette and Finfin, we shall meet again, despite of malice, - and be happy." - -This letter had a powerful effect on the minds of Lirette and Finfin. -They were filled with joy, and wrote immediately this reply:-- - - _Lirette and Finfin to Mirtis and the Prince._ - - "We have received your letter with extreme pleasure. It has rejoiced - us more than we could have anticipated. In these regions of horror - our torments would be insupportable, but for the sweet consolation we - derive from each other's presence. Near the object of our affections, - we are insensible to pain, and love renders everything delightful. - Adieu, dear Prince, adieu, Mirtis. Encourage your mutual passion. Be - always inspired by a tender fidelity. You hold out a hope to us in - which we participate. The greatest blessing which can occur to us will - be accompanied by your presence." - -Finfin having attached this note to the neck of the partridge, she -flew away with it very quickly. The young shepherds received great -consolation from it, but the Good Woman could not be comforted from -the moment she had been separated from those so dear to her, and -whom she knew to be in so much peril. "How quickly my happiness has -vanished," said she to Madame Tu-tu; "I seem to have been born only -to be continually agitated. I thought I had taken the only means for -ensuring my repose; how purblind are mortals!" "And do you not know," -replied the Fairy, "that there is no state of existence in this world -in which one can live always happily." "I do," replied the Good Woman, -mournfully; "and if one cannot find happiness in one's self, it is -seldom found elsewhere. But, Madam, consider the fate of my children, I -beg of you!" "They have not remembered the orders I gave them," replied -Madame Tu-tu; "but let us think of a remedy." - -Madame Tu-tu entered her library with the Good Woman. She read nearly -all the night, and having at length taken down and opened a large book, -which she had frequently passed over, although its sides were covered -with plates of gold, she appeared plunged, on a sudden, into a state -of excessive sadness. After some time, and just as day was breaking, -the Good Woman observing a few tears fall on the leaves of the book, -took the liberty to ask the cause of the Fairy's sorrow. "I grieve," -said she, "at the irrevocable decree of Fate, which I have learned from -these pages, and which I shudder and tremble to acquaint you with." -"Are they dead?" cried the Good Woman. "No," pursued Madame Tu-tu; "but -nothing can save them, unless you or I go and present ourselves to the -King, and satisfy his vengeance. I confess the truth to you, Madam," -continued the Fairy, "that I do not feel sufficient affection for them, -nor enough courage, to go thus and expose myself to his fury, and I -question, also, if any one could be found capable of such a sacrifice." -"Pardon me, Madam," replied the Good Woman, with great firmness; "I -will go seek this King; no sacrifice is too great for me that will save -my children. I will pour out for them, with all my heart, every drop of -blood which I have in my veins." - -Madam Tu-tu could not sufficiently admire so grand a resolution; she -promised to assist her in every way in her power; but that she found -herself limited in this instance, in consequence of the fault which -they had committed. The Good Woman took leave of her, and would not -acquaint Mirtis or the Prince with her design, for fear of affecting -them and weakening her own determination. She set out with the -partridge flying by her side; and as they passed the iron oak, the -partridge snatched with her beak a little moss from its trunk, and -placed it in the hands of the Good Woman. "When you are in the greatest -peril which can befall you," said she to her, "throw this moss at the -feet of the King." The Good Woman treasured up these words, and hardly -had she advanced some steps when she was seized by some of the wicked -King's soldiers, whom he always kept in readiness on the outskirts of -the domain of Madam Tu-tu. They led her before him. "I have thee at -last, wicked creature!" said he; "I will put thee to death by the most -cruel torture!" "I came but for that purpose," replied she, "and thou -mayst exercise thy cruelty as thou wilt on me, only spare my children, -who are so young and incapable of having offended thee. I offer thee -my life for theirs." All who heard these words were filled with pity -at her magnanimity; the King alone was unmoved. The Queen, who was -present, shed a torrent of tears. The King was so indignant with -her that he would have killed her, if her attendants had not placed -themselves between them. She fled, uttering piercing cries. - -The barbarous King caused the Good Woman to be shut up, ordering them -to feed her well, in order to render approaching death more frightful -to her. He commanded them to fill a pit with snakes, vipers, and -serpents, promising himself the pleasure of precipitating the Good -Woman into it. What a horrible mode of execution! It makes one shudder -to think of it! - -The officers of this unjust Prince obeyed him with regret; and when -they had fulfilled this frightful order, the King came to the spot. -They were about to bind the Good Woman, when she begged them not to do -so, assuring them that she had sufficient courage to meet death with -her hands free; and, feeling she had no time to lose, she approached -the King, and threw the moss at his feet. He was at that moment close -to the frightful gulf, and stepping forward to inspect it again with -pleasure, his feet slipped on the moss, and he fell in. Hardly had he -reached the bottom of the pit, when the sanguinary reptiles darted upon -him, and stung him to death, and the Good Woman, at the same instant, -found herself in company with her dear partridge in the House of Roses. - -Whilst these things were happening, Finfin and Lirette were almost dead -with misery in their fearful prison; their innocent affection alone -kept them alive. They were saying very sad and very affecting things to -each other, when they perceived on a sudden the doors of their dungeon -open and admit Mirtis, the handsome Prince, and Madam Tu-tu, who threw -themselves on their necks, and who, though speaking all at once, failed -not, in the midst of this joyful confusion, to announce the death of -the King. "He was your father, Finfin, as well as that of the Prince," -said Madam Tu-tu; "but he was unnatural and tyrannical, and would a -hundred times have put the Queen, your dear mother, to death. Let us go -to seek her." They did so. Her amiable nature made her feel some regret -at the death of the King, her husband. Finfin and the Prince also paid -all decent respect to his memory. Finfin was acknowledged King, and -Mirtis and Lirette Princesses. They went all together to the House of -Roses, to see the generous Good Woman, who thought she should die of -joy in embracing them. They all acknowledged that they owed their lives -to her, and more than their lives, as they were indebted to her for -their happiness also. - -From that moment they considered themselves perfectly happy. The -marriages were celebrated with great pomp. King Finfin espoused the -Princess Lirette, and Mirtis the Prince. When these splendid nuptials -were over, the Good Woman asked permission to retire to the House of -Roses. They were very unwilling to consent to this, but yielded to her -sincere wish. The widowed Queen also desired to pass the rest of her -life with the Good Woman, and the partridge and the fawn did likewise. -They were quite disgusted with the world, and found tranquillity in -that charming retreat. Madam Tu-tu often went to visit them, as did the -King and Queen, the Prince and Princess. - -Happy those who can imitate the actions of the Good Woman. Such -grandeur of soul must ever meet due reward. Little do they fear being -wrecked on the shoals of Fortune, who can give up all with so much -courage. Discretion, Sense, Virtue--what may not mortals owe to you, -their truest friends in need. - - -FOOTNOTES: - -[14] Louis XIV., "Le Grande Monarque." - -[15] I have not thought it necessary to run into rhyme the -exceedingly prosaic effusions of the two pairs of lovers. - - - - -MADAME DE VILLENEUVE. - - - - -THE STORY - -OF - -THE BEAUTY AND THE BEAST. - - -In a country very far from this is to be seen a great city wherein -trade flourishes abundantly. It numbered amongst its citizens a -merchant, who succeeded in all his speculations, and upon whom Fortune, -responding to his wishes, had always showered her fairest favours. But -if he had immense wealth, he had also a great many children, his family -consisting of six boys and six girls. None of them were settled in -life: the boys were too young to think of it; the girls, too proud of -their fortunes, upon which they had every reason to count, could not -easily determine upon the choice they should make. Their vanity was -flattered by the attentions of the handsomest young gentlemen. But a -reverse of fortune which they did not at all expect, came to trouble -their felicity. Their house took fire; the splendid furniture with -which it was filled, the account books, the notes, gold, silver, and -all the valuable stores which formed the merchant's principal wealth, -were enveloped in this fatal conflagration, which was so violent -that very few of the things could be saved. This first misfortune -was but the forerunner of others. The father, with whom hitherto -everything had prospered, lost at the same time, either by shipwreck -or by pirates, all the ships he had at sea; his correspondents made -him a bankrupt, his foreign agents were treacherous; in short, from -the greatest opulence, he suddenly fell into the most abject poverty. -He had nothing left but a small country house, situated in a lonely -place, more than a hundred leagues from the city in which he usually -resided. Impelled to seek a place of refuge from noise and tumult, he -took his family to this retired spot, who were in despair at such a -revolution. The daughters of this unfortunate merchant were especially -horrified at the prospect of the life they should have to lead in this -dull solitude. For some time they flattered themselves that, when -their father's intention became known, their lovers, who had hitherto -sued in vain, would be only too happy to find they were inclined to -listen to them. They imagined that the many admirers of each would be -all striving to obtain the preference. They thought if they wished -only for a husband they would obtain one; but they did not remain -very long in such a delightful illusion. They had lost their greatest -attractions when, like a flash of lightning, their father's splendid -fortune had disappeared, and their time for choosing had departed with -it. Their crowd of admirers vanished at the moment of their downfall; -their beauty was not sufficiently powerful to retain one of them. -Their friends were not more generous than their lovers. From the hour -they became poor, every one, without exception, ceased to know them. -Some were even cruel enough to impute their misfortunes to their own -acts. Those whom the father had most obliged were his most vehement -calumniators: they reported that all his calamities were brought on by -his own bad conduct, his prodigality, and the foolish extravagance of -himself and his children. - -This wretched family, therefore, could not do better than depart -from a city wherein everybody took a pleasure in insulting them in -their misfortunes. Having no resource whatever, they shut themselves -up in their country house, situated in the middle of an almost -impenetrable forest, and which might well be considered the saddest -abode in the world. What misery they had to endure in this frightful -solitude! They were forced to do the hardest work. Not being able -to have any one to wait upon them, this unfortunate merchant's sons -were compelled to divide the servant's duties amongst them, as well -as to exert themselves in every way that people must do who have to -earn their livelihood in the country. The daughters, on their part, -had sufficient employment. Like the poor peasant girls, they found -themselves obliged to employ their delicate hands in all the labours -of a rural life. Wearing nothing but woollen dresses, having nothing -to gratify their vanity, existing upon what the land could give them, -limited to common necessaries, but still retaining a refined and dainty -taste, these girls incessantly regretted the city and its attractions. -The recollection even of their younger days passed so rapidly in a -round of mirth and pleasure was their greatest torment. The youngest -girl, however, displayed greater perseverance and firmness in their -common misfortune. She bore her lot cheerfully, and with a strength -of mind much beyond her years: not but what, at first, she was truly -melancholy. Alas! who would not have felt such misfortunes. But, after -deploring her father's ruin, could she do better than resume her former -gaiety, make up her mind to the position she was placed in, and forget -a world which she and her family had found so ungrateful, and the -friendship of which she was so fully persuaded was not to be relied -upon in the time of adversity? - -Anxious to console herself and her brothers, by her amiable disposition -and sprightliness, there was nothing she did not do to amuse them. -The merchant had spared no cost in her education, nor in that of her -sisters. At this sad period she derived all the advantage from it she -desired. As she could play exceedingly well upon various instruments, -and sing to them charmingly, she asked her sisters to follow her -example, but her cheerfulness and patience only made them more -miserable. These girls, who were so inconsolable in their ill fortune, -thought their youngest sister showed a poor and mean spirit, and even -silliness, to be so merry in the state it had pleased Providence to -reduce them to. "How happy she is," said the eldest; "she was intended -for such coarse occupations. With such low notions, what would she -have done in the world?" Such remarks were unjust. This young person -was much more fitted to shine in society than either of them. She was -a perfectly beautiful young creature, her good temper rendered her -adorable. A generous and tender heart was visible in all her words and -actions. Quite as much alive to the reverses that had just overwhelmed -her family as either of her sisters, by a strength of mind which is not -common in her sex, she concealed her sorrow, and rose superior to her -misfortunes. So much firmness was considered to be insensibility. But -one can easily appeal from a judgment pronounced by jealousy. - -Every intelligent person, who saw her in her true light, was eager to -give her the preference over her sisters. In the midst of her greatest -splendour, although distinguished by her merit, she was so handsome -that she was called "The Beauty." Known by this name only, what more -was required to increase the jealousy and hatred of her sisters? Her -charms, and the general esteem in which she was held, might have -induced her to hope for a much more advantageous establishment than -her sisters; but feeling only for her father's misfortunes, far from -retarding his departure from a city in which she had enjoyed so much -pleasure, she did all she could to expedite it. This young girl was as -contented in their solitude as she had been in the midst of the world. -To amuse herself in her hours of relaxation, she would dress her hair -with flowers, and, like the shepherdesses of former times, forgetting -in a rural life all that had most gratified her in the height of -opulence, every day brought to her some new innocent pleasure. - -Two years had already passed, and the family began to be accustomed -to a country life, when a hope of returning prosperity arrived to -discompose their tranquillity. The father received news that one of -his vessels, that he thought was lost, had safely arrived in port, -richly laden. His informants added, they feared the factors would -take advantage of his absence, and sell the cargo at a low price, and -by this fraud make a great profit at his expense. He imparted these -tidings to his children, who did not doubt for an instant but that -they should soon be enabled to return from exile. The girls, much -more impatient than the boys, thinking it was unnecessary to wait -for more certain proof, were anxious to set out instantly, and to -leave everything behind them. But the father, who was more prudent, -begged them to moderate their delight. However important he was to -his family at a time when the labours of the field could not be -interrupted without great loss, he determined to leave his sons to get -in the harvest, and that he would set out upon this long journey. His -daughters, with the exception of the youngest, expected they would -soon be restored to their former opulence. They fancied that, even if -their father's property would not be considerable enough to settle them -in the great metropolis, their native place, he would at least have -sufficient for them to live in a less expensive city. They trusted -they should find good society there, attract admirers, and profit -by the first offer that might be made to them. Scarcely remembering -the troubles they had undergone for the last two years, believing -themselves to be already, as by a miracle, removed from poverty into -the lap of plenty, they ventured (for retirement had not cured them -of the taste for luxury and display) to overwhelm their father with -foolish commissions. They requested him to make purchases of jewelry, -attire, and head-dresses. Each endeavoured to outvie the other in her -demands, so that the sum total of their father's supposed fortune would -not have been sufficient to satisfy them. - -Beauty, who was not the slave of ambition, and who always acted with -prudence, saw directly that if he executed her sisters' commissions, -it would be useless for her to ask for anything. But the father, -astonished at her silence, said, interrupting his insatiable daughters, -"Well, Beauty, dost thou not desire anything? What shall I bring thee? -what dost thou wish for? Speak freely." "My dear papa," replied the -amiable girl, embracing him affectionately, "I wish for one thing more -precious than all the ornaments my sisters have asked you for; I have -limited my desires to it, and shall be only too happy if they can be -fulfilled. It is the gratification of seeing you return in perfect -health." This answer was so unmistakeably disinterested, that it -covered the others with shame and confusion. They were so angry, that -one of them, answering for the rest, said with bitterness, "This child -gives herself great airs, and fancies that she will distinguish herself -by these affected heroics. Surely nothing can be more ridiculous." -But the father, touched by her expressions, could not help showing -his delight at them; appreciating, too, the feeling which induced her -to ask nothing for herself, he begged she would choose something; and -to allay the ill-will that his other daughters had towards her, he -observed to her that such indifference to dress was not natural at her -age--that there was a time for everything. "Very well, my dear father," -said she, "since you desire me to make some request, I beg you will -bring me a rose; I love that flower passionately, and since I have -lived in this desert I have not had the pleasure of seeing one." This -was to obey her father, and at the same time to avoid putting him to -any expense for her. - -At length the day arrived, that this good old man was compelled to -leave his family. He travelled as fast as he could to the great city to -which the prospect of a new fortune recalled him. But he did not meet -with the benefits he had hoped for. His vessel had certainly arrived; -but his partners, believing him to be dead, had taken possession of -it, and all the cargo had been disposed of. Thus, instead of entering -into the full and peaceable possession of that which belonged to him, -he was compelled to encounter all sorts of chicanery in the pursuit of -his rights. He overcame them, but after more than six months of trouble -and expense, he was not any richer than he was before. His debtors -had become insolvent, and he could hardly defray his own costs. Thus -terminated this dream of riches. - -To add to his disagreeables, he was obliged, on the score of economy, -to start on his homeward journey at the most inconvenient time, and in -the most frightful weather. Exposed on the road to the piercing blasts, -he thought he should die with fatigue; but when he found himself within -a few miles of his house (which he did not reckon upon leaving for such -false hopes, and which Beauty had shown her sense in mistrusting) his -strength returned to him. It would be some hours before he could cross -the forest; it was late, but he wished to continue his journey. He -was benighted, suffering from intense cold, buried, one might say, in -the snow, with his horse; not knowing which way to bend his steps, he -thought his last hour had come: no hut in his road, although the forest -was filled with them. A tree, hollowed by age, was the best shelter he -could find, and only too happy was he to hide himself in it. This tree -protecting him from the cold, was the means of saving his life; and the -horse, a little distance from his master, perceiving another hollow -tree, was led by instinct to take shelter in that. - -The night, in such a situation, appeared to him to be never-ending; -furthermore, he was famished, frightened at the roaring of the wild -beasts, that were constantly passing by him. Could he be at peace for -an instant? His trouble and anxiety did not end with the night. He -had no sooner the pleasure of seeing daylight than his distress was -greater. The ground appeared so extraordinarily covered with snow, no -road could he find--no track was to be seen. It was only after great -fatigue and frequent falls, that he succeeded in discovering something -like a path upon which he could keep his footing. - -Proceeding without knowing in which direction, chance led him into -the avenue of a beautiful castle, which the snow seemed to have -respected. It consisted of four rows of orange-trees, laden with -flowers and fruit. Statues were seen here and there, regardless of -order or symmetry--some were in the middle of the road, others among -the trees--all after the strangest fashion; they were of the size of -life, and had the colour of human beings, in different attitudes, and -in various dresses, the greatest number representing warriors. Arriving -at the first court-yard, he perceived a great many more statues. He was -suffering so much from cold that he could not stop to examine them. An -agate staircase, with balusters of chased gold, first presented itself -to his sight: he passed through several magnificently furnished rooms; -a gentle warmth which he breathed in them renovated him. He needed -food; but to whom could he apply? This large and magnificent edifice -appeared to be inhabited only by statues. A profound silence reigned -throughout it; nevertheless it had not the air of an old palace that -had been deserted. The halls, the rooms, the galleries were all open; -no living thing appeared to be in this charming place. - -Weary of wandering over this vast dwelling, he stopped in a saloon, -wherein was a large fire. Presuming that it was prepared for some one, -who would not be long in appearing, he drew near the fireplace to warm -himself; but no one came. Seated on a sofa near the fire, a sweet sleep -closed his eyelids, and left him no longer in a condition to observe -the entrance of any one. Fatigue induced him to sleep; hunger awoke -him; he had been suffering from it for the last twenty-four hours. -The exercise that he had taken ever since he had been in this palace -increased his appetite. When he awoke and opened his eyes, he was -astonished to see a table elegantly laid. A light repast would not have -satisfied him; but the viands, magnificently dressed, invited him to -eat of everything. - -His first care was to utter in a loud voice his thanks to those from -whom he had received so much kindness, and he then resolved to wait -quietly till it pleased his host to make himself known to him. As -fatigue caused him to sleep before his repast, so did the food produce -the same effect, and his repose was longer and more powerful; in fact, -this second time he slept for at least four hours. Upon awaking, in -the place of the first table he saw another of porphyry, upon which -some kind hand had set out a collation consisting of cakes, preserved -fruits, and liqueurs. This was likewise for his use. Profiting, -therefore, by the kindness shown him, he partook of everything that -suited his appetite, his taste, and his fancy. - -Finding at length no one to speak to, or to inform him whether -this palace was inhabited by a man or by a God, fear began to take -possession of him, for he was naturally timid. He resolved, therefore, -to repass through all the apartments, and overwhelm with thanks the -Genius to whom he was indebted for so much kindness, and in the most -respectful manner solicit him to appear. All his attentions were -useless: no appearance of servants, no result by which he could -ascertain that the palace was inhabited. Thinking seriously of what he -should do, he began to fancy, for what reason he could not imagine, -that some good spirit had made this mansion a present to him, with -all the riches that it contained. This idea seemed like inspiration, -and without further delay, making a new inspection of it, he took -possession of all the treasures he could find. More than this, he -settled in his own mind what share of it he should allow to each of his -children, and selected the apartments which would particularly suit -them, enjoying the delight beforehand which his journey would afford -them. He entered the garden, where, in spite of the severity of the -winter, the rarest flowers were exhaling the most delicious perfume in -the mildest and purest air. Birds of all kinds blending their songs -with the confused noise of the waters, made an agreeable harmony. - -The old man, in ecstasies at such wonders, said to himself, "My -daughters will not, I think, find it very difficult to accustom -themselves to this delicious abode. I cannot believe that they will -regret, or that they will prefer the city to this mansion. Let me set -out directly," cried he, in a transport of joy rather uncommon for -him; "I shall increase my happiness in witnessing theirs: I will take -possession at once." - -Upon entering this charming castle he had taken care, notwithstanding -he was nearly perished, to unbridle his horse and let him wend his -way to a stable which he had observed in the fore-court. An alley, -ornamented by palisades, formed by rose-bushes in full bloom, led to -it. He had never seen such lovely roses. Their perfume reminded him -that he had promised to give Beauty a rose. He picked one, and was -about to gather enough to make half-a-dozen bouquets, when a most -frightful noise made him turn round. He was terribly alarmed upon -perceiving at his side a horrible beast, which, with an air of fury, -laid upon his neck a kind of trunk, resembling an elephant's, and said, -with a terrific voice, "Who gave thee permission to gather my roses? -Is it not enough that I kindly allowed thee to remain in my palace. -Instead of feeling grateful, rash man, I find thee stealing my flowers! -Thy insolence shall not remain unpunished." The good man, already too -much overpowered by the unexpected appearance of this monster, thought -he should die of fright at these words, and quickly throwing away -the fatal rose. "Ah! my Lord," said he, prostrating himself before -him, "have mercy on me! I am not ungrateful! Penetrated by all your -kindness, I did not imagine that so slight a liberty could possibly -have offended you." The monster very angrily replied, "Hold thy tongue, -thou foolish talker. I care not for thy flattery, nor for the titles -thou bestowest on me. I am not 'my Lord;' I am The Beast; and thou -shalt not escape the death thou deservest." - -The merchant, dismayed at so cruel a sentence, and thinking that -submission was the only means to preserve his life, said, in a truly -affecting manner, that the rose he had dared to take was for one of his -daughters, called Beauty. Then, whether he hoped to escape from death, -or to induce his enemy to feel for him, he related to him all his -misfortunes; he told him the object of his journey, and did not omit to -dwell on the little present he was bound to give Beauty; adding, that -was the only thing she had asked for, while the riches of a king would -hardly have sufficed to satisfy the wishes of his other daughters; and -so came to the opportunity which had offered itself to satisfy the -modest desire of Beauty, and his belief that he could have done so -without any unpleasant consequences; asking pardon, moreover, for his -involuntary fault. The Beast considered for a moment, then, speaking -in a milder tone, he said to him, "I will pardon thee, but upon -condition that thou wilt give me one of thy daughters--I require some -one to repair this fault." "Just Heaven!" replied the merchant; "how -can I keep my word? Could I be so inhuman as to save my own life at the -expense of one of my children's; under what pretext could I bring her -here?" "There must be no pretext," interrupted the Beast. "I expect -that whichever daughter you bring here she will come willingly, or I -will not have either of them. Go; see if there be not one amongst them -sufficiently courageous, and loving thee enough, to sacrifice herself -to save thy life. Thou appearest to be an honest man. Give me thy word -of honour to return in a month. If thou canst decide to bring one of -them back with thee, she will remain here and thou wilt return home. If -thou canst not do so, promise me to return hither alone, after bidding -them farewell for ever, for thou wilt belong to me. Do not fancy," -continued the Monster, grinding his teeth, "that by merely agreeing -to my proposition thou wilt be saved. I warn thee, if thou thinkest -so to escape me, I will seek for thee, and destroy thee and thy race, -although a hundred thousand men appear to defend thee." - -The good man, although quite convinced that he should not vainly put to -the proof the devotion of his daughters, accepted, nevertheless, the -Monster's proposition. He promised to return to him at the time named, -and give himself up to his sad fate, without rendering it necessary -for the Beast to seek for him. After this assurance he thought himself -at liberty to retire and take leave of the Beast, whose presence was -most distressing to him. The respite was but brief, yet he feared he -might revoke it. He expressed his anxiety to depart; but the Beast told -him he should not do so till the following day. "Thou wilt find," said -he, "a horse ready at break of day. He will carry thee home quickly. -Adieu--go to supper, and await my orders." - -The poor man, more dead than alive, returned to the saloon in which -he had feasted so heartily. Before a large fire his supper, already -laid, invited him to sit and enjoy it. The delicacy and richness of -the dishes had no longer, however, any temptation for him. Overwhelmed -by his grief, he would not have seated himself at the table, but that -he feared that the Beast was concealed somewhere, and observing him, -and that he would excite his anger by any slight of his bounty. To -avoid further disaster, he made a momentary truce with his grief, and, -as well as his afflicted heart would permit, he tasted, in turn, the -various dishes. At the end of the repast a great noise was heard in the -adjoining apartment, and he did not doubt that it was his formidable -host. As he could not manage to avoid his presence, he tried to recover -from the alarm which this sudden noise had caused him. At the same -moment, the Beast, who appeared, asked him abruptly if he had made a -good supper. The good man replied, in a modest and timid tone, that he -had, thanks to his attention, eaten heartily. "Promise me," replied -the Monster, "to remember your word to me, and to keep it as a man of -honour, in bringing me one of your daughters." - -The old man, who was not much entertained with this conversation, swore -to him that he would fulfil what he had promised, and return in a month -alone or with one of his daughters, if he should find one who loved -him sufficiently to follow him on the conditions he must propose to -her. "I warn thee again," said the Beast, "to take care not to deceive -her as to the sacrifice which thou must exact from her, or the danger -she will incur. Paint to her my face such as it is. Let her know what -she is about to do: above all, let her be firm in her resolution. -There will be no time for reflection when thou shalt have brought her -hither. There must be no drawing back: thou wilt be equally lost, -without obtaining for her the liberty to return." The merchant, who was -overcome at this discourse, reiterated his promise to conform to all -that was prescribed to him. The Monster, satisfied with his answer, -ordered him to retire to rest, and not to rise till he should see the -sun, and hear a golden bell. - -"Thou wilt breakfast before setting out," said he again; "and thou -mayest take a rose with thee for Beauty. The horse which shall bear -thee will be ready in the court-yard. I reckon on seeing thee again -in a month, if thou art an honest man. If thou failest in thy word, -I shall pay thee a visit." The good man, for fear of prolonging a -conversation already too painful to him, made a profound reverence to -the Beast, who told him again not to be anxious respecting the road by -which he should return; as at the time appointed the same horse which -he would mount the next morning would be found at his gate, and would -suffice for his daughter and himself. - -However little disposition the old man felt for sleep, he dared not -disobey the orders he had received. Obliged to lie down, he did not -rise till the sun began to illumine the chamber. His breakfast was -soon despatched, and he then descended into the garden to gather the -rose which the Beast had ordered him to take to Beauty. How many tears -this flower caused him to shed. But the fear of drawing on himself new -disasters made him constrain his feelings, and he went, without further -delay, in search of the horse which had been promised him. He found on -the saddle a light but warm cloak. As soon as the horse felt him on his -back, he set off with incredible speed. The merchant, who in a moment -lost sight of this fatal palace, experienced as great a sensation of -joy as he had on the previous evening felt in perceiving it, with this -difference, that the delight of leaving it was embittered by the cruel -necessity of returning to it. - -"To what have I pledged myself?" said he, whilst his courser carried -him with a velocity and a lightness which is only known in fairy land. -"Would it not be better that I should become at once the victim of this -monster who thirsts for the blood of my family? By a promise I have -made, as unnatural as it is indiscreet, I have prolonged my life. Is -it possible that I could think of extending my days at the expense of -those of my daughters? Can I have the barbarity to lead one to him, -to see him, no doubt, devour her before my eyes?" But all at once, -interrupting himself, he cried, "Miserable wretch that I am, what -have I to fear? If I could find it in my heart to silence the voice -of nature, would it depend on me to commit this cowardly act? She -must know her fate and consent to it. I see no chance that she will -be inclined to sacrifice herself for an inhuman father, and I ought -not to make such a proposition to her. It is unjust. But even if the -affection which they all entertain for me should induce one to devote -herself, would not a single glance at the Beast destroy her constancy, -and I could not complain. Ah! too imperious Beast," exclaimed he, "thou -hast done this expressly! By putting an impossible condition to the -means thou offerest me to escape thy fury, and obtain the pardon of -a trifling fault, thou hast added insult to injury! But," continued -he, "I cannot bear to think of it. I hesitate no longer; and I would -rather expose myself without turning away from thy rage, than attempt a -useless mode of escape, which my paternal love trembles to employ. Let -me retrace," said he, "the road to this frightful palace, and without -deigning to purchase so dearly the remnant of a life which can never be -but miserable--without waiting for the month which is accorded me to -expire,--return and terminate this day my miserable existence!" - - [Illustration: Beauty and the Beast.--P. 236.] - -At these words he endeavoured to retrace his steps, but he found -it impossible to turn the bridle of his horse. Allowing himself, -therefore, against his will, to be carried forward, he resolved at -least to propose nothing to his daughters. Already he saw his house -in the distance, and strengthening himself more and more in his -resolution, "I will not speak to them," he said, "of the danger which -threatens me: I shall have the pleasure of embracing them once more; I -shall give them my last advice; I will beg them to live on good terms -with their brothers, whom I shall also implore not to abandon them." - -In the midst of this reverie, he reached his door. His own horse, which -had found its way home the previous evening, had alarmed his family. -His sons, dispersed in the forest, had sought him in every direction; -and his daughters, in their impatience to hear some tidings of him, -were at the door, in order to obtain the earliest intelligence. As he -was mounted on a magnificent steed, and wrapt in a rich cloak, they -could not recognise him, but took him at first for a messenger sent by -him, and the rose which they perceived attached to the pummel of the -saddle made them perfectly easy on his account. - -When this afflicted father, however, approached nearer, they recognised -him, and thought only of evincing their satisfaction at seeing him -return in good health. But the sadness depicted in his face, and his -eyes filled with tears, which he vainly endeavoured to restrain, -changed their joy into anxiety. All hastened to inquire the cause of -his trouble. He made no reply but by saying to Beauty, as he presented -her with the rose, "There is what thou hast demanded of me, but thou -wilt pay dearly for it, as well as the others." "I was certain," -exclaimed the eldest, "and I was saying, this very moment, that she -would be the only one whose commission you would execute. At this time -of the year, a rose must have cost more than you would have had to -pay for us all five together; and, judging from appearances, the rose -will be faded before the day is ended: never mind, however, you were -determined to gratify the fortunate Beauty at any price." "It is true," -replied the father, mournfully, "that this rose has cost me dear, and -more dear than all the ornaments which you wished for would have done. -It is not in money, however; and would to Heaven that I might have -purchased it with all I am yet worth in the world." - -These words excited the curiosity of his children, and dispelled the -resolution which he had taken not to reveal his adventure. He informed -them of the ill-success of his journey, the trouble which he had -undergone in running after a chimerical fortune, and all that had taken -place in the palace of the Monster. After this explanation, despair -took the place of hope and of joy. - -The daughters seeing all their projects annihilated by this -thunderbolt, uttered fearful cries; the brothers, more courageous, said -resolutely that they would not suffer their father to return to this -frightful castle; that they were bold enough to deliver the earth from -this horrible Beast, even supposing he should have the temerity to come -in search of him. The good man, although moved at their affliction, -forbad them to commit violence, telling them, that as he had given his -word, he would kill himself rather than fail to keep it. - -Notwithstanding this, they sought for expedients to save his life; the -young men, full of courage and filial affection, proposed that one -of them should go and offer himself as a victim to the wrath of the -Beast; but the monster had said positively and explicitly that he would -have one of the daughters, and not one of the sons. The brave brothers -grieved that their good intentions could not be acted upon, then did -what they could to inspire their sisters with the same sentiments. But -their jealousy of Beauty was sufficient to raise an invincible obstacle -to such heroic action. - -"It is not just," said they, "that we should perish in so frightful a -manner for a fault of which we are not guilty. It would be to render -us victims to Beauty, to whom they would be very glad to sacrifice -us; but duty does not require such a sacrifice. Here is the fruit of -the moderation and perpetual preaching of this unhappy girl! Why did -she not ask, like us, for a good stock of clothes and jewels. If we -have not had them, it has at all events cost nothing for asking, and -we have no cause to reproach ourselves for having exposed the life of -our father by indiscreet demands. If, by an affected disinterestedness, -she had not sought to distinguish herself, as she is in all things -more favoured than we, he would have, no doubt, found enough money to -content her. But she must needs, by her singular caprice, bring on us -all this misfortune. It is she who has caused it, and they wish us -to pay the penalty. We will not be her dupe. She has brought it on -herself, and she must find the remedy." - -Beauty, whose grief had almost deprived her of consciousness, -suppressing her sobs and sighs, said to her sisters, "I am the cause -of this misfortune; it is I alone who must repair it. I confess it -would be unjust to allow you to suffer for my fault. Alas! it was, -notwithstanding, an innocent wish. Could I foresee that the desire to -have a rose when we were in the middle of summer would be punished so -cruelly? The fault is committed, however; whether I am innocent or -guilty, it is just that I should expiate it. It cannot be imputed to -any one else. I will risk my life," pursued she, in a firm tone, "to -release my father from his fatal engagement. I will go to find the -Beast; too happy in being able to die in order to preserve the life of -him from whom I received mine, and to silence your murmurs. Do not fear -that anything can turn me from my purpose; but I pray you during this -month to do me the favour to spare me your reproaches." - -So much firmness in a girl of her age surprised them all much; and -the brothers, who loved her tenderly, were moved at her resolution. -They paid her infinite attention, and felt the loss they were about to -sustain. But it was requisite to save the life of a father; this pious -motive closed their mouths; and well persuaded that it was a thing -decided on, far from thinking of combating so generous a purpose, they -contented themselves by shedding tears, and giving their sister all -the praise which her noble resolution merited, all the more from her -being only sixteen years of age, and having the right to regret a life -which she was about to sacrifice in so cruel a manner. The father -alone would not consent to the design of his youngest daughter; but the -others reproached him insolently with the charge that Beauty alone was -cared for by him, in spite of the misfortune which she had caused, and -that he was sorry that it was not one of the elders who should pay for -her imprudence. - -This unjust language forced him to desist; besides, Beauty assured him -that if he would not accept the exchange, she would make it in spite of -him, for she would go alone to seek the Beast, and so perish without -saving him. "How do we know," said she, forcing herself to assume more -tranquillity than she really felt; "perhaps the dreadful fate which -appears to await me conceals another as happy as this seems terrible?" - -Her sisters, hearing her speak thus, smiled maliciously at the wild -idea; they were enchanted at the delusion in which they believed her -to be indulging. But the old man, conquered by all her reasons, and -remembering an ancient prediction, by which he had learnt that this -daughter should save his life, and that she should be a source of -happiness to all her family, ceased to oppose the will of Beauty. -Insensibly they began to speak of their departure as a thing almost -indifferent. It was she who gave the tone to the conversation, and in -their presence she appeared to consider it as a happy event; it was -only, however, to console her father and brothers, and not to alarm -them more than necessary. Although discontented with the conduct of her -sisters towards her, who appeared even impatient to see her depart, -and thought the month passed too slowly, she had the generosity to -divide all her little property and the jewels which she had at her own -disposal amongst them. - -They received with pleasure this new proof of her generosity, but -without abating their hatred of her. An extreme joy took possession of -their hearts when they heard the horse neigh which was sent to carry -away a sister whose amiability their jealous natures would not allow -them to perceive. The father and the sons alone were so afflicted -that they could not contain themselves at this fatal moment. They -proposed to strangle the horse. Beauty, however, preserving all her -tranquillity, showed them again on this occasion the absurdity of such -a design, and the impossibility of executing it. After having taken -leave of her brothers, she embraced her hard-hearted sisters, taking -such a tender farewell of them that she drew from them some tears, and -they believed, for the space of a few minutes, that they were almost as -much afflicted as their brothers. - -During these brief, yet lingering leave-takings, the good man, hurried -by his daughter, had mounted his horse. She placed herself behind him -with as much alacrity as though she were going to make an agreeable -journey. The animal rather flew than walked. But this extreme speed did -not inconvenience her in the least; the paces of this singular horse -were so gentle that Beauty felt no more shaken by him than she would -have been by the breath of a zephyr. - -In vain, during the journey, did her father offer a hundred times to -allow her to dismount, and to go himself alone to find the Beast. -"Consider, my dear child," said he; "there is still time. This Monster -is more terrible than thou canst imagine. However firm thy resolution -may be, I cannot but fear it will fail on beholding him; then it will -be too late; thou wilt be lost, and we shall both perish together." - -"If I went," replied Beauty, "to seek this terrible Beast with the hope -of being happy, it is not impossible that that hope would fail me at -the sight of him; but as I reckon on a speedy death, and believe it to -be unavoidable, what does it signify whether he who shall destroy me be -agreeable or hideous." - -Conversing thus, night closed around them, but the horse went quite -as fast in the darkness. It was, however, suddenly dissipated by a -most unexpected spectacle. This was caused by the discharge of all -kinds of beautiful fireworks--flowerpots, catherine-wheels, suns, -bouquets,--which dazzled the eyes of our travellers. This agreeable and -unlooked-for illumination lighted up the entire forest, and diffused a -gentle heat through the air, which was become desirable, for the cold -in this country was more keenly felt in the night than by day. - -By this charming light the father and daughter found themselves in -an avenue of orange-trees. At the moment that they entered it the -fireworks ceased. The illumination was, however, continued by all the -statues having in their hands lighted torches. Besides these, lamps -without number covered the front of the palace, symmetrically arranged -in forms of true-lover's knots and crowned cyphers, consisting of -double LL's and double BB's.[16] On entering the court they were -received by a salute of artillery, which, added to the sound of a -thousand instruments of various kinds, some soft, some warlike, had a -fine effect. - -"The Beast must be very hungry indeed," said Beauty, half-jestingly, -"to make such grand rejoicings at the arrival of his prey." However, -in spite of her agitation at the approach of an event which, according -to all appearance, was about to be fatal to her, she could not avoid -paying attention to the magnificent objects which succeeded each other, -and presented to her view the most beautiful spectacle she had ever -seen, nor help saying to her father that the preparations for her death -were more brilliant than the bridal pomp of the greatest king in the -world. - -The horse stopped at the foot of the flight of steps. She alighted -quickly, and her father, as soon as he had put foot to the ground, -conducted her by a vestibule to the saloon in which he had been so -well entertained. They found there a large fire, lighted candles which -emitted an exquisite perfume, and, above all, a table splendidly -served. The good man, accustomed to the manner in which the Beast -regaled his guests, told his daughter that this repast was intended -for them, and that they were at liberty to avail themselves of it. -Beauty made no difficulty, well-persuaded that it would not hasten -her death. On the contrary, she imagined that it would make known -to the Beast the little repugnance she had felt in coming to see -him. She hoped that her frankness might be capable of softening him, -and even that her adventure might be less sad than she had at first -apprehended. The formidable Monster with which she had been menaced did -not show himself, and the whole palace spoke of joy and magnificence. -It appeared that her arrival had caused these demonstrations, and it -did not seem probable that they could have been designed for a funeral -ceremony. - -Her hope did not last long, however. The Monster made himself heard. -A frightful noise, caused by the enormous weight of his body, by the -terrible clank of his scales, and an awful roaring, announced his -arrival. Terror took possession of Beauty. The old man, embracing his -daughter, uttered piercing cries. But recovering herself in a moment, -she suppressed her agitation. Seeing the Beast approach, whom she -could not behold without a shudder, she advanced with a firm step, -and with a modest air saluted him very respectfully. This behaviour -pleased the Monster. After having contemplated her, he said to the old -man, in a tone which, without being one of anger, might, however, fill -with terror the boldest heart, "Good evening, my good friend;" and -turning to Beauty, he said also to her, "Good evening, Beauty." The old -man, fearing every instant that something awful would happen to his -daughter, had not the strength to reply. But Beauty, without agitation -and in a sweet and firm voice, said, "Good evening, Beast." "Do you -come here voluntarily?" inquired the Beast; "and will you consent to -let your father depart without following him?" Beauty replied that she -had no other intention. "Ah! and what do you think will become of you -after his departure?" "What it may please you," said she; "my life is -at your disposal, and I submit blindly to the fate which you may doom -me to." - -"I am satisfied with your submission," replied the Beast; "and as it -appears that they have not brought you here by force, you shall remain -with me. As for thee, good man," said he to the merchant, "thou shalt -depart to-morrow, at daybreak; the bell will warn you; delay not after -thy breakfast; the same horse will reconduct thee. But," added he, -"when thou shalt be in the midst of thy family, dream not of revisiting -my palace, and remember it is forbidden thee for ever. You, Beauty," -continued the Monster, addressing her, "conduct your father into -the adjoining wardrobe, and choose anything which both of you think -will give pleasure to your brothers and sisters. You will find two -trunks; fill them. It is right that you should send them something of -sufficient value to oblige them to remember you." - -In spite of the liberality of the Monster, the approaching departure -of her father sensibly affected Beauty, and caused her extreme -grief; however, she determined to obey the Beast, who quitted them, -after having said, as he had done on entering, "Good-night, Beauty; -good-night, good man." When they were alone, the good man, embracing -his daughter, wept without ceasing. The idea of leaving her with the -Monster was a most cruel trial to him. He repented having brought her -into that place. The gates were open; he wished to lead her away again, -but Beauty impressed upon him the danger and consequences of such a -proceeding. - -They entered the wardrobe which had been indicated to them; they were -surprised at the treasures it contained. It was filled with apparel so -superb that a Queen could not wish for anything more beautiful, or in -better taste. Never was a warehouse better filled. - -When Beauty had chosen the dresses she thought the most suitable, not -to the present situation of the family, but proportioned to the riches -and liberality of the Beast, who was the donor, she opened a press, -the door of which was of rock crystal, mounted in gold. Although such -a magnificent exterior prepared her to find it contain some rare and -precious treasures, she saw such a mass of jewels of all kinds, that -her eyes could hardly support the brilliancy of them. Beauty, from a -feeling of obedience, took without hesitation, a prodigious quantity, -which she divided as well as she could amongst the lots she had already -made. - -On opening the last cabinet, which was no less than a cabinet filled -with pieces of gold, she changed her mind. "I think," said she to -her father, "that it will be better to empty these trunks, and to -fill them with coin, which you can give to your children according to -your pleasure. By this means you will not be obliged to confide your -secret to any one, and your riches will be possessed by you without -danger. The advantage that you would derive from the possession of -these jewels, although their value might be more considerable, would -be attended by inconvenience. In order to profit by them you would be -forced to sell them, and to trust them to persons who would only look -on you with envious eyes. Your confidence in them might even prove -fatal to you, whilst gold pieces of current coin will place you," -continued she, "beyond the reach of any misfortune, by giving you the -means of acquiring land and houses, and purchasing rich furniture, -ornaments, and precious stones." - -The father approved her forethought. But wishing to take for his -daughters some dresses and ornaments, in order to make room for them -as well as the gold, he took out of the trunks what he had selected -for his own use. The great quantity of coin which he put in did not -fill them, however. They were composed of folds which stretched at -pleasure. He found room for the jewels which he had displaced, and, -in fact, these trunks contained more than he could even wish for. "So -much money," said he to his daughter, "will place me in a position to -sell my jewels at my own convenience. Following thy counsel, I will -hide my wealth from the world, and even from my children. If they knew -me to be as rich as I shall be, they would torment me to abandon my -country life, which, however, is the sole one wherein I have found -happiness, and not experienced the perfidy of false friends, with whom -the world is filled." But the trunks were so immensely heavy, that an -elephant would have sunk under their weight, and the hope which he had -begun to cherish appeared to him a dream, and nothing more. "The Beast -mocks us," said he, "and feigns to give me wealth, which he makes it -impossible for me to carry away." - -"Suspend your judgment," replied Beauty; "you have not provoked his -liberality by any indiscreet request nor by any greedy or interested -looks. Raillery would be without point. I think, as the Monster has -bestowed it on you, that he will certainly find the means of allowing -you to enjoy it. We have only to close the trunks, and leave them here. -No doubt he knows by what coach to send them." - -Nothing could be more prudent than this advice. The good man, -conformably to it, re-entered the saloon with his daughter. Seated -together on the sofa, they saw the breakfast instantly served. The -father ate with more appetite than he had done the preceding night. -That which had come to pass had diminished his despair and revived his -confidence. He would have departed without concern if the Beast had -not had the cruelty to make him understand that he must not dream of -seeing his palace again, and that he must wish his daughter an eternal -farewell. There is no evil but death without remedy. The good man was -not completely stunned by this order. He flattered himself that it -would not be irrevocable, and this hope prepared him to quit his host -with tolerable satisfaction. Beauty was not so well satisfied. Little -persuaded that a happy future was prepared for her, she feared that the -rich presents with which the Monster loaded her family was but the -price of her life, and that he would devour her immediately that he -should be alone with her, or at least that a perpetual prison would be -her fate, and that her only companion would be this frightful Monster. - -This reflection plunged her into a profound reverie, but a second -stroke of the bell warned them that it was time to separate. They -descended into the court, where the father found two horses, the one -loaded with the two trunks, and the other destined for himself. The -latter, covered with a good cloak, and the saddle having two bags -attached to it full of refreshments, was the same which he had ridden -before. So much attention on the part of the Beast again supplied them -with subject of conversation; but the horses, neighing and stamping -with their hoofs, made known to them that it was time to part. - -The merchant, afraid of irritating the Beast by his delay, bade his -daughter an eternal farewell. The two horses set off faster than the -wind, and Beauty instantly lost sight of them. She mounted in tears to -the chamber which was appropriated to her, where for some time she was -lost in sad reflections. - -At length, being overcome with sleep, she felt a wish to seek repose, -which, during a month past, she had not enjoyed. Having nothing better -to do, she was about to go to bed, when she perceived on the table a -service of chocolate prepared. She took it, half asleep, and her eyes -almost immediately closed. She fell into a quiet slumber, which since -the moment she had received the fatal rose had been unknown to her. - -During her sleep, she dreamt that she was on the bank of a canal, a -long way off, the two sides of which were ornamented with two rows of -orange trees and flowering myrtles of immense size, where, engrossed -with her sad situation, she lamented the misfortune which condemned her -to pass her days in this place without hope of ever leaving it. - -A young man, beautiful as Cupid is painted, in a voice which touched -her heart, then said--"Do not, Beauty, believe thou wilt be as unhappy -as it now appears to thee. It is in this place that thou wilt receive -the recompence which they have elsewhere unjustly denied thee. Let thy -penetration assist thee to extricate me from the appearance which -disguises me. Judge in seeing me if my company is contemptible, and -ought not to be preferred to a family unworthy of thee. Wish, and all -thy desires shall be fulfilled. I love thee tenderly; thou alone canst -bestow happiness on me by being happy thyself. Never deny me this. -Excelling all other women as far in the qualities of thy mind as thou -excellest them in beauty, we shall be perfectly happy together." - -This charming apparition then kneeling at her feet, made her the most -flattering promises in the most tender language. He pressed her in the -warmest terms to consent to his happiness, and assured her that she -should be entirely her own mistress. - -"What can I do?" said she to him with eagerness. - -"Follow the first impulse of gratitude," said he. "Judge not by thine -eyes, and, above all, abandon me not, but release me from the terrible -torment which I endure." - -After this first dream, she fancied she was in a magnificent cabinet -with a lady, whose majestic mien and surprising beauty created in -her heart a feeling of profound respect. This lady said to her in an -affectionate tone--"Charming Beauty, regret not that thou hast left; -a more illustrious fate awaits thee; but if thou wouldst deserve it, -beware of allowing thyself to be prejudiced by appearances." Her sleep -lasted more than five hours, during which time she saw the young man in -a hundred different places, and under a hundred different circumstances. - -Sometimes he offered her a fine entertainment; sometimes he made the -most tender protestations to her. How pleasant her sleep was! She would -have wished to prolong it, but her eyes, open to the light, could not -be induced to close again, and Beauty believed she had only had an -agreeable dream. - -A clock struck twelve, repeating twelve times her own name, which -obliged her to rise. She then saw a toilet-table covered with -everything necessary for a lady. After having dressed herself with a -feeling of pleasure of which she did not imagine the cause, she passed -into the saloon, where her dinner was served. - -When one eats alone, a repast is very soon over. On returning to her -chamber, she threw herself on the sofa; the young man of whom she -had dreamt again presented himself to her thoughts. "'I can make thy -happiness,' were his words. Probably this horrible Beast, who appears -to command all here, keeps him in prison. How can he be extricated? -They repeated to me that I was not to be deceived by appearances. I -understand nothing; but how foolish I am! I amuse myself by seeking for -reasons to explain an illusion formed by sleep, and which my waking -has destroyed. I ought not to pay attention to it. I must only occupy -myself with my present fate, and seek such amusements as will prevent -my being overcome by melancholy." - -Shortly afterwards she began to wander through the numerous apartments -of the palace. She was enchanted with them, having never seen -anything so beautiful. The first that she entered was a large cabinet -of mirrors. She saw herself reflected on all sides. At length a -bracelet, suspended to a girandole, caught her sight. She found on it -the portrait of the handsome Cavalier, just as she had seen him in -her sleep. How was it she recognised him immediately? His features -were already too deeply impressed on her mind, and, perhaps, in her -heart. With joyful haste she placed the bracelet on her arm, without -reflecting whether this action was correct. From this cabinet, having -passed into a gallery full of pictures, she there found the same -portrait the size of life, which appeared to regard her with such -tender attention, that she coloured, as if this picture had been the -person himself; or that she had had witnesses of her thoughts. - -Continuing her walk, she found herself in a saloon filled with -different kinds of instruments. Knowing how to play on almost all, she -tried several, preferring the harpsichord to the others, because it was -a better accompaniment for the voice. From this saloon, she entered -another gallery, corresponding to that in which were the paintings. -It contained an immense library. She liked reading, and since her -sojourn in the country she had been deprived of this pleasure. Her -father, by the confusion of his affairs, had found himself obliged to -sell his books. Her great taste for study could easily be satisfied -in this place, and would guarantee her against the dulness consequent -on solitude. The day passed before she could see everything. At the -approach of night, all the apartments were illuminated by perfumed -wax-lights, placed in lustres either transparent or of different -colours, and not of crystal, but made of diamonds and rubies. - -At the usual hour, Beauty found her supper served, with the same -delicacy and neatness as before. No human figure presented itself to -her view; her father had told her she would be alone. This solitude -began no longer to trouble her, when the Beast made himself heard. -Never having yet found herself alone with him, ignorant how this -interview would pass off, fearing even that he only came to devour her, -is it any wonder that she trembled? But on the arrival of the Beast, -whose approach was by no means furious, her fears were dissipated. -This monstrous giant said, roughly, "Good evening, Beauty." She -returned his salutation in the same terms, with a calm air, but a -little tremulously. Amongst the different questions which the monster -put to her, he asked how she amused herself? Beauty replied, "I have -passed the day in inspecting your palace, but it is so vast that I -have not had time to see all the apartments, and the beauties which it -contains." The Beast asked her, "Do you think you can get accustomed to -living here?" The girl replied, politely, that she could live without -trouble in so beautiful an abode. After an hour's conversation, Beauty -discovered that the terrible tone of his voice was attributable only -to the nature of the organ; and that the Beast was more inclined to -stupidity than to ferocity. At length he asked her bluntly if she would -marry him. At this unexpected demand, her fears were renewed, and -uttering a terrible shriek, she could not help exclaiming, "O! Heavens, -I am lost!" - -"Not at all," replied the Beast, quietly; "but without frightening -yourself, reply properly. Say precisely 'yes' or 'no.'" Beauty replied, -trembling, "No, Beast." "Well, as you object, I will leave you," -replied the docile Monster. "Good evening, Beauty." "Good evening, -Beast," said the frightened girl, with much satisfaction. Extremely -relieved by finding that she had no violence to fear, she lay quietly -down and went to sleep. Immediately her dear unknown returned to her -mind. He appeared to say to her, tenderly, "How overjoyed I am to see -you once more, dear Beauty, but what pain has your severity caused -me? I know that I must expect to be unhappy for a long time." Her -ideas again changed, the young man appeared to offer her a crown, and -sleep presented him to her in a hundred different manners. Sometimes -he seemed to be at her feet, sometimes abandoning himself to the -most excessive delight, at others shedding a torrent of tears, which -touched the depths of her soul. This mixture of joy and sadness lasted -all the night. On waking, having her imagination full of this dear -object, she sought for his portrait, to compare it once more with her -recollections, and to see if she were not deceived. She ran to the -picture gallery, where she recognised him still more perfectly. How -long she was admiring him! but feeling ashamed of her weakness, she -contented herself at length by looking at the miniature on her arm. - -At length, to put an end to these tender reflections, she descended -into the garden, the fine weather seeming to invite her to a stroll. -Her eyes were enchanted; they had never seen anything in nature so -beautiful. The groves were ornamented with admirable statues and -numberless fountains, which cooled the air, and shot up to such a -height that the eye could scarcely follow them. - -What surprised her most was, that she recognised the places wherein she -had dreamt she had seen the unknown. Especially at the sight of the -grand canal, bordered with orange and myrtle trees, she could not but -think of her vision, which appeared no longer a fiction. She thought to -explain the mystery by imagining that the Beast kept some one shut up -in his palace. She resolved to be enlightened on the subject that same -evening, and to question the Monster, from whom she expected a visit -at the usual hour. She walked for the rest of the day, as long as her -strength permitted, without being able to see all. - -The apartments which she had not been able to inspect the evening -before, were no less worthy of her admiration than the others. Besides -the instruments and curiosities with which she was surrounded, she -found in another cabinet plenty to occupy her. It was filled with -purses, and shuttles for knotting, scissors for cutting out, and fitted -up for all sorts of ladies' work; in fact, everything was to be found -there. - -In this gallery care had been taken to place a cage filled with rare -birds, all of which, on the arrival of Beauty, formed an admirable -concert. They came also and perched on her shoulders, and these loving -little creatures vied with each other as to which should nestle closest -to her. "Amiable prisoners," said she, "I think you charming, and I am -vexed that you should be so far from my apartment, I should often like -the pleasure of hearing you sing." - -What was her surprise, when as she said these words, she opened a door -and found herself in her own chamber, which she believed was very -distant from this gallery, having only arrived in it after turning -and threading a labyrinth of apartments which composed this pavilion. -A panel which had concealed from her the neighbourhood of the birds, -opened into the gallery, and was very convenient, as it completely shut -out the noise of them when quiet was desirable. - -Beauty, continuing her route, perceived another feathered group; these -were parrots of all kinds and of all colours. All at her approach began -to chatter. One said, "Good day" to her; the other asked her for some -breakfast; one more gallant begged a kiss; several sang opera airs, -others declaimed verses composed by the best authors; and all exerted -themselves to entertain her. They were as gentle and as affectionate -as the inhabitants of the aviary. Their presence was a real pleasure -to her. She was delighted to find something she could talk with, for -silence was not agreeable to her. She put several questions to some of -them, who answered her like very intelligent creatures. She selected -one from amongst them as the most amusing. The others, jealous of this -preference, complained sadly. She consoled them by some caresses, and -the permission to pay her a visit whenever they pleased. Not far from -this spot she saw a numerous troop of monkeys of all sizes, great and -small, sapajous,[17] some with human faces, others with beards, blue, -green, black, and crimson. They advanced to meet her at the door of -their apartment, which she had by chance arrived at. They made her low -bows, accompanied by countless capers, and testified, by action, how -highly sensible they were of the honour she had done them. - -To celebrate her visit, they danced upon the tight-rope, and bounded -about with a skill and an agility beyond example. Beauty was much -pleased with the monkeys, but she was disappointed at not finding -anything which could enlighten her respecting the handsome unknown. -Losing all hope of doing so, and looking upon her dream as altogether -an illusion, she did her best to drive the recollection of it from -her mind; but her efforts were vain. She praised the monkeys, and, -caressing them, said she should like some of them to follow her and -keep her company. Instantly two tall young apes, in court dresses, who -appeared to have been only waiting for her orders, advanced and placed -themselves with great gravity beside her. Two sprightly little monkeys -took up her train as her pages. A facetious baboon, dressed as a -Spanish gentleman of the chamber, presented his paw to her, very neatly -gloved, and accompanied by this singular cortège, Beauty proceeded -to the supper table. During her meal the smaller birds whistled, in -perfect tune, an accompaniment to the voices of the parrots, who sang -the finest and most fashionable airs. - -During the concert, the monkeys, who had taken upon themselves the -right of attending upon Beauty, having in an instant settled their -several ranks and duties, commenced their service, and waited on her in -full state, with all the attention and respect that officers of a royal -household are accustomed to pay to queens. - -On rising from table, another troop proceeded to entertain her with a -novel spectacle. They were a sort of company of actors, who played a -tragedy in the most extraordinary fashion. These Signor Monkeys and -Signora Apes, in stage dresses covered with embroidery, pearls, and -diamonds, executed all the actions suitable to the words of their -parts, which were spoken with great distinctness and proper emphasis -by the parrots; so cleverly, indeed, that it was necessary to be -assured that these birds were concealed in the wig of one actor or -under the mantle of another, not to believe that these new-fashioned -tragedians were speaking themselves. The drama appeared to have been -written expressly for the actors, and Beauty was enchanted. At the end -of the tragedy, one of the performers advanced and paid Beauty a very -well-turned compliment, and thanked her for the indulgence with which -she had listened to them. All then departed, except the monkeys of her -household, and those selected to keep her company. - -After supper, the Beast paid her his usual visit, and after the same -questions and the same answers, the conversation ended with a "Good -night, Beauty." The Lady-Apes of the bed-chamber undressed their -mistress, put her to bed, and took care to open the window of the -aviary, that the birds, by a warbling much softer than their songs -by day, might induce slumber, and afford her the pleasure of again -beholding her lover. Several days passed without her experiencing any -feeling of dulness. Every moment brought with it fresh pleasures. The -monkeys, in three or four lessons, succeeded each one in teaching a -parrot, who, acting as an interpreter, replied to Beauty's questions -with as much promptitude and accuracy as the monkeys themselves had -done by gestures. In fine, Beauty found nothing to complain of but the -obligation of enduring every evening the presence of the Beast; but his -visits were short, and it was undoubtedly to him that she was indebted -for the enjoyment of all imaginable amusements. - -The gentleness of the monster occasionally inspired Beauty with the -idea of asking some explanation respecting the person she saw in -her dreams; but sufficiently aware that he was in love with her, -and fearing by such questioning to awaken his jealousy, she had the -prudence to remain silent, and did not venture to satisfy her curiosity. - -By degrees she had visited every apartment in this enchanted palace: -but one willingly returns to the inspection of things which are rare, -singular, and costly. Beauty turned her steps towards a great saloon, -which she had only seen once before. This room had four windows in it -on each side. Two only were open, and admitted a glimmering light. -Beauty wished for more light, but in lieu of obtaining any by opening -another window, she found it only looked into some enclosed space, -which, although large, was obscure, and her eyes could distinguish -nothing but a distant gleam, which appeared to reach them through the -medium of a very thick crape. Whilst pondering for what purpose this -place could have been designed, she was suddenly dazzled by a brilliant -illumination. The curtain rose and discovered to Beauty a theatre, -exceedingly well lighted. On the benches and in the boxes she beheld -all that was most handsome and well made of either sex.[18] A sweet -symphony, which instantly commenced, terminated only to permit other -actors than monkey and parrot performers to represent a very fine -tragedy, which was followed by a little piece, quite equal in its own -style to that which had preceded it. Beauty was fond of plays. It was -the only pleasure she had regretted when she left the city. Desiring -to ascertain what sort of material the hangings of the box next to her -were made of, she found herself prevented doing so by a glass which -separated them, and thereby discovered that what she had seen were not -the actual objects, but a reflection of them by means of this crystal -mirror, which thus conveyed to her sight all that was passing on the -stage of the finest city in the world. It is a master-stroke in optics -to be able to reflect from such a distance. She remained in her box -some time after the play was over, in order to see the fine company go -out. The darkness that gradually ensued compelled her to think of other -matters. Satisfied with this discovery, of which she promised to avail -herself often, she descended into the gardens. Prodigies were becoming -familiar to her. She rejoiced to find they were all performed for her -advantage and amusement. - -After supper, the Beast came, as usual, to ask her what she had been -doing during the day. Beauty gave him an exact account of all her -amusements, and told him she had been to the play. "Do you like it?" -inquired the dull creature. "Wish for whatever you please, you shall -have it. You are very handsome." Beauty smiled to herself at the coarse -manner in which he paid her compliments; but what she did not smile at -was the usual question, and the words, "Will you marry me?" put an end -to her good humour. She had only to answer "No;" but, nevertheless, -his docility during this last interview did not re-assure her. Beauty -was alarmed at it. "What is to be the end of all this?" she said to -herself. "The question he puts to me every time, 'Will I marry him?' -proves that he persists in loving me: his bounty to me confirms it. -But though he does not insist on my compliance, nor show any signs -of resentment at my refusal, who will be answerable to me that he -do not eventually lose his patience, and that my death will not be -the consequence?" These reflections rendered her so thoughtful that -it was almost daylight before she went to bed. The unknown, who but -awaited that moment to appear, reproached her tenderly for her delay. -He found her melancholy, lost in thought, and inquired what could have -displeased her in such a place. She answered that nothing displeased -her, except the Monster whom she saw every evening. She should have -become accustomed to him, but he was in love with her, and this love -made her apprehensive of some violence. "By the foolish compliments -he pays me," said Beauty to her lover, "I find he desires to marry -me. Would you advise me to consent? Alas! were he as charming as he -is frightful, you have rendered my heart inaccessible to him and to -all others; and I do not blush to own that I can love no one but you." -So sweet a confession could but flatter the unknown, yet he replied -to her only by saying, "Love him who loves you. Do not be misled by -appearances, and release me from prison." These words, continually -repeated without any explanation, caused Beauty infinite distress. -"What would you that I should do?" said she to him. "I would restore -you to liberty at any price; but my desire is vain while you abstain -from furnishing me with the means to put it in practice." The unknown -made her some answer, but of so confused a nature that she could not -comprehend it. A thousand extravagant fancies passed before her eyes. -She saw the Monster on a throne all blazing with jewels; he called to -her and invited her to sit beside him. A moment afterwards, the unknown -compelled him precipitately to descend, and seated himself in his -place. The Beast regaining the advantage, the unknown disappeared in -his turn. He spoke to her from behind a black veil, which changed his -voice, and rendered it horrible. - -All her sleep passed in this manner, and yet, notwithstanding the -agitation it caused her, she felt it was too soon over, as her -awakening deprived her of the sight of the object of her affections. -After she had finished dressing, various sorts of work, books, and -animals occupied her attention until the hour when the play began. She -arrived just in time, but she was not at the same theatre. It was the -opera,[19] and the performance commenced as soon as she was seated. -The spectacle was magnificent, and the spectators were not less so. -The mirrors represented to her distinctly the most minute details of -the dresses even of the people in the pit. Delighted to behold human -forms and faces, many of which she recognised as those of persons she -knew, it would have been a still greater pleasure to her could she have -spoken to them, so that they could have heard her. - -More gratified with this day's entertainment than with that of the -preceding, the rest of it passed in the same way that each had done -since she had been in that palace. The Beast came in the evening, -and after his visit she retired, as usual. The night resembled -former nights,--that is, it was passed in agreeable dreams. When -she awoke, she found the same number of domestics to wait upon her; -but after dinner her occupations were different. The day before, on -opening another of the windows, she had found herself at the opera. -To diversify her amusements, she now opened a third window, which -displayed to her all the pleasures of the Fair of St. Germain,[20] much -more brilliant then than it is at the present day. But as the hour had -not quite arrived when the best company resorted to it, she had leisure -to observe and examine everything. She saw the rarest curiosities, the -most extraordinary productions of nature and works of art. The minutest -trifles were visible to her. The puppet-show was not unworthy of her -attention,[21] whilst waiting for more refined entertainments. The -comic opera was in its splendour.[22] Beauty was very much delighted. -At the termination of the performances, she saw all the well-dressed -people visiting the tradesmen's shops. She recognised amongst the crowd -several professional gamesters, who flocked to this place as their -workshop. - -She observed persons who, having lost their money by the cleverness -of those they played with, went out with less joyous countenances than -they exhibited as they entered. The prudent gamblers, who did not stake -their whole fortunes on the hazard of a card, and who played to profit -by their skill, could not conceal from Beauty their sleight of hand. -She longed to warn the victims of the tricks they were plundered by; -but at a distance from them of more than a thousand leagues it was not -in her power to do so. She heard and saw everything distinctly, without -its being possible for her to make herself heard or seen by others. -The reflections and echoes which conveyed to her all these sights -and sounds had no returning power. Placed above the air and wind, -everything came to her like a thought. The consideration of this fact -deterred her from making vain attempts. - -It was past midnight before she thought it was time to retire. The -need of some refreshment might have hinted to her the lateness of the -hour; but she had found in her box liqueurs and baskets filled with -everything requisite for a collation. Her supper was light and of -short duration; she was in a hurry to go to bed. The Beast observed -her impatience, and came merely to say good-night, that she might have -more time to sleep and the Unknown liberty to reappear. The following -days resembled each other. She found in her windows an inexhaustible -source of fresh entertainments. The first of the other three afforded -her the pleasure of witnessing Italian comedy;[23] the second, a -sight of the Tuileries, the resort of all the most distinguished and -handsome of both sexes. The last window was very far from being the -least agreeable. It enabled her to see everything of consequence that -was going on in the world. The scene was amusing and interesting in all -sorts of ways. Sometimes it was the reception of a grand embassy, at -others the marriage of some illustrious personages, and occasionally -some exciting revolutions. She was at this window during the last -revolt of the Janizaries, and witnessed the whole of it to the very end. - -At all times she was certain to find something here to entertain her. -The weariness she had felt at first in listening to the Beast had -entirely departed. Her eyes had become accustomed to his ugliness. She -was prepared for his foolish questions, and if their conversations had -lasted longer, perchance she would have not been displeased; but four -or five sentences, always the same, uttered in a coarse manner, and -productive only of a "Yes" or "No," were not much to her taste. - -As the slightest desires of Beauty appeared to be anticipated, she -bestowed more care upon her toilet, although certain that no one could -see her. But she owed this attention to herself, and it was a pleasure -to her to dress herself in the habits of all the various nations on the -face of the earth. She could do this the more easily, as her wardrobe -furnished her with everything she chose, and presented her every day -with some novelty. Contemplating her mirror in these various dresses, -it revealed to her that she was to be admired in all lands; and her -attendant animals, each according to their talent, repeated to her -unceasingly the same fact--the monkeys by their actions, the parrots by -their language, and the other birds by their songs. - -So delightful a life ought to have perfectly contented her, but we -weary of everything. The greatest happiness fades when it is continual, -derived always from the same source, and we find ourselves exempted -from fear and from hope. Beauty had experienced this. The remembrance -of her family arose to trouble her in the midst of her prosperity. Her -happiness could not be perfect as long as she was denied the pleasure -of informing her relations of it. - -As she had become more familiar with the Beast, either from the -habit of seeing him or from the gentleness which she had discovered -in his nature, she thought she might venture to ask him a question. -She did not take this liberty, however, until she had obtained from -him a promise that he would not be angry. The question she put to -him was, "Were they the only two persons in that castle?" "Yes, I -protest to you," replied the Beast, in a rather excited tone; "and I -assure you that you and I, the monkeys, and the other animals, are the -only breathing creatures in this place." The Beast said no more, and -departed more abruptly than usual. - -Beauty had asked this question only with a view of ascertaining whether -her lover was not confined in the palace. She would have wished to see -and speak with him. It was a happiness she would have purchased at the -price of her own liberty and of all the pleasures by which she was -surrounded. That charming youth existing only in her imagination, she -now looked upon this palace as a prison which would be one day her tomb. - -These melancholy ideas crowded also upon her mind at night. She dreamed -she was on the banks of a great canal; she was weeping, when her dear -Unknown, alarmed at her sad state, said to her, pressing her hand -tenderly between his own, "What is the matter, my beloved Beauty? -Who can have offended you, and what can possibly have disturbed your -tranquillity? By the love I bear you, I conjure you to explain the -cause of your distress. Nothing shall be refused to you. You are sole -sovereign here--everything is at your command. Whence arises the sorrow -that overpowers you? Is it the sight of the Beast that afflicts you? -You must be relieved from it!" At these words Beauty imagined she saw -the Unknown draw a dagger, and prepare to plunge it in the throat -of the Monster, who made no attempt to defend himself, but, on the -contrary, offered his neck to the blow with a submission and a calmness -which caused the beautiful dreamer to fear the Unknown would accomplish -his purpose before she could endeavour to prevent him, notwithstanding -she had instantly risen to protect the Beast. The instant she saw -her efforts likely to be anticipated, she exclaimed, with all her -might, "Hold, barbarian! Harm not my benefactor, or else kill me!" -The Unknown, who continued striking at the Beast, notwithstanding the -shrieks of Beauty, said to her, angrily, "You love me, then, no longer, -since you take the part of this Monster, who is an obstacle to my -happiness!" "You are ungrateful," she replied, still struggling with -him; "I love you more than my life, and I would lose it sooner than -cease to love you. You are all the world to me, and I would not do you -the injustice to compare you with any other treasure it possesses. I -would, without a sigh, abandon all it could offer me, to follow you -into the wildest desert. But this tender affection does not stifle my -gratitude. I owe everything to the Beast. He anticipates all my wishes: -it is to him I am indebted for the joy of knowing you, and I would die -sooner than endure seeing you do him the slightest injury." - -After several similar struggles the objects vanished, and Beauty -fancied she saw the lady who had appeared to her some nights before, -and who said to her, "Courage, Beauty; be a model of female generosity; -show thyself to be as wise as thou art charming; do not hesitate to -sacrifice thy inclination to thy duty. Thou takest the true path -to happiness. Thou wilt be blest, provided thou art not misled by -deceitful appearances." - -When Beauty awoke she pondered on this mysterious vision, but it still -remained an enigma to her. Her desire to see her father superseded, -during the day, the anxiety caused by these dreams of the Monster and -the Unknown. Thus, neither tranquil at night nor contented by day, -although surrounded by the greatest luxuries, the only distraction she -could find was in the theatre. She went to the Italians, but after -the first scene she quitted that performance for the Opera, which she -left almost as quickly. Her melancholy followed her everywhere. She -frequently opened each of the six windows as many times without finding -one minute's respite from her cares. Days and nights of equal and -unceasing agitation began seriously to affect her appearance and her -health. - -She took great pains to conceal from the Beast the sorrow which preyed -upon her; and the Monster, who had frequently surprised her with the -tears in her eyes, upon hearing her say that she was only suffering -from a headache, pressed his inquiries no further. One evening, -however, her sobs having betrayed her, and feeling it impossible longer -to dissimulate, she acknowledged to the Beast, who begged to know what -had caused her afflictions, that she was yearning to see her family. -At this declaration the Beast sank down without power to sustain -himself, and heaving a deep sigh, or rather uttering a howl that might -have frightened any one to death, he replied, "How, Beauty! would you, -then, abandon an unfortunate Beast? Could I have imagined you possessed -so little gratitude? What have I left undone to make you happy? Should -not the attentions I have paid you preserve me from your hatred? Unjust -as you are, you prefer the house of your father and the jealousy of -your sisters to my palace and my affections. You would rather tend the -flocks with them than enjoy with me all the pleasures of existence. -It is not love for your family, but antipathy to me, that makes you -anxious to depart." - -"No, Beast," replied Beauty, timidly and soothingly; "I do not hate -you, and should regret to lose the hope of seeing you again; but I -cannot overcome the desire I feel to embrace my relations. Permit -me to go away for two months, and I promise you that I will return -with pleasure to pass the rest of my days with you, and never ask you -another favour." - -While she spoke the Beast stretched on the ground, his head thrown -back, only evinced that he still breathed by his sorrowful sighs. He -answered her in these words: "I can refuse you nothing; but it will -perhaps cost me my life. No matter. In the cabinet nearest to your -apartment you will find four chests. Fill them with anything you like -for yourself or for your family. If you break your word you will repent -it, and regret the death of your poor Beast when it will be too late. -Return at the end of two months, and you will still see me alive. For -your journey back to me you will need no equipage. Merely take leave of -your family the previous night before you retire to rest, and when you -are in bed turn your ring, the stone inside your hand, and say, with -a firm voice, 'I desire to return to my palace, and behold my Beast -again.' Good-night; fear nothing; sleep in peace. You will see your -father early to-morrow morning. Adieu, Beauty." - -As soon as she was alone she hastened to fill the chests with all -the treasures and beautiful things imaginable. They only appeared to -be full when she was tired of putting things into them. After these -preparations, she went to bed. The thoughts of seeing her family so -soon kept her awake great part of the night, and sleep only stole upon -her towards the hour when she should have been stirring. She saw in -her dreams her amiable Unknown, but not as formerly. Stretched upon a -bed of turf, he appeared a prey to the keenest sorrow. Beauty, touched -at seeing him in such a state, flattered herself she could alleviate -his profound affliction by requesting to know the cause of it; but her -lover, casting on her a look full of despair, said, "Can you ask me -such a question, inhuman girl? Are you not aware that your departure -dooms me to death?" "Abandon not yourself to sorrow, dear Unknown," -replied she, "my absence will be brief. I wish but to undeceive my -family respecting the cruel fate they imagine has befallen me. I return -immediately afterwards to this palace. I shall leave you no more. Ah! -could I abandon a residence in which I so delight! Besides, I have -pledged my word to the Beast, that I will return. I cannot fail to keep -it; and why must this journey separate us? Be my escort. I will defer -my departure another day, in order to obtain the Beast's permission. I -am sure he will not refuse me. Agree to my proposal, and we shall not -part. We will return together; my family will be delighted to see you, -and I will answer for their showing you all the attention you deserve." -"I cannot accede to your wishes," replied the Unknown, "unless you -determine never to return hither. It is the only means of enabling me -to quit this spot. How will you decide? The inhabitants of this palace -have no power to compel you to return. Nothing can happen to you beyond -the knowledge that you have grieved the Beast." "You do not consider," -rejoined Beauty, quickly, "that he assured me he should die if I broke -my word to him." "What matters it to you?" retorted the lover; "is it -to be counted a misfortune that your happiness should cost only the -life of a monster? Of what use is he to the world? Will any one be a -loser by the destruction of a being who appears upon earth only to be -the horror of all nature?" "Ha!" exclaimed Beauty, almost angrily, -"know that I would lay down my life to save his, and that this Monster, -who is only one in form, has a heart so humane, that he should not -be persecuted for a deformity which he refrains from rendering more -hideous by his actions. I will not repay his kindness with such black -ingratitude." - -The Unknown, interrupting her, inquired what she would do if the -Monster endeavoured to kill him; and, if it were decreed that one of -them must slay the other, to which would she afford assistance? "I love -you only," she replied; "but extreme as is my affection for you, it -cannot weaken my gratitude to the Beast, and if I found myself placed -in so fatal a position, I would escape the misery which the result of -such a combat would inflict on me, by dying by my own hand. But why -indulge in such dreadful suppositions? However chimerical, the idea -freezes my blood. Let us change the conversation." - -She set him the example, by saying all that an affectionate girl could -say, most flattering to her lover. She was not restrained by the rigid -customs of society, and slumber left her free to act naturally. She -acknowledged to him her love with a frankness which she would have -shrunk from when in full possession of her reason. Her sleep was of -long duration, and when she awoke she feared the Beast had failed in -his promise to her. She was in this uncertainty when she heard the -sound of a human voice which she recognised. Undrawing her curtains -precipitately, what was her surprise when she found herself in a -strange apartment, the furniture of which was not near so superb as -that in the Palace of the Beast. This prodigy induced her to rise -hastily, and open the door of her chamber. The next room was equally -strange to her; but what astonished her still more, was to find in it -the four chests she had filled the previous evening. The transport of -herself and her treasures was a proof of the power and bounty of the -Beast; but where was she? She could not imagine; when at length she -heard the voice of her father, and rushing out, she flung her arms -round his neck. Her appearance astounded her brothers and sisters. -They stared at her as at one come from the other world. All her family -embraced her with the greatest demonstrations of delight; but her -sisters, in their hearts, were vexed at beholding her. Their jealousy -was not extinguished. After many caresses on both sides, the good man -desired to speak with her privately, to learn from her own lips all the -circumstances of so extraordinary a journey, and to inform her of the -state of his own fortune, of which he had set apart a large share for -herself. He told her that on the evening of the same day that he had -left the Palace of the Beast, he had reached his own house without -the least fatigue. That on the road he had cogitated how he could -best manage to conceal his trunks from the sight of his children, and -wished that they could be carried without their knowledge into a little -cabinet adjoining his bed-chamber, of which he alone had the key: that -he had looked upon this as an impossibility; but that, on dismounting -at his door, he found the horse on which his trunks had been placed -had run away, and therefore saw himself suddenly spared the trouble -of hiding his treasures. "I assure thee," said the old man to his -daughter, "that the loss of these riches did not distress me. I had not -possessed them long enough to regret them greatly; but the adventure -appeared to me a gloomy prognostic of my fate. I did not hesitate to -believe that the perfidious Beast would act in the same manner by thee. -I feared that the favours he conferred upon thee would not be more -durable. This idea caused me great anxiety. To conceal it, I feigned to -be in need of rest,--it was only to abandon myself without restraint to -my grief. I looked upon thy destruction as certain, but my sorrow was -soon dissipated. The sight of the trunks I thought I had lost renewed -my hopes of thy happiness. I found them placed in my little cabinet, -precisely where I had wished them to be. The keys of them, which I -had forgotten and left behind me on the table in the saloon wherein -we had passed the night, were in the locks. This circumstance, which -afforded me a new proof of the kindness of the Beast, and his constant -attention, overwhelmed me with joy. It was then that, no longer -doubting the advantageous result of thy adventure, I reproached myself -for entertaining such unjust suspicions of the honour of that generous -Monster, and craved his pardon a hundred times for the abuse which, in -my distress, I had mentally lavished upon him. - -"Without informing my children of the extent of my wealth, I contented -myself with distributing amongst them the presents thou hadst sent -them, and showing them some jewels of moderate value. I afterwards -pretended to have sold them, and have employed the money in various -ways for the improvement of our income. I have bought this house; I -have slaves, who relieve us from the labours to which necessity had -subjected us. My children lead an easy life,--that is all I care for. -Ostentation and luxury drew upon me, in other days, the hatred of the -envious; I should incur it again did I live in the style of a very -wealthy man. Many offers have been made to thy sisters, Beauty; I am -about to marry them off immediately, and thy fortunate arrival decides -me. Having given to them such portions of the wealth thou hast brought -to me, as thou shalt think fit, and relieved of all care for their -establishment, we will live, my daughter, with thy brothers, whom thy -presents were not able to console for thy loss; or, if thou prefer it, -we two will live together independently of them." - -Beauty, affected by the kindness of her father, and the assurance he -gave her of the love of her brothers, thanked him tenderly for all his -offers, and thought it would be wrong to conceal from him the fact -that she had not come to stay with him. The good man, distressed to -learn that he should not have the support of his child in his declining -years, did not, however, attempt to dissuade her from the fulfilment of -a duty which he acknowledged indispensable. - -Beauty, in her turn, related to him all that had happened to her since -they parted. She described to him the pleasant life she led. The good -man, enraptured at the charming account of his daughter's adventures, -heaped blessings on the head of the Beast. His delight was much greater -still when Beauty, opening the chests, displayed to him the immense -treasures they contained, and satisfied him that he was at liberty -to dispose of those which he had brought himself, in favour of his -daughters, as he would possess, in these last proofs of the Beast's -generosity, ample means to live merrily with his sons. Discovering in -this Monster too noble a mind to be lodged in so hideous a body, he -deemed it his duty to advise his daughter to marry him, notwithstanding -his ugliness. He employed even the strongest arguments to induce her to -take that step. - -"Thou shouldst not take counsel from thine eyes alone," said he to -her. "Thou hast been unceasingly exhorted to let thyself be guided by -gratitude. By following her inspirations thou art assured thou wilt be -happy. It is true these warnings are only given thee in dreams; but -these dreams are too significant and too frequent to be attributed -to chance. They promise thee great advantages, enough to conquer thy -repugnance. Therefore, the next time that the Beast asks thee if thou -wilt marry him, I advise thee not to refuse him. Thou hast admitted to -me that he loves thee tenderly: take the proper means to make thy union -with him indissoluble. It is much better to have an amiable husband -than one whose only recommendation is a handsome person. How many girls -are compelled to marry rich brutes, much more brutish than the Beast, -who is only one in form, and not in his feelings or his actions." - -Beauty admitted the reason of all these arguments; but to resolve to -marry a monster so horrible in person and who seemed as stupid as he -was gigantic, appeared to her an impossibility. "How can I determine," -replied she to her father, "to take a husband with whom I can have no -sympathy, and whose hideousness is not compensated for by the charms -of his conversation? no other object to distract my attention, and -relieve that wearisome companionship; not to have the pleasure of being -sometimes absent from him; to hear nothing beyond five or six questions -respecting my health or my appetite, followed by a 'Good-night, -Beauty,' a chorus which my parrots know by heart, and repeat a hundred -times a day. It is not in my power to endure such a union, and I would -rather perish at once than be dying every day of fright, sorrow, -disgust, and weariness. There is nothing to plead in his favour, except -the consideration he evinces in paying me very short visits, and -presenting himself before me but once in four-and-twenty hours. Is that -enough to inspire one with affection?" - -The father admitted that his daughter had reason on her side, but -observing so much civility in the Beast, he could not believe him to be -as stupid as she represented him. The order, the abundance, the good -taste that was discernible through his palace, were not, according to -his thinking, the work of a fool. In fact, he found him worthy of the -consideration of his daughter, and Beauty might have felt more inclined -to listen to the Monster, had not her nocturnal lover's appearance -thrown an obstacle in the way. The comparison she drew between these -two admirers could not be favourable to the Beast. The old man himself -was fully aware of the great distinction which must be made between -them. Notwithstanding, he tried by all manner of means to overcome her -repugnance. He recalled to her the advice of the lady who had warned -her not to be prejudiced by appearances, and whose language seemed to -imply that this youth would only make her miserable. - -It is easier to reason with love than to conquer it. Beauty had not the -power to yield to the reiterated requests of her father. He left her -without having been able to persuade her. Night, already far advanced, -invited her to repose, and the daughter, although delighted to see her -father once more, was not sorry that he left her at liberty to retire -to rest. She was glad to be alone. Her heavy eyelids inspired her -with the hope that in slumber she would soon again behold her beloved -Unknown. She was eager to enjoy this innocent pleasure. A quickened -pulsation evinced the joy with which her gentle heart would greet that -pleasant vision; but her excited imagination, while representing to her -the scenes in which she had usually held sweet converse with that dear -Unknown, had not sufficient power to conjure up his form to her as she -so ardently desired. - -She awoke several times, but on falling asleep again no cupids -fluttered round her couch. In a word, instead of a night full of sweet -thoughts and innocent pleasures, which she had counted on passing in -the arms of sleep, it was to her one of interminable length and endless -anxiety. She had never known any like it in the Palace of the Beast, -and the day, which she at last saw break with a mingled feeling of -satisfaction and impatience, came opportunely to relieve her from this -weariness. - -Her father, enriched by the liberality of the Beast, had quitted his -country house, and in order to facilitate the establishment of his -daughters, resided in a very large city, where his new fortune obtained -for him new friends, or rather new acquaintances. Amidst the circle -who visited him the tidings soon spread that his youngest daughter -had returned. Everybody evinced an equal impatience to see her, and -were each as much charmed with her intellect as with her beauty. -The peaceful days she had passed in her desert palace, the innocent -pleasures which a gentle slumber had invariably procured her, the -thousand amusements which succeeded, so that dullness could never take -possession of her spirit,--in brief, all the attentions of the Monster -had combined to render her still more beautiful and more charming than -she was when her father first parted from her. - -She was the admiration of all who saw her. The suitors to her sisters, -without condescending to excuse their infidelity by the slightest -pretext, fell in love with her, and attracted by the power of her -charms, deserted, without a blush, their former mistresses. Insensible -to the marked attentions of a crowd of adorers, she neglected nothing -that could discourage them and induce them to return to the previous -objects of their affection; but, notwithstanding all her care, she -could not escape the jealousy of her sisters. - -The inconstant lovers, far from concealing their new passion, invented -every day some fresh entertainment, with the view of paying their -court to her. They entreated her even to bestow the prize in the games -which took place in her honour; but Beauty, who could not be blind to -the mortification she was causing her sisters, and yet was unwilling -to refuse utterly the favour they implored so ardently, and in so -flattering a manner, found means to satisfy them all, by declaring -that she would, alternately with her sisters, present the prize to -the victor. What she selected was a flower, or some equally simple -guerdon. She left to her elder sisters the honour of giving, in their -turn, jewels, crowns of diamonds, costly weapons, or superb bracelets, -presents which her liberal hand supplied them with, but for which she -would not take the slightest credit. The treasures lavished on her -by the Monster left her in want of nothing. She divided between her -sisters everything she had brought that was most rare and elegant. -Bestowing nothing but trifles herself, and leaving them the pleasure -of giving largely, she counted on securing for them the love as well -as the gratitude of the youthful combatants. But these lovers sought -only to gain her heart, and the simplest gift from her hand was more -precious to them than all the treasures that were prodigally heaped -upon them by the others. - -The amusements she partook of amongst her family, though vastly -inferior to those she enjoyed in the Palace of the Beast, entertained -her sufficiently to prevent the time hanging heavily on her hands. At -the same time, neither the gratification of seeing her father, whom she -tenderly loved, nor the pleasure of being with her brothers, who in -a hundred ways studied to prove to her the extent of their affection, -nor the delight of conversing with her sisters, of whom she was very -fond, though they were not so of her, could prevent her regretting her -agreeable dreams. Her Unknown (greatly to her sorrow) came not, when -she slumbered under her father's roof, to address her in the tenderest -language; and the court paid to her by those who had been the admirers -of her sisters, did not compensate for the loss of that pleasing -illusion. Had she even been of a nature to feel flattered by such -conquests, she would still have distinguished an immense difference -between their attentions, or those of the Beast, and the devotion of -her charming Unknown. - -Their assiduities were received by her with the greatest indifference; -but Beauty perceiving that, notwithstanding her coolness, they were -obstinately bent on rivalling each other in the task of proving to -her the intensity of their passion, thought it her duty to make -them clearly understand they were losing their time. The first she -endeavoured to undeceive was one who had courted her eldest sister. She -told him that she had only returned for the purpose of being present at -the marriage of her sisters, particularly that of her eldest sister, -and that she was about to press her father to settle it immediately. -Beauty found that she had to deal with a man who saw no longer any -charms in her sister. He sighed alone for her, and coldness, disdain, -the threat to depart before the expiration of the two months--nothing, -in short, could discourage him. Much vexed at having failed in her -object, she held a similar conversation with the others, whom she had -the mortification to find equally infatuated. - -To complete her distress, her unjust sisters, who looked upon her as a -rival, conceived a hatred to her which they could not dissemble; and -whilst Beauty was deploring the too great power of her charms, she -had the misery of learning that her new adorers, believing each to be -the cause of the other's rejection, were bent, in the maddest way, on -fighting it out amongst themselves. All these annoyances induced her to -determine upon returning sooner than she had contemplated. - -Her father and brothers did all they could to detain her; but the slave -of her word, and firm in resolution, neither the tears of the one nor -the prayers of the others could prevail upon her. All that they could -extort from her was, that she would defer her departure as long as -she could. The two months had nearly expired, and every morning she -determined to bid adieu to her family, without having the heart when -night arrived to say farewell. In the combat between her affection and -her gratitude, she could not lean to the one without doing injustice to -the other. In the midst of her embarrassment, it needed nothing less -than a dream to decide her. She fancied she was at the Palace of the -Beast, and walking in a retired avenue, terminated by a thicket full -of brambles, concealing the entrance to a cavern, out of which issued -horrible groans. She recognised the voice of the Beast, and ran to his -assistance. The Monster, who, in her dream, appeared stretched upon the -ground and dying, reproached her with being the cause of his death, -and having repaid his affection with the blackest ingratitude. She -then saw the lady who had before appeared to her in her sleep, and who -said to her in a severe tone, that it would be her destruction if she -hesitated any longer to fulfil her engagements; that she had given her -word to the Beast that she would return in two months; that the time -had expired; that the delay of another day would be fatal to the Beast; -that the trouble she was creating in her father's house, and the hatred -of her sisters, ought to increase her desire to return to the Palace of -the Beast, where everything combined to delight her. Beauty, terrified -by this dream, and fearing to be the cause of the death of the Beast, -awoke with a start, and went immediately to inform her family that she -could no longer delay her departure. This intelligence produced various -effects. Her father's tears spoke for him; her brothers protested that -they would not allow her to leave them; and her lovers, in despair, -swore they would not suffer the house to be robbed of its brightest -ornament. Her sisters alone, far from appearing distressed at her -departure, were loud in praise of her sense of honour; and affecting -to possess the same virtue themselves, had the audacity to assure her -that if they had pledged their words to the Beast as she had done, -they should not have suffered his ugliness to have interfered with -their feelings of duty, and that they should have long ere that time -been on their road back to the marvellous palace. It was thus they -endeavoured to disguise the cruel jealousy that rankled in their -hearts. Beauty, however, charmed by their apparent generosity, thought -only of convincing her brothers and her lovers of the obligation she -was under to leave them; but her brothers loved her too much to consent -to her going, and her lovers were too infatuated to listen to reason. -All of them being ignorant of the mode in which Beauty had arrived at -her father's house, and never doubting but that the horse which first -conveyed her to the Palace of the Beast would be sent to take her back -again, resolved amongst themselves to prevent it. - -Her sisters, who only concealed their delight by the affectation of a -sentiment of horror, as they perceived the hour approach for Beauty's -departure, were frightened to death lest anything should occur to -delay her; but Beauty, firm in her resolution, knowing whither duty -called her, and having no more time to lose, if she would prolong the -existence of the Beast, her benefactor, at nightfall took leave of her -family, and of all those who were interested in her destiny. - -She assured them that whatever steps they took to prevent her -departure, she should, nevertheless, be in the Palace of the Beast the -next morning before they were stirring; that all their schemes would -be fruitless; and that she had determined to return to the Enchanted -Palace. She did not forget, on going to bed, to turn her ring. She -slept very soundly, and did not awake until the clock in her chamber, -striking noon, chimed her name to music. By that sound she knew that -her wishes were accomplished. As soon as she evinced a disposition to -rise, her couch was surrounded by all the animals who had been so eager -to serve her, and who unanimously testified their gratification at her -return, and expressed the sorrow they had felt at her long absence. - -The day seemed to her longer than any she had previously passed in that -Palace, not so much from regret for those she had quitted as from her -impatience again to behold the Beast, and to say everything she could -to him in the way of excuse for her conduct. She was also animated by -another desire,--that of again holding in slumber one of those sweet -conversations with her dear Unknown, a pleasure she had been deprived -of during the two months she had passed with her family, and which -she could not enjoy anywhere but in that Palace. The Beast and the -Unknown were, in short, alternately the subjects of her reflections. -One moment she reproached herself for not returning the affection of a -lover who, under the form of a monster, displayed so noble a mind; the -next she deplored having set her heart upon a visionary object, who had -no existence except in her dreams. She began to doubt whether she ought -to prefer the imaginary devotion of a phantom to the real affection -of the Beast. The very dream in which the Unknown appeared to her was -invariably accompanied by warnings not to trust to sight. She feared -it was but an idle illusion, born of the vapours of the brain, and -destroyed by light of day. - -Thus undecided, loving the Unknown, yet not wishing to displease the -Beast, and seeking repose from her thoughts in some entertainment, -she went to the French Comedy[24], which she found exceedingly poor. -Shutting the window abruptly, she hoped to be better pleased at the -Opera. She thought the music miserable. The Italians were equally -unable to amuse her. Their comedy appeared to her to want smartness, -wit and action. Weariness and distaste accompanied her everywhere, and -prevented her taking pleasure in anything. - -The gardens had no attractions for her. Her Court endeavoured to -entertain her, but the monkeys lost their labour in frisking, and the -parrots and other birds in chattering and singing. She was impatient -for the visit of the Beast, the noise of whose approach she expected -to hear every instant. But the hour so much desired came without the -appearance of the Monster. Alarmed, and almost angry at his delay, she -tried in vain to account for his absence. Divided through hope and -fear, her mind agitated, her heart a prey to melancholy, she descended -into the gardens, determined not to re-enter the Palace till she had -found the Beast. No trace of him could she discover anywhere. She -called him. Echo alone answered her. Having passed more than three -hours in this disagreeable exercise, overcome by fatigue, she sank upon -a garden seat. She imagined the Beast was either dead or had abandoned -the place. - - [Illustration: Beauty and the Beast.--P. 273.] - -She saw herself alone in that Palace, without the hope of ever leaving -it. She regretted her conversations with the Beast, unentertaining as -they had been to her, and what appeared to her extraordinary, even -to discover she had so much feeling for him. She blamed herself for -not having married him, and considering she had been the cause of his -death (for she feared her too long absence had occasioned it), heaped -upon herself the keenest and most bitter reproaches. In the midst of -her miserable reflections she perceived that she was seated in that -very avenue in which, during the last night she had passed under her -father's roof, she had dreamed she saw the Beast expiring in some -strange cavern. Convinced that chance had not conducted her to this -spot, she rose and hurried towards the thicket, which she found was not -impenetrable. She discovered another hollow, which appeared to be that -she had seen in her dream. As the moon gave but a feeble light, the -monkey pages immediately appeared with a sufficient number of torches -to illuminate the chasm, and to reveal to her the Beast stretched upon -the earth, as she thought, asleep. Far from being alarmed at his sight, -Beauty was delighted, and, approaching him boldly, placed her hand -upon his head, and called to him several times; but finding him cold -and motionless, she no longer doubted he was dead, and consequently -gave utterance to the most mournful shrieks and the most affecting -exclamations. - -The assurance of his death, however, did not prevent her from making -every effort to recall him to life. On placing her hand on his heart -she felt, to her great joy, that it still beat. Without further -delay, Beauty ran out of the cave to the basin of a fountain, where, -taking up some water in her joined hands, she hastened back with it, -and sprinkled it upon him; but as she could bring very little at a -time, and spilt some of it before she could return to the Beast, her -assistance had been but meagre if the monkey courtiers had not flown -to the Palace, and returned with such speed that in a moment she was -furnished with a vase for water, as well as with proper restoratives. -She caused him to smell them and swallow them, and they produced so -excellent an effect that he soon began to move and show some kind of -consciousness. She cheered him with her voice and caressed him as he -recovered. "What anxiety have you caused me?" said she to him, kindly; -"I knew not how much I loved you. The fear of losing you has proved to -me that I was attached to you by stronger ties than those of gratitude. -I vow to you that I had determined to die if I had failed in restoring -you to life." At these tender words the Beast, feeling perfectly -revived, replied, in a voice which was still feeble, "It is very kind -of you, Beauty, to love so ugly a monster, but you do well. I love you -better than my life. I thought you would never return: it would have -killed me. Since you love me I will live. Retire to rest, and assure -yourself that you will be as happy as your good heart renders you -worthy to be." - -Beauty had never before heard so long a speech from the Beast. It -was not very eloquent, but it pleased, from its gentleness and the -sincerity observable in it. She had expected to be scolded, or at -least to have been reproached. She had from this moment a better -opinion of his disposition. No longer thinking him so stupid, she even -considered his short answers a proof of his prudence, and, more and -more prepossessed in his favour, she retired to her apartment, her mind -occupied with the most flattering ideas. Extremely fatigued, she found -there all the refreshments she needed. Her heavy eyelids promised her -a sweet slumber. Asleep almost as soon as her head was on her pillow, -her dear Unknown failed not to present himself immediately. What -tender words did he not utter to express the pleasure he experienced -at seeing her again? He assured her that she would be happy; that it -only remained to her to follow the impulse of her good heart. Beauty -asked him if her happiness was to arise from her marriage with the -Beast. The Unknown replied that it was the only means of securing it. -She felt somewhat annoyed at this. She thought it even extraordinary -that her lover should advise her to make her rival happy. After this -first dream, she thought she saw the Beast dead at her feet. An instant -afterwards the Unknown re-appeared, and disappeared again as instantly, -to give place to the Beast. But what she observed most distinctly was -the Lady, who seemed to say to her, "I am pleased with thee. Continue -to follow the dictates of reason, and trouble thyself about naught. -I undertake the task of rendering thee happy." Beauty, although -asleep, appeared to acknowledge her partiality to the Unknown and her -repugnance to the Monster, whom she could not consider loveable. The -Lady smiled at her objections, and advised her not to make herself -uneasy about her affection for the Unknown, for that the emotions she -felt were not incompatible with the resolution she had formed to do her -duty; that she might follow her inclinations without resistance, and -that her happiness would be perfected by espousing the Beast. - -This dream, which only ended with her sleep, furnished her with an -inexhaustible source of reflection. In this vision, as in those which -had preceded it, she found more coherence than is usually displayed -in dreams, and she therefore determined to consent to this strange -union. But the image of the Unknown rose unceasingly to trouble her. -It was the sole obstacle, but not a slight one. Still uncertain as -to the course she ought to take, she went to the Opera, but without -terminating her embarrassment. At the end of the performance she sat -down to supper. The arrival of the Beast was alone capable of deciding -her. - -Far from reproaching her for her long absence, the Monster, as if -the pleasure of seeing her had made him forget his past distresses, -appeared, on entering Beauty's apartment, to have no other anxiety -but that of ascertaining if she had been much amused, if she had been -well received, and if her health had been good. She answered these -questions, and added politely that she had paid dearly for all the -pleasures his care had enabled her to enjoy, by the cruel pain she had -endured on finding him in so sad a state on her return. - -The Beast briefly thanked her, and then being about to take his leave, -asked her, as usual, if she would marry him. Beauty was silent for a -short time, but at last making up her mind, she said to him, trembling, -"Yes, Beast, I am willing, if you will pledge me your faith, to give -you mine." "I do," replied the Beast, "and I promise you never to -have any wife but you." "Then," rejoined Beauty, "I accept you for my -husband, and swear to be a fond and faithful wife to you." - -She had scarcely uttered these words when a discharge of artillery was -heard, and that she might not doubt it being a signal of rejoicing, she -saw from her windows the sky all in a blaze with the light of twenty -thousand fireworks, which continued rising for three hours. They formed -true-lovers' knots, while on elegant escutcheons appeared Beauty's -initials, and beneath them, in well-defined letters, "Long live Beauty -and her Husband." After this display had terminated, the Beast took his -departure, and Beauty retired to rest. No sooner was she asleep than -her dear Unknown paid her his usual visit. He was more richly attired -than she had ever seen him. "How deeply am I obliged to you, charming -Beauty," said he. "You have released me from the frightful prison in -which I have groaned for so long a time. Your marriage with the Beast -will restore a king to his subjects, a son to his mother, and life to a -whole kingdom. We shall all be happy." - -Beauty, at these words, felt bitterly annoyed, perceiving that the -Unknown, far from evincing the despair such an engagement as she had -entered into should have caused him, gazed on her with eyes sparkling -with extreme delight. She was about to express her discontent to him, -when the Lady, in her turn, appeared in her dream. - -"Behold thee victorious," said she. "We owe everything to thee, Beauty. -Thou hast suffered gratitude to triumph over every other feeling. None -but thou would have had the courage to keep their word at the expense -of their inclination, nor to have perilled their life to have saved -that of their father. In return for this, there are none who can ever -hope to enjoy such happiness as thy virtue has won for thee. Thou -knowest at present little, but the rising sun shall tell thee more." -When the Lady had disappeared, Beauty again saw the unknown youth, but -stretched on the earth as dead. All the night passed in such dreams; -but they had become familiar to her, and did not prevent her from -sleeping long and soundly. It was broad daylight when she awoke. The -sun streamed into her apartment with more brilliancy than usual: her -monkeys had not closed the shutters. Believing the sight that met her -eyes but a continuation of her dreams, and that she was sleeping still, -her joy and surprise were extreme at discovering that it was a reality, -and that on a couch beside her lay, in a profound slumber, her beloved -Unknown, looking a thousand times more handsome than he had done in -her vision. To assure herself of the fact, she arose hastily and took -from off her toilet-table the miniature she usually wore on her arm; -but she could not have been mistaken. She spoke to him, in the hope of -awaking him from the trance into which he seemed to have been thrown by -some wonderful power. Not stirring at her voice, she shook him by the -arm. This effort was equally ineffectual, and only served to convince -her that he was under the influence of enchantment, and that she must -await the end of the charm, which it was reasonable to suppose had an -appointed period. - -How delighted was she to find herself betrothed to him who alone had -caused her to hesitate, and to find that she had done from duty that -which she would have done from inclination. She no longer doubted the -promise of happiness which had been made to her in her dreams. She -now knew that the Lady had truly assured her that her love for the -Unknown was not incompatible with the affection she entertained for the -Beast, seeing that they were one and the same person. In the meanwhile, -however, her husband never woke. After a slight meal she endeavoured to -pass away the time in her usual occupations, but they appeared to her -insipid. As she could not resolve to leave her apartments, nor bear to -sit idle, she took up some music, and began to sing. Her birds hearing -her, joined their voices to hers, and made a concert, the more charming -to her as she expected every moment it would be interrupted by the -awakening of her husband, for she flattered herself she could dissolve -the spell by the harmony of her voice. The spell was soon broken, but -not by the means she imagined. She heard the sound of a chariot rolling -beneath the windows of her apartment, and the voices of several persons -approaching. At the same moment the monkey Captain of the Guard, by the -beak of his parrot Interpreter, announced the visit of some ladies. -Beauty, from her windows, beheld the chariot that brought them. It was -of an entirely novel description, and of matchless beauty. Four white -stags, with horns and hoofs of gold, superbly caparisoned, drew this -equipage, the singularity of which increased Beauty's desire to know -who were the owners of it. - -By the noise, which became louder, she was aware that the ladies had -nearly reached the ante-chamber. She considered it right to advance -and receive them. She recognised in one of them the Lady she had been -accustomed to behold in her dreams. The other was not less beautiful. -Her high and distinguished bearing sufficiently indicated that she was -an illustrious personage. She was no longer in the bloom of youth, -but her air was so majestic that Beauty was uncertain to which of the -two strangers she ought first to address herself. She was still under -this embarrassment, when the one with whose features she was already -familiar, and who appeared to exercise some sort of superiority over -the other, turning to her companion, said, "Well, Queen, what think you -of this beautiful girl? You owe to her the restoration of your son to -life, for you must admit that the miserable circumstances under which -he existed could not be called living. Without her, you would never -again have beheld this Prince. He must have remained in the horrible -shape to which he had been transformed, had he not found in the world -one only person who possessed virtue and courage equal to her beauty. -I think you will behold with pleasure the son she has restored to you -become her husband. They love each other, and nothing is wanting to -their perfect happiness but your consent. Will you refuse to bestow it -on them?" The Queen, at these words, embracing Beauty affectionately, -exclaimed, "Far from refusing my consent, their union will afford -me the greatest felicity! Charming and virtuous child, to whom I am -under so many obligations, tell me who you are, and the names of the -sovereigns who are so happy as to have given birth to so perfect a -Princess?" - -"Madam," replied Beauty, modestly, "it is long since I had a mother; my -father is a merchant more distinguished in the world for his probity -and his misfortunes than for his birth." At this frank declaration, the -astonished Queen recoiled a pace or two, and said, "What! you are only -a merchant's daughter? Ah, great Fairy!" she added, casting a mortified -look on her companion, and then remained silent; but her manner -sufficiently expressed her thoughts, and her disappointment was legible -in her eyes. - -"It appears to me," said the Fairy, haughtily, "that you are -discontented with my choice. You regard with contempt the condition of -this young person, and yet she was the only being in the world who was -capable of executing my project, and who could make your son happy." -"I am very grateful to her for what she has done," replied the Queen; -"but, powerful spirit," she continued, "I cannot refrain from pointing -out to you the incongruous mixture of that noblest blood in all the -world which runs in my son's veins with that of the obscure race from -which the person has sprung to whom you would unite him. I confess I am -little gratified by the supposed happiness of the Prince, if it must be -purchased by an alliance so degrading to us, and so unworthy of him. -Is it impossible to find in the world a maiden whose birth is equal -to her virtue? I know many excellent princesses by name; why am I not -permitted to hope that I may see him the possessor of one of those?" - -At this moment the handsome Unknown appeared. The arrival of his mother -and the Fairy had aroused him, and the noise they had made was more -effective than all the efforts of Beauty; such being the nature of the -spell. The Queen held him a long time in her arms, without speaking a -word. She found again a son whose fine qualities rendered him worthy of -all her affection. What joy for the Prince to see himself released from -a horrible form, and a stupidity more painful to him because it was -affected and had not obscured his reason. He had recovered the liberty -to appear in his natural form by means of the object of his love, and -that reflection made it still more precious to him. - -After the first transports which nature inspired him with at the sight -of his mother, the Prince hastened to pay those thanks to the Fairy -which duty and gratitude prompted. He did so in the most respectful -terms, but as briefly as possible, in order to be at liberty to turn -his attentions towards Beauty. He had already, by tender glances, -expressed to her his feelings, and was about to confirm with his lips, -in the most touching language, what his eyes had spoken, when the Fairy -stopped him, and bade him be the judge between her and his mother. -"Your mother," said she, "condemns the engagement you have entered into -with Beauty. She considers that her birth is too much beneath yours. -For my part, I think that her virtues make up for that inequality. It -is for you, Prince, to say with which of us your own feelings coincide; -and that you may be under no restraint in declaring to us your real -sentiments, I announce to you that you have full liberty of choice. -Although you have pledged your word to this amiable person, you are -free to withdraw it. I will answer for her, that Beauty will release -you from your promise without the least hesitation, although, through -her kindness, you have regained your natural form; and I assure you -also that her generosity will cause her to carry disinterestedness -to the extent of leaving you at liberty to dispose of your hand in -favour of any person on whom the Queen may advise you to bestow -it.--What say you, Beauty?" pursued the Fairy, turning towards her; -"have I been mistaken in thus interpreting your sentiments? Would you -desire a husband who would become so with regret?" "Assuredly not, -Madam," replied Beauty. "The Prince is free. I renounce the honour -of being his wife. When I accepted him, I believed I was taking pity -on something below humanity. I engaged myself to him only with the -object of conferring on him the most signal favour. Ambition had no -place in my thoughts. Therefore, great Fairy, I implore you to exact -no sacrifice from the Queen, whom I cannot blame for the scruples she -entertains under such circumstances." "Well, Queen, what say you to -that?" inquired the Fairy, in a disdainful and displeased tone. "Do -you consider that princesses, who are so by the caprice of fortune, -better deserve the high rank in which it has placed them than this -young maiden? For my part, I think she should not be prejudiced by -an origin from which she has elevated herself by her conduct." The -Queen replied with some embarrassment, "Beauty is incomparable! Her -merit is infinite; nothing can surpass it; but, madam, can we not find -some other mode of rewarding her? Is it not to be effected without -sacrificing to her the hand of my son?" Then turning to Beauty, she -continued, "Yes, I owe you more than I can pay. I put, therefore, no -limit to your desires. Ask boldly, I will grant you everything, with -that sole exception; but the difference will not be great to you. -Choose a husband from amongst the nobles of my Court. However high in -rank, he will have cause to bless his good fortune, and for your sake I -will place him so near the throne that your position will be scarcely -less enviable." - -"I thank you, Madam," replied Beauty; "but I ask no reward from you. I -am more than repaid by the pleasure of having broken the spell which -had deprived a great prince of his mother and of his kingdom. My -happiness would have been perfect if I had rendered this service to my -own sovereign. All I desire is that the Fairy will deign to restore me -to my father." - -The Prince, who, by order of the Fairy, had been silent throughout this -conversation, was no longer master of himself, and his respect for the -commands he had received, failed to restrain him. He flung himself at -the feet of the Fairy and of his mother, and implored them, in the -strongest terms, not to make him more miserable than he had been, by -sending away Beauty, and depriving him of the happiness of being her -husband. At these words, Beauty, gazing on him with an air full of -tenderness, but mingled with a noble pride, said, "Prince, I cannot -conceal from you my affection. Your disenchantment is a proof of it, -and I should in vain endeavour to disguise my feelings. I confess -without a blush, that I love you better than myself. Why should I -dissimulate? We may disavow evil impulses; but mine are perfectly -innocent, and are authorised by the generous Fairy to whom we are both -so much indebted. But if I could resolve to sacrifice my feelings when -I thought it my duty to do so for the Beast, you must feel assured that -I shall not falter on this occasion when it is no longer the interest -of the Monster that is at stake, but your own. It is enough for me to -know who you are, and that I am to renounce the glory of being your -wife. I will even venture to say, that if, yielding to your entreaties, -the Queen should grant the consent you ask, it would not alter the -case, for in my own reason, and even in my love, you would meet with -an insurmountable obstacle. I repeat that I ask no favour but that of -being allowed to return to the bosom of my family, where I shall for -ever cherish the remembrance of your bounty and your affection." - -"Generous Fairy!" exclaimed the Prince, clasping her hands in -supplication, "for mercy's sake, do not allow Beauty to depart! Make -me, rather, again the Monster that I was, for then I shall be her -husband. She pledged her word to the Beast, and I prefer that happiness -to all those she has restored me to, if I must purchase them so dearly!" - -The Fairy made no answer; she but looked steadily at the Queen, who was -moved by so much true affection, but whose pride remained unshaken. The -despair of her son affected her, yet she could not forget that Beauty -was the daughter of a merchant, and nothing more. She, notwithstanding, -feared the anger of the Fairy, whose manner and silence sufficiently -evinced her indignation. Her confusion was extreme. Not having power -to utter a word, she feared to see a fatal termination to a conference -which had offended the protecting spirit. No one spoke for some -minutes, but the Fairy at length broke the silence, and casting an -affectionate look upon the lovers, she said to them, "I find you -worthy of each other. It would be a crime to part two such excellent -persons. You shall not be separated, I promise you; and I have -sufficient power to fulfil my promise." The Queen shuddered at these -words, and would have made some remonstrance, but the Fairy anticipated -her by saying, "For you, Queen, the little value you set upon virtue, -unadorned by the vain titles which alone you respect, would justify me -in heaping on you the bitterest reproaches. But I excuse your fault, -arising from pride of birth, and I will take no other vengeance beyond -doing this little violence to your prejudices, and for which you will -not be long without thanking me." Beauty, at these words, embraced -the knees of the Fairy, and exclaimed, "Ah, do not expose me to the -misery of being told all my life that I am unworthy of the rank to -which your bounty would elevate me. Reflect that this Prince, who now -believes that his happiness consists in the possession of my hand may -very shortly perhaps be of the same opinion as the Queen." "No, no, -Beauty, fear nothing," rejoined the Fairy. "The evils you anticipate -cannot come to pass. I know a sure way of protecting you from them, -and should the Prince be capable of despising you after marriage, he -must seek some other reason than the inequality of your condition. -Your birth is not inferior to his own. Nay, the advantage is even -considerably on your side, for the truth is," said she, sternly, to the -Queen, "that you behold your niece; and what must render her still more -worthy of your respect is, that she is mine also, being the daughter of -my sister, who was not, like you, a slave to rank which is lustreless -without virtue. - -"That Fairy, knowing how to estimate true worth, did your brother, the -King of the Happy Island, the honour to marry him. I preserved this -fair fruit of their union from the fury of a Fairy who desired to be -her step-mother. From the moment of her birth I destined her to be the -wife of your son. I desired, by concealing from you the result of my -good service, to give you an opportunity of showing your confidence in -me. I had some reason to believe that it was greater than it appears to -have been. You might have relied upon me for watching over the destiny -of the Prince. I had given you proofs enough of the interest I took -in it, and you needed not to have been under any apprehension that I -should expose him to anything that would be disgraceful to himself or -to you. I feel persuaded, Madam," continued she, with a smile which -had still something of bitterness in it, "that you will not object to -honour us with your alliance." - -The Queen, astonished and embarrassed, knew not what to answer. The -only way to atone for her fault was to confess it frankly, and evince -a sincere repentance. "I am guilty, generous Fairy," said she. "Your -bounties should have satisfied me that you would not suffer my son to -have formed an alliance unworthy of him. But pardon, I beseech you, the -prejudices of my rank, which urged that royal blood could not marry -one of humbler birth without degradation. I acknowledge that I deserve -you should punish me by giving to Beauty a mother-in-law more worthy -of her; but you take too kind an interest in my son to render him the -victim of my error. As to you, dear Beauty," she continued, embracing -her tenderly, "you must not resent my resistance. It was caused by my -desire to marry my son to my niece, whom the Fairy had often assured me -was living, notwithstanding all appearances to the contrary. She had -drawn so charming a portrait of her, that without knowing you, I loved -you dearly enough to risk offending the Fairy, in order to preserve to -you the throne and the heart of my son." So saying, she recommenced her -caresses, which Beauty received with respect. - -The Prince, on his part, enraptured at this agreeable intelligence, -expressed his delight in looks alone. - -"Behold us all satisfied," said the Fairy; "and now, to terminate this -happy adventure, we only need the consent of the royal father of the -Princess; but we shall shortly see him here." Beauty requested her to -permit the person who had brought her up, and whom she had hitherto -looked upon as her father, to witness her felicity. "I admire such -consideration," said the Fairy; "it is worthy a noble mind, and as -you desire it, I undertake to inform him." Then taking the Queen by -the hand, she led her away, under the pretext of showing her over the -enchanted Palace. It was to give the newly-betrothed pair the liberty -of conversing with each other for the first time without restraint or -the aid of illusion. They would have followed, but she forbade them. -The happiness in store for them inspired each with equal delight. They -could not entertain the least doubt of their mutual affection. - -Their conversation, confused and unconnected, their protestations a -hundred times repeated, were to them more convincing proofs of love -than the most eloquent language could have afforded. After having -exhausted all the expressions that passion suggests under such -circumstances to those that are truly in love, Beauty inquired of her -lover by what misfortune he had been so cruelly transformed into a -beast. She requested him also to relate to her all the events of his -life preceding that shocking metamorphosis. - -The Prince, whose recovery of his natural form had not lessened his -anxiety to obey her, without more ado commenced his narrative in the -following words:-- - - -THE STORY OF THE BEAST. - -The King, my father, died before I was born. The Queen would never have -been consoled for his loss if her interest for the child she bore had -not struggled with her sorrow. My birth caused her extreme delight. The -sweet task of rearing the fruit of the affection of so dearly-beloved -a husband was destined to dissipate her affliction. The care of my -education and the fear of losing me occupied her entirely. She was -assisted in her object by a Fairy of her acquaintance, who showed the -greatest anxiety to preserve me from all kinds of accidents. The Queen -felt greatly obliged to her, but she was not pleased when the Fairy -asked her to place me entirely in her hands. The Fairy had not the best -of reputations--she was said to be capricious in her favours. People -feared more than they loved her; and even had my mother been perfectly -convinced of the goodness of her nature, she could not have resolved to -lose sight of me. - -By the advice, however, of prudent persons, and for fear of suffering -from the fatal effects of the resentment of this vindictive Fairy, -she did not flatly refuse her. If voluntarily confided to her care -there was no reason to suppose she would do me any injury. Experience -had proved that she took pleasure in hurting those only by whom she -considered herself offended. The Queen admitted this, and was only -reluctant to forego the pleasure of gazing on me continually with a -mother's eyes, which enabled her to discover charms in me I owed solely -to her partiality. - -She was still irresolute as to the course she should adopt, when a -powerful neighbour imagined it would be an easy matter for him to seize -upon the dominions of an infant governed by a woman. He invaded my -kingdom with a formidable army. The Queen hastily raised one to oppose -him, and, with a courage beyond that of her sex, placed herself at the -head of her troops, and marched to defend our frontiers. It was then -that, being compelled to leave me, she could not avoid confiding to -the Fairy the care of my education. I was placed in her hands after -she had sworn by all she held most sacred that she would, without the -least hesitation, bring me back to the Court as soon as the war was -over, which my mother calculated would not last more than a year at the -utmost. Notwithstanding, however, all the advantages she gained over -the enemy, she found it impossible to return to the capital so soon as -she expected. To profit by her victory, after having driven the foe out -of our dominions, she pursued him in his own. - -She took entire provinces, gained battle after battle, and finally -reduced the vanquished to sue for a degrading peace, which he obtained -only on the hardest conditions. After this glorious success, the Queen -returned triumphantly, and enjoyed in anticipation the pleasure of -beholding me once more; but having learned upon her march that her -base foe, in violation of the treaty, had surprised and massacred our -garrisons, and repossessed himself of nearly all the places he had -been compelled to cede to us, she was obliged to retrace her steps. -Honour prevailed over the affection which drew her towards me, and she -resolved never to sheathe the sword till she had put it out of her -enemy's power to perpetrate more treachery. The time employed in this -second expedition was very considerable. She had flattered herself that -two or three campaigns would suffice; but she had to contend with an -adversary as cunning as he was false. He contrived to excite rebellion -in some of our own provinces, and to corrupt entire battalions, which -forced the Queen to remain in arms for fifteen years. She never thought -of sending for me. She was always flattering herself that each month -would be the last she should be absent, and that she was on the point -of seeing me again. - -In the meanwhile, the Fairy, in accordance with her promise, had paid -every attention to my education. From the day she had taken me out -of my kingdom, she had never left me, nor ceased to give me proof of -the interest she felt in all that concerned my health and amusement. -I evinced by my respect for her how sensible I was of her kindness. I -showed her the same deference, the same attention that I should have -shown to my mother, and gratitude inspired me with as much affection -for her. - -For some time she appeared satisfied with my behaviour; but one day, -without imparting to me the motive, she set out on a journey, from -which she did not return for some years, and when she did return, -struck with the effect of her care of me, she conceived for me an -affection differing from that of a mother. She had previously permitted -me to call her by that name, but now she forbade me. I obeyed her -without inquiring what were her reasons, or suspecting what she was -about to exact from me. - -I saw clearly that she was dissatisfied; but could I imagine why she -continually complained of my ingratitude? I was the more surprised at -her reproaches as I did not feel I deserved them. They were always -followed or preceded by the tenderest caresses. I was not old enough to -comprehend her. She was compelled to explain herself. She did so one -day when I evinced some sorrow, mingled with impatience, respecting the -continued absence of the Queen. She reproached me for this, and on my -assuring her that my affection for my mother in nowise interfered with -that I owed to herself, she replied that she was not jealous, although -she had done so much for me, and had resolved to do still more; but -that, to enable her to carry out her designs in my favour with greater -freedom, it was requisite, she added, that I should marry her; that she -did not desire to be loved by me as a mother, but as an admirer; that -she had no doubt of my gratitude to her for making this proposal, or of -the great joy with which I should accept it, and that, consequently, -I had only to abandon myself to the delight with which the certainty -of becoming the husband of a powerful fairy, who could protect me from -all dangers, assure me an existence full of happiness, and cover me -with glory, must naturally awaken. - -I was sadly embarrassed by this proposition. I knew enough of the -world in my own country, to be aware that amongst the wedded portion -of the community the happiest were those whose ages and characters -assimilated, and that many were much to be pitied who, marrying under -opposite circumstances, had found antipathies existing between them -which were the source of constant misery. - -The Fairy being old and of a haughty disposition, I could not flatter -myself that my lot would be so agreeable as she predicted. I was far -from entertaining for her such feelings as one should for the woman -with whom we intend to pass our days; and besides, I was not inclined -to enter into any such engagement at so early an age. My only desire -was to see the Queen again, and to signalize myself at the head of her -forces. I sighed for liberty; that was the sole boon that would have -gratified me, and the only one the Fairy would not grant. - -I had often implored her to allow me to share the perils to which I -knew the Queen exposed herself for the protection of my interests, -but my prayers had hitherto been fruitless. Pressed to reply to the -astounding declaration she had made to me, I, in some confusion, -recalled to her that she had often told me that I had no right to -dispose of my hand without the commands of my mother, and in her -absence. "That is exactly my opinion," she replied; "I do not wish you -to do otherwise; I am satisfied that you should refer the matter to the -Queen." - -I have already informed you, beautiful Princess, that I had been unable -to obtain from the Fairy permission to seek the Queen, my mother. The -desire she now had to receive her sanction, which she never doubted -she should obtain, obliged her to grant, even without my asking, that -which she had always denied me; but it was on the condition, by no -means agreeable to me, that she should accompany me. I did what I could -to dissuade her, but found it impossible, and we set out together with -a numerous escort. We arrived upon the eve of a decisive action. The -Queen had manœuvred with such skill that the next day was certain -to decide the fate of the enemy, who would have no resource if he lost -the battle. My presence created great pleasure in the camp, and gave -additional courage to our troops, who drew a favourable augury from my -arrival. The Queen was ready to die with joy; but this first transport -of delight was succeeded by the greatest alarm. Whilst I exulted in the -hope of acquiring glory, the Queen trembled at the danger to which I -was about to expose myself. Too generous to endeavour to prevent me, -she implored me by all her affection, to take as much care of myself -as honour would permit, and entreated the Fairy not to abandon me on -that occasion. Her solicitations were unnecessary. The too susceptible -Fairy was as much alarmed as the Queen, for she possessed no spell -which could protect me from the chances of war. However, by instantly -inspiring me with the art of commanding an army, and the prudence -requisite for so important an office, she achieved much. The most -experienced captains were surprised at me. I remained master of the -field. The victory was complete. I had the happiness of saving the -Queen's life, and of preventing her from being made prisoner of war. -The enemy was pursued with such vigour that he abandoned his camp, lost -his baggage, and more than three-fourths of his army, while the loss -on our side was inconsiderable. A slight wound which I had received -was the only advantage the foe could boast of; but the Queen, fearing -that if the war continued some more serious mischief might befal me, in -opposition to the desire of the whole army, to which my presence had -imparted fresh spirit, made peace on more advantageous terms than the -vanquished had ventured to hope for. - -A short time afterwards we returned to our capital, which we entered -in triumph. My occupation during the war, and the continual presence -of my ancient adorer, had prevented me from informing the Queen of -what had occurred. She was, therefore, completely taken by surprise -when the Fairy told her, in so many words, that she had determined to -marry me immediately. This declaration was made in this very Palace, -but which was at that time not so superb as it is at present. It had -been a country residence of the late King, which a thousand occupations -had prevented his embellishing. My mother, who cherished everything -that he had loved, had selected it in preference to any other as a -place of retirement after the fatigues of the war. At the avowal of the -Fairy, unable to control her first feelings, and unused to dissemble, -she exclaimed, "Have you reflected, Madam, on the absurdity of the -arrangement you propose to me!" In truth it was impossible to conceive -one more ridiculous. In addition to the almost decrepit old age of the -Fairy, she was horribly ugly. Nor was this the effect of time. If she -had been handsome in her youth, she might have preserved some portion -of her beauty by the aid of her art; but naturally hideous, her power -could only invest her with the appearance of beauty for one day in each -year, and that day ended, she returned to her former state. - -The Fairy was surprised at the exclamation of the Queen. Her self-love -concealed from her all that was actually horrible in her person, and -she calculated that her power sufficiently compensated for the loss -of a few charms of her youth. "What do you mean," said she to the -Queen, "by an absurd arrangement! Consider, that it is imprudent in -you to make me remember what I have condescended to forget. You ought -only to congratulate yourself on possessing a son so amiable that his -merit induces me to prefer him to the most powerful Genii in all the -elements; and as I have deigned to descend to him, accept with respect -the honour I am good enough to confer on you, and do not give me time -to change my mind." - -The Queen, as proud as the Fairy, had never conceived that there was a -rank on earth higher than the throne. She valued little the pretended -honour which the Fairy offered her. Having always commanded every one -who approached her, she by no means desired to have a daughter-in-law -to whom she must herself pay homage. Therefore, far from replying to -her, she remained motionless, and contented herself with fixing her -eyes upon me. I was as much astounded as she was, and fixing my eyes on -her in the same manner, it was easy for the Fairy to perceive that our -silence expressed sentiments very opposite to the joy with which she -would have inspired us. - -"What is the meaning of this?" said she, sharply. "How comes it that -mother and son are both silent? Has this agreeable surprise deprived -you of the power of speech? or are you blind and rash enough to reject -my offer? Say, Prince," said she to me, "are you so ungrateful and so -imprudent as to despise my kindness? Do you not consent to give me -your hand this moment?" - -"No, Madam, I assure you," replied I, quickly. "Although I am sincerely -grateful to you for past favours, I cannot agree to discharge my debt -to you by such means; and, with the Queen's permission, I decline to -part so soon with my liberty. Name any other mode of acknowledging your -favours, and I will not consider it impossible; but as to that you -have proposed, excuse me if you please, for----" "How! insignificant -creature!" interrupted the Fairy, furiously. "Thou darest to resist me! -And you, foolish Queen! you see, without anger, this conduct--What do -I say? without anger! It is you who authorize it! For it is your own -insolent looks that have inspired him with the audacity to refuse me!" - -The Queen, already stung by the contemptuous language of the Fairy, was -no longer mistress of herself, and accidentally casting her eyes on a -looking-glass, before which we happened to be standing at the moment, -the wicked Fairy thus provoked her: "What answer can I make you," said -she, "that you ought not to make to yourself? Deign to contemplate, -without prejudice, the object this glass presents to you, and let it -reply for me." The Fairy easily comprehended the Queen's insinuation. -"It is the beauty, then, of this precious son of yours that renders -you so vain," said she to her, "and has exposed me to so degrading a -refusal! I appear to you unworthy of him. Well," she continued, raising -her voice furiously, "having taken so much pains to make him charming, -it is fit that I should complete my work, and that I should give you -both a cause, as novel as remarkable, to make you remember what you owe -to me. Go, wretch!" said she to me; "boast that thou hast refused me -thy heart and thy hand. Give them to her thou findest more worthy of -them than I am." So saying, my terrible lover struck me a blow on the -head. It was so heavy that I was dashed to the ground on my face, and -felt as though I were crushed by the fall of a mountain. Irritated by -this insult, I struggled to rise, but found it impossible. The weight -of my body had become so great that I could not lift myself; all that -I could do was to sustain myself on my hands, which had in an instant -become two horrible paws, and the sight of them apprised me of the -change I had undergone. My form was that in which you found me. I cast -my eyes for an instant on that fatal glass, and could no longer doubt -my cruel and sudden transformation. - -My despair rendered me motionless. The Queen at this dreadful sight was -almost out of her mind. To put the last seal upon her barbarity, the -furious Fairy said to me, in an ironical tone, "Go make illustrious -conquests, more worthy of thee than an august Fairy. And as sense -is not required when one is so handsome, I command thee to appear -as stupid as thou art horrible, and to remain in this state until -a young and beautiful girl shall, of her own accord, come to seek -thee, although fully persuaded thou wilt devour her. She must also," -continued the Fairy, "after discovering that her life is not in danger, -conceive for thee a sufficiently tender affection to induce her to -marry thee. Until thou canst meet with this rare maiden it is my -pleasure that thou remain an object of horror to thyself and to all who -behold thee. As for you, too happy mother of so lovely a child," said -she to the Queen, "I warn you that if you acknowledge to any one that -this monster is your son, he shall never recover his natural shape. -Neither interest, nor ambition, nor the charms of his conversation, -must assist to restore him to it. Adieu! Do not be impatient; you will -not have long to wait. Such a darling will soon find a remedy for his -misfortune." "Ah, cruel one!" exclaimed the Queen, "if my refusal has -offended you, let your vengeance light on me. Take my life, but do not, -I conjure you, destroy your own work." "You forget yourself, great -Princess," replied the Fairy, in an ironical tone, "you demean yourself -too much. I am not handsome enough for you to condescend to entreat -me; but I am firm in my resolutions. Adieu, powerful Queen; adieu, -beautiful Prince; it is not fair that I should longer annoy you with -my hateful presence. I withdraw; but I have still charity enough to -warn thee," addressing herself to me, "that thou must forget who thou -art. If thou sufferest thyself to be flattered by vain respects or by -pompous titles, thou art lost irretrievably! And thou art equally lost -if thou shouldst dare to avail thyself of the intellect I leave thee -possessed of, to shine in conversation." - -With these words she disappeared, and left the Queen and me in a state -which can neither be described nor imagined. Lamentations are the -consolation of the unhappy; but our misery was too great to seek relief -in them. My mother determined to stab herself, and I to fling myself in -the adjacent canal. Without communicating our intentions to each other, -we were on the point of executing these fatal designs, when a female -of majestic mien, and whose manner inspired us with profound respect, -appeared, and bade us remember that it was cowardice to succumb to the -greatest misfortunes, and that with time and courage there was no evil -that could not be remedied. The Queen, however, was inconsolable; tears -streamed from her eyes, and not knowing how to inform her subjects that -their sovereign was transformed into a horrible monster, she abandoned -herself to the most fearful despair. The Fairy (for she was one, and -the same whom you have seen here), knowing both her misery and her -embarrassment, recalled to her the indispensable obligation she was -under to conceal from her people this dreadful adventure, and that in -lieu of yielding to despair, it would be better to seek some remedy for -the mischief. - -"Is there one to be found," exclaimed the Queen, "which is powerful -enough to prevent the fulfilment of a Fairy's sentence?" "Yes, Madam," -replied the Fairy, "there is a remedy for everything. I am a Fairy as -well as she whose fury you have just felt the effects of, and my power -is equal to hers. It is true that I cannot immediately repair the -injury she has done you, for we are not permitted to act directly in -opposition to each other. She who has caused your misfortune is older -than I am, and age has amongst us a particular title to respect. But as -she could not avoid attaching a condition upon which the spell might -be broken, I will assist you to break it. I grant that it will be a -difficult task to terminate this enchantment; but it does not appear to -me to be impossible. Let me see what I can do for you by the exertion -of all the means in my power." - -Upon this she drew a book from under her robe, and after taking a -few mysterious steps, she seated herself at a table, and read for a -considerable time with such intense application that large drops of -perspiration stood on her forehead. At length she closed the book -and meditated profoundly. The expression of her countenance was so -serious that for some time we were led to believe that she considered -my misfortune irreparable; but recovering from a sort of trance, and -her features resuming their natural beauty, she informed us that she -had discovered a remedy for our disasters. "It will be slow," said she, -"but it will be sure. Keep your secret; let it not transpire, so that -any one can suspect you are concealed beneath this horrible disguise, -for in that case you will deprive me of the power of delivering you -from it. Your enemy flatters herself you will divulge it; it is for -that reason she did not take from you the power of speech." - -The Queen declared that the condition was an impossible one, as two -of her women had been present at the fatal transformation, and had -rushed out of the apartment in great terror, which must have excited -the curiosity of the guards and the courtiers. She imagined that the -whole Court was by this time aware of it, and that all the kingdom, -and even all the world, would speedily receive the intelligence; but -the Fairy knew a way to prevent the disclosure of the secret. She made -several circles, now solemnly, now rapidly, uttering words of which we -could not comprehend the meaning, and finished by raising her hand in -the air in the style of one who is pronouncing an imperative order. -This gesture, added to the words she had uttered, was so powerful, -that every breathing creature in the Palace became motionless, and -was changed into a statue. They are all still in the same state. They -are the figures you behold in various directions and in the very -attitudes they had assumed at the instant the Fairy's potent spell -surprised them. The Queen, who at that moment cast her eyes upon the -great court-yard, observed this change taking place in a prodigious -number of persons. The silence which suddenly succeeded to the stir -of a multitude, awoke a feeling of compassion in her heart for the -many innocent beings who were deprived of life for my sake; but the -Fairy comforted her by saying that she would only retain her subjects -in that condition as long as their discretion was necessary. It was a -precaution she was compelled to take, but she promised she would make -up to them for it, and that the period they passed in that state would -not be added to the years allotted to their existence. "They will be so -much the younger," said the Fairy to the Queen; "so cease to deplore -them, and leave them here with your son. He will be quite safe, for -I have raised such thick fogs around this Castle, that it will be -impossible for any one to enter it but when we think fit. I will convey -you," she continued, "where your presence is necessary. Your enemies -are plotting against you. Be careful to proclaim to your people that -the Fairy who educated your son retains him near her for an important -purpose, and keeps with her also all the persons who were in attendance -on you." - -It was not without shedding a flood of tears that my mother could -force herself to leave me. The Fairy renewed her assurances to her -that she would always watch over me, and protested that I had only to -wish, and to see the accomplishment of my desires. She added that my -misfortunes would shortly end, provided neither the Queen nor I raised -up an obstacle by some act of imprudence. All these promises could -not console my mother. She wished to remain with me, and to leave the -Fairy, or any one she might consider the most proper person, to govern -the kingdom; but fairies are imperious, and will be obeyed. My mother, -fearing by a refusal to increase my miseries and deprive me of the aid -of this beneficent spirit, consented to all she insisted on. She saw -a beautiful car approach; it was drawn by the same white stags that -brought her here to day. The Fairy made the Queen mount by her side. -She had scarcely time to embrace me, her affairs demanded her presence -elsewhere, and she was warned that a longer sojourn in this place would -be prejudicial to me. She was transported with extraordinary velocity -to the spot where her army was encamped. They were not surprised to see -her arrive with this equipage. Everybody believed her to be accompanied -by the old Fairy, for the one who was with her kept herself unseen, -and departed again immediately to return to this place, which, in an -instant, she embellished with everything that her imagination could -suggest and her art supply. - -This good-natured Fairy permitted me also to add whatever I fancied -would please me, and after having done for me all she could, she -left me with exhortations to take courage, and promising to come -occasionally and impart to me such hopes as she might entertain of a -favourable issue to my adventure. - -I seemed to be alone in the Palace. I was only so to sight. I was -served as if I were in the midst of my courtiers, and my occupations -were nearly the same as those which were afterwards yours. I read, -I went to the play, I cultivated a garden which I had made to amuse -me, and found something agreeable in everything I undertook. What I -planted arrived at perfection in the same day. It took no more time to -produce the bower of roses to which I am indebted for the happiness of -beholding you here. - -My benefactress came very often to see me. Her presence and her -promises alleviated my distresses. Through her, the Queen received news -of me, and I news of the Queen. One day I saw the Fairy arrive with -joy sparkling in her eyes. "Dear Prince," said she to me, "the moment -of your happiness approaches!" She then informed me that he whom you -believed to be your father had passed a very uncomfortable night in -the forest. She related to me, in a few words, the adventure which had -caused him to undertake the journey, without revealing to me your real -parentage. She apprized me that the worthy man was compelled to seek an -asylum from the misery he had endured during four-and-twenty hours. - -"I go," said she, "to give orders for his reception. It must be an -agreeable one. He has a charming daughter. I propose that she shall -release you. I have examined the conditions which my cruel companion -has attached to your disenchantment. It is fortunate that she did not -ordain that your deliverer should come hither out of love for you. On -the contrary, she insisted that the young maiden should expect no less -than death, and yet expose herself to it voluntarily. I have thought -of a scheme to oblige her to take that step. It is to make her believe -the life of her father is in danger, and that she has no other means of -saving him. I know that in order to spare her father any expense on her -account, she has asked him only to bring her a rose, whilst her sisters -have overwhelmed him with extravagant commissions. He will naturally -avail himself of the first favourable opportunity. Hide yourself in -this arbour, and seizing him the instant he attempts to gather your -roses, threaten him that death will be the punishment of his audacity, -unless he give you one of his daughters; or, rather, unless she -sacrifice herself, according to the decree of our enemy. This man has -five daughters besides the one I have destined for you; but not one of -them is sufficiently magnanimous to purchase the life of their father -at the price of their own. Beauty is alone capable of so grand an -action." - -I executed exactly the Fairy's commands. You know, lovely Princess, -with what success. The merchant, to save his life, promised what I -demanded. I saw him depart without being able to persuade myself that -he would return with you. I could not flatter myself that my desire -would be fulfilled. What torment did I not suffer during the month he -had requested me to allow him. I longed for its termination only to be -certain of my disappointment. I could not imagine that a young, lovely, -and amiable girl would have the courage to seek a monster, of whom she -believed she was doomed to be the prey. Even supposing her to have -sufficient fortitude to devote herself, she would have to remain with -me without repenting the step she had taken, and that appeared to me -an invincible obstacle. Besides, how could she behold me without dying -with affright? I passed my miserable existence in these melancholy -reflections, and never was I more to be pitied. The month, however, -elapsed, and my protectress announced to me your arrival. You remember, -no doubt, the pomp with which you were received. Not daring to express -my delight in words, I endeavoured to prove it to you by the most -magnificent signs of rejoicing. The Fairy, ceaseless in her attentions -to me, prohibited me from making myself known to you. Whatever terror I -might inspire you with, or whatever kindness you might show me, I was -not permitted to seek to please you, nor to express any love for you, -nor to discover to you in any way who I was. I could have recourse, -however, to excessive good-nature, as, fortunately, the malignant Fairy -had forgotten to forbid my giving you proof of that. - -These regulations seemed hard to me, but I was compelled to subscribe -to them, and I resolved to present myself before you only for a few -moments every day, and to avoid long conversations, in which my heart -might betray its tenderness. You came, charming Princess, and the first -sight of you produced upon me a diametrically opposite effect to that -which my monstrous appearance must have done upon you. To see you was -instantly to love you. Entering your apartment, tremblingly, my joy was -excessive to find that you could behold me with greater intrepidity -than I could behold myself. You delighted me infinitely when you -declared that you would remain with me. An impulse of self-love, which -I retained even under that most horrible of forms, led me to believe -that you had not found me so hideous as you anticipated. - -Your father departed satisfied. But my sorrow increased as I -reflected that I was not allowed to win your favour in any way -except by indulging the caprices of your taste. Your demeanour, your -conversation, as sensible as it was unpretending, everything in you -convinced me that you acted solely on the principles dictated to you by -reason and virtue, and that consequently I had nothing to hope for from -a fortunate caprice. I was in despair at being forbidden to address you -in any other language than that which the Fairy had dictated, and which -she had expressly chosen as coarse and stupid. - -In vain did I represent to her it was unnatural to expect you would -accept my proposition to marry you. Her answer was always, "Patience, -perseverance, or all is lost." To recompense you for my silly -conversation, she assured me she would surround you with all sorts of -pleasures, and give me the advantage of seeing you continually, without -alarming you, or being compelled to say rude and impertinent things to -you. She rendered me invisible, and I had the gratification of seeing -you waited on by spirits who were also invisible, or who presented -themselves to you in the shapes of various animals. - -More than this, the Fairy caused you to behold my natural form in your -nightly slumbers, and in portraits by day, and made it speak to you -in your dreams as I should have spoken to you myself. You obtained -a confused idea of my secret and my hopes, which she urged you to -realize, and by the means of a starry mirror I witnessed all your -interviews, and read in it either all you imagined you uttered or all -that you actually thought. This position, however, did not suffice -to render me happy. I was only so in a dream, and my sufferings were -real. The intense affection with which you had inspired me obliged me -to complain of the restraint under which I lived; but my state was -much more wretched when I perceived that these beautiful scenes had -no longer any charms for you. I saw you shed tears, which pierced -my heart, and would have destroyed me. You asked me if I was alone -here, and I was on the verge of discarding my feigned stupidity, and -assuring you by the most passionate vows of the fact. They would have -been uttered in terms that would have surprised you, and caused you to -suspect that I was not so coarse a brute as I pretended to be. I was -on the point even of declaring myself, when the Fairy, invisible to -you, appeared before me. By a threatening gesture, which terrified me, -she found a way to close my lips. O, heavens! by what means did she -impose silence upon me? She approached you with a poniard in her hand, -and made signs to me that the first word I uttered would cost you your -life. I was so frightened that I naturally relapsed into the stupidity -she had ordered me to affect. - -My sufferings were not yet at an end. You expressed a desire to visit -your father. I gave you permission without hesitation. Could I have -refused you anything? But I regarded your departure as my death-blow, -and without the assistance of the Fairy I must have sunk under it. -During your absence that generous being never quitted me. She saved -me from destroying myself, which I should have done in my despair, -not daring to hope that you would return. The time you had passed in -this Palace rendered my condition more insupportable than it had been -previously, because I felt I was the most miserable of all men, without -the hope of making it known to you. - -My most agreeable occupation was to wander through the scenes which -you had frequented, but my grief was increased by no longer seeing -you there. The evenings and hours when I used to have the pleasure of -conversing with you for a moment, redoubled my afflictions, and were -still more painful to me. Those two months, the longest I had ever -known, ended at last, and you did not return. It was then my misery -reached its climax, and that the Fairy's power was too weak to prevent -my sinking under my despair. The precautions she took to prevent my -attempting my life were useless. I had a sure way which eluded her -power. It was to refrain from food. By the potency of her spells she -contrived to sustain me for some time, but having exhausted all her -secrets, I grew weaker and weaker, and finally had but a few moments to -breathe, when you arrived to snatch me from the tomb. - -Your precious tears, more efficacious than all the cordials of the -disguised Genii who attended on me, delayed my soul upon the point of -flight. In learning from your lamentations that I was dear to you, I -enjoyed perfect felicity, and that felicity was at its height when you -accepted me for your husband. Still I was not permitted to divulge to -you my secret, and the Beast was compelled to leave you without daring -to disclose to you the Prince. You know the lethargy into which I fell, -and which ended only with the arrival of the Fairy and the Queen. On -awaking I found myself as you behold me, without being aware of how the -change took place. - -You have witnessed what followed, but you could only imperfectly judge -of the pain which the obstinacy of my mother caused me in opposing -a marriage so suitable and so glorious for me. I had determined, -Princess, rather to be a monster again than to abandon the hope of -being the husband of so virtuous and charming a maiden. Had the secret -of your birth remained for ever a mystery to me, love and gratitude -would not less have assured me that in possessing you I was the most -fortunate of men! - - * * * * * - -The Prince thus ended his narration, and Beauty was about to speak, -when she was prevented by a burst of loud voices and warlike -instruments, which, however, did not appear to announce anything -alarming. The Prince and Princess looked out of the window, as did also -the Fairy and the Queen who returned from their promenade. The noise -was occasioned by the arrival of a personage who, according to all -appearances, could be no less than a king. His escort was obviously -a royal one, and there was an air of majesty in his demeanour which -accorded with the state that accompanied him. The fine form of this -sovereign, although of a certain age, testified that there had been few -who could have equalled him in appearance when in the flower of his -youth. He was followed by twelve of his body-guard, and some courtiers -in hunting-dresses, who appeared as much astonished as their master -to find themselves in a castle till now quite unknown to them. He -was received with the same honours that would have been paid to him -in his own dominions, and all by invisible beings. Shouts of joy and -flourishes of trumpets were heard, but no one was to be seen. - -The Fairy, immediately on beholding him, said to the Queen, "Here is -the King your brother, and the father of Beauty. He little expects -the pleasure of seeing you both here. He will be so much the more -gratified, as you know he believes that his daughter has been long -dead. He mourns her still, as he also does his wife, of whom he retains -an affectionate remembrance." These words increased the impatience of -the Queen and the young Princess to embrace this monarch. They reached -the court-yard just as he dismounted. He saw, but could not recognize -them; not doubting, however, that they were advancing to receive him, -he was considering how and in what terms he should pay his compliments -to them, when Beauty, flinging herself at his feet, embraced his knees, -and called him "Father!" - -The King raised her and pressed her tenderly in his arms, without -comprehending why she addressed him by that title. He imagined she must -be some orphan Princess, who sought his protection from some oppressor, -and who made use of the most touching expression in order to obtain -her request. He was about to assure her that he would do all that lay -in his power to assist her, when he recognized the Queen his sister, -who, embracing him in her turn, presented her son to him. She then -informed him of some of the obligations they were under to Beauty, and -especially of the frightful enchantment that had just been terminated. -The King praised the young Princess, and desired to know her name, -when the Fairy, interrupting him, asked if it was necessary to name -her parents, and if he had never known any one whom she resembled -sufficiently to enable him to guess them. "If I judged only from her -features," said he, gazing upon her earnestly, and not being able to -restrain a few tears, "the title she has given to me is legitimately -my due; but notwithstanding that evidence, and the emotion which her -presence occasions me, I dare not flatter myself that she is the -daughter whose loss I have deplored; for I had the most positive proof -that she had been devoured by wild beasts. Yet," he continued, still -examining her countenance, "she resembles perfectly the tender and -incomparable wife whom death has deprived me of. Oh, that I could but -venture to indulge in the delightful hope of beholding again in her the -fruit of a happy union, the bonds of which were too soon broken!" - -"You may, my liege," replied the Fairy; "Beauty is your daughter. Her -birth is no longer a secret here. The Queen and Prince know who she is. -I caused you to direct your steps this way on purpose to inform you; -but this is not a fitting place for me to enter into the details of -this adventure. Let us enter the Palace. After you have rested yourself -there a short time I will relate to you all you desire to know. When -you have indulged in the delight which you must feel at finding a -daughter so beautiful and so virtuous I will communicate to you another -piece of intelligence, which will afford you equal gratification." - -The King, accompanied by his daughter and the Prince, was ushered by -the monkey officers into the apartment destined for him by the Fairy, -who took this opportunity of restoring to the statues the liberty -of relating what they had witnessed. As their fate had excited the -compassion of the Queen, it was from her hands that the Fairy desired -they should receive the benefit of re-animation. She placed her wand -in the Queen's hand, who, by her instructions, described with it seven -circles in the air, and then pronounced these words: "Be re-animated. -Your King is restored to you." All the statues immediately began to -move, walk, and act as formerly, retaining only a confused idea of what -had happened to them. - -After this ceremony the Fairy and the Queen returned to the King, whom -they found in conversation with Beauty and the Prince, caressing each -in turn, and most fondly his daughter, of whom he inquired a hundred -times how she had been preserved from the wild beasts who had carried -her off, without remembering that she had answered him from the first -that she knew nothing about it, and had been ignorant even of the -secret of her birth. - -The Prince also talked without being attended to, repeating a hundred -times the obligations he was under to Princess Beauty. He desired to -acquaint the King with the promises which the Fairy had made him, -that he should marry the Princess, and to beg he would not refuse his -cheerful consent to the alliance. This conversation and these caresses -were interrupted by the entrance of the Queen and the Fairy. The King, -who had recovered his daughter, fully appreciated his happiness, but -was as yet ignorant to whom he was indebted for this precious gift. - -"It is to me," said the Fairy; "and I alone can explain to you the -adventure. I shall not limit my benefits to the recital of that alone. -I have other tidings in store for you, not less agreeable. Therefore, -great King, you may note this day as one of the happiest of your -life." The company, perceiving that the Fairy was about to commence -her narration, evinced by their silence the great attention they -were anxious to pay to it. To satisfy their curiosity the Fairy thus -addressed the King:-- - -"Beauty, my liege, and perhaps the Prince, are the only persons present -who are not acquainted with the laws of the Fortunate Island. It is -necessary I should explain those laws to them. The inhabitants of -that island, and even the King himself, are allowed perfect liberty -to marry according to their inclinations, in order that there may be -no obstacle whatever to their happiness. It was in virtue of this -privilege that you, Sire, selected for your wife a young shepherdess -whom you met one day when you were hunting. Her beauty and her good -conduct were considered by you deserving of that honour. You raised -her to the throne, and placed her in a rank from which the lowliness -of her birth seemed to have excluded her, but of which she was worthy, -by the nobleness of her character and the purity of her mind. You know -that you had continual reasons to rejoice in the selection you had -made. Her gentleness, her obliging disposition, and her affection for -you, equalled the charms of her person. But you did not long enjoy the -happiness of beholding her. After she had made you the father of Beauty -you were under the necessity of travelling to the frontiers of your -kingdom, to suppress some revolutionary demonstrations of which you -had received intimation. During this period you lost your dear wife, -an affliction which you felt the more sensibly because, in addition to -the love with which her beauty had inspired you, you had the greatest -respect for the many rare qualities that adorned her mind. Despite -her youth and the little education she had received, you found her -naturally endowed with profound judgment, and your wisest ministers -were astonished at the excellent advice she gave you, and the policy by -which she enabled you to succeed in all your undertakings." - -The King, who still brooded over his affliction, and to whose -imagination the death of that dear wife was ever present, could not -listen to this account without being sensibly affected, and the Fairy, -who observed his emotion, said, "Your feelings prove that you deserved -that happiness. I will no longer dwell on a subject that is so painful -to you, but I must reveal to you that the supposed shepherdess was a -Fairy, and my sister, who, having heard that the Fortunate Island was -a charming country, and also much praise of its laws and of the gentle -nature of your government, was particularly anxious to visit it. The -dress of a shepherdess was the only disguise she assumed, intending to -enjoy for a short time a pastoral life. You encountered her in her new -abode. Her youth and beauty touched your heart. She yielded to a desire -to discover whether the qualities of your mind equalled those she found -in your person. She trusted to her condition and power as a Fairy, -which could place her at a wish beyond the reach of your assiduities if -they became too importunate, or if you should presume to take advantage -of the humble position in which you found her. She was not alarmed at -the sentiments with which you might inspire her, and persuaded that her -virtue was sufficient to guarantee her against the snares of love, she -attributed her sensations to a simple curiosity to ascertain if there -were still upon the earth men capable of loving virtue unembellished -by exterior ornaments, which render it more brilliant and respectable -to vulgar souls than its own intrinsic merit, and frequently, by -their fatal attractions, obtain the reputation of virtue for the most -abominable vices. - -"Under this illusion, far from retreating to our common asylum, as she -had at first proposed, she chose to inhabit a little cottage she had -raised for herself in the solitude in which you met her, accompanied -by a phantom, representing her mother. These two persons appeared to -live there upon the produce of a pretended flock that had no fear of -the wolves, being, in fact, genii in that form. It was in that cottage -she received your attentions, which produced all the effect you could -desire. She could not resist the offer you made her of your crown. You -now know the extent of the obligations you were under to her at a time -when you imagined she owed everything to you, and were satisfied to -remain in that error. - -"What I now tell you is a positive proof that ambition had no share in -the consent she accorded to your wishes. You are aware that we look -upon the greatest kingdoms but as gifts which we can bestow on any -one at our pleasure. But she appreciated your generous behaviour, and -esteeming herself happy in uniting herself to so excellent a man, she -rashly entered into that engagement without reflecting on the danger -which she thereby incurred. For our laws expressly forbid our union -with those who have not as much power as ourselves, more especially -when we have not arrived at that age when we are privileged to exercise -our authority over others, and enjoy the right of presiding in our -turn. Previous to that time we are subordinate to our elders, and that -we may not abuse our power, we have only the liberty of disposing of -our hands in favour of some spirit or sage whose knowledge is at least -equal to our own. It is true that after that period we are free to form -what alliance we please; but it is seldom that we avail ourselves of -that right, and never without scandal to our order. Those who do are -generally old fairies, who almost always pay dearly for their folly; -for they marry young men, who despise them, and, although they are -not punished as criminals, they are sufficiently punished by the bad -conduct of their husbands, on whom they are not permitted to avenge -themselves. - -"It is the only penalty imposed upon them. The disagreements which -almost invariably follow the indiscretion they have committed takes -from them the desire of revealing to those profane persons from whom -they expected respect and attention the great secrets of art. My -sister, however, was not placed in either of these positions. Endowed -with every charm that could inspire affection, she was not of the -required age; but she consulted only her love. She flattered herself -she could keep her marriage a secret. She succeeded in so doing for a -short time. We rarely make inquiries about those who are absent. Each -is occupied with her own affairs, and we fly through the world, doing -good or ill, according to our inclinations, without being obliged at -our return to account for our actions, unless we have been guilty of -some act which causes us to be talked about, or that some beneficent -fairy, moved by the unjust persecution of some unfortunate mortal, lays -a complaint against the offender. In short, there must arise some -unforeseen event to occasion us to consult the general book in which -all we do is written at the same instant without the aid of hands. -Saving these occasions, we have only to appear in the general assembly -three times in the year; and, as we travel very swiftly, the affair -does not occupy more than a couple of hours. - -"My sister was obliged to give light to the throne (such is our phrase -for the performance of that duty). On such occasions, she arranged for -you a hunting party at some distance, or a journey of pleasure, and -after your departure she feigned some indisposition, to remain alone in -her cabinet, or that she had letters to write, or that she wished to -repose. Neither in the palace nor amongst us was there any suspicion -of that which it was so much her interest to conceal. This mystery, -however, was not one for me. The consequences were dangerous, and I -warned her of them; but she loved you too much to repent the step she -had taken. Desiring even to justify it in my eyes, she insisted that I -should pay you a visit. - -"Without flattering you, I confess that, if the sight of you did not -compel me entirely to excuse her weakness, it at least diminished -considerably my surprise at it, and increased the zeal with which I -laboured to keep it a secret. Her dissimulation was successful for two -years; but at length she betrayed herself. We are obliged to confer -a certain number of favours on the world generally, and to return an -account of them. When my sister gave in hers, it appeared that she -had limited her excursions and her benefits to the confines of the -Fortunate Island. - -"Several of our ill-natured fairies blamed this conduct, and our Queen, -in consequence, demanded of her why she had restricted her benevolence -to this small corner of the earth, when she could not be ignorant that -a young fairy was bound to travel far and wide, and manifest to the -universe at large our pleasure and our power. - -"As this was no new regulation, my sister could not murmur at the -enforcement of it, nor find a pretext for objecting to obey it. She -promised, therefore, to do so; but her impatience to see you again, the -fear of her absence being discovered at the Palace, the impossibility -of acting secretly on a throne, did not permit her to absent herself -long enough and often enough to fulfil her promise; and at the next -assembly she could hardly prove that she had been out of the Fortunate -Island for a quarter of an hour. - -"Our Queen, greatly displeased with her, threatened to destroy that -island, and so prevent her continuing to violate our laws. This threat -agitated her so greatly that the least sharp-sighted fairy could see -to what a point she carried her interest for that fatal island, and -the wicked fairy who turned the Prince here present into a frightful -monster, was convinced by her confusion that, on opening the great -book, she should find in it an important entry which would afford -some exercise to her propensities for mischief. 'It is there,' she -exclaimed, 'that the truth will appear, and that we shall learn what -has really been her occupation!' and with these words, she opened the -volume before the whole assembly, and read the details of all that had -taken place during the last two years in a loud and distinct voice. - -"All the fairies made an extraordinary uproar on hearing of this -degrading alliance, and overwhelmed my wretched sister with the most -cruel reproaches. She was degraded from our order, and condemned to -remain a prisoner amongst us. If her punishment had consisted of the -first penalty only, she would have consoled herself; but the second -sentence, far more terrible, made her feel all the rigour of both. -The loss of her dignity little affected her; but, loving you fondly, -she begged, with tears in her eyes, that they would be satisfied with -degrading her, and not deprive her of the pleasure of living as a -simple mortal with her husband and her dear daughter. - -"Her tears and supplications touched the hearts of the younger judges, -and I felt, from the murmur that arose, that if the votes had been -collected at that instant, she would certainly have escaped with a -reprimand. But one of the eldest, who, from her extreme decrepitude had -obtained amongst us the name of 'the Mother of the Seasons,' did not -give the Queen time to speak and admit that pity had touched her heart -as well as the others'. - -"'There is no excuse for this crime,' cried the detestable old -creature, in her cracked voice. 'If it is permitted to go unpunished, -we shall be daily exposed to similar insults. The honour of our order -is absolutely involved in it. This miserable being, attached to earth, -does not regret the loss of a rank which elevated her a hundred -degrees higher above monarchs than they are above their subjects. She -tells us that her affections, her fears, and her wishes, all turn -upon her unworthy family. It is through them we must punish her. Let -her husband deplore her! Let her daughter, the shameful fruit of her -illegal marriage, become the bride of a monster, to expiate the folly -of a mother who could allow herself to be captivated by the frail and -contemptible beauty of a mortal!' - -"This cruel speech revived the severity of many who had been previously -inclined to mercy. Those who continued to pity her being too few to -offer any opposition, the sentence was approved of in its integrity; -and our Queen herself, whose features had indicated a feeling of -compassion, resuming their severity, confirmed the majority of votes -in favour of the motion of the ill-natured old Fairy. My sister, -however, in her endeavours to obtain a revocation of this cruel decree, -to propitiate her judges, and to excuse her marriage, had drawn so -charming a portrait of you, that it inflamed the heart of the fairy -Governess of the Prince (she who had opened the great volume); but this -dawning passion only served to increase the hatred which that wicked -Fairy already bore to your unfortunate wife. - -"Unable to resist her desire to see you, she concealed her passion -under the colour of a pretext that she was anxious to ascertain if -you deserved that a fairy should make such a sacrifice for you as my -sister had done. As she had obtained the sanction of the assembly to -her guardianship of the Prince, she could not have ventured to quit -him for any length of time if the ingenuity of love had not inspired -her with the idea of placing a protecting genius and two inferior and -invisible fairies to watch over him in her absence. After taking this -precaution, there was nothing to prevent her following her inclination, -which speedily carried her to the Fortunate Island. In the meanwhile, -the women and officers of the imprisoned Queen, surprised that she did -not come out of her private cabinet, became alarmed. The express orders -she had given them not to disturb her, induced them to pass the night -without knocking at the door; but impatience at last taking place of -all other considerations, they knocked loudly, and no one answering, -they forced the doors, under the impression that some accident had -happened to her. Although they had prepared themselves for the worst, -they were not the less astonished at perceiving no trace of her. They -called her, they hunted for her in vain. They could discover nothing -to appease the despair into which her disappearance had plunged them. -They imagined a thousand reasons for it, each more absurd than the -other. They could not suspect her evasion to be voluntary. She was -all-powerful in your kingdom. The sovereign jurisdiction you had -confided to her was not disputed by any one. Everybody obeyed her -cheerfully. The affection you had for each other, that which she -entertained for her daughter and for her subjects, who adored her, -prevented them from supposing she had fled. Where could she go to be -more happy? On the other hand, what man would have dared to carry off -a queen from the midst of her own guards, and the centre of her own -palace? Such a ravisher must have left some indications of the road he -had taken. - -"The disaster was certain, although the causes of it were unknown. -There was another evil to dread; namely, the feelings with which -you would receive this fatal news. The innocence of those who were -responsible for the safety of the Queen's person by no means satisfied -them that they should not feel the effects of your wrath. They felt -they must either fly the kingdom, and thereby appear guilty of a crime -they had not committed, or they must find some means of hiding this -misfortune from you. - -"After long deliberation, they could imagine no other than that of -persuading you the Queen was dead, and this plan they put instantly -into execution. They sent off a courier to inform you that she had been -suddenly taken ill; a second followed a few hours afterwards, bearing -the news of her death, in order to prevent your love inducing you to -return post-haste to Court. Your appearance would have deranged all the -measures they had taken for general security. They paid to the supposed -defunct all the funeral honours due to her rank, to your affection, -and the sorrow of a people who adored her, and who wept her loss as -sincerely as yourself. - -"This cruel adventure was always kept a profound secret from you, -although it was known to every other inhabitant of the Fortunate -Island. The first astonishment had given publicity to the whole affair. -The affliction you felt at this loss was proportionate to your love; -you found no consolation except in the innocent caresses of your -infant daughter, whom you sent for to be with you. You determined -never again to be separated from her; she was charming, and presented -you continually with a living portrait of the Queen, her mother. The -hostile Fairy, who had been the original cause of all this trouble by -opening the great book in which she discovered my sister's marriage, -had not come to see you without paying the price of her curiosity. -Your appearance had produced the same effect upon her heart as it had -previously done on that of your wife, and instead of this experience -inducing her to excuse my sister, she ardently desired to commit the -same fault. Hovering about you invisibly, she could not resolve to -quit you. Beholding you inconsolable, she had no hope of success, and -fearing to add the shame of your refusal to the pain of disappointment, -she did not dare make herself known to you; on the other hand, -supposing she did appear, she imagined that by skilful manœuvring, -she might accustom you to see her, and perhaps in time induce you to -love her. But to effect this, she must be introduced to you; and after -much pondering to find some decorous way of presenting herself, she -hit on one. There was a neighbouring Queen who had been driven out of -her dominions by a usurper, who had murdered her husband. This unhappy -Princess was ranging the world to find an asylum and an avenger. The -Fairy carried her off, and having deposited her in a safe place, put -her to sleep, and assumed her form. You beheld, Sire, that disguised -Fairy fling herself at your feet, and implore your protection and -assistance to punish the assassin of a husband whom she professed she -regretted as deeply as you did your Queen. She protested that her love -for him alone impelled her to this course, and that she renounced, with -all her heart, a crown which she offered to him who should avenge her -dear husband. - -"The unhappy pity each other. You interested yourself in her -misfortunes the more readily for that she wept the loss of a beloved -spouse, and that mingling her tears with yours, she talked to you -incessantly of the Queen. You gave her your protection, and lost no -time in re-establishing her authority in the kingdom she pretended -to, by punishing the rebels and the usurper she seemed to desire; but -she would neither return to it nor quit you. She implored you, for -her own security, to govern the kingdom in her name, as you were too -generous to accept it as a gift from her, and to permit her to reside -at your Court. You could not refuse her this new favour. She appeared -to be necessary to you for the education of your daughter, for the -cunning Fairy knew well enough that child was the sole object of your -affection. She feigned an exceeding fondness for her, and had her -continually in her arms. Anticipating the request you were about to -make to her, she earnestly begged to be permitted to take charge of her -education, saying that she would have no heir but that dear child, whom -she looked on as her own, and who was the only being she loved in the -world; because she said she reminded her of a daughter she had had by -her husband, and who perished along with him. - -"The proposal appeared to you so advantageous that you did not hesitate -to entrust the Princess to her care, and to give her full authority -over her. She acquitted herself of her duties to perfection, and by her -talent and her affection obtained your implicit confidence and your -love as for a tender sister. This was not sufficient for her: all her -anxiety was but to become your wife. She neglected nothing to gain this -end; but even had you never been the husband of the most beautiful of -fairies, she was not formed to inspire you with love. The shape she had -assumed could not bear comparison with hers into whose place she would -have stolen. It was extremely ugly, and being naturally so herself, she -had only the power of appearing beautiful one day in the year. - -"The knowledge of this discouraging fact convinced her that to succeed -she must have recourse to other charms than those of beauty. She -intrigued secretly to oblige the people and the nobility to petition -you to take another wife, and to point her out to you as the desirable -person; but certain ambiguous conversations she had held with you, in -order to sound your inclinations, enabled you easily to discover the -origin of the pressing solicitations with which you were importuned. -You declared positively that you would not hear of giving a step-mother -to your daughter, nor lower her position, by making her subordinate -to a queen, from that which she held as the highest person next to -yourself in the kingdom, and the acknowledged heir to your throne. You -also gave the false Queen to understand that you should feel obliged by -her returning to her own dominions immediately, and without ado, and -promised her that when she was settled there you would render her all -the services she could expect from a faithful friend and a generous -neighbour; but you did not conceal from her that if she did not take -this course willingly, she ran the risk of being compelled to do so. - -"The invincible obstacle you then opposed to her love threw her into a -terrific rage, but she affected so much indifference about the matter -that she succeeded in persuading you that her attempt was caused by -ambition, and the fear that eventually you might take possession of her -dominions, preferring, notwithstanding the earnestness with which she -had appeared to offer them to you, to let you believe she was insincere -in that case, rather than you should suspect her real sentiments. Her -fury was not less violent because it was suppressed. Not doubting that -it was Beauty who, more powerful in your heart than policy, caused you -to reject the opportunity of increasing your empire in so glorious a -manner, she conceived for her a hatred as violent as that which she -felt for your wife, and resolved to get rid of her, fully believing -that if she were dead, your subjects, renewing their remonstrances, -would compel you to change your state, in order to leave a successor -to the throne. The good soul was anything but of an age to present you -with one; but that she cared little about. The Queen, whose resemblance -she had assumed, was still young enough to have many children, and her -ugliness was no obstacle to a royal and political alliance. - -"Notwithstanding the official declaration you had made, it was -thought that if your daughter died you would yield to the continual -representations of your council. It was believed, also, that your -choice would fall upon this pretended Queen; and that idea surrounded -her with numberless parasites. It was her design, therefore, by the aid -of one of her flatterers, whose wife was as base as her husband, and -as wicked as she was herself, to make away with your daughter. She had -appointed this woman governess to the little Princess. These wretches -settled between them that they would smother her, and report that she -had died suddenly; but for more security they decided to commit this -murder in the neighbouring forest, so that nobody could surprise them -in the execution of this barbarous deed. They counted on no one having -the slightest knowledge of it, and that it would be impossible to blame -them for not having sought for assistance before she expired, having -the legitimate excuse that they were too far away from any. The husband -of the governess proposed to go in search of aid as soon as the child -was dead; and that no suspicion might be awakened, he was to appear -surprised at finding it too late when he returned to the spot where he -had left this tender victim of their fury, and he also rehearsed the -sorrow and consternation he was to affect. - -"When my wretched sister saw herself deprived of her power and -condemned to a cruel imprisonment, she requested me to console you -and to watch over the safety of her child. It was unnecessary for her -to take that precaution. The tie which unites us, and the pity I felt -for her, would have sufficed to ensure you my protection, and her -entreaties could not increase the zeal with which I hastened to fulfil -her decrees. - -"I saw you as often as I could, and as much as prudence permitted me, -without incurring the risk of arousing the suspicions of our enemy, who -would have denounced me as a Fairy in whom sisterly affection prevailed -over the honour of her order, and who protected a guilty race. I -neglected nothing to convince all the Fairies that I had abandoned my -sister to her unhappy fate, and, by so doing, trusted to be more at -liberty to serve her. As I watched every movement of your perfidious -admirer, not only with my own eyes, but those of the Genii, who were -my servants, her horrible intentions were not unknown to me. I could -not oppose her by open force; and though it would have been easy for -me to annihilate those into whose hands she had delivered the little -innocent, prudence restrained me; for, had I carried off your daughter, -the malignant Fairy would have retaken her from me, without its being -possible for me to defend her. - -"It is a law amongst us that we must be a thousand years old before we -can dispute the power of the ancient fairies, or at any rate we must -have become serpents. The perils which accompany the latter condition -cause us to call it the Terrible Act. The bravest amongst us shudder at -the thought of undertaking it. We hesitate a long time before we can -resolve to expose ourselves to its consequences; and without the urgent -motive of hatred, love, or vengeance, there are few who do not prefer -waiting for time to make them Elders than to acquire their privilege -by that dangerous transformation, in which the greater number are -destroyed. I was in this position. I wanted ten years of the thousand, -and I had no resource but in artifice. I employed it successfully. -I took the form of a monstrous she-bear, and, hiding myself in the -forest selected for the execution of this detestable deed, when the -wretches arrived to fulfil the barbarous order they had received, I -flung myself upon the woman who had the child in her arms, and who -had already placed her hand on its mouth. Her fright made her drop -the precious burden, but she was not allowed to escape so easily; the -horror I felt at her unnatural conduct inspired me with the ferocity of -the brute I had assumed the form of. I strangled her, as well as the -traitor who accompanied her, and I carried off Beauty, after having -rapidly stripped off her clothes and dyed them with the blood of her -enemies. I scattered them also about the forest, taking the precaution -to tear them in several places, so that they should not suspect the -Princess had escaped; and I withdrew, delighted at having succeeded so -completely. - -"The Fairy believed her object had been attained. The death of her two -accomplices was an advantage to her. She was mistress of her secret, -and the fate they had met with was but what she had herself destined -them to, in recompense of their guilty services. Another circumstance -was also favourable to her. Some shepherds who had seen this affair -from a distance ran for assistance, which arrived just in time to see -the infamous wretches expire, and prevent the possibility of suspicion -that she had any part in it. - -"The same circumstances were equally favourable to my enterprise. The -wicked Fairy was as fully convinced as the people by them. The event -was so natural, that she never doubted it. She did not even condescend -to exert her skill to satisfy herself of the fact. I was delighted at -her fancied security. I should not have been the strongest had she -attempted to recover little Beauty, because, in addition to the reasons -which made her my superior, and which I have explained to you, she -possessed the advantage of having received that child from you. You -had deputed to her your authority, which you alone could re-assume, -and short of your wresting her yourself out of her hands, nothing -could interfere with the control she had a right to exercise over the -Princess till she was married. - -"Preserved from this anxiety, I found myself overwhelmed by another, on -recollecting that the Mother of the Seasons had condemned my niece to -marry a monster; but she was then not three years old, and I flattered -myself I should be able, by study, to discover some expedient to -prevent this curse being fulfilled to the letter, and to evade it by -some equivocation. I had plenty of time to ponder on it, and my first -care was, therefore, only to find some spot where I could place my -precious charge in safety. - -"Profound secrecy was absolutely necessary to me. I dared not place -her in a castle, nor exercise for her benefit any of the magnificent -wonders of our art. Our enemy would have noticed it. It would have -awakened an anxiety, the consequences of which would have been fatal -to us. I thought it better to assume an humble garb, and confide the -infant to the care of the first person I met with, who appeared to me -to be an honest man, and under whose roof I could promise myself she -would enjoy the comforts of life. - -"Chance soon favoured my intentions. I found what suited me exactly. -It was a small house in a village, the door of which was open. I -entered this cottage, which appeared to me that of a peasant in easy -circumstances. I saw by the light of a lamp three country women asleep -beside a cradle, which I concluded contained a baby. The cradle did -not at all correspond with the general simplicity of the apartment. -Everything about it was sumptuous. I imagined that its little occupant -was ill, and that the deep sleep into which its nurses had fallen was -the consequence of long watching over it. I approached silently, with -the intention of curing the infant, and anticipated with pleasure the -surprise of these women, on awaking, to find their invalid restored to -health, without knowing what to attribute it to. I was about to take -the child out of the cradle in order to breathe health into it; but my -good intentions were vain: it expired at the instant I touched it. - -"I immediately conceived the idea of taking advantage of this -melancholy event, and substituting my niece for the dead child, -which, by good fortune, was also a girl. I lost no time in making the -exchange, and bearing away the lifeless infant, buried it carefully. -I then returned to the house, at the door of which I knocked long and -loudly, to awaken the sleepers. - -"I told them, feigning a provincial dialect, that I was a stranger to -those parts, who was in want of a night's lodging. They good-naturedly -offered me one, and then went to look at their nursling, whom they -found quietly asleep, with all the appearance of being in perfect -health. They were astonished and delighted, not dreaming of the -deception I had practised upon them. They informed me that the child -was the daughter of a rich merchant; that one of their party had been -her nurse, and after having weaned her had restored her to her parents, -but that the child, having fallen ill in her father's house, had been -sent back to the country, in hope that the change of air would be of -service to her. They added, with satisfied countenances, that the -experiment had succeeded, and produced a better effect than all the -remedies which had been resorted to previous to its adoption. They -determined to carry her back to her father as soon as it was daylight, -in order to afford him, as early as possible, the gratification he -would derive from her restoration, for conducing to which, also, they -expected to receive a liberal reward, as the child was his particular -favourite, although the youngest of eleven. - -"At sunrise they set out, and I feigned to continue my journey, -congratulating myself on having so well provided for my niece's safety. -To insure this object more completely, and induce the supposed father -still more to attach himself to the little girl, I assumed the form -of one of those women who go about telling fortunes, and arriving at -the merchant's door just as the nurses reached it with the child, I -followed them into the house. He received them with delight, and taking -the little girl in his arms, became the dupe of his paternal affection, -and fancied that the emotions simply caused by his kindly disposition -were the mysterious workings of nature at the sight of his offspring. I -seized this opportunity of increasing the interest he believed he had -in the child. - -"'Look well upon this little one, my good gentleman,' said I, in the -usual language of the class to which by my dress I appeared to belong. -'She will be a great honour to thy family, she will bring thee immense -wealth, and save thy life and that of all thy children. She will be -so beautiful--so beautiful, that she will be called Beauty by all who -behold her.' As a reward for my prediction, he gave me a piece of gold, -and I withdrew, perfectly satisfied. I had no longer any reason for -residing with the race of Adam. To profit by my leisure, I returned -to Fairyland, resolving to remain in it some time. I passed my days -there quietly in consoling my sister, in giving her news of her dear -daughter, and in assuring her that, far from forgetting her, you -cherished her memory as fondly as you had formerly herself. - -"Such, great King, was our situation whilst you were suffering under -the fresh calamity which had deprived you of your child, and renewed -all the affliction you had felt at the loss of her mother. Although -you could not positively accuse the person to whom you had confided -the infant of being the wilful cause of the accident, it was still -impossible for you not to look upon her with an evil eye; for though -it did not appear that she was guilty of intentional mischief, it was -certainly through her neglecting to see that the young Princess was -properly attended and protected that the event had proved fatal. - -"After the first paroxysms of your grief had subsided, she flattered -herself that no obstacle would arise to prevent your espousing her. -She caused her emissaries to renew the proposal to you; but she was -undeceived, and her mortification was excessive, when you declared that -not only were your intentions unchanged respecting a second marriage, -but that even, could anything alter your determination, it would never -be in her favour. To this declaration you added a positive order for -her to quit the kingdom immediately. Her presence continually reminded -you of your child, and renewed your affliction. Such was the reason you -adduced for this step; but your principal object was to put an end to -the intrigues she was constantly carrying on in order to gain her end. - -"She was furious; but she was obliged to obey without being able -to avenge herself. I had persuaded one of our ancient fairies to -protect you. Her power was considerable, for she joined to her age the -advantage of having been four times a serpent. In proportion to the -excessive peril incurred by that process, are the honours and powers -attached to it. This Fairy, out of consideration for me, took you under -her protection, and put it out of the power of your indignant lover to -do you any mischief. - -"This disappointment was fortunate for the Queen, whose form she had -assumed. She awoke her from her magic slumber, and concealing from her -the criminal use she had made of her features, placed her conduct in -the best light before her. - -"She expatiated on the value of her intercession with the King, and on -the trouble she had saved her, and gave her the best advice she could -how to maintain herself for the future in her proper person. It was -then that, to console herself for your indifference, the Fairy returned -to the young Prince and resumed her care of him. She became too fond -of him, and not being able to make herself beloved, she caused him to -suffer that terrible effect of her fury. - -"In the meanwhile, I had insensibly arrived at the privileged age, -and my power was increased, but my desire to serve my sister and -yourself induced me to feel that still I had not sufficient. My sincere -friendship blinding me to the perils of "the Terrible Act," I resolved -to undertake it. - -"I became a serpent, and passed fortunately through the ordeal. I was -then in a position to act openly in favour of those who were persecuted -by my malicious companions. If I cannot at all times entirely dissolve -their fatal spells, I can at least counteract them by my skill and by -my counsels. - -"My niece was amongst the number of those whom I could not completely -favour. Not daring to discover all the interest I took in her, it -appeared to me that the best thing I could do was to allow her still -to pass as the merchant's daughter. I visited her under various forms, -and always returned satisfied. Her virtue and beauty equalled her good -sense. At the age of fourteen she had already given proof of great -fortitude during the changes of fortune which had befallen her supposed -father. - -"I was delighted to find that the most cruel reverses had not been able -to affect her tranquillity. On the contrary, by her cheerfulness, by -the charm of her conversation, she had succeeded in restoring it to -the hearts of her father and her brothers; and I rejoiced to observe -also that her sentiments were worthy of her birth. These pleasant -reflections were, however, mingled with much bitterness, when I -remembered that, with so many perfections, she was destined to be the -wife of a monster. I toiled, I studied night and day to find some means -of saving her from so great a misfortune, and was in despair at finding -none. - -"This anxiety did not prevent me, however, from paying occasional -visits to you. Your wife, who was deprived of that liberty, implored -me incessantly to go and see you; and, notwithstanding the protection -of our friend, her affectionate heart was continually alarmed about -you, and persuaded her that the instant I lost sight of you would be -the last of your life, and in which you would be sacrificed to the fury -of our enemy. This fear possessed her so strongly, that she scarcely -gave me a moment's rest. No sooner did I bring her news of you than she -supplicated me so earnestly to return to you, that it was impossible to -refuse her. - -"Compassionating her anxiety, and more desirous to end it than to save -myself the trouble it gave me, I employed against my cruel companion -the same weapons she had made use of against you. I proceeded to open -the great book. By good fortune, it was at the very moment she was -holding that conversation with the Queen and Prince which terminated in -his transformation. I lost not a word of it, and my rapture was extreme -at finding that, in seeking to assure her vengeance, she neutralized, -without knowing it, the mischief which the Mother of the Seasons had -done us in dooming Beauty to be the bride of a monster. - -"To crown our happiness, she added conditions so advantageous, that -it almost seemed as if she made them on purpose to oblige me, for she -thereby furnished my sister's daughter with an opportunity of proving -that she was worthy of being the issue of the purest of fairy-blood. - -"The slightest sign or gesture expresses amongst us as much as it -would take an ordinary mortal three days to explain. I uttered but -one contemptuous word. It was enough to inform the assembly that our -enemy had pronounced her own sentence in that which she had caused ten -years before to be passed upon your wife. At the age of the latter, -the weakness of love was more natural than at the advanced period of -existence of a fairy of the highest order. I spoke of the base and -wicked actions which had accompanied that superannuated passion. I -urged that if so many infamous acts were allowed to pass unpunished, -mortals would be justified in saying that fairies existed in the world -but to dishonour nature and afflict the human race. Presenting the book -to them, I condensed this abrupt oration in the single word "Behold!" -It was not the less powerful in its effect. - -"There were present also friends of mine, both young and old, who -treated the amorous fury as she deserved. She had not succeeded in -becoming your wife, and to that disgrace was now added degradation from -her order, and imprisonment, as in the case of the Queen of the Happy -Island. - -"This council was held whilst she was with you, Madam, and your son. As -soon as she appeared amongst us, the result was communicated to her. -I had the pleasure to be present, after which, closing the book, I -descended rapidly from the middle region of air in which our empire is -situated, to combat the effect of the despair to which you were ready -to abandon yourselves. I performed my journey in as short a space of -time as I had occupied with my laconical address. I arrived soon enough -to promise you my assistance. All sorts of reasons combined to invite -me. Your virtues, your misfortunes, (said the Fairy, turning to the -Prince), the advantages they offered to Beauty made me see in you the -Monster that suited me. You appeared to me worthy of each other, and I -felt convinced that when you became acquainted, your hearts would do -each other mutual justice. - -"You know," she continued, addressing the Queen, "what I have since -done to attain my object, and by what means I obliged Beauty to come -to this Palace, where the sight of the Prince, and her interviews with -him, in the dreams I conjured up for her, had the effect I desired. -They kindled love in her heart without diminishing her virtue or -weakening the sense of duty and gratitude which attached her to the -Monster. In short, I have happily brought my scheme to perfection. -Yes, Prince," pursued the Fairy, "you have no longer anything to fear -from your enemy. She is stripped of her power, and will never again -be able to injure you by other spells. You have exactly fulfilled the -conditions she imposed on you. Had you not done so, you would have -been still bound by them, notwithstanding her eternal degradation. -You have made yourself beloved without the aid of your rank or your -intelligence; and you, Beauty, are equally relieved from the curse -pronounced upon you by the Mother of the Seasons. You cheerfully -accepted a monster for your husband. She has nothing more to exact. All -now tends to your happiness." - - * * * * * - -The Fairy ceased speaking, and the King threw himself at her feet. -"Great Fairy," he exclaimed, "how can I thank you for all the favours -you have heaped on my family? My gratitude for the benefits you have -bestowed on us far exceeds my power of expression; but, my august -sister," added he, "that title encourages me to ask more favours; for, -despite the obligations I am already under to you, I cannot avoid -confessing to you that I shall never be truly happy so long as I am -deprived of the presence of my beloved Fairy Queen. This account of -what she has done and what she has suffered for me would increase my -love and my affliction, were either of them capable of being augmented. -Ah, Madam," he added, "can you not crown all your benefactions by -enabling me to behold her?" - -The question was useless. If the Fairy had had the power to have -afforded him that gratification, she was too willing to have waited for -the request: but she could not alter what the Council of the Fairies -had decreed. The young Queen being a prisoner in the middle regions -of air, there was not the shadow of a chance of his being enabled to -see her; and the Fairy was about to explain this to him kindly, and -to exhort him to await patiently some unforeseen events, of which she -might take advantage, when an enchanting melody stole upon their ears -and interrupted her. The King, his daughter, the Queen, and the Prince, -were in ecstasies, but the Fairy experienced another sort of surprise. -Such music indicated the triumph of some Fairy. She could not imagine -what Fairy had achieved a victory. Her fears suggested that it was the -old one, or the Mother of the Seasons, who in her absence had obtained, -the former her liberty, or the latter permission to persecute the -lovers afresh. - -She was in this perplexity when it was agreeably ended by the presence -of her Fairy-sister, the Queen of the Happy Island, who suddenly -appeared in the centre of that charming group. She was no less lovely -than when the King, her husband, lost her. The monarch, who instantly -recognised her, making the respect he owed her yield to the love he -had cherished for her, embraced her with such transports of joy, that -the Queen herself was surprised at them. - -The Fairy, her sister, could not imagine to what fortunate miracle she -was indebted for her liberty; but the royal Fairy informed her that she -owed her happiness solely to her own courage, which had impelled her -to hazard her own existence to preserve another's. "You are aware," -said she to the Fairy, "that the daughter of our Queen was received -into the order at her birth; that her father was not a sublunary -being, but the sage Amadabak, whose alliance is an honour to the fairy -race, and whose sublime knowledge invests him with much higher powers. -Notwithstanding this, however, it was imperative for his daughter to -become a serpent at the end of her first hundred years. The fatal -period arrived, and our Queen, as tender a mother, and as anxious -respecting the fate of this dear infant as any ordinary parent could -be, could not resolve to expose her to the many chances of destruction -in that shape, the misfortunes of those who had perished being but -too notorious for her not to feel the greatest alarm. My wretched -situation depriving me of all hope of again beholding my affectionate -husband and my lovely daughter, I had conceived a perfect disgust for -a life which I was doomed to pass apart from them. Without the least -hesitation, therefore, I offered to become a crawling reptile in the -place of the young Fairy. I saw with delight a certain, prompt, and -honourable mode of delivering myself from all the miseries with which -I was overwhelmed, by death or by a glorious emancipation, which would -render me mistress of my own actions, and thereby enable me to rejoin -my husband. - -"Our Queen hesitated as little to accept this offer, so gratifying to -her maternal affection, as I did to make it. She embraced me a hundred -times, and promised to restore me to liberty unconditionally, and -re-establish me in all my privileges, if I was fortunate enough to -pass unharmed through that perilous enterprise. I did do so, and the -fruit of my labours was enjoyed by the young Fairy, for whom I had been -the substitute. The success of my first trial encouraged me to make a -second for my own benefit. I underwent the transformation anew, and was -equally fortunate. This last act made me an Elder, and, consequently, -independent. I was not long in profiting by my liberty, and flying -hither to rejoin a family so dear to me." - -As soon as the Fairy had finished her narrative, the embraces were -renewed by her affectionate auditors. It was a charming confusion, in -which each caressed the other almost without knowing what they were -about: beauty, particularly, enchanted at appertaining to such an -illustrious family, and no longer fearing to degrade the Prince, her -cousin, by causing him to form an alliance beneath him. - -But although transported by the excess of her happiness, she did not -forget the worthy man whom she had formerly believed to be her father. -She recalled to her fairy aunt the promise she had made to her, that -he and his children should have the honour of being present at her -marriage. She was still speaking to her on this subject when they -saw from the window sixteen persons on horseback, most of whom had -hunting-horns, and appeared in considerable confusion. Their disorder -evidently arose from their horses having ran away with them. Beauty -instantly recognised them as the six sons of the worthy merchant, the -five daughters, and their five lovers. - -Everybody but the Fairy was surprised at this abrupt entrance. Those -who made it were not less so, at finding themselves carried by the -speed of their unmanageable horses into a palace totally unknown to -them. - -This is the way it happened. They were all out hunting, when their -horses, suddenly uniting themselves as in one squadron, galloped off -with them at such speed to the Palace that all their efforts to stop -them were perfectly useless. - -Beauty, thoughtless of her present dignity, hastened to receive and -re-assure them. She embraced them all kindly. The good man himself -next appeared, but not in the same disorder. A horse had neighed and -scratched at his door. He had no doubt that it came to seek him by -order of his dear daughter. He mounted him without fear, and, perfectly -satisfied as to whither the steed would bear him, he was not at all -surprised to find himself in the court-yard of a Palace which he now -saw for the third time, and to which he felt convinced he had been -conducted to witness the marriage of Beauty and the Beast. - -The moment he perceived her he ran to her with open arms, blessing -the happy moment that presented her again to his sight, and heaping -benedictions on the generous Beast who had permitted him to return; -he looked about for him in every direction, to offer him his most -humble thanks for all the favours he had heaped on his family, and -particularly on his youngest daughter. He was vexed at not seeing him, -and began to apprehend that his conjectures were erroneous. Still, the -presence of all his children seemed to support the idea he had formed, -as they would scarcely have been all assembled in that spot if some -solemn ceremony, such as that marriage, were not to be celebrated. - -These reflections, which the good man made to himself, did not prevent -him from pressing Beauty fondly in his arms, and bathing her cheek with -tears of joy. After allowing due time for this first expression of his -feelings, "Enough, good man," said the Fairy. "You have sufficiently -caressed this Princess. It is time that, ceasing to regard her as a -father, you should learn that that title does not appertain to you, and -that you must now do her homage as your sovereign. She is the Princess -of the Happy Island, daughter of the King and Queen whom you see before -you. She is about to become the wife of this Prince. Here stands the -Prince's mother, sister of the King. I am a Fairy, her friend, and -the aunt of Beauty. As to the Prince," added the Fairy, observing the -expression of the good man's face, "he is better known to you than you -imagine; but he is much altered since you last saw him. In a word, he -was the Beast himself." - -The father and his sons were enchanted at these wonderful tidings, -while the sisters felt a painful jealousy, but they endeavoured to -conceal it under the mask of a gratification which deceived no one. The -others, however, feigned to believe them sincere. As to the lovers, who -had been rendered inconstant by the hope of possessing Beauty, and who -had only returned to their first attachments on their despairing to -obtain her, they knew not what to think. - -The merchant could not help weeping, without being able to tell -whether his tears were caused by the pleasure of seeing the happiness -of Beauty, or by the sorrow of losing so perfect a daughter. His sons -were agitated by similar feelings. Beauty, extremely affected by this -evidence of their love, entreated those on whom she now depended, as -well as the Prince, her future husband, to permit her to reward such -tender attachment. Her entreaty testified the goodness of her heart too -sincerely not to be listened to. They were laden with bounties, and by -permission of the King, the Prince, and the Queen, Beauty continued to -call them by the tender names of father, brothers, and even sisters, -though she was not ignorant that the latter were as little so in heart -as they were in blood. She desired they would all, in return, call her -by the name they were wont to do when they believed her to be a member -of their family. The old man and his children were appointed to offices -in the Court of Beauty, and enjoyed the pleasure of living continually -near her, in a station sufficiently exalted to be generally respected. -The lovers of her sisters, whose passion for Beauty might easily have -been revived, if they had not known it would be useless, thought -themselves too happy in being united to the good man's daughters, and -becoming allied to persons for whom Beauty retained so much goodwill. - -All those she desired to be present at her wedding having arrived, the -celebration of it was no longer delayed. The festivities lasted many -days, and ended at length only because the fairy aunt of the young -bride pointed out to them the propriety of leaving that beautiful -retreat, and returning to their dominions, to show themselves to their -subjects. - -It was quite time she should recall their kingdom to their recollection -and the indispensable duties which demanded their presence. Enraptured -with the scenes around them, entranced by the pleasure of loving and -expressing their love to each other, they had entirely forgotten their -royal state and the cares that attend it. - -The newly-married pair, indeed, proposed to the Fairy that they should -abdicate, and resign their power into the hands of any one she should -select; but that wise being represented to them clearly that they were -under as great an obligation to fulfil the destiny which had confided -to them the government of a nation as that nation was to preserve for -them an unshaken loyalty. - -They yielded to these just remonstrances, but the Prince and Beauty -stipulated that they should be allowed occasionally to visit that spot, -and cast aside for a while the cares inseparable from their station, -and that they should be waited on by the invisible Genii or the -animals who had attended them during the preceding years. They availed -themselves as often as possible of this liberty. Their presence seemed -to embellish the spot. All were eager to please them. The Genii awaited -their visits with impatience, and received them with joy, testifying in -a hundred ways the delight their return afforded them. - -The Fairy, whose foresight neglected nothing, gave them a chariot, -drawn by twelve white stags with golden horns and hoofs, like those -she drove herself. The speed of these animals was almost greater than -that of thought; and, drawn by them, you could easily make the tour of -the world in two hours. By this means they lost no time in travelling. -They profited by every moment of leisure, and went frequently in this -elegant equipage to visit their father, the King of the Happy Island, -who had grown so young again through the return of his Fairy Queen, -that he equalled in face and form the Prince, his son-in-law. He felt -also equally happy, being neither less enamoured nor less eager to -prove to his wife his unceasing affection, while she, on her part, -responded to his love with all that tenderness which had previously -been the cause of so much misfortune to her. - -She had been received by her subjects with transports of joy as great -as those of grief which her loss had occasioned them. She had always -loved them dearly, and her will being now unfettered, she proved as -much, by showering upon them for many centuries all the benefits they -could desire. Her power, assisted by the friendship of the Queen of -the Fairies, preserved the life, health, and youth of the King, her -husband, for ages. He only ceased to exist because no mortal can live -for ever. - -The Queen and the Fairy, her sister, were equally attentive to Beauty, -her husband, the Queen, his mother, the old man, and all his family, -so that there never was known people who lived so long. The Queen, -mother of the Prince, caused this marvellous history to be recorded in -the archives of her kingdom and in those of the Happy Island, that it -might be handed down to posterity. They also disseminated copies of it -throughout the Universe, so that the world at large might never cease -to talk of the wonderful adventures of Beauty and the Beast. - - -FOOTNOTES: - -[16] I have not thought it necessary to alter these initials, -signifying those of "La Belle." - -[17] A South American tribe (genus _Erbus_), distinguished -from all other monkeys for their gentleness and intelligence. There are -many varieties,--the white-fronted, the horned, the large-headed, the -golden-footed, the weeper, &c., and their differences in colour are -very considerable. - -[18] Perhaps an allusion to the New Theatre in the Rue des -Fosses, St. Germain. Vide page 272, note. - -[19] At this period, the Grand Opera, or "Académie Royal de -Musique," under the direction of the celebrated Lulli, was located at -the Theatre du Palais Royal, which had been occupied by Molière from -1660 to his death in 1673. It was opened in 1674, with the opera of -_Alceste_, and destroyed by fire on the 6th of April, 1763. - -[20] Of this celebrated Fair a notice will be found in the -notes to the Fairy Tales of Madame d'Aulnoy, page 65. It was visited by -the royal family, and may be said to have been the birthplace of the -opera comique and the vaudeville of France. It was suppressed in 1789. - -[21] The most celebrated was that of Brioche, who is said to -have been the inventor of that species of entertainment. - -[22] Le Sage and other equally celebrated authors wrote for -this theatre. - -[23] The Italian company invited to France by Cardinal -Mazarin, from 1645 to 1680, performed at the Hôtel du Petit Bourbon, -the Théâtre du Palais Royal, and the Hôtel de Bourgogne, alternately -with the French comedians. On the removal of the latter company to the -Rue Quénégaud, the Italians remained in possession of the Hôtel de -Bourgogne until the performance of the _False Prude_, in 1697, gave -offence to Madame de Maintenon, and excited the anger of Louis XIV., -who suppressed the Italian troop, and ordered seals to be placed on the -doors of their theatre. Having obtained an audience to remonstrate, the -King refused to listen to them, saying, "You have no reason to regret -that Cardinal Mazarin induced you to quit your country. You came to -France on foot, and have gained enough to return in a carriage." - -They returned to Paris in 1716, at the invitation of the Duke of -Orleans, and took the title of Comédiens du Régent. - -[24] After the death of Molière, in 1673, transferred to -the Rue Quénégaud. In 1680, the King gave the company the title of -"Comédiens du Roy," and granted them a pension of 12,000 livres; but -at the period at which this story was written, they had established -themselves, by an Order in Council, in a tennis-court in the Rue des -Fosses, St. Germain, where they erected a theatre after the designs of -D'Orbay, in which they remained till 1770. - - - - -THE COUNT DE CAYLUS. - - - - -PRINCESS MINUTE AND KING FLORIDOR. - - -There was, once upon a time, a King and Queen who died young, and left -a very fine empire to the Princess, their only daughter, who was then -but thirteen years of age. She imagined that she knew how to reign, and -all her good subjects persuaded themselves into the same idea, without -well knowing why: however, it is a profession which is not without its -difficulties. - -The King and Queen had at least the consolation, when dying, of leaving -the Princess, their daughter, under the protection of a friendly fairy. -She was called Mirdandenne, and was a very good woman, but she added to -the defect of allowing herself to be prejudiced that of obstinacy in -continuing so. As for the little Princess, she was so very diminutive, -that they called her Minute. - -Thus was this fine kingdom governed by prejudice and frivolity; for -the Princess had never been corrected in the taste which she showed -for trifles; and it was for her that all those little knickknacks were -invented, with which we have since been overwhelmed. - -This Princess exhibited the grandeur of her ideas by an act which I -will select from a thousand such. She would not retain as General of -her forces, nay, even exiled from her Court, a veteran distinguished -for the services which he had rendered the State. And why? Because he -had appeared in her presence with a hat bound with silver when his coat -was laced with gold. She thought that a man who could be guilty of such -negligence at Court would be also, for the same reason, very capable -of allowing himself to be surprised by the enemy. The discernment which -she flattered herself as having shown in this instance, and the sound -judgment which the Fairy distinguished in her most frivolous ideas, -prove the existence of a delusion which would have been enough to turn -a stronger head. - -There was near this great country a little kingdom, so very small that -I hardly know what to compare it to. A Queen Mother had for a long -time reigned over it, in the name of Prince Floridor; but this good -Queen died. Floridor, who was the most affectionate son possible, felt -this loss acutely, and always retained a feeling of gratitude for the -obligations he was under to her. One of the greatest was a perfect -education--the most perfect, the most rigid, as far as concerned the -body, which had rendered him as robust as active; and the mildest with -regard to his mind, to which she had given both accomplishments and -solidity. This young Prince was handsome and well formed. He governed -wisely, without abusing his despotic power. His desires were well -regulated--in a word, he would have been an amiable person in private -life. His subjects adored him, and the strangers who visited at the -Court agreed that he would have conferred happiness on the greatest -empire. But one thing they were not aware of was, that he owed to a -charming Ant a great number of his advantages. She had been attached to -him from his infancy. - -At the death of the Queen the good Ant was his sole consolation. He -took no single step without going previously to consult this Ant, in -a wood in the palace gardens, which she had chosen as her residence. -He often abandoned the Court and its pleasures to go and converse with -her. No weather prevented his presenting himself to her, and however -severe might be the winter, she always came out of her anthill, which -was the best regulated for an hundred miles round, and gave him advice -full of prudence and wisdom. - -You may easily have guessed that the pretty Ant of whom we speak was -a fairy. Her history, which dates back seven thousand years, will be -found brought down to the twenty-two thousandth year of the world at -the four hundred and sixtieth page of the volume for that year. It -would therefore have been easy for this Ant to give the King, whom she -loved so well, several kingdoms--for Fairies dispose of them at their -own pleasure,--but the Ant was prudent, and prudence is always guided -by justice. It was not that she did not heartily desire the advancement -of Floridor, but she wished him to employ no means to obtain it but -those that might increase the true glory with the love of which she had -inspired his heart. - -The Ant was naturally patient: she waited for an opportunity to bring -to light the virtues of her pupil. The conduct of Minute, and the -prejudice of Mirdandenne, soon furnished her with one. They were -informed that the flame of revolt was kindled in the mighty kingdom of -Minute. When this news had been confirmed by all the newspapers, the -good fairy Ant desired King Floridor to set out, attended by a simple -groom, to assist the Queen, his neighbour. She gave him, at parting, -nothing but a common sparrow, a little knife, which is usually called -a _jambette_,[25] and a walnut-shell. "My gifts," said she, "appear -mean; but make yourself easy respecting them. They will be of service -in your need, and I hope you will be satisfied with them." He readily -assured her of that confidence which her former favours had rendered it -but just that he should place in her, and having bidden her tenderly -farewell, he set out on his journey; every inhabitant of his little -kingdom regretting his departure as much as if he had been a brother, a -son, or a bosom friend. - -He arrived in the capital of Queen Minute's dominions; he found it in -a state of commotion, as they had heard that a neighbouring king was -advancing rapidly, followed by a terrible army. He was coming with -the design of seizing the kingdom. Floridor learnt that the Queen had -retired to a delightful residence she possessed near the capital, and -in which she had collected all sorts of brilliant gewgaws. She had, -however, a motive for this retirement: she wished to consider seriously -and decide, without being interrupted, whether the troops which the -Fairy had ordered to be levied to oppose the usurper should wear blue -or white cockades. The Queen was, notwithstanding, at this time twenty -years of age. King Floridor having ascertained the road which led to -this country-house, proceeded there with all speed. His handsome face -prejudiced Mirdandenne in his favour. The compliments which he paid -to the Queen and her only increased the good opinion which his first -appearance had inspired her with, and the offer of his services was all -the better received as the state was in a very embarrassed situation. -Minute appeared to Floridor to be charming. - -From that moment the King fell desperately in love. The zeal and -alacrity always inseparable from that passion were displayed in his -words and actions, and shone in his eyes; and it was with extreme -care he investigated the existing position of affairs. He wished to -have recourse to the powers of Fairyland; but the blind prejudice of -Mirdandenne had induced her long before to give her wand to Minute, -with the idea of amusing her, and that Princess had made such a -prodigal use of it, that it was worn out, and had neither strength nor -virtue, particularly for important things. Floridor returned to the -capital, but found there neither fortifications nor munitions of war. - -Meanwhile the invader advanced nearer and nearer. Floridor saw only a -rival in the person of the hostile king; and finding no other resource, -he was obliged to propose to the Queen to take flight, offering her -with pride an asylum in his dominions. Prudence suggested to him a line -of conduct which his courage condemned; but it was necessary to save -an unhappy sovereign, and he only made this proposition on condition -of his being allowed to return and expose himself to every danger, and -use every effort to restore to the Queen a throne which so legitimately -belonged to her, the moment he had placed her person in safety in his -little kingdom. Mirdandenne, convinced by all the King represented to -her, accepted the proposition; but the Queen only consented to depart -when they promised her that the horse she was to ride should have a -rose-coloured harness, and Floridor had agreed to present her with -the sparrow which the fairy Ant had given him on his leaving her. The -bird was soon given, but though the departure was urgent, they had to -wait till a harness such as the Queen wished for could be procured -from the city. It came at length, and Floridor and Minute, with no -other suite but Mirdandenne, took the road to the King's dominions. -Floridor was enchanted at being allowed to conduct Minute to his own -kingdom, and at believing himself to be useful to her he adored. To be -in love and a traveller are two things which make people exceedingly -talkative. Floridor, in announcing the limited extent of his states, -at which he sometimes blushed, could not refrain from speaking of the -obligations he owed to the good Ant. When he came, however, to the -details of their parting, the walnut, the little knife, and the sparrow -appeared to the Queen very singular presents. She was very anxious to -see the walnut: the King gave it to her without any scruples. As soon -as it was in her hand, she cried, "Heavens, what do I hear!" She put -her ear to it with the utmost attention, and then said, with surprise -mingled with curiosity, "I hear very distinctly little voices of men, -neighing of horses, trumpets, in short, a singular murmur. This is -the prettiest thing in the world!" she exclaimed. While the King was -himself occupied by that which amused her whom he loved, he perceived -the scouts of the revolted army close upon them, and consequently ready -to take them prisoners. At this perilous moment, by an involuntary -movement, he broke the walnut, and out of it he saw issue thirty -thousand effective men, horse, foot, and dragoons,[26] with artillery -and all the necessary munitions of war. He placed himself at their -head, and showing a bold front to the enemy, he made, without ever -striking a blow, the most beautiful retreat in the world; he took -possession in this way of the mountains he found on his road, and -saved the Queen from the hands of her rebellious subjects. After this -fine military manœuvre, which was not accomplished without much -fatigue, and alarm at the danger the Queen had incurred, they halted -several days on the mountain; but as all the country was up in arms, -they perceived, on recommencing their march, another army, much more -numerous than that which they had escaped, and which it would have been -the height of rashness to give battle to. In this cruel situation, -the Queen asked for the little knife which the Ant had given to him, -to use for some trifling purpose; but finding that it did not cut to -her fancy, she threw it away, saying, "There's a pleasant knife!" The -moment it touched the ground it made a considerable hole in it. The -King was struck with the talent of his _jambette_, and immediately cut -with it deep entrenchments all round the mountain, which rendered their -position impregnable. - -When this operation was finished, which only occupied him the time -necessary to make the circuit, the sparrow he had presented to Minute -took wing, and flew to the summit of the mountain; then flapping its -wings, it cried, in a terrible voice, "Leave me alone to deal with -them; you are about to see a fine game. Let all descend the mountain, -march upon the enemy, and fear nothing." He was instantly obeyed, and -the sparrow raised the mountain as easily as if it had been a straw, -and traversing the air with it, he let it fall upon the army of the -enemy, crushing, no doubt, the greater part of them; the rest took -flight and left the passage free. The King, who was solely occupied -with the desire of seeing the Queen in safety, was anxious to put the -horses to their speed; but as the march of an army is necessarily -slow, he would have been glad if it had re-entered the walnut-shell. -Hardly had he formed the wish when it actually did so. He put it in -his pocket, and they arrived in the little kingdom, where the good Ant -received them with every mark of sincere friendship. - -When Floridor had made every arrangement for the accommodation of -Minute, and was satisfied that she could want for nothing in the -palace, he began to think of his departure, and he did so more -cheerfully as the good Ant assured him of her attention to all that -concerned the Queen. During the journey he had lately performed, and -the short time he had passed in his own dominions, he had taken the -opportunity of declaring his passion to Minute, which she had been kind -enough to approve. At length he was obliged to leave her; their adieus -were tender, and Floridor set out with no other assistance but that -of a letter from Minute, addressed to her good and faithful subjects, -in which she required them to obey the commands of King Floridor -implicitly. - -The good Ant neither gave him the walnut nor the little knife which -he had returned to her when he came back: the Queen only begged him -to accept from her hand the sparrow which he had given her, praying -that he would always carry it about with him, as well as a scarf of -_nonpareille_[27] which she had herself made for him. The King followed -exactly the same road that he had taken in conducting the Queen, not -only because lovers are gratified by seeing again the places which are -associated in their memories with those whom they love, but because it -was also the shortest cut. - -When he was near the transplanted mountain, the sparrow, rising in -the air, took it up with the same facility as before, and carried it -back to the spot which it had formerly occupied. The sparrow then in -that terrible voice which he knew how to assume when he wished, said to -those whom he found shut up under the mountain, "Be faithful to Minute, -and do what King Floridor shall command you in her name." This singular -sparrow then disappeared. - -The mountain, it seems, was hollow, so those who had found themselves -enclosed in it were as if under a bell; they had wanted for nothing -during the time of their imprisonment; all the soldiers and officers -who saw the light of day again with the utmost pleasure, ran in crowds -to Floridor, whose handsome countenance interested them, and looking -upon him as a demi-god, they were ready to worship him. The King, -moved by their obedience and the new vows of fidelity to the lawful -Queen, which they took at his hands, received their respects but -not their adoration, after having shown them the letter with which -he was charged. He made the army pass in review, and chose from it -fifty thousand of the finest men, and of those to whose devotion a -general's success is mostly due. He established in his new army a very -strict discipline, of which he was both the author and example; and it -was with these troops that he became invincible--that he defied the -countless forces of the usurper, whom he slew with his own hand in one -of the last battles, and whose death restored to Minute a kingdom which -she had entirely lost. Floridor marched through all the provinces of -this great state, and re-established the authority of Minute, whom he -then hastened to rejoin. - -But what a change did he find in the character and mind of this lovely -Queen? The counsels of the good Ant, and, above all, Love, and the wish -to please and be worthy of Floridor, had completely corrected her only -fault. She was ashamed of having always done little things with great -assistance, whilst her lover had done such great things with so little. - -They married, and lived happily ever after. - - -FOOTNOTES: - -[25] A clasp or folding-knife. - -[26] "_Tant Cavalerie, infanterie que dragons_" "Horse, -foot, and dragoons," was, within my recollection, a familiar phrase -expressive of any overpowering force or number. Dragoons were first -raised in France by the Marshal de Brisac in 1600, and being trained to -fight both on foot and horseback, were frequently in the seventeenth -century thus distinguished from the general cavalry and infantry. - -[27] Narrow ribbon used to embroider silk, satin, or velvet -with, a favourite work of ladies in the last century; but, looking -at the character of Minute, it is probable the author meant a scarf -composed of nothing but the ribbon itself. - - - - -THE IMPOSSIBLE ENCHANTMENT. - - -Once upon a time there was a King who was very much beloved by his -subjects, and who was equally fond of them. This Monarch had a great -repugnance to marriage, and what was still more astonishing, love -had never made the slightest impression on his heart. His subjects, -however, pressed so strongly upon him the necessity of providing for -the succession to the throne, that the good King finally consented to -their request. But as no woman he had as yet seen, had awakened in him -the faintest inclination to marry her, he resolved to seek in foreign -lands that which his own had failed to present him with, and despite -the severe and satirical remarks of all his countrywomen, both handsome -and ugly, he set out on his travels, after having duly provided for -the maintenance of order and tranquillity in his dominions. He would -take no one with him but a single equerry, a very sensible man, but not -particularly brilliant. Such companions are not always the worst upon a -journey. - -The King roamed in vain through several kingdoms, using all his best -endeavours to fall in love; but his time not being come, he retraced -his road to his own dominions, after two years' absence and fatigue, in -the same state of indifference as he left them. - - [Illustration: Impossible Enchantment.--P. 337.] - -It happened, however, that in traversing a forest he heard a most -fearful squalling of cats. The worthy equerry did not know what to -think of such a commencement of an adventure. All the stories of -sorcerers that he had ever seen came into his head. As to the King, -he was unmoved by it. Courage and curiosity combined to induce him -to wait and see what would follow this strange and disagreeable -interruption. The noise coming nearer and nearer, they at length saw -an hundred Spanish cats rush by them through the Forest. You might -have covered them all with a cloak, so well did they run together and -so perfectly were they on the scent. They were closely followed by -two of the largest monkeys that ever were seen. They were dressed in -amaranth-coloured coats. Their boots were the prettiest and best made -in the world. They were mounted on two superb English bull-dogs, and -rode at full speed, blowing little toy-trumpets. The King, surprised at -such a sight, gazed at them with great attention, when a score of tiny -dwarfs appeared, some mounted on lynxes and leading relays of them, -others on foot with cats in couples. They were dressed in amaranth like -the huntsmen, which colour seemed to be the livery of the equipage. A -moment afterwards he perceived a young female as remarkable for her -beauty as for the proud air with which she rode a large tiger, whose -paces were admirable. - -She passed the King full gallop, without stopping or even saluting him; -but though she hardly looked at him, he was enchanted with her, and his -heart was gone like a flash of lightning. - -All in agitation, he perceived a dwarf who had lagged behind the rest -of the company. He addressed him with all that eagerness which the -curiosity of love to obtain some information respecting the object of -its admiration would naturally occasion. The dwarf informed him that -the lady he had just seen was the Princess Mutine, daughter of King -Prudent, in whose dominions they were at that moment. He told him, -also, that the Princess was exceedingly fond of the chase, and that the -pack he had seen pass was what she hunted rabbits with. The King asked -nothing further, except the nearest road to the Court of King Prudent. -The dwarf pointed it out to him, and spurred on his lynx to rejoin the -hunt, and the King, with the impatience of a new-born passion, gave the -spurs to his horse, and in less than two hours found himself in the -capital of King Prudent's dominions. He was presented to the King and -Queen, who received him with open arms, the more graciously on learning -his name and that of his empire. - -The beautiful Mutine returned from the chase shortly after this -presentation. Hearing that the Princess had killed two rabbits, he -ventured to compliment her on so fine a day's sport, but the Princess -made no reply. He was rather surprised at her silence, but he was still -more so when he observed that during supper she was equally taciturn. -He noticed only that there were moments when she appeared about to -say something, but that either King Prudent or the Queen (who never -drank at the same time) immediately commenced speaking. This silence, -however, did not prevent the increase of his passion for Mutine. The -King retired to the handsome apartment which had been assigned to him, -and his worthy Equerry did not appear overjoyed when he found his royal -master so deeply in love. He did not even conceal from him that he was -sorry for it. "And why are you sorry?" inquired the King. "The Princess -is so beautiful; surely she is all I could desire." "She is beautiful, -I admit," replied the Equerry. "But to be happy, something is required -besides beauty. Pardon me, sire, but there is something harsh in the -expression of her features." "It is pride," said the King, "and very -becoming in so beautiful a woman." "Pride or ill-nature, whichever you -please; but the taste she exhibits in her amusements, and her choice -of so many mischievous animals, are to my mind convincing proofs of -a cruel disposition. Moreover, the care that is taken to prevent her -speaking is to me a very suspicious circumstance. The King, her father, -is not called Prudent for nothing. I don't fancy even her own name of -Mutine. It appears to me only a softening down or a diminutive of the -appellation which would truly be applied to her from the impression she -has made on me. For you know better than I do, that it is too common a -practice to gloss over the faults of persons of her rank." - -The observations of the worthy Equerry were sensible enough, but -as objections only increase love in the hearts of all men, and -particularly in those of kings, who dislike being contradicted, this -monarch the very next morning demanded the hand of the Princess -in marriage. As the previous indifference of the King had become -notorious, the triumph of the charms of Mutine was complete. Her -hand was accorded to him--but on two conditions. The first, that the -marriage should take place the very next morning; the second, that -he should not speak to the Princess until she was his wife. On this -occasion the pretext for her silence was a solemn vow she had taken -in consequence of--the first thing that came into their heads: and -the enamoured King only saw in this circumstance the proof of a truly -religious feeling. Those great precautions formed a new theme for the -arguments of the Equerry, but they made no more impression than the -former did. The King, after listening to them, closed the conversation -by saying, "It has cost me a great deal of trouble to fall in love. -I have done so at last. What the deuce wouldst thou have? I mean to -remain in love." - -The rest of that day and all the following was passed in dancing and -feasting. The Princess was present, and took her part in all the -entertainments without uttering a single word, and the first he heard -her pronounce was the fatal "Yes," which bound her to him for life. As -soon as she was married she threw off all restraint, and the first day -did not pass without her having very liberally distributed a volley -of abuse and a host of impertinences amongst her maids of honour. In -short, the mildest expressions she made use of in return for the most -particular services were characterized by rudeness and ill-temper. Even -the King, her husband, was not exempted from this sort of language; but -as he was very much in love, and, moreover, a good-natured man, he bore -it all patiently. - -A few days after their marriage the newly-wedded pair took the road to -their own kingdom, and Mutine's departure was not regretted by any one -in her Father's. The cordial reception King Prudent had always given -to foreigners had no other motive than the hope of such a love as his -daughter's charms had succeeded in inspiring--a passion which was too -strong to pause for a better acquaintance with her mind and character. - -The worthy Equerry had had too much reason for his remonstrances, and -the King perceived it too late. All the time the new Queen was on the -road she filled the hearts of her attendants with grief, anger, and -despair. But once arrived in her kingdom, her ill-temper and ill-nature -were redoubled. By the time she had been a month on her throne her -reputation was perfect. She was acknowledged unanimously as the worst -Queen in the world. - -One day that she was taking an airing on horseback in a wood near the -Palace, she perceived an old woman walking in the high road. She was -very simply dressed. This good woman having made her the best curtsey -she could, continued her route; but the Queen, who was only waiting -for an occasion to give vent to her ill-humour, bade one of her pages -run after the old woman, and bring her back. As soon as she was in -her presence she said, "Thou art very impertinent to make me no lower -a curtsey! Dost thou not know I am the Queen? I am more than half -inclined to order my people to give thee an hundred lashes with their -stirrup-leathers." "Madam," said the old woman, "I never knew exactly -what difference there was in curtseys. It is clear I had no intention -of being disrespectful." "How!" exclaimed the Queen; "does she dare to -answer me? Tie her instantly to the tail of my horse. I will take her -with speed to the best dancing-master in the city, and he shall teach -her how to make me a curtsey." - -The old woman begged for mercy whilst they tied her, but in vain. She -even boasted of the protection of the Fairies. The Queen heeded the -warning as little as the prayer. "I care for them as little as I do for -thee," she exclaimed, "and wert thou even thyself a Fairy, I would serve -thee the same way." - -The old woman suffered herself patiently to be fastened to the tail of -the horse; but the instant the Queen would have given him the spur, he -became motionless. In vain she endeavoured to stick the rowels into his -side. He had become a horse of bronze. The cords which fastened the -old woman changed at the same moment to garlands of flowers, and the -old woman herself suddenly appeared eight feet high. Then fixing on -Mutine her fiery and disdainful eyes, she said to her, "Wicked woman! -unworthy of the royal title thou bearest, I desired to judge myself if -thou didst deserve the bad character they give thee in the world. I am -satisfied thou dost, and thou shalt soon see whether the fairies are as -little to be feared as thou fanciest." So saying, the Fairy Paisible -(for it was she herself) whistled through her fingers, and a chariot -was seen advancing, drawn by six of the most beautiful ostriches in the -world, and in this chariot they recognised the Fairy Grave, looking -more grave even than her name. She was at that time the Elder of the -Fairies, and presided in all cases affecting the Fairy community. Her -escort was composed of a dozen other Fairies, mounted on crop-tailed -dragons. Notwithstanding her astonishment at the appearance of the -Fairies, Queen Mutine retained the proud and malevolent expression -which was so natural to her. - -When this brilliant company had descended and dismounted, the Fairy -Paisible related her adventure to them. The Fairy Grave, who was very -severe in the execution of her office, approved of Paisible's conduct, -and then gave it as her opinion that the Queen should be transformed -into the same metal as her horse; but the Fairy Paisible objected to -this, and with unequalled generosity, exerted herself to moderate all -the rigorous measures that were suggested for the punishment of the -Queen. - -At length, thanks to the kind Fairy, she was condemned only to be her -slave until she was confined, for I had forgotten to tell you that she -was expecting to become a mother. This sentence, which was pronounced -in full court, decreed that, on her recovery, the Queen should be -permitted to return to her husband, and that the infant she had given -birth to should remain the slave of the Fairy in her place. - -They were polite enough to announce to the King the sentence that had -been passed on his wife. He was compelled to give his assent to it. -What could the worthy Prince have done, supposing he had objected? - -After this act of justice, the Fairies returned each one to her own -affairs. Paisible waited an instant the arrival of her equipage, which -she had sent for. It was a little car made of various coloured bugles, -drawn by six hinds, white as snow, with caparisons of green satin, -embroidered with gold. One touch of her wand changed the Queen's dress -into the habit of a slave. In this attire she was made to mount an -obstinate mule, and to follow, at a hard trot, the car of the Fairy. - -After an hour's jolting, the Queen arrived at Paisible's mansion. As -you may easily believe, she was in great affliction, but her pride -prevented her from shedding a single tear. The Fairy sent her to work -in the kitchen, after giving her the name of Furieuse, that of Mutine -being too gentle for the wickedness she was inclined to. - -"Furieuse," said the Fairy Paisible, "I have saved your life, and -perhaps conscience may hereafter reproach me for it. I will not give -you any heavy work to do, out of compassion for the unborn infant, who -you are aware is to become my slave. I will, therefore, remove you from -the kitchen, and set you only the task of sweeping my apartment, and -combing my little dog Christine." Furieuse knew there was no opposition -to be made to these commands. She took, therefore, the sensible course -of doing exactly as she was bid as long as she was able. - -After some time, she gave birth to a Princess, as lovely as day; and -when her health was re-established, the Fairy lectured her severely -respecting her past life, exacted from her a promise to behave better -in future, and sent her back to the King her husband. One may imagine, -from the kindness shown by the Fairy Paisible to so wicked a woman, -what affectionate care she would take of the young Princess who was -left in her hands. She soon perfectly doated on her, and determined -to have her endowed by two fairies besides herself. She was a long -time deciding on the two godmothers she should select, for she feared -that the resentment they all felt against the mother might be extended -to the child. At length, she thought that the Fairies Divertisante -and Eveillée were amongst the best natured of them, and invited them -accordingly. They arrived in a Berlin,[28] made of Italian flowers, -drawn by six grey ponies with beautiful flame-coloured manes. -Eveillée's robe was composed of parrots' feathers, and her hair -was dressed en chien fou.[29] The Fairy Divertisante had a robe of -cameleon's skin, which made her appear alternately in every imaginable -colour. - -Paisible gave them both a capital reception, and to insure their good -offices, I have been confidently informed, that (during the excellent -supper they sat down to) she managed to make them just merry enough -with wine. Having taken this wise precaution, she had the lovely infant -brought to them. It was in a cradle of rock crystal, and swathed in -clothes of scarlet embroidered with gold; but its beauty was an hundred -times more brilliant than its apparel. - -The young Princess smiled at the Fairies, and made little attempts to -kiss them, which so pleased them that they determined to place her, as -far as it laid in their power, beyond the reach of the anger of their -Elders. They began by giving her the name of Galantine. - -The Fairy Paisible then said to them, "You know that the punishments -we Fairies usually inflict, consist in changing beauty to ugliness, -intellect to imbecility, and in many cases resorting to transformation. -Now, as it is impossible for us to endow her with more than one gift -each, my advice is that one of you should bestow upon her beauty, -the other intelligence, and that I, for my part, should render it -impossible for any one to change her form." - -This advice was adopted, and followed upon the spot. As soon as -Galantine was endowed, the two Fairies took their leave, and Paisible -gave all her attention to the education of the little Princess. Never -was such attention so well rewarded, for at four years of age her grace -and beauty had already begun to make a noise in the world. In fact, -they made too much noise, for the circumstances of the case having been -reported to the Council of Fairies, Paisible, one morning, saw the -Fairy Grave enter the court-yard of the Palace, mounted on a lion. She -wore a long robe, very full, and consequently very much plaited, of -sky-blue colour, and on her head a square cap of gold brocade. - -Paisible recognised her with as much anxiety as vexation, for her -dress and the animal she rode proved that she came to promulgate some -decree: but when she perceived that she was followed by the Fairy -Rèveuse, mounted on a unicorn, and dressed in black morocco, faced -with changeable taffeta, and wearing also a square cap, she no longer -doubted that this visit had some very serious object. - -In short, Fairy Grave, opening the business, said to her, "I am much -surprised at the conduct you have pursued towards Mutine. It is in -the name of the whole body of Fairies, whom she has insulted, that I -come to reprimand you. You were at liberty to forgive her offences -to yourself, but you had no right to pardon her for those which she -had committed against the entire community. Nevertheless, you treated -her with mildness and kindness during the time she resided with you. -I therefore come to do strict justice, and punish an innocent child -for the acts of a guilty mother. You have endowed her with beauty -and intelligence, and you have also raised an obstacle against her -transformation; but though I cannot deprive her of the gifts you have -bestowed upon her, I know how to prevent her deriving any advantage -from them as long as she lives. She shall never be able to get out of -an enchanted prison which I am about to build for her, until she shall -find herself in the arms of a lover who is beloved by her. It is my -business to take care that such an event shall never occur." - -The enchantment consisted of a tower of great height and size, built of -shells of all colours, in the middle of the sea. On the lowest floor -there was a great bath-room, into which the water could be admitted -at pleasure. The bath was surrounded by steps and slabs, on which you -could walk with dry feet. The first floor was devoted to the apartment -of the Princess, and it was really a magnificent affair. The second was -divided into several rooms. In one you saw a fine library, in another -a wardrobe full of beautiful linen and superb dresses for all ages, -each more splendid than the other. A third was appropriated to music, a -fourth was entirely filled with the most agreeable wines and liqueurs, -and in the last (which was the largest of all), nothing was to be seen -but wet and dry sweetmeats, and preserves of every description, and all -sorts of pies and patties, which by the power of the enchantment were -kept always as warm as they were when first taken out of the oven. The -tower was terminated by a platform on which there was a garden laid out -full of the finest flowers, which were renewed and succeeded each other -unceasingly. In this garden was also seen a fruit tree of each sort, on -which as fast as you gathered one fruit another appeared in its place. -This lovely spot was ornamented by green arbours, rendered delicious by -the shade and fragrance of the flowering shrubs that formed them, and -the songs of the thousand birds that frequented them. - -When the Fairies had placed Galantine in the tower, with a governess -named Bonnette, they remounted the whale that had taken them there, -and retiring a certain distance from this grand edifice, Fairy Grave, -by a tap of her wand on the water, assembled two thousand of the most -ferocious sharks[30] in the ocean, and ordered them to keep strict -watch around the tower, and tear in pieces every mortal who should be -rash enough to approach it; but as ships are not much afraid of sharks, -she also sent for a quantity of remoras,[31] and commanded them to form -an advanced guard, and stop, without exception, every vessel that by -design or accident shaped its course in that direction. - -Fairy Grave felt so fatigued with having done so much in so short a -time, that she requested Fairy Rèveuse to fly to the top of the tower -and enchant the air about it so powerfully and completely that not -even a bird should be able to go near it. The Fairy obeyed; but as -she was an exceedingly absent being, she forgot some of the necessary -ceremonies, and made some few mistakes. If the enchantment of the -water had not been more perfect than that of the air, the safe keeping -of Galantine, which they took so much trouble about, would have been -greatly endangered by sea. - -The good governess occupied every instant of her time in the proper -education of Galantine; and although she looked upon all the -accomplishments that the Princess acquired as completely thrown away -on one who would never have an opportunity of displaying them to the -world, she neglected nothing that could tend to the improvement of her -mind and the cultivation of her talents, in all imaginable arts and -sciences. - -When the Princess had attained the age of twelve she appeared to the -governess a perfect prodigy. All the fine qualities she discovered in -her caused her deeply to deplore the sad fate imposed on so amiable a -person. Galantine, who knew nothing about herself, perceiving her one -day more melancholy than usual, entreated to know the reason of it so -urgently, that Bonnette related to her all her own history and that of -the Queen her mother. - - -Galantine was thunderstruck at this recital. "I had never before," -she exclaimed, "reflected on my position. I fancied that when I was -old enough I should leave this retreat: but if I am condemned never -to do so, of what value is life to me? Better surely would it be for -me to die." The Princess, after this burst of grief, remained silent -for some time, then added, "You say, my dear Bonnette, that the spell -which is cast upon me cannot be broken until I shall love some one -who loves me. Is this so difficult a matter? I don't know what it -may be, but I would endure anything that could assist to release me -from this prison." Bonnette could not help smiling at the simplicity -of Galantine, and then answered, "To love and to be beloved, it is -necessary that some young Prince should enter this tower to see and -be seen by you, and that he should be one who intends to marry you, -otherwise his appearance here would not be correct; now you know that -it is not possible for any man to approach these walls. Have I not told -you all the precautions that have been taken by sea and by sky. You -must, therefore, my dear Galantine, make up your mind to pass your days -in this solitude." - -This conversation produced a great change in the Princess. No -amusements had charms for her any longer. Her melancholy became -excessive. She passed her days in weeping and in devising plans to -escape from the tower. - -One day that the Princess was sitting in her balcony, she saw an -extraordinary figure emerge from the water. She called Bonnette -immediately to come and observe it. It had the appearance of a man -with a bluish countenance, and ill-curled hair of a sea-green colour. -He approached the tower, and the sharks made no opposition to his -progress. "In my opinion," said the Governess, "it is a Mer-man." "A -man do you say," exclaimed Galantine; "let us go down to the gate of -the tower, we shall see him better there." As soon as they reached the -gate, the Mer-man stopped to gaze on the Princess, and at her sight -made several signs of admiration. He said something to her in a very -hoarse voice; but as he found his language was not understood, he had -recourse again to signs. He had in his hand a little rush-basket filled -with the rarest shells. He presented it to the Princess, who took it, -and in her turn made signs to thank him; but as night was coming on -she retired, and the Mer-man plunged under water. - -As soon as Galantine had reached her own apartment, she said to her -Governess, sorrowfully, "I think that man frightful. Why did the -villainous sharks who guard me allow such an ugly man to pass them, -in preference to one who was better looking? for I suppose they are -not all like him." "Not any like him, I should say," replied Bonnette; -"and as to the sharks allowing him to pass, I presume that, being -inhabitants of the same element, they do not harm each other. They may -even be his relations, or at least friends." - -A few days after this first adventure, Bonnette and Galantine were -attracted to one of the windows of the tower by what appeared to them -a singular sort of music, and which indeed proved to be so. There was -the same Mer-man that they had already seen, who, always up to his -waist in the water, and his head covered with reeds, blew with all his -might a species of conch-shell, the sound of which was something like -that of our ancient goat's horns. The Princess again descended to the -gate of the tower, and courteously accepted the coral and other marine -curiosities which he presented to her. After this second visit, he came -every day under the windows of the Princess, diving and grimacing, or -playing on the charming instrument I have described to you. Galantine -contented herself with curtseying to him in the balcony; but no longer -came down-stairs, notwithstanding the signs by which the Mer-man -implored her. - -Some days afterwards, the Princess saw him appear in company with -another of his species of the other sex. Her hair was dressed with much -taste, and her voice was charming. - -This addition to the company induced Galantine and Bonnette to descend -again to the gate of the tower. They were much surprised when the lady -(whom they now saw for the first time) after having tried several -languages, spoke to them in their own, and complimented Galantine on -her beauty. She perceived that the basement story, or bath-room, of -which I have spoken, was open and full of water. "Here," said she, -"is a place made expressly for our reception; for it is impossible -for us to live entirely out of our element." She immediately entered, -and reclined as one does in a bath, and her brother (for she was the -sister of the Mer-man) placed himself beside her in a similar attitude. -The Princess and her governess sat down on the steps which were -continued round the apartment. - -"I suspect, madam," said the Syren, "that you have abandoned your -residence on the earth in consequence of being beset by crowds of -lovers. If that be really the cause of your retirement, you will not -obtain your object here; for my brother is already dying for love of -you, and when the inhabitants of our great city have perceived you, he -will certainly have them all for his rivals." - -The brother, who imagined she was speaking of him, at that moment made -signs of assent with his head and his hands, and continued to do so -when she was not speaking of him at all. - -The Syren expressed to her the regret of her brother at not being able -to make himself understood. "I am his interpreter," she continued, -"thanks to the languages which I was taught by a fairy." "You have -fairies, then, also amongst you?" said Galantine, accompanying the -question with a heavy sigh. "Yes, madam," replied the Syren, "we have -a few; but, if I am not deceived, you have suffered some injuries from -those who inhabit the earth? At least the sigh which escaped you would -justify me in so believing." The Princess, who had not been enjoined -secresy on the subject, recounted to the Syren all that Bonnette had -told her. - -"You are much to be pitied," said the Syren, when Galantine had -finished her story. "Nevertheless your misfortunes may not be without -a remedy; but it is time to terminate my first visit." The Princess, -delighted at the hope she held out to her, said a thousand kind things -to her, and they separated with a promise to see one another frequently. - -The Princess appeared charmed with this adventure. Independently of -the hope the Syren had inspired her with, it was much to have found -some one with whom it was possible to enjoy a little society. "We shall -make the acquaintance," said she to her governess, "of several of -these Mer-men, and they may not all be as hideous as the first we have -seen. At any rate we shall not be always alone." "Good heavens," said -Bonnette; "how easily young people do flatter themselves. I tell you -I am afraid of those folks. But what say you," continued she, "to the -handsome lover of whom you have made a conquest?" "I say that I shall -never love him," replied the Princess, "and that he is exceedingly -disagreeable to me; but," pursued she, "I would fain discover if he -cannot, by means of his relative the Fairy Marine, contrive to do -me some service." "I repeat to you," insisted Bonnette, "that those -odd-coloured faces and great fish-tails are alarming." But Galantine -being younger, was consequently bolder and less prudent. - -The Syren came to see her several times, and always talked to her of -her brother's affection; the Princess, constantly occupied by her ideas -of escaping from prison, encouraged the conversation, and at length -induced the Syren to promise she would bring the Fairy Marine to pay -her an early visit, and that she would instruct her what to do. - -The Fairy came with the Syren the very next morning; the Princess -received her as her liberator. Some short time after her arrival she -requested Galantine to show her over the Tower, and to take a turn with -her in the garden, for (with the assistance of two crutches) she could -manage to walk about, and as she was a Fairy, she was able to remain -out of the water as long as she pleased, only it was necessary for her -to moisten her forehead occasionally, for which purpose she always -carried a little silver fountain suspended from her girdle. - -Galantine acceded to the request of the Fairy, and Bonnette remained in -the hall to entertain the rest of the company. When the Fairy and the -Princess had entered the garden, the former said, "Let us lose no time. -Let us see if there is anything I can do to serve you." Galantine told -her all her history, not omitting the smallest details; and the Fairy -then said to her, "I can do nothing for you, my dear Princess, on the -land, my power does not extend beyond my own element; but you have a -resource, and one in which I can assist you with all the art I possess. -If you will do Gluatin the honour to marry him, an honour which he most -ardently aspires to, you can come and live with us. I will teach you -in a moment to dive and to swim as well as we do. I will harden your -skin without blemishing its whiteness, and so prepare it, that the -coldness of the water, in lieu of inconveniencing you, shall give you -the greatest pleasure. My cousin," added she, "is, as you may suppose, -one of the best matches in the ocean, and I will do so much for him in -consideration of your alliance that nothing shall have ever equalled -your mutual happiness." - -The Fairy spoke with so much fervour, that the Princess hesitated -to refuse, and requested a few days to consider. As they were about -to rejoin the company, they perceived a vessel in the distance. The -Princess had never before seen one so distinctly, as none had ever -ventured to come so near the Tower. They could easily distinguish -on the deck of this ship a young man reclining under a magnificent -pavilion, and who appeared to be very attentively surveying the Tower -by means of a telescope; but the distance was still too great for them -to see anything more. - -The vessel beginning to recede, Galantine and the Fairy returned to the -company, the latter much pleased at the progress of her negotiation. -She told the Princess, on leaving her, that she should shortly come -again to know her answer. - -As soon as the Fairy was gone, Galantine related to her governess -all that had passed between them. She was very sorry to see that her -pupil was half inclined to yield to the Fairy's persuasions. She was -dreadfully afraid of being compelled in her declining years to become -an old Syren herself. To avert all the misfortunes she foresaw, she hit -upon the following idea. As she could paint miniatures to perfection, -she set to work, and by the next morning produced one of a young man -with fair hair, dressed in large curls, the finest complexion in -the world, blue eyes, and his nose slightly _retroussé_; in fact, -presenting an assemblage of all the features that could compose a -charming portrait, and we shall see in the end that some supernatural -power must have assisted her in a work which she had undertaken solely -to show Galantine the difference between a man of the world and her -marine adorer, and so dissuade her from a marriage which was not at all -to her taste. - -When she presented her work to her, the Princess was struck with -admiration, and asked her if it were possible that any man on earth -could resemble that portrait. Bonnette assured her that there were many -such, and some even handsomer. "I can scarcely believe it," replied -Galantine, "but alas, neither the original of this portrait, nor any -one like him, can ever be my husband. They will never see me, nor I -them as long as I live. Oh, how miserable is my fate!" - -Nevertheless, Galantine passed the whole day in gazing on this -miniature. It had the effect Bonnette anticipated. It ruined Gluatin's -affairs, which had previously been put in pretty good train; but the -governess almost repented having painted so handsome a face, as the -Princess gave up eating and drinking in order to have more time to gaze -upon it. If ever a portrait was capable of inspiring a real passion, it -was assuredly in this case and under the circumstances here related. - -The Fairy Marine returned a few days after the visit we have described, -to ascertain what were the intentions of Galantine; but this young -creature, engrossed by her new passion (for she was positively in love -with the portrait), could not control herself as prudence would have -suggested. She not only broke off with the Fairy abruptly, but, what -was worse, she exhibited so much contempt and aversion for Gluatin, -that the Fairy, indignant at the style of her refusal, left the -Princess with a determination to be revenged. - -In the meanwhile the Princess had made a conquest she was unconscious -of. The vessel she had seen so near her residence had on board the -handsomest Prince in the world. He had heard of the Enchanted Tower, -and determined to go nearer to it than any one had yet done. He -possessed such excellent glasses, that in surveying the Tower, simply -from a motive of curiosity, he caught sight of the Princess, and the -best proof of the goodness of his glass, and that he must have seen her -distinctly is, that he fell desperately in love with her. - -Like a young man and a new lover, two conditions in which nothing is -thought too hazardous, he was eager to cast anchor near the Tower, -lower a boat, and encounter all the dangers that the enchantment could -threaten him with; but all his crew upon their knees implored him not -to venture. His Equerry, who was more frightened than any, or whose -knowledge of the circumstances rendered him more competent to form an -opinion, was most eloquent. "You would lead us all to certain death, -my Lord," said he; "deign to return on shore, and I promise you to -go in search of the Fairy Commode. She is a relation of mine, and has -always been very fond of me. I will answer for her zeal and her skill. -I am perfectly sure she will do you good service." The Prince yielded, -but very reluctantly, to so many good arguments. He landed therefore -on the nearest point of land, and despatched his Equerry to find his -relative, and implore her protection and assistance. In the meanwhile -he ordered a tent to be pitched on the sea shore, and, glass in hand, -sat incessantly looking either at the Princess or at her prison, and -his imagination becoming more and more excited, often presented to him -its own creations for realities. - -At the end of a few days the Equerry returned with the Fairy Commode. -The Prince received her with the greatest demonstrations of affection. -The Equerry had informed her during their journey of the state of the -case. "In order to lose no time," said she to the Prince, "I will -send a white pigeon, in which I place implicit confidence, to examine -the enchantment. If he finds a flaw in it anywhere, he shall enter -the garden that crowns the Tower, and I will order him to bring back -some flowers as a proof that he succeeded in finding an entrance. -If he can get in, I will soon find a way to introduce you." "But," -said the Prince, "can I not, by means of your pigeon, send a note to -the Princess, declaring the passion with which she has inspired me?" -"Certainly you can," said Commode, "and I advise you to do so." The -Prince immediately wrote the following letter:-- - - _"Prince Blondin to Princess Galantine._ - - "I adore you, and I am aware of your destiny. If, beautiful Princess, - you will deign to accept the homage of my heart, there is nothing I - will not undertake to render myself the happiest of men by terminating - your misfortunes.--BLONDIN." - -When this note was written, they tied it round the neck of the Pigeon, -who only awaited his dispatches, for he had already received his -instructions. He rose gracefully into the air, and flew off as fast -as his wings would carry him; but when he approached the tower there -issued from it a furious wind that repelled him violently. He was not, -however, to be disheartened by such an obstacle, and after making many -circles round and round about the building, he discovered the weak -point which the Fairy Rèveuse had left in the enchantment. He slipped -through it instantly, and flew down into the garden to wait for the -Princess and to rest himself. - -The Princess generally took her walk alone; from inclination, because -a passion engrossed her heart; from necessity, because the Governess -could no longer ascend to that height without great fatigue. As soon -as the Pigeon saw her appear, he flew to her in the most flattering -manner. Galantine caressed him, and seeing a rose-coloured ribbon round -his neck, she wondered what it was put there for. How great was her -surprise when she perceived the note! She read it, and this was the -answer she returned by the Pigeon:-- - - _"Princess Galantine to Prince Blondin._ - - "You say that you have seen me, and that you love me. I cannot love - you, nor promise to love you, without having seen you. Send me your - portrait by the same courier. If I return it to you, hope nothing; - but if I keep it, be assured that in working for me you work for - yourself.--GALANTINE." - -She fastened this letter in the same manner as they had done that which -she had just received, and dismissed the Pigeon, who did not forget -that he was ordered to bring back a flower from the garden; but as he -was well aware of the importance lovers often attach to trifles, he -stole one from a bouquet the Princess wore in her bosom, and flew away. - -The return of this bird gave the Prince such extreme delight, that, -but for the anxiety he was still under, he might perhaps have lost his -senses. He wanted to send the Pigeon back instantly with a miniature -of himself, which, by the greatest chance in the world, he happened to -have amongst his baggage; but the Fairy insisted on an hour's rest for -her courier, which the Prince employed in writing verses to send with -his portrait. - -The Pigeon, duly furnished with miniature and verses, set out once -more for the tower. The Princess was not certain he would return so -soon, but she was looking out for him, notwithstanding. She was in the -garden, and had said nothing of this last adventure to her Governess, -for she began to feel that love of mystery and reserve with which a -first passion usually inspires one. She eagerly detached the miniature -from the Pigeon's neck, and her surprise was infinite when, on opening -the case, she discovered that the portrait of Prince Blondin perfectly -resembled that which Bonnette had painted from fancy. It was one of -those fortunate accidents which it is impossible to account for. - -The delight of Galantine was extreme at making this agreeable -discovery; and to express in the prettiest possible way her own -sentiments, she took the Prince's miniature out of its case, put in its -place the one she thought best of the many which Bonnette had painted -of her, and immediately sent the Pigeon back with it, who began to be -rather fatigued, and would not long have been able to serve two lovers -who kept up a correspondence so uncommonly active. - -Prince Blondin had kept his eyes constantly turned in the direction of -the tower, awaiting the return of his courier. At length he saw the -blessed Pigeon approaching; but what were his feelings as soon as he -could discern that the bird had fastened round his neck the same case -that he had taken away with him! He was nearly dying with grief. The -fairy, who had never left him, consoled him as well as she could, and -took herself from the Pigeon's neck the case, which he even refused -to look at. She opened it, and pointed out to him his error. In an -instant he went into a transport of joy that could only be compared -for its intensity to that he had just endured of affliction. "We will -lose no time," said Commode; "I can only make you happy by changing -you into a bird; but I will take care that you shall be re-transformed -at the right moment." The Prince, without hesitation, consented to the -transformation, and to anything else which could assist him to approach -the person he adored. The good Commode thereupon touched him with her -wand, and he became in an instant the prettiest little Humming-bird in -the world, joining to the attractions which nature has bestowed on that -charming bird that of being able to speak in the most agreeable way -possible. - -The Pigeon received fresh orders to conduct him to the garden. -Galantine was astonished to see a bird she had no knowledge of; but his -being accompanied by the Pigeon put her heart in a flutter, and the -Humming-bird, flying to her, said, "Good morning, beautiful Princess." -She had never before heard a bird speak, and this novelty increased -the gratification with which she received this one. She took him on her -finger, and he immediately said to her "Kiss, kiss Colibri." She did -so with great pleasure, over and over again. I leave you to imagine if -the Prince was delighted, and if he was not at the same time very much -vexed that he was only a Humming-bird, for lovers are the only persons -in the world who are happy and miserable at the same time. - -Commode, however, knew by her art that this was exactly the moment to -restore the Prince to his natural form, which she did so quickly that -the Princess, in the twinkling of an eye, found herself pressed to the -heart of a lover whom she loved. - -The spell was broken. That instant the tower trembled and rocked to -his foundations. Its walls even began to open. Bonnette, who was -below-stairs, in the greatest alarm ascended to the terrace, at least -to perish with the Princess. The rocking of the tower increased as she -mounted the staircase, and when she arrived at the top and saw the -whole building lean over and on the verge of falling into the sea, she -fainted outright. - -At the same moment the two fairies, Commode and Paisible, arrived in -a chariot of Venetian glass, drawn by six eagles of the largest size. -"Save yourselves quickly," they cried to the two lovers. "The tower is -falling, and you will perish with it." They leapt into the fairy car, -without having had time to say a word to each other; but the Prince -managed at the same moment to fling the Governess, still in her swoon, -into the bottom of the car. Scarcely had they begun to rise in the air, -when the tower toppled over, and, with a horrible noise, fell, a mass -of ruins, into the sea. The Fairy Marine, Gluantin, and his friends, in -order to be revenged on the Princess, had sapped the foundations. - -Marine, perceiving that her designs were foiled by the intervention of -the two Fairies, determined to try if she could not by open war obtain -possession of Galantine. She suddenly formed an immense chariot out of -some exhalations, and, entering it with all her family, filled every -available space in it with oysters in their shells, fragments of rock, -stones, and other trifles of that description. With this chariot and -this ammunition she caused herself to be wafted by a high wind to -the sea-shore, to intercept the car of glass. She did even more--she -commanded all the wild ducks and sea-fowl of every sort for ten leagues -round to come in flocks to darken the air, and oppose the landing of -the Fairies. This order was executed with a quacking and squalling that -was insupportable. - -Our two lovers thought themselves lost; but as they had a taste for -the destruction of enchantments, they wished to try what they could -do against this. The Fairies, however, did not consider it necessary. -Commode produced from the box-seat of the car a great quantity of -petards and rockets, which she had provided apparently for the purpose -of making a display of fireworks. But whatever might have been her -reason for bringing them, she now used them with much effect, for -she directed so many against these troublesome fowl, that they were -compelled to disperse. The enemy in the chariot then had recourse to -their last weapons. Not one of the Marine party doubted that, with the -oysters and stones, they should shatter the glass car to fragments in a -few moments. It was not a bad idea, and we may even presume that they -would have achieved their object if the Fairy Paisible had not taken -out of her pocket a burning-glass which she always carried about with -her. - -It is best to be candid. I frankly admit that I never very clearly -understood for what purpose she constantly carried that particular -utensil. But she placed it, however, on this occasion, in such a -position that it speedily warmed her enemies after a fashion as new as -it was disagreeable. They uttered the most fearful shrieks, and the -exhalations being dispelled by the power of the sun, all the Marine -family, with the Fairy herself, were precipitated pell-mell into the -ocean, leaving our two victorious Fairies to continue their journey to -the dominions of Queen Mutine. - -On arriving in them they found she was dead. She had endeavoured, -partly from fear of some new punishment, partly from conviction, to -control her temper. In this attempt she had swallowed so many violent -expressions, and stifled so many wicked impulses, that these prodigious -and continued efforts, after causing her several severe fits of -illness, at length terminated fatally. - -She had been dead, indeed, some years. The good king who had married -her, quietly enjoyed the sweets of his widowhood; and though he had no -other children than the daughter whom he never expected to see again, -nothing in the world could have induced him to marry a second time. -He governed his estates very peacefully, and the good King Prudent, -Galantine's grandfather, had just arrived, notwithstanding his great -age, to pass the holidays with him. - -What joy for these two worthy sovereigns. The whole Court soon -participated in it, as the news spread of the arrival of the Fairies -with a charming Princess, who was their King's daughter. - -The marriage of the two lovers was fixed for the next morning. Couriers -were instantly dispatched in all directions, to beg the Fairies -generally to honour the nuptials with their presence. You may believe -that Fairy Grave was not forgotten. In short, they arrived from all -quarters. Festivities, balls, tournaments, grand banquets, succeeded -each other for many days. They bantered, and at the same time thanked, -Fairy Rèveuse, for the blunder she had made in her enchantments. She -defended herself by observing that lovers were always more ingenious -than magicians were skilful, and that to prevent their success it would -require an enchantment that was impossible. - -I forgot to tell you that the Governess recovered from her swoon -immediately on her arriving at the Palace. In short, everybody was -satisfied, and the Fairies, after sharing in the festivities for -several days, departed, each to manage her own affairs, or to enjoy new -pleasures. Our lovers were always constant, and became the happiest -sovereigns on the face of the earth. - - -FOOTNOTES: - -[28] A light sort of travelling carriage still in use abroad, -and so called from the city in which it was invented. - -[29] Literally "mad dog fashion." One of the many extravagant -whims of the day. - -[30] _Requin_, chien de mer, Landais. In Cotgrave, _requien_, -who describes it as "a certaine ravenous, rough-skinned, and -wide-mouthed fish, which is good meat." It is generally, however, the -name given to the white-shark, and said by some writers to be derived -from the word _Requiem_--a far-fetched allusion to the vast number of -victims to its voracity. - -[31] The sea-lamprey, a small fish that, by adhering to the -keels of ships, was supposed to have the power of stopping them, or at -least of retarding their progress. - - - - -BLEUETTE AND COQUELICOT. - - -There was once upon a time a Fairy named Bonnebonne, who became -weary of the great offices in Fairy Land to which her character and -talents had elevated her. She retired from state affairs, and chose -for her retreat an island situated in the midst of a very beautiful -lake, bordered by the most rich, smiling, and luxuriant scenery. This -charming retreat was called the "Island of Happiness." It is known to -have existed; it is even believed by some to be always in the country -adjoining their own; but the geographers have not yet laid it down -in any map, and I have never read of any traveller fortunate enough -to land on it. It is sufficient for us, however, that we have a full -account of it in the annals of the Fairies. - -Bonnebonne, as we have already stated, weary of the world, and not -caring to pay court to it, demanded of the Queen of the Fairies -permission to withdraw from it altogether, and went to reside in the -Island of Happiness. It was there that, with the finest library and all -the knowledge she had acquired in the world, she became the most clever -of all the fairies. She made all her neighbours happy, and gratitude -was the foundation of her authority. Independently of a natural -inclination to oblige, a sentiment which retirement from the great -world by no means tends to diminish, there is a great satisfaction in -seeing those around us happy. - -In order to enjoy this real pleasure, and at the same time to avoid -being overwhelmed with foolish petitions, she had placed, at short -distances from each other, columns of white marble, to which those -addressed themselves who had either requests or complaints to make. -These columns were constructed in such a manner that, on speaking in a -whisper to them, they repeated every word distinctly, and in the same -tone of voice, in a cabinet of the castle. Bonnebonne had lodged in -this cabinet a niece whom she had brought up as a fairy, and who gave -her an account every evening of all that the columns had reported, and -the Fairy then pronounced her decisions. - -The principal occupation of Bonnebonne was to educate and make children -happy: she gave them for breakfast as well as for luncheon everything -they could wish for in sweetmeats and pastry; but when they had been a -fortnight in this happy dwelling, they cared no more for sugar-plums, -but passed the day in running on the grass, gathering nuts in the -woods, or flowers in the gardens. They went on the lake in pretty -boats, which they rowed themselves--in short, they did all day just -whatever they liked, and happiness consists principally in liberty. -It is true that they had nurses and tutors, but they were generally -invisible. They informed Bonnebonne of anything their pupils had done -that was wrong, and for this she reprimanded the offender, but always -with mildness, for she was the most kind-hearted woman in the world. - -Sometimes the nurses and preceptors made themselves visible, and on -these occasions they might be seen supping all together on the turf, or -dancing and singing, or amusing themselves in making toys and dolls; -in short, nothing had an air of severity in this happy abode, and no -one left it without the greatest regret. But as all must submit to -fate, and the Fairies themselves are obliged to obey it, when the young -people had attained a certain age--that is to say, twelve or fifteen -years,--and when the lessons of the Fairy had made a sort of impression -on the minds of her pupils, and she considered them sufficiently well -informed to enter into the world, she was obliged to send them home, -which she always did laden with caresses and presents, and assurances -of a friendship the proof of which she frequently gave them in the -after course of their lives. - -Amongst the number of children confided to her care by their -parents, there was a little girl named Bleuette, so pretty and so -good that Bonnebonne preferred her to all the rest, and loved her -to distraction. She was affectionate without being troublesome, and -lively without being fatiguing; her face expressed the sweetness of -her character: her beauty increased with her age, and possessed that -peculiar brilliancy which is so dazzling. It is to her rare beauty that -we owe the familiar saying, still in use amongst us, when we speak of -anything which has dazzled us, "J'ai vu des Bleuettes." - -A boy, about two years older than Bleuette, also inhabited the Island -of Happiness; he was called Coquelicot: his face was charming, it was -as bright as his mind, and his pretty little graceful ways were equally -pleasing to Bonnebonne. That which rendered both more charming was, -that in their infancy they became inseparable, and that the vivacity -of the one was tempered by the mildness and tenderness of the other. -Bonnebonne daily enjoyed observing the impression and progress which -true love makes upon innocence and ingenuousness. She was constantly -occupied in the study of it, and felt that all other happiness, which -she knew so well how to procure, could not be compared to it; indeed, -what felicity can be placed in the balance with that of two hearts -which love has united by similarity of taste and temper? - -Coquelicot, quick as he was, perhaps, indeed, too soon excited, was -moderate and even mild in all that regarded Bleuette, who on her part, -was only animated and vivacious in matters which concerned Coquelicot. -The birth and progress of these sentiments had been their delight; the -sweet emotions which they exhibited were the charm of Bonnebonne's -existence, for she said to herself a hundred times, "Good Heavens! how -pretty are these poor children! How they love each other! How happy -they are; they never think of leaving my Island. Never have more happy -subjects inhabited my empire!" - -On an evening of one of the most beautiful of summer days, all the -lovely children were playing and amusing themselves in different parts -of this enchanted residence, when all at once there appeared in the air -a car drawn by six flame-coloured griffins: the car was of the same -colour, relieved with black ornaments: it bore the Fairy Arganto. Her -hair was powdered brown with a slight sprinkle of red.[32] - -Her dress was of the same colour as the car. Her griffins alighted -at the portico of the castle, whither Bonnebonne and her niece had -repaired to do the honours to the Fairy, and assist her to descend. -After the first compliments, Arganto confessed to Bonnebonne that not -being able to understand the pleasures of retirement, and disgusted by -some disagreements at Court, she had wished to judge for herself of -the pleasures and cares of a life like hers, and that, in order to be -perfectly enlightened on the subject, she had come to the resolution of -passing some days with her. - -Bonnebonne kindly replied that she would willingly satisfy her, and -hide nothing from her. "The beauties of nature," added she, "are the -pictures which I study; its fruits are my treasures; its secrets the -object of my researches, and my pleasures are solely dependent on the -happiness of others. Infancy is the state of humanity which can be made -the most happy; you will find me, therefore, only surrounded by the -prettiest children nature has produced." - -So saying, she led Arganto further into the Island, at each step -encountering troops of little children of both sexes and all ages, -whose natural manners inspired true gaiety; some danced, others played -at blindman's-buff, some amused themselves playing at "ladies and -gentlemen," in short they passed quickly from one fancy to another; -their characters were thus developed, and it was easy to imagine -what each would become at a more advanced age. Arganto thought this -recreation of Bonnebonne very poor; she judged of it as a person of -fashion, that is to say, with contempt. She told her companion that -she could not conceive the pleasure of such amusements, unless some -ingenuity was employed to improve them: it was in vain that Bonnebonne -eulogized them. She would not be persuaded; at length, continuing their -walk, they met Bleuette and Coquelicot, conversing together, who saw -nothing but themselves in nature, and who had no pleasure, no wish, no -occupation nor will but in common. - -Bonnebonne called them, and they ran towards her with that confidence -and affection which her goodness and their gratitude had inspired them -with. Arganto was struck with the charms of their countenances, and -said as much to them; they blushed, and thanked the Fairy for each -other. "I agree," said she to Bonnebonne, "that nature could not -present a more agreeable picture than that of these lovely children; -but," continued she, "are they as intelligent as their features would -seem to denote?" "Most assuredly," replied Bonnebonne, "it may not -be perhaps the kind of intelligence to please you, for it is quite -natural. Besides this, they love each other more than they choose to -acknowledge, especially to a stranger." The Fairies then embraced them -a thousand times, and left them together. - -Bonnebonne agreed with Arganto not to trouble herself about her during -her stay, but to occupy herself as usual with her studies; but the -latter could not help speaking of the impression which Bleuette and -Coquelicot had made on her, and she requested they might keep her -company. - -Arganto was born wicked, and wickedness looks with impatience on the -happiness of others, and is always at work to destroy it, even if -with no other motive but that of doing mischief. Upon these fearful -principles, she employed the time of her visit in pointing out to -her young companions the poverty and insipidity of the place they -inhabited; they, whom nature had formed for the delight and ornament of -the most brilliant Court; and then she gave them a glowing description -of the abodes of kings. "You are enchanted," said she, continually, -"with the life which you lead; but do you know any other? The splendour -of the world, the fêtes which are given to beauty alone, the preference -which is at all times accorded to it, are the real triumphs of a pretty -girl;" it was thus she spoke to Bleuette. "And you," addressing herself -to Coquelicot, "with the spirit you possess, what would you not do at -Court? You certainly must be brave; and of what are you not capable?" - -This wicked discourse made by degrees the impression which Arganto -wished upon the minds of these amiable children. They sought each -other's company as usual, but they found each other no longer occupied -with themselves alone: they began by self reproaches, and at length -made reciprocal confessions, for they could no longer talk of anything -else but the opinions of the Fairy. Love, and the hope of not being -separated, it is true, were the foundation of their projects; but -curiosity, and the novelty of all which Arganto had told them, and -above all, self-love, the poison of life, perverted at length their -innocent minds; they abandoned themselves to the wicked fairy, who, -in order to make them fall more easily into the snare she had laid -for them, did not neglect to destroy the respect and gratitude they -entertained for Bonnebonne, by telling them, "She is a provincial -fairy, whose taste is not at all refined. Her character not suiting the -Court, she is too happy to be able to keep you with her; she sacrifices -your fortunes to the pleasure and use which you are of to her." It was -by such discourse as this that she induced these children to become -ungrateful: she promised them not to forsake them, and assured them -that, being a more powerful fairy than Bonnebonne, they need not be -anxious about anything. She did even more,--she warned them of all that -the good fairy would say to them when she should learn the resolution -they had taken: in short, they promised to follow her after she had -again given them her word that they should not be separated. - -When Arganto was well assured of the part they had taken, she said -to Bonnebonne that it was time she should cease to trouble her in -her retreat, and begged her, at the same time, to allow her to take -with her Bleuette and Coquelicot. The good Fairy, who had perceived -nothing, and who had no suspicion of the designs of Arganto, as she -had herself ordered them to pay court to and obey the Fairy, whilst -she was occupied in her cabinet, and above all, because a good heart -cannot imagine ingratitude: Bonnebonne, as I said before, consented -to Arganto's request, with the understanding, however, that the -proposition should please the young couple, feeling quite convinced -that they would never wish to leave her. The question was put to them -on the spot. What was the astonishment of Bonnebonne when they accepted -the proposal to abandon her and follow the Fairy! They set at nought -all her reasonings, so full of friendship and good advice; they were -too deeply prejudiced against her. Bonnebonne then said to them, with -mildness, "It is conviction which makes happiness. You would cease to -be happy in this abode, because you imagine greater felicity awaits you -in another country: depart, let nothing detain you," said she, with -tears in her eyes, "may you be contented." - -Bleuette and Coquelicot were moved by this tender discourse, and on the -point of falling at the feet of this adorable fairy, and conjuring -her to forget that they had ever had the idea of separating from her; -but the emotion they felt at the moment made them both faint away, so -that the wickedness of Arganto was not required to counteract this -return of good feeling. She herself was touched by so tender a scene, -and at the moment almost repented having caused so much sorrow to three -persons, who were only to blame for placing too much confidence in her. -Not knowing exactly what to do, she prepared to set out alone, when -Bonnebonne said, "I might complain of the manner in which you have -abused the reception I have given you: but the great fruit of study and -of solitude is forgiveness of injuries. I am not, therefore, at all -affected by it myself, but I feel for the misfortune of these young -people--I love them both." "I will not take them away, then," replied -Arganto; "you see they have refused me, and you cannot doubt the -attachment they feel for you." "No," replied Bonnebonne, "I feel myself -compelled to beg you to take with you those I loved best in my retreat; -you have perverted them, their hearts are no longer what they were: -they would henceforth only live with me out of compliment. If they had -sufficient art to disguise it from me, could I be ignorant of their -thoughts? Take them, then, I conjure you, and at least protect them -amongst the dangers to which you expose them." "As you absolutely wish -it," replied Arganto, "I will do so." She then carried them, fainting -as they were, both into her car, and her griffins flying at a rapid -pace speedily landed them in the Kingdom of Errors. - -The King who governed it at that time thought himself the greatest of -princes. Flattery had persuaded him that he was descended from the -gods. In consequence of this idea he caused himself to be worshipped -by his subjects. His throne of gold and precious stones, upon which he -only appeared once a month, was surrounded by tigers and elephants, -bound with chains of the same precious materials, and covered with -superb embroidery. Without entering into further details of the -ceremonies of this court, suffice it to say, the King exhibited upon -every occasion all the ostentation with which a crown could inspire -him. Arganto was his best friend, the partaker of his pleasures, and it -was into the superb palace which she possessed at his court that she -conducted Bleuette and Coquelicot. - -The moment they recovered from their swoon they had the pleasure of -seeing each other. The magnificence of the place in which they found -themselves astonished them. Their uncertainty did not last long: -Arganto entered to dissipate it. They immediately asked her to give -them some news of Bonnebonne. The Fairy informed them that Bonnebonne -had consented to their advancement, and had herself conjured her to -take them away. Bleuette and Coquelicot were comforted by this account, -for they had been afraid of displeasing her. Arganto then said to them, -"Here, Bleuette, is the apartment prepared for you; your household -shall be formed to-night. Meanwhile, here are your waiting-women: let -me present them to you." - -At these words, there appeared a dozen handsome young persons, carrying -all the innumerable trifles which have become so necessary to a lady's -toilet. They were followed by an equal number of valets-de-chambre, -bearing boxes and caskets, and who in a few moments fitted up and set -out a most superb dressing-table. Garments adapted to the season then -appeared in such great profusion that they covered all the chairs, -beds, and couches in this large apartment. When everything was arranged -according to the Fairy's pleasure, she said to Bleuette, "This all -belongs to you, and you have nothing to study but how to avail yourself -of it." She then showed her a basket full of ornaments and a jewel-case -crammed with precious stones as perfect in themselves as they were -tastefully set, saying to her, "Beautiful Bleuette, this little -jewel-box will amuse you, but let us now proceed to the apartment I -destine for Coquelicot." Bleuette followed the Fairy without being -able to reply; her surprise and astonishment appeared to her like a -beautiful dream. They all three passed into another apartment. It was -plain, but neat. Four valets-de-chambre, who were in the second room, -stept forward and presented him with clothes as tasteful as they were -superb, in order that he might select those in which he wished to -appear that day. They then opened the door of a sort of large cabinet, -containing all kinds of musical instruments, also a library well -stocked with historical works, but more particularly with romances and -fairy tales. - -"Behold," said Arganto, "what will amuse you when you are weary of -the pleasures of society, or require rest after exercise." She then -commanded the person she had chosen for his equerry to appear. -"You may," said she to Coquelicot, "take his advice; he is a man to -be depended on, and a good companion. Show," continued she to this -gentleman, "the things of which you have the charge." There then -appeared servants in livery, who carried the most magnificent and -perfect arms for war and the chase. And even this was not all: "Let -us," said Arganto, "look out of the window." They obeyed her, and -perceived fifty saddle-horses, led by five-and-twenty grooms, superbly -clothed and well mounted. "There," said she, "are your horses for -hunting and riding." She then ordered out the carriages: berlins, -berlingots, vis-à-vis, calêches of all kinds, defiled under the -windows, drawn by the prettiest and best groomed horses in the world, -with their manes tastefully plaited. Coquelicot, as much astonished as -Bleuette, observed also the same silence. "Learn, both of you," said -Arganto, "to make good use of what I have just given you; you are both -charming, but believe me, dress is necessary to beauty." She then left -them in their separate apartments, questioning their new domestics on -the particular use of all the novelties that surrounded them, for they -dared not yet give any orders. They at length dressed themselves, and -Coquelicot proceeding to the apartment of Bleuette, they were mutually -astonished at the agreeable effect of their attire, and uttering a -hundred praises of the good taste of Arganto, they became more than -ever convinced of the truth of what she had told them respecting -Bonnebonne, for whose simplicity they began to blush. - -All the Court learning the arrival of Bleuette and Coquelicot, either -from curiosity or the desire to please the Fairy, came with great -eagerness to pay her a visit. The King himself did her this honour. The -praises of the men of Bleuette, and those of the women of Coquelicot, -gratified both exceedingly. They found that the language spoken in this -country had an agreeable style hitherto quite unknown to them; they -were struck by it, and thought of nothing but imitating it. Bleuette, -from the first day, perceived that Coquelicot was not made for his fine -clothes, and that he had a borrowed air which the other young men who -surrounded her had not: in short, both were occupied by a thousand new -fancies. They saw each other every day, it is true, but they sought -each other less; and the tender conversations, in which simplicity, -ingenuousness, candour, and truth had formerly so large a share, no -longer took place between them; they were only anxious now to place -their words and turn their phrases according to the style which they -had been so much struck with in their new residence. - -The dress, the magnificence, and the brilliancy with which they dazzled -the whole court caused every one to give them the titles of prince and -princess. They knew well that they did not deserve them from their low -birth; but the mistake of others gratified their vanity. They agreed -between them to keep their real condition secret, and hoped privately -that their beauty and merit would in time really raise them to that -dignity. - -Coquelicot had perfectly handsome features and a charming figure. He -performed all kinds of feats with marvellous success; almost all the -ladies were pulling caps for him. Bleuette was not in the least jealous -of his conquests, and although in such situations one is not always -just, she had at least the generosity not to reproach him in any way. -In fact, she deserved reproaching equally herself, for the Court and -its grand airs had changed her heart and mind as much as his. Bleuette, -on her part, thinking of nothing but how to attract admiration and -to outvie all the other beauties of the Court, became a practised -coquette. You may easily judge, knowing what I have told you, how long -she was in availing herself of all the presents of the Fairy. She very -soon invented fashions, which all the other ladies, handsome or ugly, -were, in spite of themselves, obliged to follow. During some time this -gratification of her vanity only presented to her view jealous rivals, -men captivated and admiring, flattered or plunged into despair, by her -glances and her deceptive and provoking speeches; but Bleuette was so -beautiful, she had so much wit and grace, that, even when making them -most miserable, she was the theme of their praises and the object of -attraction to all the finest people of the Court. She also conducted -herself with so much prudence that no one could cast the least slur on -her. - -Coquelicot, on his part--"fickle adorer of a thousand different -objects"--flattered his vanity without ever satisfying his heart. - -Such was the true and unhappy situation in which these two persons, -formerly the most loving and amiable possible, found themselves, -when this same vanity, the shoal on which so much happiness has been -wrecked, was itself violently offended. - -It must be remembered that, dazzled by the splendour which surrounded -them, they had both received with pleasure the titles of princes; -but nothing is unknown to the world, and such vanity would awaken -a contempt for falsehood, in those who have no higher motive for -despising it. A youth, brought up, as they had been, by Bonnebonne, -in the Island of Happiness, having wandered from it, as many others -had done, in passing through several countries, had been attracted to -the Court inhabited by Bleuette and Coquelicot. He was astonished to -hear the grand titles of prince and princess added to their well-known -names, he ran, however, to the Fairy's palace to embrace them; but far -from receiving him kindly, they did not condescend even to recognise -him. He complained to everybody who would listen to him, and all -the Court were very soon informed that Princess Bleuette and Prince -Coquelicot were the children of, 'twas true, very honest people, but -who were nothing but poor shepherds. The Court is a region in which -nothing is forgiven, and where anything ridiculous is sought for with -the greatest eagerness; therefore, it profited by this affair. Songs -and epigrams were circulated in a moment; and the objects of their -attack could not pretend ignorance of them, for, according to the -praiseworthy custom of the authors of such works, the first copies were -addressed to the persons most interested. Coquelicot was bantered by -one of the wits of the Court; but he demanded very prompt satisfaction, -and the combat, in which he killed his adversary, brought him honour -in a place where truth is so rare, notwithstanding that a falsehood is -never pardoned. They rendered justice to his valour, but they no longer -paid him the same attentions; for in short, although riches can obtain -everything, the ridicule attached to low birth combined with vanity -is rarely overlooked at Court. As for Bleuette, whom wounded pride -rendered still more haughty than ever, and who hoped by her beauty -and accomplishments to stifle the disagreeable reports which had been -spread about her former pastoral condition--Bleuette, I must tell you, -had, in addition, the mortification to see some letters which she had -had the imprudence to write handed round amongst her acquaintances. -Her attraction diminished and her reputation tarnished (however -unjustly) hurt her deeply, and induced her to reflect seriously. -Recalling then the remembrance of her former happiness, the words of -Bonnebonne presented themselves to her mind. - -Bleuette being thus agitated by all the recollections which led her -back to her first sentiments for Coquelicot, looked only with regret -upon the conduct she had pursued towards him since she had been at -Court. She was ashamed of it, but it was not possible for her to speak -to him openly on the subject. "He will consider," said she, "my most -sincere repentance to be caused either by coquetry or jealousy; and I -cannot complain, or he will believe that my birth being known and made -public in this country, has deranged my projects of advancement, and -that I am brought back to him only by a feeling of shame and necessity." -"No," continued she, "I will not betray to him all the weakness of my -heart, or all the pain which the false friendship of Arganto has caused -me." - -Similar ideas tormented Coquelicot. He thought all those who treated -him, as formerly, like a prince, did so in mockery, and to ridicule -him, and felt satisfied that those whose conduct was changed by the -reports which had been spread respecting him would give him continual -annoyance; this situation, distressing as it really could well be, was -not the sole evil which oppressed him. The remembrance of Bleuette, -tender, faithful, simple, and innocent; the recollection of the -residence of Bonnebonne, and that of the charm and peace that pervaded -it, awoke in his soul so great a disgust for all that the world calls -pleasure, and which he had himself taken for happiness, that he -determined to fly from the Court. They had but to speak to one another, -and they would have been convinced and consoled; but still young and -inexperienced, they determined on the thing of all others to be avoided -in love and friendship--silence: for want of confidence increases and -envenoms the wound we have received, as well as that which we have -inflicted on others; thus, therefore, not daring to look at each other -(so much had the shame of their proceedings made an impression on -their hearts), they each separately, and without communicating their -intentions to any one, made up their minds to quit the Court. Solitude -appeared to offer them the only chance of consolation. They departed -the same morning, just as if they had been acting in concert. They -chose the plainest dresses they could find, not without regretting -those they had brought with them to the Court; they would have felt -still nearer approaching their former innocence, in habits so vividly -recalling the scenes of their past felicity. They took nothing away -with them but the portraits which Arganto had had painted of them in -miniature, representing them as they were when they left the Island of -Happiness. - -They set out by very different roads; but in proportion as they left -the Court behind them, nature spoke to their hearts. The song of the -birds, the serenity of the air, the view of the country, that sweet -freedom which it inspires,--all recalled their former happiness, all -softened them, and drew them towards each other. "But how shall we ever -find each other again," said they unceasingly to themselves. "I should -have convinced him," thought Bleuette. "She would have pardoned me," -sighed Coquelicot: "I will return to the Court. But how can I reappear -there (for each thought the other had remained in the palace) in this -miserable condition?" The remembrance of Bonnebonne again presented -itself to their mind. It is friendship we invoke in adversity. They -resolved then to have recourse to her kindness. If they had not -themselves known the delights of the Island of Happiness, if they had -not been anxious to revisit the scenes of their former felicity, it -is so natural to desire a similar habitation, that we often set out -in search of it on the description of others. Each, therefore, turned -their steps in the direction of the Island. It was very easy for them -to find the way, they who had once so worthily inhabited it. They -intended to address themselves to one of the columns of which I have -spoken, and which conveyed to the ears of the Fairy all the requests -of her petitioners. What was their surprise, or rather what was their -delight, to meet with each other again on a spot and in a dress which -explained everything! After the first transports, in which the eye -hardly sufficed to satisfy the soul, the first words they uttered were, -"Pardon me, I cannot live without you." The pardon which is mutually -sought is soon granted; and it was no longer necessary to implore the -aid of the Fairy. The unison of their desires had already transported -them into the most beautiful spot in the Island. They were anxious -to excuse themselves, and request the forgiveness of Bonnebonne; but -she prevented them. "I know all that has happened to you," said she, -"I have shared your troubles, although they were deserved. Enjoy the -happiness of my empire, you are now better able to appreciate its -delights." - -They lived happily because they never ceased to love each other, and -they died at the same moment. Bonnebonne bestowed their names upon two -wild flowers[33] in order to immortalize their memory. - - -FOOTNOTES: - -[32] Hair-powder was at this period of various colours. Brown -hair-powder was called "Maréchal," and grey powder was extremely -fashionable in England as late as 1763. - -[33] The corn-flower and the poppy. - - - - -MADEMOISELLE DE LUBERT. - - - - - [Illustration: The Princess Camion.--P. 373.] - - - - -THE PRINCESS CAMION. - - -There was once upon a time a King and Queen who had but one son, who -was their only hope. Fourteen years had elapsed from the time of -his birth, and the Queen had had no other children. The Prince was -marvellously handsome, and learnt with facility everything they wished -him to know. The King and Queen loved him to distraction, and their -subjects placed all their affections on him, for he was affable to -everybody, and yet he knew well how to distinguish between the people -who approached him. His name was Zirphil. As he was an only son, the -King and Queen resolved he should marry as early as possible, in order -to secure the succession to the crown should they unhappily be deprived -of Zirphil. - -They therefore sought on foot and on horseback a Princess worthy of -the heir-apparent,[34] but none was found suitable. At length, after -a most diligent inquiry, the Queen was informed that a veiled lady -desired a private audience of her Majesty, on business of importance. -The Queen immediately ascended her throne in the audience-chamber, and -ordered the lady to be admitted. The lady approached, without removing -her white crape veil, which reached to the ground. When she arrived -at the foot of the throne, "Queen" said she, "I am astonished that, -without consulting me, you have thought of marrying your son. I am the -Fairy Marmotte, and my name is sufficiently celebrated to have reached -your ears." "Ah, Madam," said the Queen, quickly descending from her -throne, in order to embrace the Fairy, "you will easily pardon me my -fault when you learn that I have only listened to all the wonders which -have been told me about you as to a nursery tale; but now that you do -me the favour to come to my palace, I no longer doubt your power, and -beg you will honour me with your advice." "That is not a sufficient -answer to a Fairy," replied Marmotte. "Such an excuse might perhaps -satisfy a common person, but I am mortally offended; and to begin your -punishment, I command you to marry your Zirphil to the person I have -brought with me." - -At these words she felt in her pocket, and, drawing out a toothpick -case, she opened it, and out of it came a little ivory doll, so pretty -and so well made that the Queen, despite her grief, could not help -admiring it. "This is my goddaughter," said the Fairy, "and I have -always destined her for Zirphil." The Queen was bathed in tears. She -conjured Marmotte, in the most touching words, not to expose her to -the ridicule of her people, who would laugh at her if she announced -to them such a marriage. "Laugh, indeed, will they, Madam?" said the -Fairy. "Ah, we shall see if they have reason to laugh, Madam. Ah, we -shall see if they will laugh at my goddaughter, and if your son ought -not to adore her. I can tell you that she deserves to be adored. She -is small, it is true; but she has more sense than there is in all your -kingdom put together. When you hear her talk, you will be surprised -yourself; for she can talk, I promise you. Now, then, little Princess -Camion," said she, to the doll, "speak a little to your mother-in-law, -and show her what you can do." Then the pretty Camion jumped upon the -Queen's _palatine_,[35] and paid her a little compliment so tender and -so sensible that her Majesty suspended her tears to give the Princess -Camion a hearty kiss. - -"Here, Queen," said the Fairy, "is my toothpick-case; replace your -daughter-in-law in it. I wish your son to get well accustomed to her -before marrying her. I think it will not be long first. Your obedience -may soften my anger; but if you act contrary to my orders, you, your -husband, your son, and your kingdom, shall all feel the effect of my -wrath. Above all, take care to replace her in her case early in the -evening, for it is important that she should not be out late." - -At these words she raised her veil, and the Queen fainted with fright -when she perceived an actual live Marmot[36]--black, sleek, and as -large as a human creature. Her women came to her assistance, and, -when she recovered from her swoon, she saw nothing but the case that -Marmotte had left with her. - -They put her to bed, and went to inform the King of the accident. He -arrived in a great fright. The Queen sent every one away, and, with -a torrent of tears, she related her adventure to the King, who would -not believe it till he saw the doll that the Queen drew from the case. -"Just heaven!" cried he, after having meditated a little, "is it -possible that kings should be exposed to such great misfortunes? Ah! we -are only placed above other men in order to feel more acutely the cares -and afflictions attached to our existence." "And in order to give the -greater example of fortitude, sire," added the Doll, in a small, sweet, -and distinct voice. "My dear Camion," said the Queen, "you speak like -an oracle." - -At length, after a conversation of an hour between these three persons, -it was decided that they should not yet divulge the contemplated -marriage, and that they should wait until Zirphil, who was gone hunting -for three days, should have returned, and consented to obey the command -of the Fairy, which the Queen undertook to communicate to him. In -the interim, the Queen, and even the King, shut themselves up, in -order to converse with the little Camion. She had a highly-cultivated -intellect, she spoke well, and with a singular turn of thought which -was very pleasing. But although she was animated, her eyes had a fixed -expression which was not agreeable, and the Queen was annoyed by it, -as she began to love Camion, and feared that the Prince might take a -dislike to her. - -More than a month had elapsed since Marmotte had appeared, but the -Queen had not yet dared to show Zirphil his intended. One day he -entered her room whilst she was in bed. "Madam," said he, "the most -singular thing in the world occurred to me some days since whilst I -was hunting. I had wished to conceal it from you, but at length it has -become so extraordinary, that I must positively tell you of it. - -"I followed a wild boar with great ardour, and had pursued it into -the midst of a forest without observing that I was alone, when I saw -him throw himself into a hole which opened in the ground. My horse -having plunged in after it, I continued falling for half an hour, and -at length found myself at the bottom, without any hurt. There, instead -of the boar, which I confess I feared to find, I saw a very ugly woman, -who begged me to dismount from my horse and follow her. I did not -hesitate, and giving her my hand, she opened a little door which had -previously been hidden from my view, and I entered with her a saloon -of green marble, where there was a golden bath, covered with a curtain -of very rich stuff; the curtain rose, and I saw in the bath a person -of such marvellous beauty that I thought I should have fallen to the -ground. 'Prince Zirphil,' said the lady, who was bathing, 'the Fairy -Marmotte has enchanted me, and it is by your assistance alone that I -can be released.' 'Speak, Madam,' said I to her: 'what must I do to -help you?' 'You must either,' said she, 'marry me instantly or skin me -alive.' I was as much surprised at the first proposition as alarmed at -the second. She read in my eyes my embarrassment, and said, 'Do not -imagine that I jest, or that I propose to you an act of which you may -repent. No, Zirphil, dismiss your fears; I am an unfortunate Princess -to whom the Fairy has taken an aversion; she has made me half-woman, -half-whale because I would not marry her nephew, the King of the -Whiting, who is frightful, and even more wicked than he is hideous. She -has condemned me to remain in my present state until a Prince named -Zirphil shall fulfil one of the conditions that I have just proposed -to you; to expedite this matter, I caused my maid of honour to take -the form of a wild boar, and it is she who has led you hither. I must -now tell you that you cannot leave this spot until you shall have -fulfilled my desire in one manner or the other. I am not mistress here; -and Citronette, whom you see with me, will tell you that it cannot be -arranged otherwise.' - -"Imagine, Madam," said the Prince to the Queen, who listened -attentively, "in what a state this discourse left me." Although the -face of the Whale-Princess pleased me excessively, and her charms and -misfortunes rendered her extremely interesting, her being half a fish -horrified me exceedingly; and the idea of skinning her alive threw me -into utter despair. 'But, Madam,' said I to her, at length (for my -silence became as stupid as insulting), 'is there not a third way?' I -had hardly uttered those unlucky works, than the Whale-Princess and -her attendant uttered shrieks and lamentations which were enough to -pierce the vaulted roof of the saloon. 'Ungrateful wretch! cruel tiger! -and everything that is most ferocious and most inhuman!' exclaimed the -former. 'Thou wouldst, then, that I should also be condemned to the -torture of seeing you expire? For if thou dost not resolve to grant my -request, the Fairy has assured me thou wilt perish, and I shall remain -a whale all my life!' - -"Her reproaches pierced my heart; she raised her beautiful arms out -of the water, and joined her charming hands to implore me to decide -quickly. Citronette was at my knees, which she embraced, screaming loud -enough to deafen me. 'But how can I marry you?' said I; 'what sort of -ceremony can be performed?' 'Skin me,' said she tenderly, 'and do not -marry me, I prefer that.' 'Skin her!' screamed the other, 'and fear -nothing.' I was in a state of perplexity which I cannot describe; and -while I considered what I ought to do, their shrieks and tears were -redoubled, till I knew not what would become of me. At length, after a -thousand and one struggles, I cast my eyes once more on the beautiful -Whale, and I confess that I found in her features an inexpressible -charm. I threw myself on my knees close to the bath, and taking her -hand, 'No, divine Princess,' said I to her; 'I will not skin you, I -would rather marry you!' - -"At these words joy lighted up the countenance of the Princess, but a -modest joy, for she coloured, and casting down her beautiful eyes, 'I -shall never forget,' said she, 'the service that you render me; I am -so penetrated with gratitude, that you may expect anything of me after -this generous resolution.' 'Do not lose time,' cried the insupportable -Citronette; 'tell him quickly all that he must do.' 'It is sufficient,' -said the Whale-Princess, blushing again, 'that you give me your ring, -and that you should take mine; there is my hand, receive it as a pledge -of my faith.' I had hardly made this tender exchange, and kissed the -beautiful hand which she presented to me, when I found myself again -upon my horse in the midst of the forest. Having called my people, they -came to me, and I returned home without being able to utter a word, I -was so completely astounded. Since then, I am transported every night -without knowing how, into the beautiful green saloon, where I pass the -night near an invisible person; she speaks to me, and tells me that -the time is not yet come for me to know who she is." - -"Ah, my son," interrupted the Queen, "is it possible, then, that you -are really married to her?" "I am, Madam," replied the Prince; "but -although I love my wife infinitely, I would have sacrificed this -affection if I could have escaped from the saloon without resorting -to that alternative." At these words, a little voice, proceeding from -the Queen's pocket, said, "Prince Zirphil, you should have flayed her; -perhaps your pity may be fatal to you." - -The Prince, surprised at this voice, remained speechless. The Queen in -vain tried to conceal from him the cause of his astonishment; he felt -quickly in her pocket, which was hanging upon the arm-chair near the -bed, and drew from it the toothpick-case, which the Queen took from -his hand and opened. The Princess Camion immediately came out of it, -and the astonished Prince threw himself on his knees by the bed-side -of the Queen to inspect her nearer. "I vow, Madam," cried he, "that -this is my dear Whale in miniature. Is this some pleasantry, and have -you only wished to frighten me, by allowing me so long to believe -that you would not approve of my marriage?" "No, my son," at length -the Queen replied; "my grief is real, and you have exposed us to the -most cruel misfortunes by marrying that Whale, for, in fact, you were -promised to the Princess Camion whom you see in my hands." She then -related to him what had passed between her and the Fairy Marmotte, and -the Prince allowed her to say all she wished without interruption, so -much was he astonished to find that she and his father had agreed to -a proposition which was, on the face of it, so ridiculous. "Heaven -forbid, Madam," said he at length, when the Queen had finished, "that -I should ever oppose the designs of your Majesty, or that I should act -contrary to the wish of the King, my father, even when he commands me -to do anything as impossible as this appears to me to be; but had I -consented, could I even have fallen in love with this pretty Princess, -would your subjects ever have----" "Time is a great teacher, Prince -Zirphil," interrupted Camion; "but it is done; you cannot now marry me, -and my godmother appears to me a person who will not patiently suffer -any one to break their word with her. Diminutive as I am, I feel as -acutely as the largest woman would the disagreeable nature of this -adventure; but as you are not so much to blame, except perhaps for -having been a little too hasty, I may persuade the Fairy to mitigate -the punishment." - -After these words Camion was silent, for she was exhausted with having -said so much. "My dear darling," said the Queen, "I implore you to take -some repose for fear you should be ill and not in a condition to speak -to the Fairy when she comes to afflict us; you are our consolation, and -however she may punish us, I shall not feel it so deeply if Marmotte -does not take you from us." The Princess Camion felt her little heart -beat at these words of the Queen: but being quite overcome, she could -only kiss her hand, and let fall upon it some tiny tears. Zirphil was -moved at this incident, and begged Camion to permit him to kiss her -hand in his turn: she gave it him with much grace and dignity, and -then re-entered her case. After this tender scene the Queen rose, in -order to go and tell the King what had passed, and take every rational -precaution against the anger of the Fairy. - -The following night Zirphil, in spite of the guard which they had -doubled in his apartment, was carried off at midnight, and found -himself, as usual, in the company of his invisible wife; but instead of -hearing any of those sweet and touching things which she was accustomed -to say to him, he heard her weep, and found she kept aloof from him. -"What have I done?" said he at last, when quite tired of pursuing her. -"You weep, dear Princess, when you ought to console me for all the -peril I may have incurred, as the effect of my tenderness." "I know -all," said the Princess, with a voice interrupted by sobs--"I know all -the misery that may happen to me; but, ungrateful man! it is of you I -have most to complain." "Oh, heavens!" cried Zirphil, "what have you -to reproach me with?" "The love which Camion bears to you," replied -the voice, "and the tenderness with which you have kissed her hand." -"The tenderness," replied the Prince, quickly; "oh! divine Princess, do -you know so little of that I feel for you as to accuse me so lightly. -Besides, even if Camion could love me, which is impossible, as she only -saw me for a moment, can you be alarmed, knowing my love for you, and -after the proofs which I have given you of my attachment? It is you -whom I should accuse of injustice: for if I have looked at her with -any attention, it is because her features reminded me of yours, and -that being deprived of the pleasure of beholding you, anything which -resembled you gave me the greatest gratification. Be visible again, my -dear Princess, and I will never look on any other woman." - -The invisible lady appeared to be consoled by these words, and -approaching the Prince, said, "Pardon me this little movement of -jealousy. I have too much reason to fear they will separate me from -you, not to feel afflicted by a circumstance which appeared to me to -announce the commencement of that misfortune." "But," said the Prince, -"may I not know why you are no longer permitted to show yourself? -For if I have delivered you from the tyranny of Marmotte, how is it -possible that you should be again subjected to it?" "Alas!" said the -invisible Princess, "if you had decided to flay me we should have -been very happy; but you had such a horror of that proposition, that -I did not dare press you further on the subject." "By what chance," -interrupted the Prince, "was Camion informed of this adventure, for she -told me nearly the same thing?" - -Hardly had he finished these words, when the Princess uttered a -frightful shriek. The Prince, in surprise, rose hastily. But what -was his alarm when, in the middle of the apartment, he perceived the -hideous Marmotte, who held by the hair the beautiful Princess, now no -longer either half a whale or invisible! He was about to seize his -sword when the Princess, in tears, begged him to moderate his anger, -for it would be of no avail against the power of the Fairy; and the -horrible Marmotte, grinding her teeth, emitted through them a blue -flame which scorched his beard. "Prince Zirphil," said she to him, -"a fairy who protects thee prevents me from exterminating thee, thy -father, thy mother, and all that belong to thee: but thou shalt suffer -at least in all that is most dear to thee, for having married without -having consulted me, and thy torment shall never finish, nor that of -thy Princess, until thou shalt have obeyed my commands." - -In finishing these words the Fairy, the Princess, the chamber, and -the palace, all disappeared together, and he found himself in his own -apartment, in his night-dress, and his sword in his hand. He was so -astonished, and so transported with rage, that he did not feel the -severity of the cold, though it was in the depth of winter. At the -noise which he made his guards entered the room and begged him to go to -bed, or to allow them to dress him. He took the latter course, and went -to the Queen's chamber, who, on her part, had passed the night in the -most cruel state of anxiety. She had not been able to sleep after going -to bed, and in order to induce slumber she had wished to talk over her -grief with little Camion; but she sought in vain for her in her case: -Camion was no longer there. She feared she might have lost her in the -garden: she rose, and having ordered flambeaux to be lighted, went in -search of her, but without success--she had entirely disappeared, and -the Queen retired to bed again in an alarming state of affliction; she -gave fresh vent to it as her son entered. He was so distressed himself -that he did not perceive the tears of the Queen. She, on her part, -observing his agitation, exclaimed, "Ah! without doubt, you have come -to announce to me some dreadful tidings!" - -"Yes, Madam," replied the Prince; "I come to tell you that I shall die -if I do not find my Princess." "How!" said the Queen; "do you already, -my dear son, love that unhappy Princess?" "What, your Camion?" said -the Prince: "can you suspect me, Madam, of such a thing? I speak of my -dear Whale-Princess who has been torn from me; it is for her alone that -I live, and it is Marmotte, the cruel Marmotte, who has carried her -away!" "Ah, my son," said the Queen, "I am far more unhappy than you, -for if they have taken your Princess away from you, they have robbed me -of my Camion. Since last evening, she has disappeared from her case!" - -They then related to each other their respective adventures, and wept -together over their common misfortunes. The King was informed of the -cries and despair of the Queen, and the grief of his son. He entered -the apartment in which this tragic scene was passing, and as he was -an exceedingly clever man, the thought occurred to him immediately of -advertising Camion, with the offer of a large reward to whoever should -bring her back. Everybody agreed this was a capital idea, and even the -Queen, in spite of her great grief, was obliged to confess that no one -of ordinary capacity could have imagined so singular an expedient. The -handbills were printed, and distributed, and the Queen became rather -calm in the hope of soon hearing some tidings of her little Princess. -As for Zirphil, the loss of Camion interested him no more than her -presence; he resolved to seek a fairy of whom he had heard speak. He -asked permission of the King and Queen, and departed with a single -equerry in attendance on him. - -It was a great distance from that country to the one inhabited by the -Fairy; but neither time nor obstacles could check the fond impatience -of the youthful Zirphil. He passed through states and kingdoms without -number: nothing particular happened to him because he did not desire -it; for being handsome as Cupid and brave as his own sword, he would -have had no lack of adventures had he sought for them. - -At length, after a year's travelling, he arrived at the commencement of -the desert wherein the Fairy had fixed her abode; he dismounted from -his horse, and left his equerry in a little cottage, with orders to -await him there, and not to be impatient. He entered the desert, which -was frightful from its solitude; screech-owls alone inhabited it, but -their cries did not alarm the valiant spirit of our Prince. - -One evening, he perceived at a distance a light which made him think he -was approaching the grotto; for who but a fairy could live in such a -horrible desert. He walked all night long; at length, at break of day, -he discovered the famous grotto; but a lake of fire separated him from -it, and all his valour could not protect him from the flames, which -spread right and left. He looked about for a long time to see what he -could do, and his courage nearly failed him when he found that there -was not even a bridge. Despair proved his best friend, for in a frenzy -of love and anguish, he resolved to end his days in the lake, if he -could not traverse it. No sooner had he taken this strange resolution -than he put it in execution, and throwing himself bodily into the -flames, he felt a little gentle warmth which did not even inconvenience -him, and passed without the least trouble to the other side. Hardly had -he landed, when a young and beautiful Salamander emerged from the lake, -and said, "Prince Zirphil, if your love be as great as your courage, -you may hope for everything from the Fairy Lumineuse; she favours you, -but she wishes to prove you." - -Zirphil made a profound bow to the Salamander in acknowledgment, for -she did not give him time to speak; she plunged again into the flames, -and he pursued his way. He arrived at length at the foot of a rock of -prodigious height, which from its great brilliancy appeared all on -fire. It was a carbuncle, so large that the Fairy was very commodiously -lodged in the inside. As soon as the Prince approached, Lumineuse came -out of the rock; he prostrated himself before her, she raised him, and -made him enter the grotto. - -"Prince Zirphil," said she, "a power equal to mine has neutralized -the benefits I bestowed on you at your birth; but you may hope for -everything from my care. It requires as much patience as courage to -foil the wickedness of Marmotte; I can tell you nothing more." "At -least, madam," replied the Prince, "do me the favour to inform me if -my beautiful Princess is unhappy, and if I may hope to see her again -soon?" "She is not unhappy," replied the Fairy: "but you cannot see her -till you have pounded her in the mortar of the King of the Whiting." -"Oh! heavens!" cried the Prince; "is she in his power; and have I to -dread not only the consequences of his passion, but the still greater -horror of pounding her with my own hands?" "Summon up your courage," -replied the Fairy, "and do not hesitate to obey; upon that depends all -your happiness, and that of your wife." "But she will die if I pound -her," said the Prince, "and I would rather die myself." "Away," said -the Fairy, "and do not argue; each moment that you lose adds to the -fury of Marmotte. Go and seek the King of the Whiting; tell him you are -the page I promised to send him, and rely on my protection." - -She then pointed out to him on a map the road he must take to reach -the dominions of the King of the Whiting; and took her leave of him, -after having informed him that the ring which the Princess had given -him would show him all he had to do whenever the King commanded him to -execute a difficult task. - -He departed, and after some days' travelling arrived in a meadow which -stretched down to the sea, to the shore of which was moored a small -sailing-vessel of mother-of-pearl and gold. He looked at his ruby, and -saw himself in it going on board the vessel. He therefore stepped into -it, and after having cast off, the wind took it out to sea. After some -hours' sail, the vessel brought up at the foot of a crystal castle, -built upon wooden piles. He jumped ashore, and entered a court-yard -which led through a magnificent vestibule to apartments without number, -the walls of which were of rock crystal, admirably cut, and which -produced the most beautiful effect in the world. The castle appeared -to be inhabited only by men with fishes' heads of all species. He -felt convinced this was the dwelling of the King of the Whiting, and -shuddered with rage; but he restrained himself so far as to inquire of -a turbot, who had the air of being a captain of the guard, how he could -manage to see the King of the Whiting. The man-turbot very gravely made -him a signal to advance, and he entered the guard-chamber, where he saw -under arms a thousand men with pikes' heads, who formed in line for him -to pass. - -At length, after making his way through an infinite crowd of men-fish, -he came to the throne-room. There was not much noise, for the courtiers -were all dumb, the greater part having whiting's heads. He saw several -who appeared of more consequence than the rest, from the crowd which -surrounded them, and by the air which they assumed with the others. -They arrived at the King's cabinet, out of which he saw the council -issue, composed of twelve men who had sharks' heads. The King at length -appeared himself. He had a whiting's head, like many of the others; -but he had fins on his shoulders, and from his waist downwards he was -a veritable whiting. He could speak, and wore only a scarf made of the -skin of goldfish, which was very brilliant, and a helmet in the form of -a crown, out of which arose a codfish's tail, which formed the plume. -Four whiting carried him in a bowl of Japanese porcelain, as large as -a bath, full of sea water. His greatest pride consisted in causing it -to be filled twice a day by the dukes and peers of his kingdom. This -office was extremely sought after. - -The King of the Whiting was very large, and had more the air of a -monster than of anything else. When he had spoken to some of those -who had presented him with petitions, he perceived the Prince. "Who -are you, my friend?" said he to him. "By what chance do I see a man -here?" "My lord," said Zirphil, "I am the page the Fairy Lumineuse has -promised you." "I know what she means," said the King, laughing, and -showing his teeth, like those of a saw. "Lead him into my seraglio, -and let him teach my crayfish to talk." Immediately a troop of whiting -surrounded him, and conducted him according to the King's orders. In -returning through the apartments all the fish, even those the highest -in favour, professed, by various signs, a great deal of friendship for -him. They led him through a delicious garden, at the end of which was -a charming pavilion, built entirely of mother-of-pearl, and ornamented -with great branches of coral. The favourite Whiting introduced him -into an apartment similarly adorned, the windows of which overlooked a -magnificent piece of water. They made him understand that that was to -be his residence, and after having shown him a little chamber at one -corner of the saloon, which he understood was to be his bed-room, they -retired, and he remained alone, very much astonished to find himself -something very like a prisoner in the palace of his rival. - -He was meditating on this position of affairs, when he saw the doors of -the chamber open, and ten or twelve thousand crayfish, conducted by one -larger than the rest, entered, and placed themselves in straight lines, -which nearly filled the apartment. The one which marched at their head -mounted upon a table near him, and said, "Prince, I know you, and you -owe much to my care; but as it is rare to find gratitude in men, I will -not tell you what I have done for you, for fear you should destroy the -sentiments with which you have inspired me. I have only, therefore, -to inform you that these are the crayfish of the King of the Whiting, -that they alone speak in this empire, and that you are chosen to teach -them refined language, the customs of the world, and the means of -pleasing their sovereign. You will find them intelligent; but you must -every morning choose ten to pound in the King's mortar, to make his -broth."[37] - -The Crayfish having ceased speaking, the Prince replied, "I had no -idea, Madam, that you had interested yourself in my concerns. The -gratitude I already feel towards you should induce you to abandon the -bad opinion you have conceived of men in general, since on the bare -assurance which you have given me of your friendship, I feel deeply -obliged to you. But what I am very anxious to learn is, the course I -should take in reasoning with the persons whose education you would -confide to me. If I were sure that they had as much intellect as you, I -should have no trouble, and I should feel a pride in the task; but the -more difficult I should find them to teach, the less should I have the -courage to punish them for faults for which they are not responsible. -And having lived with them, how can I have the heart to deliver them -to a torture?" "You are obstinate and a great talker," interrupted the -Crayfish; "but we know how to subdue you." So saying, she rose from the -table, and jumping to the ground, took her real form of Marmotte (for -she was that wicked fairy). "Oh, heavens!" cried the Prince; "so this -is the person who boasts of the interest she takes in my affairs--she -who has done nothing but make me miserable. Ah, Lumineuse," continued -he, "you abandon me!" He had hardly finished these words, when Marmotte -precipitated herself by the window into the reservoir and disappeared, -and he remained alone with the twelve thousand crayfish. - -After having meditated a little as to how he should proceed to educate -them, during which time they waited in complete silence, it occurred -to him that he might very probably find amongst them his beautiful and -unfortunate Princess, because the hideous Marmotte had ordered him -to pound ten of them every morning. "And why should I be selected to -pound them," said he, "if it be not to drive me distracted? Never mind, -let us look for her," continued he, rising; "let us at least try to -recognise her, even if I die of grief before her eyes." Then he asked -the crayfish if they would kindly permit him to search amongst them for -one of his acquaintance. "We know nothing about it, my Lord," said the -first who spoke; "but you can make what inquiry you please up to the -time of our return to the reservoir, for we must positively pass the -night there." Zirphil commenced his inspection; the more he sought, the -less he discovered, but he surmised, from the few words which he drew -from those he interrogated, that they were all princesses transformed -by the wickedness of Marmotte. This caused him inconsolable grief, for -he had to choose ten for the King's broth. - -When evening came, they repeated that they must retire to the -reservoir, and it was not without pain that he relinquished the sweet -occupation of seeking the Princess. He had only been able in the whole -day to interrogate a hundred and fifty; but as he was certain at least -that she was not amongst them, he determined to take ten from that -number; he had no sooner chosen them than he proceeded to carry them -to the King's offices; but he was arrested by the most astonishing -peals of laughter from the victims he was about to immolate; he was -so surprised by it, that he was some time without speaking; at length -he interrupted them to inquire what it was they found so amusing in -their present circumstances? They renewed their shouts of laughter so -heartily that he could not help, in spite of his own sorrows, partaking -in their mirth. They wanted to speak, but could not for laughing; they -could only ejaculate, "Oh, I can say no more!" "Oh, I shall die of it!" -"No, there is nothing in the world so amusing!" and then roared again. -At length he reached the Palace with them all laughing together, and -having shown them to a pike-headed man, who seemed to be the principal -cook, a mortar of green porphyry, ornamented with gold, was set before -him, into which he put his ten crayfish, and prepared to pound them. -At that moment the bottom of the mortar opened, emitted a brilliant -flame, which dazzled the Prince, and then closing up again, appeared -perfectly empty; even the crayfish had vanished. This astonished, but -at the same time gratified him, for he was very reluctant to pound such -merry creatures. The man-pike, on the contrary, seemed sadly distressed -at this adventure, and wept bitterly. The Prince was as much surprised -at this as he was at the laughter of the crayfish, and he could not -ascertain the cause, as the pike's-head was dumb. - -He returned, much disturbed by his adventure, to his pretty apartment, -where he no longer found the crayfish, for they had returned to the -reservoir. The following morning, they re-entered without Marmotte; -he sought for his Princess, and still not discovering her, he again -chose ten of the finest for pounding. The same adventure occurred--they -laughed, and the man-pike wept when they disappeared in the flame. For -three months this extraordinary scene was daily repeated; he heard -nothing of the King of the Whiting, and he was only uneasy at not -discovering his beautiful Princess. - -One evening, returning from the kitchen to his own apartments, he -traversed the King's gardens, and passing near a palisade which -surrounded a charming plantation, in the midst of which was a little -sparkling fountain, he heard some one speaking; this surprised him, for -he believed all the inhabitants of that kingdom to be as dumb as those -he had seen. He advanced gently, and heard a voice, which said,--"But -Princess, if you do not discover yourself, your husband will never -find you." "What can I do?" said the other voice, which he recognised -as that he had so often heard. "The cruelty of Marmotte compels me -to remain silent, and I cannot discover myself without risking his -life as well as my own. The wise Lumineuse, who aids him, conceals -my features from him in order to preserve us to each other: he must -absolutely pound me, it is an irrevocable sentence." "But why should -he pound you?" inquired the other. "You have never yet told me your -history; Citronette, your confidante, would have related it to me had -she not last week been chosen for the King's broth." "Alas!" replied -the Princess, "that unfortunate has already undergone the torture which -I await; would that I were in her place, for assuredly by this time she -is in her grotto." "But," rejoined the other voice, "as it is such a -beautiful night, tell me now why you are subjected to the vengeance of -Marmotte. I have already told you who I am, and I burn with impatience -to know more about you." "Although it will renew my grief," replied the -Princess, "I cannot refuse to satisfy you, especially as I must speak -of Zirphil, and I take pleasure in all that relates to him." - -One may easily judge of the delight which the Prince felt at this -fortunate moment; he glided gently into the plantation, but as it was -very dark he saw nothing; he listened, however, with all his ears, and -this is word for word what he heard:-- - -"My father was King of a country near Mount Caucasus; he reigned to -the best of his ability over a people of incredible wickedness; there -were perpetual revolts, and often the windows of his Palace were broken -by the stones which they hurled against them. The Queen, my mother, -who was a very accomplished woman, composed speeches for him to make -to the disaffected; but if he succeeded in appeasing them one day, -the next produced a new trouble. The judges were tired of condemning -to death, and the executioners of hanging. At length things arrived -at such a pitch that my father, seeing all our provinces were uniting -against us, resolved to withdraw from the capital, that he might no -longer witness so many disagreeable scenes. He took the Queen with -him, and left the kingdom to the government of one of his ministers, -who was very wise, and less timid than the King, my father. My mother -was expecting my birth, and travelled with some difficulty to the foot -of Mount Caucasus, where my father had chosen his habitation. Our -wicked subjects fired the guns for joy at their departure, and next day -strangled our minister, saying that he wished to carry matters with -too high a hand, and that they much preferred their old Sovereign. -My father was not at all flattered by their preference, and remained -concealed in his little retreat, where very soon I saw the light. - -"They named me Camion, because I was so very diminutive.[38] Moreover, -the King and Queen, tired of the honours which had cost them so dear, -and wishing to conceal my high birth from me, brought me up as a -shepherdess. At the end of ten years (which appeared to them like ten -minutes, so happy were they in their retreat), the fairies of the -Caucasus, indignant at the wickedness of the people who inhabited our -kingdom, resolved to restore order in it. One day that I was tending my -sheep in the meadow which adjoined our garden, two old shepherdesses -accosted me, and begged me to give them shelter for the night; they had -such a sad dejected air that my soul was moved with compassion. 'Follow -me,' said I; 'my father, who is a farmer, will receive you willingly.' -I ran to the cottage to announce their arrival to him; he came to meet -them, and received them with much kindness, as did my mother also. I -then brought in my sheep, and set milk before our guests. Meanwhile, -my father prepared them a nice little supper, and the Queen, who, as I -before told you, was a clever woman, entertained them wonderfully. - -"I had a little lamb which I loved excessively; my father called to -me to bring it to him that he might kill it and roast it. I was not -accustomed to dispute his will, and therefore took it to him; but I -was so distressed at having to do so that I went and sat down weeping -beside my mother, who was so occupied in talking to these good women -that she took no notice of me. 'What is the matter with little Camion?' -said one of them, who saw me in tears. 'Alas, Madam!' said I to her, -'my father is roasting my pet lamb for your suppers.' 'How?' said the -one who had not yet spoken, 'is it on our account that pretty Camion -is thus distressed?' Then rising and striking the ground with her -stick, a table rose out of it magnificently covered, and the two old -women became two beautiful ladies, in dresses so dazzling with precious -stones, that I was struck motionless, so much so, indeed, that I paid -no attention when my little lamb bounded into the room, and made a -thousand leaps, which much amused the company. I ran at length to him, -after having kissed the hands of the beautiful ladies; but I was quite -amazed to find his wool all of silver purl, and covered with knots of -rose-coloured ribbon. - -"My father and mother paid every attention to the Fairies, for such I -need not tell you they were both. They raised the King and Queen, who -had fallen at their feet. 'King and Queen,' said she who was the most -majestic, 'we have known you for a long time past, and your misfortunes -have excited our pity. Do not imagine that greatness exempts any one -from the ills attached to humanity. You must know by experience that -the more elevated the rank the more keenly are they felt. Your patience -and virtue have raised you above your misfortunes: it is time to give -you your reward. I am the Fairy Lumineuse, and I come to ask what -would be most agreeable to your majesties. Speak, and do not fear to -put our power to the proof; consult together, your wishes shall be -accomplished; but say nothing respecting Camion--her destiny is apart -from yours. The Fairy Marmotte, envious of the brilliant fate which has -been promised her, has obscured it for a time: but Camion will better -know the value of her happiness when she shall have experienced the -ills of life; we will protect her by softening them: that is all we are -permitted to tell you. Speak; with that exception we can do anything -for you.' - -"The Fairies, after this harangue, were silent. The Queen turned to -the King that he might reply, for she wept to find I was doomed to be -unhappy; but my father was no better able than herself to speak: he -uttered piteous exclamations, and I, seeing them in tears, left my lamb -to come and weep with them. The Fairies waited with much impatience, -and in perfect silence, till our tears were ended. At length my mother -pushed the King gently to let him know they were expecting his reply. -He took his handkerchief from his eyes and said, that as it was decided -that I should be miserable, nothing they could offer him could be -agreeable to him, and that he refused the happiness which they promised -him, as he should always find it embittered by the idea of what I -had to dread. The Queen added, seeing that the poor man could say no -more, that she begged the Fairies to take their lives on the day when -my sad destiny was to be fulfilled, for that her only wish was not to -be compelled to witness my misery. The good Fairies, affected by the -extreme grief which reigned in the royal family, spoke together in a -whisper. At length Lumineuse, who had already addressed us, said to the -Queen, 'Be consoled, Madam; the misfortunes which threaten Camion are -not so great but that they may terminate happily; for from the moment -that the husband destined for her shall have obeyed the commands of -fate, she will be happy with him, and the malignity of our sister can -have no further power over either. The Prince we have selected is one -worthy of her; and all we can tell you is, that you must absolutely -lower your daughter every morning into the well, and that she must -bathe in it for half-an-hour. If you strictly observe this rule, -perhaps she may escape the evil with which she is threatened. At twelve -years old the critical period of her fate will commence; if she reach -the age of thirteen in safety, there will be nothing more to fear. That -is all which regards her. Now wish for yourselves, and we can gratify -your desires.' - -"The King and Queen looked at each other, and after a short silence, -the King asked to become a statue until after I should have completed -my thirteenth year; and the Queen limited her request to the modest one -that the temperature of the well in which I was to be dipped should be -always according to the season. The fairies, charmed at this excess of -parental tenderness, added that the water should be orangeflower water, -and that the King, whenever the Queen should throw this water over -him, should resume his natural form, and again become a statue when he -pleased. At length they took leave of us, after having lauded the King -and Queen for their moderation, and promised to assist them whenever -they should require it, by burning a bit of the silver purl with which -my lamb was covered. - -"They vanished, and I felt real anguish for the first time in my life, -at seeing my father become a great statue of black marble. The Queen -burst into tears, and I also; but at length, as everything has an end, -I ceased to cry, and occupied myself in consoling my mother, for I felt -a sudden increase both of sense and sensibility. - -"The Queen passed her life at the feet of the statue, and I, after -having bathed as they had ordered me, went to milk my ewes. Upon that -food we lived, for the Queen would not take anything else, and it was -only from love to me that she could be prevailed on to preserve an -existence, which to her was so full of bitterness. 'Alas! my daughter,' -said she, sometimes, 'of what use to us have been our grandeur and -our high birth? (for she no longer concealed from me my rank.) 'Would -it not have been better to have been born in a lower sphere, since a -crown draws down on us such great misfortunes? Virtue, and my affection -for you, my dear Camion, alone enable me to support them; but there -are moments when my soul seems impatient to leave me, and I confess -I feel pleasure in imagining that I shall soon die. It is not for me -you should weep,' added she, 'but for your father, whose grief, still -greater than mine, has carried him so far as to make him desire a worse -fate than ceasing to live. Never forget, my dear, the gratitude you owe -him.' 'Alas! Madam,' said I, 'I am not capable of ever forgetting it, -and still less can I forget that you have wished to live in order to -assist me.' - -"I was bathed regularly every day, and my mother was sadly distressed -to see the King always an inanimate statue. She dared not, however, -recall him to life, fearing to inflict on him the pain of witnessing -the misfortune with which I was threatened. The Fairies not having -specified what it was, we were in mortal fear. The Queen especially -fancied no end of frightful things, because her imagination had an -unlimited field to range over. As for me, I did not trouble myself much -about it, so true is it that youth is the only time when we enjoy the -present. - -"My mother told me repeatedly that she felt a great desire to bring my -father to life again, and I had the same inclination. At length, after -six months, finding that the Fairies' bath had greatly embellished -both my person and mind, she resolved to gratify this longing, if but -to give the King the pleasure of seeing my improvement. She therefore -desired me to bring her some water from the well. Accordingly, after -my bath, I drew up a vase of this marvellous water, and the statue was -no sooner sprinkled with it, than my father became a man again. The -Queen threw herself at his feet, to ask pardon for having troubled his -repose. He raised her, and embracing her tenderly, forgave her readily, -and she presented me to him. - -"I am ashamed to tell you that he was both delighted and surprised. -For how can you believe me, beautiful Princess?" said the voice, -hesitatingly, "me, the most hideous of crayfish?" "Alas! I can well -believe you," replied the one to whom she spoke; "I also might boast -of being handsome, but is it possible to appear so in these frightful -shells? Pray continue, however, for I am eager to hear the rest of your -history." "Well, then," said the other voice, "the King was enchanted -with me, loaded me with caresses, and asked the Queen if she had any -news to tell him. 'Alas!' said she, 'who in this desert should come -to tell me any? Besides, being occupied solely in lamenting your -transformation, I have taken little interest in the world, which is -nothing to me without you.' 'Well,' said the King, 'I will tell you -some news, then; for do not think that I have been always asleep. -The Fairies who protect us have disclosed to me the punishment of my -subjects. They have made an immense pond of my kingdom, and all the -inhabitants are men-fish. A nephew of the Fairy Marmotte, whom they -have set up as their king, persecutes them with unequalled cruelty: -he devours them for the least fault; and at the end of a certain time -a prince will arrive who will dethrone him, and reign in his stead. -It is in this kingdom that Camion will be made perfectly happy. This -is all that I know; and it was not a bad way of passing my time' said -he, laughing, 'to have discovered these things. The Fairies came every -night to inform me of what was doing, and I should perhaps have known -much more if you had let me remain a statue a little longer; but, -however, I am so delighted to see you once more, that I do not think I -shall very soon wish to become a statue again.' - -"We passed some time in the happiest manner possible. The King and -Queen, notwithstanding, were rather anxious when they thought of my -approaching the age of thirteen. As the Queen bathed me with great -care, she hoped that the prediction would not be fulfilled. But who can -boast of escaping their destiny? One morning that the Queen had risen -early, and was gathering some flowers to decorate our cottage, because -the King was fond of them, she saw come out from beneath a tube-rose an -ugly animal, something like a marmot. This beast threw itself on her, -and bit her nose. She fainted with the pain which this bite occasioned -her, and my father, at the end of an hour, not seeing her return, went -to seek her. Judge of his consternation at finding her nearly dead, and -covered with blood! He uttered fearful cries. I ran to his assistance, -and we together carried the Queen into the house, and placed her in -bed, where she was two hours without coming to herself. At length she -began to give some signs of life, and we had the pleasure of seeing her -very shortly recovered, except from the pain of the bite, which caused -her much suffering. - -"She asked directly if I had been to bathe: but we had quite forgotten -it in our anxiety about her. She was much alarmed at hearing this; -however, seeing that as yet no accident had happened to me, she became -re-assured, and related to us her adventure, which surprised us -immensely. - -"The day passed over without any other trouble; the King had taken his -gun and sought in every direction for the horrid beast without finding -it. The next day at sunrise the Queen awoke and came to fetch me, to -repair the fault of the preceding morning; she lowered me into the -well as usual, but alas, fatal and unlucky day! at this same instant, -although the heavens were quite serene, a dreadful clap of thunder rent -the air, the sky seemed suddenly all on fire, and from a burning cloud -there issued a flaming dart which flew into the well. My mother in her -fright let go the cord which held me, and I sank to the bottom, without -hurting myself, it is true, but horrified at discovering that I was -partially transformed into an enormous fish which they call a whale. I -rose to the surface again, and called the Queen with all my power. She -did not reply. I was sadly afflicted and wept bitterly, as much for -her loss as at my metamorphosis, when I felt that an invisible power -forced me to descend to the bottom of the well. Having reached it, I -entered a grotto of crystal, where I found a species of Nymph, ugly -enough, for she was like an immensely fat frog. However, she smiled at -my approach, and said to me--'Camion, I am the Nymph of the Bottomless -Well; I have orders to receive thee, and to make thee undergo the -penance to which thou art sentenced for having failed to bathe; follow -me, and do not remonstrate.' - -"What, alas, could I do? I was so distressed and so faint at finding -myself on dry ground, that I had not the strength to speak. She dragged -me, not without pain, into a saloon of green marble which was near -the grotto; she there put me into an immense golden tub filled with -water, and I then began to recover my senses. The good Nymph appeared -delighted at this. 'I am called Citronette,' said she to me; 'I am -appointed to wait on thee; thou canst order me to do anything thou -wilt--I know perfectly well both the past and the present; as for the -future, it is not my province to penetrate it. Command me, and at least -I can render the time of thy penance less irksome to thee.' - -"I embraced the good Citronette at these words, and related to her the -events of my life. I then inquired of her what had become of the King -and Queen. She was about to reply, when a hideous marmot, as large -as a human being, entered the saloon, and froze me with horror. She -walked upon her hind legs, and leant upon a gold wand, which gave her -a dignified air. She approached the tub, in which I would willingly -have drowned myself, I was so frightened, and raising her wand, with -which she touched me--'Camion,' said she, 'thou art in my power, and -nothing can release thee but thy obedience and that of the husband whom -my sisters have destined for thee. Listen to me, and cast off this -fear, which does not befit a person of your rank. Since thine infancy -I wished to take care of thee, and to marry thee to my nephew, the -King of the Whiting. Lumineuse, and two or three other of my sisters, -combined to deprive me of this right; I was provoked, and not being -able to revenge myself on them, I resolved to punish thee for their -audacity. I doomed thee, therefore, to be a whale for at least half -the term of thy existence. My sisters protested so strongly against -what they called my injustice, that I diminished my vengeance by -three-quarters and a half; but I reserved to myself the right of -marrying thee to my nephew in return for my complaisance. Lumineuse, -who is imperious, and unfortunately my superior, would not listen to -this arrangement, because she had destined thee, before me, to a Prince -whom she protected. I was compelled then to consent to her plan, in -spite of my resentment; all that I could obtain was that the first who -should deliver you from my claws should be thy husband. Here are their -portraits,' continued she, showing me two gold miniature cases, 'which -will enable thee to recognise them: but if one of them come to deliver -thee, he must betroth himself to thee whilst thou art in the tub, and -before thou canst leave it, he must tear off the skin of the whale; -without that, thou wilt always remain a fish. My nephew would not -hesitate a moment to execute that order; but the favourite of Lumineuse -will consider it a horrible task, for he has the air of a very delicate -little gentleman. Set, then, thy wits to work to make him skin thee, -and after that thou shalt be no longer unhappy, if to be a beautiful -whale, very fat and well fed, and up to the neck in water, can be -called unhappiness.' - -"To these words I made no reply, but remained very dejected, as much at -my present state as by the thought of scaling to which I must submit. - -"Marmotte disappeared, leaving with me the two miniature cases. I wept -over my misfortunes and my situation, without dreaming of looking at -the portraits, when the good and sympathising Citronette said to me, -'Come, we must not lament over ills which cannot be remedied. Let us -see if I cannot help to console you; but first, try not to weep so -much, for I have a tender heart, and I cannot see your tears without -feeling inclined to mingle mine with them. Let us chase them away by -looking at these portraits.' - -"So saying, she opened the first case, and showing it to me, we both -uttered shrieks like Melusine's[39] at seeing a hideous whiting's head, -painted, it is true, with all the advantages which could be given to -it; but, in spite of that, never in the memory of man had anything been -seen so ugly. 'Take away that object,' cried I to her; 'I cannot bear -the sight of it longer. I would rather be a whale all my life than -marry that horrible Whiting!' - -"She did not give me time to finish my imprecations on this monster, -but said, 'Behold this darling young man! Oh, as for him, would he but -skin you I should be delighted.' I looked hastily to see if what she -said was true; I was only too soon convinced. A noble and charming -countenance presented itself to my view; fine eyes full of tenderness -embellished a face which was both mild and majestic; an air of -intellectuality was spread over it, which completed the fascination of -this delightful painting; a profusion of black hair, curling naturally, -gave an air to it which Citronette mistook for indifference, but which -I interpreted, and I think rightly, as conveying a precisely opposite -sentiment. - -"I contemplated this beautiful face with a pleasure of which I was -scarcely conscious. Citronette remarked it first. 'Without a doubt,' -cried she, 'that is the one we will choose.' This bantering roused -me from my reverie, and colouring at my own ecstasy, 'Why should I -trouble myself,' said I; 'ah, my dear Citronette, this appears to me -very like another trick of that cruel Marmotte; she has exhausted her -art in endeavouring to make me regret the impossibility of finding -a similar object in nature.' 'What,' said Citronette, 'already such -tender reflections on this portrait? Ah! truly, I did not expect that -so soon.' I blushed again at this jest, and became quite embarrassed -at finding that I had too innocently betrayed the effect which this -beautiful painting had produced on my heart. Citronette again read my -thoughts. 'No, no,' said she, embracing me, 'do not repent of this -avowal, your frankness charms me; and to console you, I will tell you -that Marmotte does not deceive you, and that there is in the world a -Prince who is the veritable original of the picture.' - -"This assurance filled me with joy at the moment; but the next instant -that feeling departed, when I remembered that this Prince would never -see me, as I was in the depths of the earth, and that Marmotte, by -her power, would sooner enable her monster of a nephew to penetrate -my abode than give the least assistance to a prince whom she hated, -because they had destined me to him without her consent. I no longer -concealed what I thought from Citronette; the attempt, indeed, would -have been useless, for she read with surprising facility the utmost -secret of my thoughts; I therefore preferred to take the credit of -candour; she deserved my confidence for her attachment to me, and I -found it a great consolation, for I have felt from that time that when -the heart is filled with one object there is much happiness in being -able to speak of it. In fact, I loved from that moment, and Citronette -dissipated, with much address and clear-sightedness, the confusion and -trouble which the commencement of a violent passion produces in the -mind. She soothed my grief by allowing me to speak of it; and when I -had exhausted words, she gently changed the conversation, which almost -always, however, bore upon my troubles or my affection. - -"She had informed me that the King, my father, was transported to the -abode of the King of the Whiting; and that the Queen, at the moment -that she lost me, had become a crayfish. I could not understand this. -'One cannot become a crayfish,' said I. 'Can you better understand how -you have become a whale?' said she. - -"She was right; but we are often surprised at things which happen -to others, although we have in ourselves still greater subject for -astonishment. My small experience was the cause of this. Citronette -laughed frequently at my innocence, and was surprised to find me so -eloquent in my affection, for truly I was so on that subject; and I -found that love throws much light into the mind. I could not sleep; -I woke the good-natured Citronette an hundred times in the night to -talk to her of my Prince; she had told me his name, and that he hunted -almost every day in the forest beneath which I was interred. She -proposed to me to try to attract him to our dwelling, but I would not -consent, although I was dying to do so. I was afraid that he would die -for want of air; we were accustomed to it, that was a different thing; -I feared also that it would be too great a freedom; besides, I was in -despair at appearing to him in the form of a whale, and I measured his -aversion for me by that which the portrait of the King of the Whiting -had inspired me with. Citronette re-assured me, telling me that spite -of the whale's body my face was charming. I believed it sometimes, -but more often I was uneasy, and after having looked at myself, I -could not imagine I was sufficiently handsome to inspire with love one -who had made me so well acquainted with it. My self-love came to the -support of my prudence. Alas! how rarely it is that our virtues can be -traced to purer inspirations. - -"I passed my time in forming projects for obtaining a sight of him, -and letting him see me, and rejected by turns each that occurred to -me. Citronette was a great assistance to me at this time; for it must -be confessed that she has plenty of sense, and still more gentleness -and amiability. One day that I was even more sad than usual--for love -has the peculiarity of infecting gentle souls with melancholy--I saw -the frightful Marmotte enter, with two persons whom I did not at first -recognise. I took it into my head that it was her wretched nephew whom -she brought with her; I uttered frightful shrieks as they approached me -hastily. 'Why, she could not cry louder,' said the horrid Marmotte, 'if -they were skinning her! Look what terrible harm is done to her!' 'Good -gracious, sister,' said one of these persons who accompanied her, and -whom I then remembered with joy having formerly seen in our village; 'a -truce to your stories of skinning, and let us tell Camion what we have -to tell her.' 'Willingly,' said Marmotte; 'but on the conditions which -you are aware of.' - -"'Camion,' said the good Fairy, without replying to Marmotte, 'we -are too much distressed at your condition not to think of remedying -it, more especially as you have not deserved it. My sisters and I -have resolved to ameliorate it as much as lies in our power. This, -therefore, is what we have determined on. You are about to be presented -at the Court of the Prince to whom I have destined you from your -infancy; but, my dear child, you will not appear there as you are, -and you are commanded to return three nights a week and plunge again -in your tub; for until you are married'--'and skinned!' interrupted -the odious Marmotte, laughing violently. The good Fairy merely turned -towards her, shrugging her shoulders, and continued--'Until you are -married you will be a whale in this place. We can tell you no more; -the rest you will be informed of by degrees; but above all keep your -secret; for if a word escape you which tends to discover it, neither I -nor my sisters can do anything for you, and you will be delivered up to -my sister Marmotte.' 'That is what I expect,' said the wicked Fairy; -'and I already see her in my power; for a secret kept by a girl would -be a phenomenon.' 'That is her own affair,' said Lumineuse (for it was -she who had already spoken). 'To proceed, my daughter,' said she, 'you -will become a little doll made of ivory, but capable of thinking and -speaking; we shall preserve all your features, and I give you a week -to consider whether what I propose to you will suit you; we will then -return, and you shall tell me if you consent to it, or if you would -prefer awaiting here the event which must bring you one of the two -husbands selected for you.' - -"I had not time to reply; the Fairies departed after these words, and -left me astounded by what I had just seen and heard. I remained with -Citronette, who represented to me that it was a great treat for me to -become an ivory doll. I sighed when I thought that my Prince would -never take a fancy to such a bauble; but at length the desire to see -him and become acquainted with him overcame the anxiety to please -him, and I resolved to accept the proposal which was made to me, and -the more readily as Zirphil (for they had mentioned his name) might -possibly be forestalled by the King of the Whiting, and this idea made -me nearly die of grief. - -"Citronette told me that Prince Zirphil hunted daily in the forest -which was above us; and I made her take every day the form of a stag, -a hound, or a wild boar, in order that she might bring me some news, -which never failed to be in some way connected with the subject -which occupied my heart. She described him to me as an hundred times -handsomer than his picture, and my imagination embellished him to such -a degree that I resolved to see him or to die. But one more day had to -elapse before the expected arrival of the Fairies, and Citronette, in -the form of a wild boar, was roaming the forest to find food for my -curiosity, when suddenly I saw her return, followed by the too amiable -Zirphil. I cannot describe to you my joy and astonishment; there are -no terms which can express them to you. But what enchanted me most -was, that this charming Prince appeared equally delighted with me; -perhaps I desired this too much not to help to deceive myself. However, -I thought I saw in his eyes that he felt the impression he had made. -Citronette, more anxious for my happiness than mindful of our ecstasy, -aroused us from it, by begging him either to skin or to marry me. Then -coming to myself, and feeling the danger of my situation, I joined in -her entreaties, and by our prayers and tears induced him to plight me -his faith. I had hardly accepted it, when he vanished, I know not how, -and I found myself in my ordinary form, lying on a good bed; I was -no longer a whale, but I was still in the depths of the earth in the -green saloon, and Citronette had lost the power of leaving it and of -transforming herself. - -"I expected the Fairies in a state of the greatest trepidation. My -love had redoubled since I had become personally acquainted with its -object, and I feared that my charming husband might be included in -the vengeance of the Fairies for not having waited till they could -witness my marriage. Citronette had enough to do to re-assure me; I -could not overcome my grief and fear. Marmotte appeared with the dawn -of day, but I neither saw Lumineuse nor her companion; she did not -seem more irritable than usual; she touched me with her wand without -speaking to me, and I became a charming little doll, which she put in -her toothpick-case, and then transported herself into the presence of -the Queen-mother of my betrothed. She gave me to her, with orders to -marry me to her son, or to expect all the evil which she was capable of -inflicting, telling her that I was her goddaughter, and was called the -Princess Camion. I took, in fact, a great fancy to my mother-in-law; I -considered her charming, as being the mother of Zirphil, whom I adored, -and my caresses were returned by her. I was transported every night -into the green saloon, and there enjoyed the pleasure of meeting my -husband, for the same power acted on him, and transported him likewise -into this subterraneous dwelling. I knew not why they forbad me to -tell him my secret, as I was married; but I kept it in spite of his -impatience to know it. You will see," continued the speaker, with a -sigh, "how impossible it is to avoid one's fate. But it begins to get -light, and I feel I am quite tired with being so long out of the water; -let us return to the reservoir, and to-morrow, at the same hour, if we -are not selected for the soup of that worthless King of the Whiting, we -will resume the thread of our discourse.--Come, let us go." - -Zirphil heard no more, and himself returned to his apartment, much -concerned at not having made known to the Princess his being so near -her; but the fear of increasing her misfortunes by this indiscretion, -consoled him for not having risked it; the misery of knowing she was -likely to perish by his hand made him resolve to continue his diligent -search amongst the crayfish. - -He retired to bed, but not to sleep, for he did not close his eyes all -night. To have found his Princess in the form of a crayfish, ready -to be made into soup for the King of the Whiting, appeared to him a -still more frightful torment than the death to which he had believed -her destined. He was sighing and distressing himself cruelly, when he -was disturbed by a great noise in the garden; he at first heard it -confusedly, but listening attentively, he distinguished flutes and -conch shells. He rose and went to the window, when he saw the King of -the Whiting, accompanied by the dozen sharks who composed his council, -advancing towards the pavilion; he hastened to open the door, and the -train having entered, the King first had his tub filled with sea water -by the peers of the realm who bore it, and after a short repose, and -making the council take their places, he addressed the young Prince, -"Whoever you may be," said he, "you have resolved, apparently, to make -me die of hunger, for you send me every day a broth which I cannot -swallow; but, young man, I must tell you, that if you are leagued with -evil powers to poison me, you have taken a very foolish part. As nephew -of the Fairy Marmotte I am beyond all such attempts, and my life is -safe." - -The Prince, astonished at being suspected of so base an act, was about -to reply with haughtiness, but by chance, as he raised his hand, he -cast his eyes upon his ring, and saw therein Lumineuse, who placed -her finger on her mouth as a sign to him to be silent; he had not -before thought of consulting his ring, he had been so engrossed by his -grief. He accordingly held his tongue: but he betrayed his indignation -in his countenance, which the sharks remarked, for they made signs -of approbation, which appeared to say that they did not believe him -capable of such a thing. "Ho, ho!" said the King, "as this myrmidon -appears so angry, we must make him work before us. Let them go to my -kitchen; let them bring the mortar for the crayfish; I shall give -my council a treat." Immediately a pike's-head went to execute the -King's commands, and during this time the twelve sharks took a large -net, which they threw into the reservoir from the window, and drew in -three or four thousand crayfish. During the interval that the council -was employed in fishing, and the pike's-head in fetching the King's -mortar, Zirphil reflected, and felt that the most critical moment of -his life approached, and that his happiness or misery would depend upon -his present conduct. He armed himself with resolution for whatever -might come to pass, and placing all his hopes in the Fairy Lumineuse, -he implored her to be favourable to him. At the same moment he looked -at his ring, and saw in it the beautiful Fairy, who made a sign to him -to pound courageously; this revived him, and took from him some of the -pain he felt at consenting to this cruelty. - -At length the horrid mortar was produced. Zirphil approached it boldly, -and prepared to obey the King. The council put in the crayfish with -great ceremony, and the Prince tried to pound them; but the same thing -happened to them as to the former ones in the kitchen--the bottom of -the mortar opened and the flames devoured them. The King and the odious -sharks amused themselves for a long time with this spectacle, and were -never tired of filling the mortar; at length there was but one left -of the four thousand; it was surprisingly large and fine. The King -commanded that it might be shelled, in order to see if he should like -to eat some of them raw. They gave it to Zirphil to shell; he trembled -all over at having to inflict this new torture, but still more when -this poor fish joined her two claws, and, with her eyes filled with -tears, said, "Alas! Zirphil, what have I done to you that you should -wish to do me so much harm?" - -The Prince, moved by these words, and his heart pierced with grief, -looked at her sadly, and at length took it on himself to beg the -King to allow her to be pounded. The King, jealous of his authority, -and firm in his resolution, was enraged at this humble request, and -threatened to pound Zirphil himself if he did not shell it. The -poor Prince took it again from the hands of the shark to whom he -had confided it, and with a little knife which they had given him -he tremblingly touched the crayfish; he looked at his ring, and saw -Lumineuse laughing and talking to a veiled person whom she held by -the hand. He could not understand this at all, and the King, who did -not give him time to reflect, cried out to him so loudly to finish, -that the Prince stuck the knife with such force under the shell of the -crayfish that it cried piteously; he turned away his eyes from hers, -and could not help shedding tears. At length he resumed his task, -but to his great astonishment he had not finished the shelling when -he found in his hands the wicked Marmotte, who jumped to the ground, -uttering shrieks of laughter so loud and disagreeable in mockery of -Zirphil, that it prevented him from fainting, or he would have fallen -on the floor. - -The King cried in astonishment, "Why, it is my aunt!" "And truly -it is she," said this annoying animal. "But, my dear Whiting, I -come to tell you a terrible piece of news." Whiting grew pale at -these words, and the council assumed an air of satisfaction, which -increased the ill-humour of the King and his terrible aunt. "The fact -is, my darling," continued Marmotte, "you must return to your watery -dominions, for this rash boy whom you see here has chosen to display -a constancy that nothing can shake, and has triumphed over all the -traps I set for him to prevent him from carrying off the Princess I had -destined for you." - -At these words the King of the Whiting fell into such a rage, that he -could not contain himself: he committed extravagances which proved he -was possessed of the most violent passions. Marmotte tried in vain to -calm him; he broke his bowl into a thousand pieces, and, being on dry -ground, he fainted. Marmotte, mad with rage, turned to Zirphil, who had -remained a quiet spectator of this tragic scene, and said to him, "Thou -hast conquered, Zirphil, by the power of a fairy whom I must obey; but -thou art not yet at the end of thy troubles. Thou canst not be happy -till thou shalt have given into my own hand the case which enclosed the -accursed Camion. Even Lumineuse agrees to this, and I have obtained her -consent for you to suffer until that time." - -At these words she took the King of the Whiting on her shoulders, and -threw him into the reservoir, as well as the sharks, the palace, and -all its inhabitants. Zirphil found himself alone at the foot of a -great mountain, in a country which was as arid as a desert, without -being able to perceive the vestige of a habitation, or even of the -great reservoir. All had disappeared at the same moment. The Prince -was even more distressed than astonished at so extraordinary an event. -He was accustomed to wonders--he was only alive to the grief which the -persecution of the Fairy Marmotte occasioned him. "I cannot doubt," -said he, "that I have pounded my Princess. Yes, I must have pounded -her; yet I am none the happier for it. Ah, barbarous Marmotte! And you, -Lumineuse, you leave me without help, after having obeyed you at the -expense of all which a heart as sensitive as mine could suffer!" - -His grief, and the little repose which he had taken since the previous -night, threw him into such a state of weakness, that he would have -sunk altogether if he had not had the courage to wish to live. "If I -could but find something to support me," said he; "but in this horrible -desert I shall seek in vain a single fruit which can refresh me." He -had not pronounced the word when his ring opened, and a little table -covered with excellent viands came out of it. It became in a moment -large enough to accommodate the person for whom it was intended. He -found on it all that could tempt his eye and his appetite, for the -repast was so beautifully arranged, that in fact nothing was wanting, -and the wine was delicious. He returned thanks to Lumineuse, for who -else could have assisted him so opportunely? He ate, drank, and felt -strong again. - -When he had finished, the table lost its form, and re-entered the -ring. As it was late, he did not make much progress in ascending the -mountain, but stretched himself under a wretched tree, which had hardly -enough leaves to protect him from the night air. "Alas!" said he, -as he laid himself down, "such is the nature of man. He forgets the -good that is past, and is only sensible of present evil. I would now -willingly exchange my table for a couch a little less hard than this." -A moment after he felt that he was in a comfortable bed; but he could -see nothing, for it appeared to him that the darkness was redoubled. He -ascertained that this was caused by the ample curtains which surrounded -his bed, and protected him from the cold and dew, and having again -thanked the good and attentive Lumineuse, he dropped off to sleep. -On waking at daybreak, he found himself in an angel-bed,[40] of -yellow taffety and silver, which was placed in the middle of a tent of -satin of the same colour, embroidered all over with ciphers in bright -silver, which formed the name of Zirphil, and all the ciphers were -supported by whales formed of rubies. Everything that could possibly -be required was to be found also in this beautiful tent. If the Prince -had been in a more tranquil state of mind he would have admired this -elegant habitation generally; but he only looked at the whales, -dressed himself, and went out of the tent, which folded itself up, and -re-entered the ring from which it had issued. - -He began to ascend the mountain, taking no longer any trouble in -seeking food or lodging, for he was certain to have both as soon as he -wished for them. His only anxiety was to find Lumineuse; for his ring -was mute on that subject, and he found himself in a country so strange -to him, and so deserted, that he was necessarily compelled to trust to -chance. - -After having passed several days in ascending without discovering -anything, he arrived at the brink of a well which was cut in the rock. -He seated himself near it to rest, and began to exclaim, as usual, -"Lumineuse, can I not find you, then?" The last time he pronounced -these words, he heard a voice which proceeded from the well say, "Is it -Zirphil who speaks to me?" His joy at hearing this voice was increased -by recognising her to whom it belonged. He rushed to the brink of the -well, and said, "Yes, it is Zirphil. And are you not Citronette?" -"Yes," replied Citronette, emerging from the well, and embracing the -Prince. - -It is impossible to express the pleasure which this sight gave him. -He overwhelmed the nymph with questions about herself and about the -Princess. At length, after the excitement of their first meeting had -subsided, they spoke more rationally together. "I am about to inform -you," said she, "of all that you are ignorant of; for since the time -you pounded us, we have enjoyed a happiness which was only alloyed by -your absence, and I awaited your arrival here on the part of the Fairy -Lumineuse, to tell you what remains for you to do in order to obtain -possession of a Princess who loves you as much as you love her. But as -some time must elapse before you can arrive at this happiness, I will -relate to you the rest of the marvellous history of your amiable bride." - -Zirphil kissed the hand of Citronette a thousand times, and followed her -into her grotto, where he thought he should die of mingled pleasure -and grief when he recognised the spot in which he had for the first -time seen his divine Princess. At length, after partaking of a repast -which came out of the ring, he begged the good Citronette to have the -kindness to resume the narrative of the Princess from where she had -herself left off in the palace garden. - -"As it is here," said Citronette, "that Lumineuse is to meet you, you -shall, whilst waiting for her, learn all that you wish to know, for -it is useless for you to run after her. She confides you to my care, -and a lover is less impatient when one talks to him about her whom he -loves. The fairy Marmotte was not ignorant of your marriage; she had -transformed our friend into an ivory doll, believing that you would -be disgusted at her. Lumineuse conducted this affair herself, knowing -that nothing could deprive you of the Princess if you married her, -or if you destroyed her enchantment by skinning her. You chose the -former alternative, and you know what followed. By night she resumed -her proper form, and lamented at having to pass all her days in your -royal mother's pocket, for Marmotte had been permitted by Lumineuse to -torment the Princess until you had fulfilled your destiny, which was, -to skin her; so enraged was she at finding that you had married her, -and that the King of the Whiting, her nephew, could not become her -husband. - -"As the Princess was no longer a whale, there was no fish to skin; but -Marmotte, fertile in expedients, determined to make you pound her, and -had forbidden the Princess to tell you anything about it, under pain -of your life, promising her afterwards the greatest felicity. 'How -will he ever resolve to pound me?' said she when expecting you. 'Ah, -my dear Citronette, if it were only my life that Marmotte threatened, -I would give it cheerfully to shield my husband from the torments they -prepared for him; but they attack his life--that life which is so dear -to me. Ah, Marmotte! barbarous Marmotte! Is it possible that you can -take pleasure in making me so miserable when I have never given you -any cause for it?' She knew the period prescribed for your separation -from her, but she dared not tell you of it. The last time that you saw -her, you know that you found her in tears; you asked her the cause, she -pretended it was on account of your attentions to little Camion, and -accused you of inconstancy. You appeased her apparent jealousy; and -the fatal hour at which Marmotte was to fetch her arrived. You were -transported into the palace of the King, your father; the Princess -and I were changed into crayfish, and placed in a little cane basket, -which the Fairy put under her arm, and ascending a car drawn by two -adders, we arrived at the palace of the King of the Whiting. This -palace was that of the royal father of the Princess: the city, changed -into a lake, formed the reservoir which we have inhabited, and all the -men-fish that you have seen were the wicked subjects of that good King. - -"I must tell you, my Lord," said Citronette, interrupting herself, -"that that unfortunate Monarch, and the Queen, his wife, being in -despair at the moment when the Princess sank to the bottom of the well, -the Fairies who had formerly come to their assistance, appeared, to -console them for her loss; but the unhappy pair knowing that it was to -their kingdom that Camion would be exiled, chose to be there rather -than at a distance from her, notwithstanding what they had to fear from -the cruelty and ferocity of the King of the Whiting, whom his Aunt had -caused to be crowned by these men-fish. The Fairies did not conceal -from them the future fate of the Princess; and the King, her father, -begged to be the clerk of the kitchen and keeper of the King of the -Whiting's mortar. The Fairy immediately gave him a tap of her wand, -and he became the pike-headed man you saw in that situation; and you -need no longer be surprised at his having wept bitterly whenever you -brought the crayfish to pound, for as he knew that his daughter must -undergo this torture, he always thought she was amongst the number; and -the miserable Monarch had not a moment's rest, because his daughter had -no means of making herself known to him. The Queen had requested to be -changed into a crayfish, in order to be with the Princess, and her wish -was also granted. - -"As soon as we arrived at the palace of the King of the Whiting, the -Fairy presented us to him, and ordered him to have crayfish soup made -for his dinner every day. We were then thrown into the reservoir. My -first care was to seek the Queen, in order to soothe a little the grief -of the Princess, but either by the decree of fate or stupidity on my -part, I found it impossible to discover her. We passed our days in -this mournful search, and our pleasantest moments were those in which -we recalled the circumstances of our unhappy lives. You arrived at -length, and they presented us to you; but the Fairy had forbidden us -to make ourselves known before you should interrogate us, and we dared -not infringe this rule, so continually were we compelled to submit to -severities for trifles. - -"The Princess told me she thought she should have died of fright at -observing you in conversation with the cruel Marmotte; we saw you -searching amongst our companions with a mortal impatience, it being -obvious that, by the direction you took, you had little chance of -arriving at us. - -"We knew that we must be pounded; but we had also learnt that -immediately after we should be restored to our former condition, and -that the wicked Marmotte would have no further power over us. On the -eve of the day on which you were to commence the infliction of this -torture on us, we were all assembled in a cavity of the reservoir, -weeping over our destiny, when Lumineuse appeared. 'Do not weep, my -children,' said that admirable fairy; 'I come to inform you that -you will escape the punishment they threaten you with, provided you -go gaily to the mortar, and do not answer any questions that may be -addressed to you. I can say no more at present--I am in haste; but do -as I have told you, and you will not repent it. Let her whose fate -appears the most cruel not lose hope--she will soon find relief.' We -all thanked the Fairy, and appeared before you perfectly resolved -to keep our secret. You spoke to some, who only made vague replies, -and when you had chosen ten, we returned to the reservoir, where the -assurance of our speedy deliverance inspired us with a natural gaiety -which assisted the project of our protectress. - -"The last words Lumineuse had spoken gave to the beautiful Camion a -lightness of heart which rendered her charming in the eyes of her -mother and me; for the Queen had at length recognised her, and we three -were inseparable. At length your choice fell on the Queen and me, and -we had not time to say adieu to the Princess. An unknown power acted -on us at the moment, and inspired us with such gaiety that we thought -we should die of laughter at the absurd things we said to each other. -You carried us to the kitchen, and we had not touched the bottom of -the fatal mortar before Lumineuse herself came to our assistance, and -restoring me my natural form, transported me to my customary abode. I -had the consolation of seeing the Queen and our companions also resume -theirs, but I know not what became of them. The Fairy embraced me, and -told me to await you, and relate to you everything when you should come -to seek the Princess. - -"I awaited this moment with impatience, as you will well believe, my -Lord," said Citronette to the Prince, who listened most eagerly to -her; "and yesterday I seated myself at the mouth of the well, when -Lumineuse appeared. 'Our children are about to be made happy, my -dear Citronette,' said she to me; 'Zirphil has only to recover the -toothpick-case of Marmotte to finish his labours, for at length he has -skinned the Princess.' 'Ah! great Queen,' cried I, 'are we so happy -as to be certain of this?' 'Yes,' replied she, 'it is quite true; -he thought that he only skinned Marmotte, but it was in reality the -Princess. Marmotte was concealed in the handle of the knife he used -for that act, and the instant he had finished his task she caused the -Princess to vanish, and appeared in her place, for the purpose of again -intimidating him!" "What!" cried the Prince, "was it to my charming -bride that I did that harm? Have I had the barbarity to inflict on her -such a cruel torment! Ah, heavens! she will never pardon me, and I do -not deserve she should!" The unhappy Zirphil spoke so impetuously, and -distressed himself so greatly, that poor Citronette was sorry she had -told him this news. - -"How," said she, at last, seeing that he was quite overcome by his -reflections, "how, you did not know it?" "No, I did not know that," -said he; "what determined me to take the shell off that unhappy and too -charming crayfish was, that I saw Lumineuse in my ring speaking to a -veiled person who even laughed with her, and who, I flattered myself, -was my Princess; and I thought that she had passed through the mortar -like the rest. Ah, I shall never forgive myself for this mistake!" -"But, my Lord," said Citronette, "the charm depended on your skinning -or pounding her, and you had done neither one nor the other; besides, -the person to whom Lumineuse spoke was the mother of the Princess; they -awaited the end of your adventure in order to seize on your bride and -protect her for you; it was quite necessary that it should so happen." -"Nevertheless," said the Prince, "if I had known it, I would rather -have pierced my own heart with that horrid knife!" "But consider," -said Citronette, "that in piercing your heart you would have left the -Princess for ever in the power of your enemy and frightful rival, and -that it is far better to have shelled her than to have died and left -her in misery." - -Apparently this argument, so obviously founded on truth, appeased the -grief of the Prince, and he consented to take a little nourishment -for his support. They had just finished, when the roof of the saloon -opened, and Lumineuse appeared, seated upon a carbuncle drawn by a -hundred butterflies; she descended from it, assisted by the Prince, -who bathed the hem of her garment with a torrent of tears. The Fairy -raised him, and said, "Prince Zirphil, to-day you are about to reap -the fruit of your heroic labours. Console yourself, and enjoy at -length your happiness. I have vanquished the fury of Marmotte by my -prayers, and your courage has disarmed her: come with me to receive -your Princess from her hands and mine." "Ah, Madam," cried the Prince, -throwing himself at her feet, "am I not dreaming? Is it possible that -my happiness is real?" "Do not doubt it," said the Fairy, "come to your -kingdom and console the Queen, your mother, for your absence, and for -the death of the King, your father: your subjects wait to crown you." - -The Prince in the midst of his joy felt a pang at the tidings of the -death of his father; but the Fairy to divert him from his affliction, -made him place himself by her side, permitted Citronette to seat -herself at their feet, and then the butterflies spread their brilliant -wings, and set out for the empire of King Zirphil. - -On the road, the Fairy told him to open his ring, and he there found -the toothpick-case which he had to return to Marmotte. The King -thanked the generous Fairy a thousand times over, and they arrived -at the capital of his dominions, where they were expected with the -utmost impatience. Zirphil's mother advanced to receive the Fairy as -she descended from her car, and all the people becoming aware of the -return of Zirphil, uttered acclamations which diverted him a little -from his grief; he tenderly embraced his mother, and all ascended to a -magnificent apartment which the Queen had prepared for the Fairy. - -They had hardly entered, when Marmotte arrived in a car lined with -Spanish leather, and drawn by eight winged rats. She brought with -her the beautiful Camion, with the King and Queen, her father and -mother. Lumineuse and the Queen hastened to embrace Marmotte, Zirphil -respectfully kissed her paw, which she extended to him, laughing; and -he returned her the toothpick case. She then permitted him to claim his -bride, and presented her to the Queen, who embraced her with a thousand -expressions of joy. - -This numerous and illustrious assemblage began speaking all together. -Joy reigned supreme amongst them. Camion and her charming husband -were the only persons who could not speak a word. They had so much to -say. There was an eloquence in their silence which affected every one -present; the good Citronette wept with joy whilst kissing the hands of -the divine Princess. - -At length, Lumineuse took them both by the hand, and advancing with -them towards the Queen, mother of Zirphil: "Behold, Madam," said she, -"two young lovers who only wait your consent to be happy: complete -their felicity; my sister Marmotte, the King and Queen, here present, -and I myself, all request you to do so." - -The Queen replied as she ought to this courteous speech, and -tenderly embracing the happy pair, said, "Yes, my children, live -happily together, and permit me, in relinquishing my crown to you, -to participate in that happiness." Zirphil and the Princess threw -themselves at her feet, from whence she raised them, and again -embracing them, they conjured her not to abandon them, but to aid them -by her counsels. - -Marmotte then touched the beautiful Camion with her wand, and her -clothes, which were already sufficiently magnificent, became silver -brocade embroidered with carat diamonds, and her beautiful locks fell -down and rearranged themselves so exquisitely that the Kings and Queens -declared her appearance was perfectly dazzling: the toothpick-case -which the Fairy held was changed into a crown formed entirely of -brilliants, so beautiful and so well set that the room and the whole -palace became illuminated by it. Marmotte placed it on the head of the -Princess. Zirphil, in his turn, appeared in a suit similar to that of -Camion; and from the ring which she had given him came forth a crown -exactly like hers. - -They were married on the spot, and proclaimed King and Queen of that -fine country. The Fairies gave the royal wedding-breakfast, at which -nothing was wanting. After having spent a week with them, and having -overwhelmed them with good things, they departed, and reconducted the -King and Queen, father and mother of Camion, into their kingdom, the -old inhabitants of which they had punished, and repeopled it by a new -race faithful to their master. As for Citronette, the Fairies permitted -her to come and pass some time with her beautiful Queen, and consented -to allow Camion, by only wishing for her, to see her whenever she -pleased. - -The Fairies at length departed, and never were people so happy as King -Zirphil and Queen Camion. They found their greatest felicity in each -other: and days seemed to them like moments. They had children who -completed their happiness. They lived to an extreme old age; loving -with the same intensity, and striving which should most please the -other. On their decease their kingdom was divided, and after various -changes it has become, under the dominion of one of their descendants, -the flourishing empire of the Great Mogul. - - -FOOTNOTES: - -[34] _Dauphin_ in the original. - -[35] In the _Lady's Dictionary_, 1694, we find a palatine "is -that which used to be called a sable tippet; but that name is changed -to one that is supposed to be finer, because newer, and _à la mode de -France_." - -[36] The Marmot of the Alps (_Aretomys_--literally -"Bear-rat"), a large mountain-rat, more than a foot long, with a body -shaped something like a bear. - -[37] See Appendix. - -[38] _Camion_ signifies in French what we call a minikin-pin. - -[39] Melusine is the heroine of a story as old as the -fourteenth century, and on which some portion of "La Princesse Camion" -appears to have been founded (_Vide_ Appendix). Brantôme says she -haunts the castle of Lusignan, where she announces by _loud shrieks_ -any disaster that is to befal the French monarchy. This legend gave -rise to the expression of "Cris de Melusine." - -[40] _Lit d'ange_--a bed with curtains suspended over it by a -ring or pole. - - - - -PRINCESS LIONETTE AND PRINCE COQUERICO. - - -In the Circassian mountains lived an old man and his wife who had -retired from the world, weary of the caprices of fortune. They had -found for themselves a convenient retreat in a cavern, which extended -far beneath one of the mountains, and the dread of seeing each other -expire was the only anxiety that troubled them in their solitude. -They had lived at Courts, and knew all the insincerity that prevailed -in them; and far from regretting the brilliant positions they had -occupied, they pitied those who, from ambition or want of experience, -were desirous of them. They lived a happy and quiet life. Their food -consisted of fruit and fish, the latter abounding in a large pond, -wherein the old man amused himself by taking them; while a flock of -sheep which the old woman had the care of, produced the finest wool -in the world to make their clothes with. The old man called himself -Mulidor, and his wife was named Phila. They incessantly implored the -gods to send somebody to console whichever might be left the last upon -earth, or to close their eyes, but their prayers had not yet been -granted. It must not, however, be supposed that the gods rejected such -pure and reasonable desires, but they wished to prove the constancy of -these good people, to recompense them afterwards with interest. - - [Illustration: Princess Lionette and Prince Coquerico.--P. 416.] - -The old man had just caught some fish, and after fastening his boat to -the bank, he spread his net upon a rock to dry it in the sun, when a -lion rushed out from one of the cavities of the rock, and went to drink -in the pond. Mulidor was afraid at first, but afterwards finding that -the proud beast was roaring because he could not reach the water, which -was too far off from the edge at this spot, he re-entered his boat, and -filling a bowl offered it to the lion, who came and emptied it several -times. After he had quenched his thirst, he raised his head and looked -at his benefactor so mildly, that the good man ventured to caress him. -The lion appeared pleased at his doing so, and ate some bread and -cheese which the old man took from a basket he had slung on his arm. -As, however, this was not a very safe companion, Mulidor thought he -had better return to his cavern, fearing that his wife, uneasy at his -absence, might come in search of him, and that the lion, having less -respect for her than for him, would devour her. - -This idea was beginning to agitate him, when the lion, after licking -his hand, returned to his own home, leaving the old man at liberty -to do so likewise. Upon reaching the cavern he found his wife, as he -expected, alarmed at his delay; he related his adventure to her, which -made her shudder. They continued to talk upon the subject, and drew -this inference, that men might learn lessons of kindness and gratitude -from animals. "Do not, however, place yourself again at the mercy of -this fierce beast," said she, affectionately, "or let me go with you, -for I could not live under the fear I shall henceforth be in concerning -you. You have been restored to me this time, but can I flatter myself -that the Gods will be always equally gracious to me." The old man, -touched by her affection, promised to avoid the lion in future. This -conversation kept them up late, and consequently they did not awake -till the golden rays of morning shone full upon them. On opening the -door to go out and feed her sheep, Phila was greatly surprised to find -at it a lion of prodigious size and strength, and a lioness of equal -power and beauty, the latter carrying on her back a little girl of five -or six years old, who, as soon as she saw the old woman, alighted, ran -to her, and embraced her. - -The good woman stood motionless with fear and wonder, and the lions, -after kissing the little girl, who returned their caresses, ran off, -and disappeared in an instant, leaving her in the good wife's hands. -Recovering from her fright she looked at the child, who never ceased -kissing her, took her in her arms, and went into the cavern to show her -to her husband. They both of them admired her beauty and gentleness; -she was quite naked, her fair hair only falling over her shoulders, and -upon her right breast she had a singular mark in the shape of a crown. - -The good people thanked the Gods for this gift; they dressed the -beautiful little child in a light snow-white robe, with a rose-coloured -girdle, and tied up her hair with ribbon of the same colour. She -allowed them to do so quietly, and without saying a word. They fondled -her, and gave her some ewe's milk quite fresh. She smiled at the sight -of it, and looking at them, uttered a little cry resembling the roar -of a lion. She soon became accustomed to them, however; she had no -resemblance to a lion but in her voice, and from that circumstance -they called her Lionette. She answered to this name, and her natural -intelligence soon enabled her to understand what they said to her, -and at length to speak and explain herself. She had been a year with -these good people, who loved her dearly, and were equally loved by her, -when Mulidor, to make her familiar with their way of life, in case she -should lose them, took her out to fish with him. He had been there -several times alone without meeting the lions, but little Lionette was -no sooner at the foot of the rock where the good man dried his fish -than she uttered a little roar, which awoke the lion and lioness, who -ran out to her immediately, each vying with the other in fondling and -caressing her. She embraced the lioness affectionately, who allowed her -freely to do so; at length she jumped upon her back, and the lions ran -off with her in a moment. The poor old man was in consternation; he -threw himself upon the ground and prayed to die, now that he had lost -Lionette. After lying there a long time, finding his despair could be -of no avail, he dragged himself to his cavern, and created fresh misery -there in relating to Phila the accident that had happened to Lionette. - -"Lionette! my dear Lionette!" cried the good woman, "is it possible we -can have lost you? Alas! why did the Gods present you to us, so cruelly -to take you from us? Of all the goods we have lost we but regret you!" -Their affliction was inconsolable, and poor Mulidor had scarcely -spirit enough to bear up against this misfortune. The night was passed -in lamentations and tears. At break of day they went in search of -her, fearing neither the lions nor their fury; their great love for -Lionette made them wish to be devoured also, if she had undergone that -frightful fate. They ran to the rock where the lions had chosen to -establish themselves, when suddenly they saw little Lionette riding -on the lioness towards them. As soon as the lovely child saw them she -jumped down, and ran and threw her arms round their necks; then taking -from the back of the lioness a kid that she had killed in the chase, -"There," said she, "see what mother lioness gives you; she took me -hunting to get game for you." These good people were half crazy with -delight at seeing her again; they could not help crying, and bathing -her pretty face with their tears. "My dear daughter! my dear child!" -they exclaimed, "you are restored to us again." Lionette was affected -at this sight. "Do you then," said she, "forbid me from seeing the -lioness, that you can say nothing to her, and that you shed tears in -embracing me?" "No, no, my dear child," they both cried at once, "but -we feared that you had abandoned us." "Mother lioness does not wish -it," said the child, "she wishes me to be your daughter." She turned -round for her to agree to what she said, but she was no longer there, -and Lionette returned cheerfully with them to the cavern. - -Mulidor and Phila thought this was a very wonderful adventure; they -had many private conversations about it, and determined they would -not refuse the child to the Lioness, when she chose to come for her; -at the same time, Mulidor obtained his wife's consent to consult -Tigreline upon Lionette's destiny. She was a very learned Fairy. "I -had already thought of doing so," replied Phila, "and it had better be -done directly." It was settled he should start the first thing in the -morning. - -The good woman prepared a present for the Fairy, to induce her to be -more gracious--nothing very precious, the Fairies do not desire it--it -was a piece of sky-blue ribbon, and a little basket of nuts, which -Tigreline was passionately fond of. Mulidor set out on his journey to -her dwelling; she had fixed her habitation in the heart of an immense -forest which was filled with tigers--it was from that circumstance she -took her name. When any one sought her for a good object, the tigers -did them no harm, but if they went thither with any evil design, -they tore them to pieces, and none such were ever known to reach the -Fairy's castle. The old man having nothing to fear upon that subject, -did not arm himself with any weapon of defence, and arrived without -difficulty at the castle at the moment the Fairy was getting up. He -found her occupied in stringing large pearls on a golden thread. She -received him very graciously, and taking her spectacles from off her -nose, "Approach, wise old man," said she. "I know what has brought -you here, and I am very glad to see you." Mulidor bowed profoundly, -and kissed Tigreline's robe. He offered his little present, which she -received very kindly, then making him sit down, she told him she would -consult Destiny in her large book, that she might answer correctly the -questions he came to ask her. After reading for some time, she raised -her eyes to Heaven, then fixing them upon Mulidor, "Listen," said she, -"to what I think of Lionette. She must be warned from loving one who -is her direct opposite, otherwise great misfortune may happen to her, -even to the loss of life. Should she arrive at twenty without this -fate befalling her, I answer for her happiness." She then informed the -old man that Lionette was a great Princess, exposed to be eaten by -lions almost immediately after she was born, through the wickedness -of a certain Queen; but she would not tell him anything more, and -exhorted the old man to continue to cultivate in the child all those -good feelings which he himself possessed, and left it to him to decide -on telling her who she was, trusting to his prudence for securing her -happiness. - -She then gave him for Lionette the string of pearls she had just -finished. "If she do not lose it, or give it away," said the Fairy, -"it will preserve her from many dangers. It may, indeed, insure her -happiness if she take special care of it." The old man thanked the -Fairy and returned home, where he arrived before nightfall. - -He found his wife and Lionette; the latter embraced him a thousand -times, and he tied the Fairy's pearls round her neck, earnestly -entreating her to take great care of them. She was enchanted with this -new ornament, and the old man related to Phila, as soon as they were -alone, all that the Fairy had told him. They consulted together upon -the course they should take, and resolved they would say nothing to -Lionette of her birth, to prevent her feeling useless regrets. "We -can tell her at any time, should it be necessary to do so," added the -prudent wife; "and we should be sorry for it (not having it in our -power to give her more than the education of a simple shepherdess) if -her disposition, sweet as it is now, should be changed by the knowledge -of her rank. Let us attend to her heart and mind: princesses have not -the time to do so. She will learn from her own experience that they are -as subject as other mortals are to the caprices of Fortune, and perhaps -she may be the happier for it." - -Mulidor quite agreed with the truth of this, and they applied -themselves more than ever to the education of this amiable child, whose -natural excellence left them nothing to wish for. She was twelve years -old, and continued to go hunting with the Lioness, very often carrying -on her shoulder a little quiver, and skilfully shooting the wild -beasts. One night, returning later than usual, the cavern resounded -with the roars of the Lioness. Mulidor and Phila both went out, and -found the Lioness at the door, having brought Lionette with her, who -was seated on the ground, endeavouring to console the poor animal, -that appeared in deep despair. "The Lion is dead," cried the young -child, "and my mother cannot be comforted--a hunter has killed him." -The Lioness rolled upon the ground, and shed torrents of tears. The old -man, his wife, and Lionette did their best to soothe her grief; but -after passing the whole night in the vain attempt, the Lioness expired -herself in the morning. The sobs and grief of Lionette were excessive, -she could not leave the body of the poor beast, she embraced it, and -shed tears over it. At length they dragged her from this sad scene, -and while the old man buried the Lioness, the kind Phila attended to -Lionette, who was in the deepest affliction. When Mulidor came in, he -was much moved by the child's grief, and was anxious to comfort her, -but finding he only increased her sorrow, he said, "What would you have -done, then, my child, if this accident had happened to either of us? It -is not possible you could have felt it more keenly." "Ah! my father," -cried she, holding her arms out to embrace him, fearing that he was -offended at the little attention she paid to his consolations, "if the -Gods have reserved so much misfortune for me, I implore them to let me -die instantly, for I shall not be able to support it." "The Gods, my -child," replied the old man, "do not always grant such rash petitions. -It is offending Providence not to submit humbly to its decrees. Do you -suppose you are the only one who suffers from affliction in this life? -Is this the courage I thought you capable of?" - -Lionette cast down her eyes: the severity of this remonstrance had -brought a slight colour into her cheeks, which made her more lovely. -Mulidor felt he had said enough; he went out and left his wife to -soften anything he might have said too harshly; and Phila, embracing -Lionette, said, "Really, my child, you would make us believe you could -have no greater grief. No doubt the friendship you show for these poor -animals is highly laudable, but you must take comfort, and thank the -Gods that they have not inflicted on you greater misfortunes." "Ah! -my mother," cried Lionette, embracing her, "how much obliged I am to -you for speaking to me thus; do not let my father be angry with me any -more--I feel I could not bear it." Mulidor re-entered; Lionette ran to -embrace him; he returned her caresses with a fondness that consoled the -charming child. They could not sufficiently admire the goodness of her -heart, her sensibility, her gentleness, and frankness; and she also -loved them dearly. - -Lionette, however, continued to deplore the loss of the Lions: a deep -melancholy appeared to have taken possession of her; she dared not give -way to it before Mulidor, but she felt less restraint with Phila. The -worthy couple often conversed together upon this subject; they became -alarmed at Lionette's condition; they tried to amuse her; they went out -more frequently, took walks with her, allowed her to go hunting and -fishing, gave her birds, flowers, shells; but she preferred hunting to -all other amusements. The part of the country in which they lived was -so wild a desert that persons must either have come there on purpose, -or have lost their way, to be seen in it, so there was little danger of -Lionette meeting with anybody. Still, the fact of the Lion having been -killed by a hunter was remembered by Mulidor. He never could understand -how a man could get so far without having found out their retreat, or -being more astonished at seeing a young girl mounted on a Lioness, and -hunting in company with a Lion. They did not dare ask Lionette any -questions about it, fearing they should renew her grief; and yet they -feared to prohibit her from hunting, feeling, good souls, how cruel it -would be to deprive her of her favourite amusement. They only entreated -her, therefore, to take care she did not lose herself. - -At the end of some months, Lionette regained her spirits a little. -The old man and his wife were enchanted at this happy change. They -congratulated themselves upon having promoted it by their indulgence, -and trusted that she would in time forget the Lions. She grew fast, and -began to evince character; she was wonderfully beautiful, even in the -most simple of her dresses. Phila had made her garment of the finest -tigers' skins, and a little cap of the same material; and thus attired, -one might have taken her for Diana herself, she was so graceful and -majestic. Her beautiful black eyes heightened the brilliancy and -vivacity of her complexion, which neither the hottest sun nor the -most scorching wind had any effect upon, nor could they injure the -whiteness of her arms or neck. She was not at all aware of her beauty; -her strength of mind and her education made her above priding herself -on her personal advantages. She spoke well, and her ideas were even -superior to her language. The good people were astonished to see her at -so early an age evincing so much talent and judgment. She was then just -approaching her fifteenth birthday. - -For some days past, Phila perceived that she had taken the trouble -to put her hair in curls on going to bed, and that on going out she -glanced at herself with a kind of satisfaction in a fountain adjoining -the cavern. She mentioned this to Mulidor, who was as much surprised -at it as herself; they, however, did not choose to speak to her about -it, but determined to watch her closely, that they might discover -the motive of this unusual attention to her personal appearance, and -they recollected that for some time past she had appeared thoughtful, -uneasy, and indifferent to matters which had previously amused her. - -Lionette returned to the cavern rather earlier on that day; she brought -with her a brace of partridges that she had killed. The good woman -asked her if she felt too tired to help her with some spinning she -wished to finish. "If you could dispense with my assistance," said -Lionette, "I should be very much obliged to you; I feel so inclined to -sleep." - -Phila consented, and let her go into a little nook of the cavern which -made a kind of room for her. She had decorated it with all the rarest -things that she had found. The hangings were composed of the feathers -of singular birds, and an abundance of flowers in shells, which she -kept filled with fresh water, ornamented this pretty chamber. Mulidor -had taught her to paint; she had finished some charming pictures, -and with the wool she had found in the cavern she had embroidered -some cushions, which she had arranged as a couch. Upon this she threw -herself, looking more like a goddess than a mortal. - -The good woman becoming uneasy at the length of time she slept, went -to seek her; she found her, as I have just described, reclining on the -cushions; her eyes were shut, but a few tears that were struggling -to escape through their long lashes, convinced her that the lovely -Lionette was in some distress. She stood looking at her for some time, -she had never seen her look so beautiful; but at length, alarmed at -her condition, she drew nearer, and taking her hands, pressed them -affectionately between her own. - -This action aroused Lionette, and turning her eyes towards Phila, "Ah, -mother!" said she, throwing herself upon her neck, "how ashamed I am to -appear thus before you." "Why, my dear girl," said Phila, "why do you -conceal your troubles from me? Do you not know how interested we both -feel for you? What is the matter with you, my child? Do not hide your -distress from me; perhaps I could assuage it." - -Lionette was some time before she ventured to answer. She kept her -head bent down in the old woman's hands; she kissed them passionately. -At length she regained her courage, and raising herself, her cheeks -suffused with blushes, "I am about to tell you something," said she, -"which has tormented me for some time past. Let me hope this avowal at -least will serve to obtain your forgiveness." "Speak, my dear girl," -said Phila, "and fear nothing. I am more uneasy at your grief than -angry at your having concealed it from me." - -Lionette encouraged by this, told her that, on her way to the forest, -about three months ago, she had seen a young shepherd fast asleep, and -that an arrow which she had shot at a bird having missed it, fell and -pierced the young man's hand; that attracted by the cry he uttered, -she approached him, and assisted in stanching the blood. "This wound," -she added, "awoke in my heart a strange emotion. I trembled in applying -to it the herbs I had gathered, the properties of which you had taught -me. He, far from being angry with me, told me he should never complain -of that wound, but eternally of the one my eyes had inflicted on him. - -"This language, quite new to me, was so fascinating that I wished never -to quit him. He wept as he gazed on me; he kissed my hands to detain -me. I proposed that he should follow me, that my father might assist in -curing him. 'I cannot do so, beautiful Lionette,' said he (I had told -him my name), 'a most cruel fate has forced me to fly from the world; -but promise me to come sometimes and cheer my solitude, and I shall ask -nothing more from the Gods. I shall believe their anger is appeased.' -I did promise him--he asked me too tenderly to be refused. At length I -felt you would be uneasy at my stay, and I left him with so much regret -that I burst into tears, and hurried away that he might not perceive -it, for I was ashamed, I think, of my compassion for him. - -"I returned, restless and miserable. Next morning I went in search of -him. I cannot tell what prevented me from making you acquainted with -it, but I was on the point of telling you a hundred times, and as often -I felt it would be impossible to do so--perhaps it was because he -had begged me to keep it a secret. I ran to look for him, to ask his -permission to tell you. Approaching the spot where we had seen each -other the evening before, I stopped suddenly. A feeling of reproach -came over me for having hidden this proceeding from you; and besides, I -was so agitated, I feared I should be ill. 'What shall I do by myself -here?' thought I; 'I am without help, and that which I might find is -perhaps dangerous to wait for. Unfortunate Lionette, what hast thou -promised to do? Fly, return to thy duty, for it is clear that thou -hast wandered from it, since thou art so much disturbed at taking this -secret step. The Gods warn thee. This state of mind is not natural.' -I had sat down to reflect. I got up. I retraced my steps, when a -grievous thought arrested me. 'Alas!' said I, 'perhaps he is unable to -come to meet me, from the wound I inflicted on him; and if so, what -will be his despair at not seeing me? There is no one to help him in -this desolate place but myself. To refuse him my assistance would be -inhuman. Let me find out whether he wants me, and see him but for that.' - -"I proceeded, therefore, to the fatal place where I had wounded him the -evening before. He was not there. I became alarmed; my limbs failed -me; I fell upon the moss which covered the ground. I saw some traces -of his blood still remaining on it. I was nearly suffocated by my -grief. Happily my tears flowed, and that relieved me; but I felt the -keenest affliction when I thought that perhaps I had been the cause -of his death. I drew out my arrows, and broke them deliberately as a -punishment for my cruelty. I caught sight by chance of the one with -which I had wounded him. It was still upon the ground, and stained -with his blood. My tears flowed faster at this frightful sight. I gave -utterance to my agony in piercing shrieks. They were interrupted by -the sight of the young shepherd himself, running quickly towards me. -I could not rise. He threw himself on his knees near me, in so much -terror that I was alarmed myself at his excessive paleness. He asked -me what had happened. At the same time I put the same question to him. -We re-assured each other. I told him the reason of my tears. Never was -any one thanked so tenderly. His words had a charm in them that went to -my heart. I listened with a pleasure I had never felt before; I nearly -forgot his wound, so much I feared to interrupt him. I was astonished, -however, to hear him say how much he loved me--he, whom I had scarcely -ever seen; and I was still more surprised to find how dear he had -become to me, for he told me more than I could dare tell him; and I -believe he could read my heart, for I thought exactly as he did, only -it appeared to me I could not so well have expressed myself. - -"At last he told me that he wished to be mine. 'And are you not so -already?' said I. 'Can you be more so than you are? That would enchant -me.' He smiled at my words. I thought I had said something wrong, and -I blushed at my awkward manner of expressing myself. I know not what -he thought, but he said a thousand more affectionate things to me. He -informed me he was the son of a great king, and would be my husband. -'I cannot be your wife,' said I: 'they will not let me.' 'Ah! who will -oppose it,' exclaimed he, 'if you consent?' I then told him that my -father and mother had always said a crown would be an obstacle to the -happiness of my life, and that they certainly would never consent to -such a union. 'Wait for a few days,' said he, 'and I will tell you -how to soften their severity. If you love me you will assist me in -conquering it; but never refrain from coming to this place. My life -depends upon your acquiescence. Fear nothing from me, lovely Lionette; -nothing can be purer than my affection, and I call all the divinities -of the forest to witness that I shall ever respect as much as I love -you.' He gave me his hand; I gave him mine, and I vowed, as he had -done, to love for ever, if you consented to it. - -"I examined his hand, and found the wound had healed; I was delighted -at this, and left him, promising to return, and not to say anything to -you until he desired me. I returned so absorbed by his image that I -felt as though I only lived when he was present. I had no pleasure in -anything but him: the more I saw him the more I wished to see him. It -was the same with him. He is charming, mother! and were you to see him -you could not do otherwise than love him. - -"Three months have passed in this sweet union, and now comes my misery. -This morning he told me that it was necessary that he should be -absent for some days upon important business which tended much to our -happiness. I had never known what it was to lose sight of him for more -than a few hours. I was as wretched as he was. He told me, however, -that he should soon return, and that he was even more anxious than -myself to complete our happiness. I wept bitterly. At length the hour -arrived for us to part, I unfastened my necklace, and tied it round his -arm----" - -"Oh, heavens! what have you done, my child?" exclaimed Phila. "We are -lost beyond help." - -She threw herself upon the ground, and filled the cavern with her -cries, Lionette, alarmed at this sight, arose to assist the good woman. -"What is the matter, then, mother?" she cried. "Why should a necklace -of such trifling consequence rouse you to so much grief?" "It is for -you I weep, my daughter," said Phila. "Your happiness was linked with -the preservation of that unfortunate necklace." - -She then repeated what the Fairy Tigreline had said to Mulidor, and did -not conceal from her that she was a princess, but that she knew nothing -more. Lionette, who possessed naturally an elevated mind, was not -astonished at this news. "Very well, mother," said she; "the more you -convince me of the probability of my high birth, the more courageously -I ought to bear up against the sad events which are predicted of me, -though, to speak the truth, I do not believe in them; and I see nothing -unfortunate here but the absence of the shepherd whom I love, and his -unhappy name, which made me fly from him without being able to control -myself. These are the only misfortunes I know of." "What say you, my -daughter?" exclaimed the old woman; "his name caused you to fly from -him? Explain this riddle--I do not understand it." "Alas! this is -the cause of my despair," replied Lionette. "I had scarcely tied the -necklace round his arm, when he kissed my hand with such transport that -I forgot my grief for the moment. 'Yes, beautiful Lionette,' he said, -'it is for life that you have enchained the happy Prince Coquerico.' - -"Hardly had he pronounced his name, which he had never told me (he -preferred that I should always call him my shepherd), than I felt -so horrified, without knowing wherefore, that I fled as swiftly as -possible. He followed me; he called me. I had not the power to return. -An invisible hand seemed to impel me forward. 'My dear Lionette,' he -cried, 'where are you going? It is your shepherd--it is Coquerico -who calls you.' I ran still faster. At last I lost sight of him, -either that I had taken paths he knew not of, or that he was afraid -of displeasing me by following me any longer. I arrived here in such -confusion I had some trouble in hiding it from you. You know the rest, -my mother--all that has happened to me, and I beg you a thousand -pardons for profiting so little from your good lessons; and although I -owe my birth to apparently powerful princes, I shall always submit to -your authority." - -Mulidor came in as Lionette finished speaking; they made him acquainted -with this adventure; he was in great alarm at what might happen from -the loss of the necklace, and did not dare go and consult Tigreline, -whom they had so decidedly disobeyed. There was nothing to be done -but to wait and see what would befal the Princess. They entreated her -to forget this young man; they succeeded by degrees in consoling her -for his absence, and notwithstanding her melancholy, she took part -occasionally in their cheerful conversation. - -Two months passed in this manner. One night they were suddenly awakened -out of a deep sleep by a clap of thunder which made them think the -cavern was crumbling to pieces. They started to their feet, and had not -time to recover themselves before a hideous and very richly dressed -Fairy touched them with her wand, and they were transformed into two -Lionesses and a Lion, she then transported them in an instant to the -Forest of Tigers, where she vanished and left them. - -Who could express the consternation of the wise old man, or his wife's -distress? That of the Princess was still greater, she reproached -herself as being the cause of these good peoples' misfortune; and what -distressed her still more was, not being able to speak, she had not -the power of comforting them. This calamity for the moment made her -forget Prince Coquerico; but when she thought she should never see him -more, or that if she did, he would fly in terror from her, or at least -not recognise her, she uttered such frightful roars that the forest -resounded with them, and her poor companions came near her to try to -console her. Their grief was redoubled to find they could neither -understand nor speak to her. They groaned despairingly. At length it -occurred to all three of them to go to the Fairy, but they had no power -of communicating the idea to each other. The Lion was the first to -start, the two Lionesses followed him, but the Tigers stopped the way, -without, however, doing them any harm. Finding their intentions were -frustrated, they concluded it was by the Fairy's orders. They buried -themselves in the thickest part of the forest, and laid down very -sorrowfully upon some beautiful green grass, which served as a bed for -them. They passed some considerable time in this place without seeing -the Fairy, she took care, however, to send them food by one of the -Tigers regularly every day. - -It is now time to acquaint the reader who Prince Coquerico was:--That -young Prince was the son of a King who had been very powerful, and who -had reigned in the Fortunate Islands. This King was dead, and having -left his son at a tender age, the Queen became regent. The ambition of -reigning, the pride of being Sovereign Mistress, had closed her heart -against the feelings of nature. She had her son brought up in a castle -upon the edge of the sea, in luxury and idleness unequalled; and her -excuse for this sort of education was a prediction of the Fairies at -his birth, to the effect that his life would be endangered if he took -up arms before he was twenty years old. - -Everything was interdicted that could give him any desire for military -exercises, and the art of war was depicted in such frightful colours -that, however valiant the Prince might have been born, he shuddered -at even the picture of a sword. The King, his father, who had died in -battle, was represented to him as so sanguinary a sovereign that he -vowed he would never imitate him. - -They had named this prince, Coquerico, in derision from his having -amused himself one day--contrary to the desire of his tutors--with -looking at a fight between two game cocks. He spent his life in -walking; in hearing sentimental romances read to him, the heroes of -which they represented in such a manner that he might not have a desire -to become like them; he learned to play upon several instruments, to -paint, and to work at tapestry. The Queen went to see him very often, -and pictured to him the fate of kings in such distressing colours, that -he dreaded the moment when he should ascend the throne. - -He was just ten years old, the time appointed for the Queen to -resign the throne to him, when, walking on the coast, apart from his -followers, he was caught up by a whirlwind, and disappeared in an -instant. His tutors, surprised that he was so long a time in returning, -went to seek him, but could find him nowhere. The most diligent search -proved in vain, and they were compelled to apprise the Queen of this -mysterious circumstance. She would easily have been consoled for this -accident if the people of the Island, tired of her government, and -indignant at the education that had been given to their King, had not -risen in rebellion. After having torn her ministers in pieces, they -compelled her to fly to a neighbouring Monarch, who granted her an -asylum. This King had been a widower for two years, having but one -daughter, in giving birth to whom the Queen died. - -He married the fugitive Queen; and the people of the Fortunate Islands -elected a council to rule the kingdom until they could obtain news of -their Prince Coquerico, whom they did not believe to be dead. They were -right, the whirlwind had been caused by a Fairy, who, delighted at the -sight of so beautiful a Prince, and angry to find him brought up so -badly, had resolved to purloin him from a mother who had proved herself -unworthy of being blessed with such a son. - -To cultivate a fine disposition spoiled by so wicked an education, the -Fairy was impelled by another feeling less generous and more natural. -The beauty of this Prince had touched her heart, she imagined that -gratitude would make some impression upon that of the young Coquerico. -The few charms she possessed, however, were not likely to do so. She -was old, and had a horn in the middle of her forehead; but she was very -susceptible, and was always complaining that she had met with none -but ungrateful beings. "By bringing up this young man," she thought, -"he will become accustomed to my appearance, and perhaps my care and -affection for him will inspire him with sentiments that may lead in -time to that happy union of souls, that perfect mutual love, which I -have heard so much of and never experienced." - -Cornue (that was her name) reasoned thus in transporting the handsome -Prince to her dwelling, which was in the Desert where the old man and -his wife had brought up the young Lionette for the last four years. -Cornue had built herself a charming palace upon the summit of one -of the mountains, but it was inaccessible to all human beings, in -consequence of the clouds with which it was continually surrounded. The -charms of life, its amusements, both rational and frivolous, were all -united there. This palace was of immense extent, although formed of one -single opal, so transparent and so beautiful that through the walls one -might see a grain of millet at the end of the garden, which was worthy -of so magnificent a palace, from its groves, terraces, parterres, and -fountains. - -The tasteful Cornue had not spared anything, even in her dress, for -when, placing the Prince in the vestibule of her palace, she made -herself visible to him, she had enveloped her horn in a green velvet -case, covered with diamonds; her hair, which was rather grey, was -powdered white,[41] and tied with green _moulinet_ bows, in the -centre of each of which sparkled a large diamond; and her dress, of -flesh-colour and silver, showed her form so truly, that one could -perceive the Graces had striven among themselves which should give the -finishing touch to it. - -The Prince was surprised at this apparition. She kissed his hand, and -asked his forgiveness for taking him away from his retirement without -his permission. "If I can avoid being your king," said he, with an air -which showed that he was not alarmed at the manner in which he had been -conducted thither, "I should be very well contented, for the fear of -ascending the throne made me desirous of leaving my kingdom, and you -have done me a favour in taking me away from it;--but I should like to -know," added he, quickly, "why you wear so pointed a head-dress, and -why your dress is of so peculiar a colour?" "We excuse such childish -questions at your age," said the Fairy, slightly blushing; "you will be -ashamed of them some day;--but let us enter the palace, and you will -find something to occupy your attention more agreeably." - -She then gave him her hand, and they passed into a saloon in keeping -with the beauty of the rest of the palace. A hundred black slaves -were arranged in two files, through which the Prince and the Fairy -proceeded to the centre. It was sufficiently light to see the rarities -which ornamented this beautiful place; statues, sculptured marbles, -porcelain, furniture, were all admired with the taste of a connoisseur -by the young Prince. The slave opened the door of a magnificent -gallery, filled with charts, maps of the world, instruments of -geometry, models of the most beautiful cities in Asia, Europe, and -Africa; of palaces where the men and women of each nation were dressed -in their national costumes, and by the Fairy's skill they moved hither -and thither, spoke in their own language, and held conversations -according to their position. This amused the Prince for a considerable -time. He requested the Fairy to allow him to remain in that gallery a -little longer than she seemed inclined to do. - -He made the slaves who accompanied him explain what this all meant; -he bade them repeat it, and was quite enchanted. He recognised the -Fortunate Islands; he saw his tutors seeking for him, and who appeared -in despair at not finding him--that touched his heart with pity. The -Fairy at length withdrew him from this scene, that he might not witness -the catastrophe. She amused him with other objects. - -Some islands surrounded by the sea, upon another model, afforded him -great entertainment. Vessels filled with passengers executed some -wonderful evolutions; then there was a sea-fight, followed by a storm, -which dispersed the ships and sank several of them. This terminated the -diversions of this day. The Fairy then proposed supper, after which an -opera was represented; this was succeeded by a ball, and the Prince -danced with the Fairy, and with the nymphs in the Fairy's train, and -at last six slaves conducted him to a handsome apartment, in which he -retired to rest. - -The next and following days were passed in conversations, sometimes -serious, sometimes mirthful; the slaves had orders to cultivate his -taste for the arts while amusing him, to which purpose he lent himself -readily. He was already accustomed to walk in a second gallery, which -formed a superb arsenal; he heard them talk of arms and of war with -pleasure; he almost wished to witness a battle, and felt ashamed he had -ever thought otherwise. The slaves formed themselves into battalions, -he placed himself at their head, he enjoyed his triumph in a sham -fight, he invented stratagems, he sought for glory everywhere; he no -longer feared to be a king. The gallery of models had displayed to him -the pleasures of royalty; he passed three hours each day in it, and -took lessons from the ablest politicians. The cabinet secrets of all -the Courts in the universe were no secrets to him. - -There was a model of the whole globe in that gallery, and what -art pervaded that grand work! Not only all the kingdoms and their -various provinces, to the smallest habitation, were represented; -but every mortal upon the face of the earth was seen in pursuit of -his vocation. All spoke their own language, you heard them, you saw -them,--the most secret actions were displayed therein: the ocean and -its vessels, rivers, lakes, streamlets, deserts, even yet undiscovered -countries,--nothing was hidden from the learned Cornue. All was to -be found in her model. There was wherewithal to amuse one during the -longest life that ever was known. - -The Prince was fascinated by this wonderful work of art; he studied it -for a long time; he could with difficulty tear himself from it; nor -did he consent to do so till the Fairy assured him that this gallery -forming a portion of his suite of apartments, he might visit it -whenever he wished. - -He left it at length to enjoy new pleasures--an opera, a supper, -followed by a magnificent ball, in which the fairies of Cornue's Court -distinguished themselves in dancing, notwithstanding they were ugly -and old, for their mistress took care not to incur the reproach of -being the least handsome person in the Palace; and the designs she had -upon the heart of the young Prince would not admit of her neglecting -anything that would bring them to bear. - -His education was entrusted to six fairies, who led him each morning -into the gallery of the globe for three hours; they explained the -various interests of Princes, he learned their languages, he heard -and saw the effect of their politics, their battles by land and sea, -which displayed to him the ability of ministers and of generals. -Already he was able to form sound opinions, and to speak of things -with the knowledge acquired from experience. His noble mind developed -itself, he burned with a desire for glory, he blushed at having been -afraid of it. He also appreciated the pleasures of royalty, he began -to find a satisfaction in being master, but he did not at all covet -the soft and effeminate life which he perceived in the seraglios of -the sovereigns of Persia and Constantinople; he preferred those kings -who reigned absolutely over their subjects, with a certainty that they -would shed their blood to preserve theirs. Insensibly he became the -most accomplished Prince living. He was not ignorant upon any point; -his fine intellect assisting his slight experience, he evinced in -everything the greatest judgment and discernment. "But where can one -see this land, and the inhabitants, that I observe in my model?" said -he sometimes to Cornue. "I will show you some day," answered she; "it -is not time yet." That would vex him; he was desirous of appearing of -some consequence himself in this fine plan of the universe, he was -annoyed at not seeing himself in it. This caused him many reflections, -but as they only sprang from his brain, they did not distress him -much--those suggested by the heart, more interesting, he knew nothing -of yet. - -The Fairy did not fear that the beauties whom he saw in the model -would awake in him any emotions contrary to her wishes; they were -so exceedingly small, that he could but take them for pretty little -puppets, the largest figure, of a man even, not being taller than -one's thumb. His great amusement was the opera and comedy; he went to -them very often: the little figures acted wonderfully well, and as he -had a great appreciation of genius, he attended all orations of the -Academy,[42] and commented upon them with great sagacity. - -Until he was eighteen years old, this gallery continued to be his -greatest pleasure; in fact, he knew no other. At that age he began to -wish to know the people whose portraits he saw; the Fairy, desirous -to please him, dared not oppose him too much; she put him off with -promises, but feared he would escape her. "I hunt in your park," he -said; "I walk in it; I always see the same things, it tires me; I -should like sometimes to see something different." "Ah! truly," said -the Fairy, "you have well preserved the faults of human kind. Miserable -state of men! Can they be perfectly happy?--they cannot believe -themselves to be so, they sigh for what they do not possess, and when -they have obtained it they are disgusted with it. Ah! what have you to -wish for here? do you not reign here? are you not the master? Do you -fear treachery here, false friends, or bad advisers? We live but to -please you; you are all-powerful in this Palace--you command; we obey -you. What being could be grander and happier than you are?" - -The Prince bent his head at the enumeration of all the happiness the -Fairy had surrounded him with, and found that he still desired more. -He said nothing, but his uneasiness, his agitation, his weariness, -appeared in spite of him in all his actions. Cornue increased the -magnificence of her dress; the Prince did not notice it; he scarcely -ever looked at her. She was disconsolate; for the idea, entertained -ever since she had carried him off, the hope of being ardently loved by -him, had strengthened with time, and the Prince's increasing beauty had -contributed much to her passion. He was just at that happy age in which -we please without much trouble, and love with that frankness which is -so soon discarded. - -Cornue was enraged that he did not think of her. "You ought to love me, -were it only to amuse you," said she to him, one day, when she was very -melancholy. "Love you," replied he, looking very vacantly at her; "do -I not love you?" Then, without thinking of it, he added immediately, -"I feel certain I shall never love." "Ah! why?" said the Fairy; "who -prevents you?" "Nobody," he replied; then rose, and took a gun, and -went shooting for the rest of the day. - -The Fairy, in despair at his indifference, and fearing she should lose -him if she still persisted in opposing him, perceiving also that he -was thinner, and that his colour had faded, determined to allow him to -change the scene, and for this reason one morning she sent for him. -"The time has arrived," said she, "that I can give you your liberty to -leave the Palace. You will find the vast universe, of which I am about -to open the roads to you, resemble a very stormy ocean, but since you -wish to expose yourself to it, I will not detain you; all I advise -you to do is to confide in me when in trouble (for you will have much -to endure before you become King), and to commence your excursions -by going to my sister Tigreline, and asking her, from me, for the -wonderful necklace which can alone preserve you from the misfortunes -attached to your fate. Take this bottle, pour a drop of the spirit -it contains upon the clouds which surround the park; they will open -for you to pass, and this dog will guide you on your way back to the -palace." - -The Prince, who did not expect so great a favour, displayed such -transports of gratitude that the Fairy felt nearly recompensed for her -trouble by the caresses she received from him. He promised to follow -her advice upon every point, and set out immediately. The boundaries -of the park adjoined a forest so wild and frightful that Coquerico -found the world was not quite so beautiful as he imagined it to be; -notwithstanding, he entered this vast wilderness, accompanied solely -by his dog. Guided by his faithful companion, he was pursuing a -path which led to the Forest of Tigers, when suddenly he saw a lion -of extraordinary size coming straight towards him. At first he was -startled at such a meeting, never having seen a lion in Cornue's -park; but recovering himself a little, he shot an arrow with so true -an aim that it pierced the lion's heart, and he fell dead at his feet. -He proceeded as fast as possible, but his attention was arrested a -moment afterwards by frightful roarings. He looked in the direction -from whence they came, and he saw in the distance another lion, running -at full speed, with a young child on its back; he was about to pursue -it, but his dog pulled him by the coat so hard that he thought the -Fairy Cornue had appointed this dog to be his guardian, and so, giving -himself up to his guidance, he arrived at Tigreline's abode without -further accident. - -As soon as he had told her the reason of his journey, she replied, -"Prince Coquerico, you will inform my sister that I have disposed of -the necklace that she asks me for; doubtless it was for you she wanted -it. I hope, however, that it will not fall into your hands so soon, -whatever advantage you might desire from it. But to make up for the -loss of this gift, which I am no longer able to bestow, I warn you that -if you ever pronounce your name rashly, or without its being absolutely -necessary, you will lose, perhaps for ever, that which is most dear to -you. I advise you, therefore, to conceal your name from every one, or -at least not to mention it lightly. Go, Prince, I can do nothing more -for you." - -The Prince thanked the Fairy very much, kissed her hand, retired, and -returned to Cornue's palace, very well satisfied with the little he had -seen. He was received most graciously; they asked him many questions; -he related all his adventures; he fancied he should never have finished -talking about them, everything had seemed of such singular beauty to -him. He was in high spirits all the evening. They praised him, they -caressed him, but that did not content him. He was resolved to go out -again, and the Fairy, perceiving how good-tempered he was, permitted -him to do as he wished. For a whole year he roamed to the furthest -extent of the beautiful country in the neighbourhood; sometimes he went -on horseback, and often dismounted to sleep under the trees during the -heat of the day. This sort of exercise increased his stature and his -strength. He was now in the prime of his beauty. - -He was very anxious to ask the Fairy to restore him to his subjects; -he was tired of this life of privation; his mind, as fine as his -person, made him anxious to revisit his kingdom; but he dared not as -yet request Cornue's permission, lest he should appear ungrateful. -This brought back his former melancholy. Cornue became alarmed; she -endeavoured to amuse him in every imaginable way. He scarcely ever went -out; he passed his days almost entirely in the gallery of models, and -when he saw a battle he could not be got away from it. What was still -worse, he one day witnessed the coronation of a young King. At this -sight they thought he would go mad. The shouts of joy, the warlike -instruments, the pomp of the ceremony, transported him with anger as -well as delight. "Why, then," said he, "am I to be imprisoned here -during my youth, when I could be at the head of these people, making -either war or peace, enjoying really my rights of birth? They would -detain me here, a captive, render me as effeminate as Achilles at -the Court of Licomedia. Can I not find a Ulysses who will come to my -rescue?" He would have given still greater vent to his vexation had -they not come to announce to him that the Fairy was waiting for him -to order them to begin an opera she had commanded the performance of. -"What, always some fête?" said he. "Well," he continued, "I must submit -to it." - -The opera they were to perform was _Armide_.[43] The Fairy, who had -been told what an ill-humour the Prince was in, watched him during -the performance. She thought that he seemed amused by it, for he was -so attentive to the piece. The fourth and fifth acts he certainly did -think wonderful; he spoke of it the whole of the evening; he admired -above everything the idea of the shield which restored the hero to -glory. "What," said the Fairy; "does not Armida interest you at all? -Do you not pity her? So much affection deserves a better recompense." -"By my faith, Madam," replied the Prince, "your Armida has what she -deserves. I should like to know if the heart is to be commanded; I -believe it to be perfectly independent of the will, as far as I am -concerned." Cornue felt the cruelty of this answer, but she did not -appear to do so, and turned the conversation to another subject. - -The Prince retired early, that he might go the next day shooting. -This was the day that his hand was wounded by the beautiful Lionette's -arrow. Upon returning to the Fairy's palace the Prince considered -whether he should speak of this adventure; he was astonished at himself -for wishing to keep it a secret. A sweet feeling (hitherto unknown to -him) stole over his mind, and took such possession of it that he was -unable to conceal it. He asked himself what it could mean, and he could -find no reason for it. The name of Lionette enchanted him. He repeated -it incessantly. The grace, the beauty of this young girl enchanted him, -and he found himself within the palace without being aware how he had -arrived there. It was then he began to recover himself a little. - -Under the effect of this intoxicating feeling, he said a thousand -gallant things to the Fairy. She was surprised at it, but flattering -herself that her charms had produced this alteration, she did not -inquire the reason of such extraordinary joy. His wound made her -uneasy, but he took care to tell her that he had hurt himself with one -of his own arrows, and the enamoured Cornue, anxious about everything -that concerned him, cured it by breathing upon it, without further -inquiry. He was in charming spirits for the rest of the day; Cornue -thought he had lost his senses; she ordered some music that he thought -delightful, although he had heard the same every day without noticing -it--so much does love embellish the slightest objects. His passion led -him to indulge in delicious meditations, and to discover in his heart -the existence of emotions he had never dreamed of. He retired early, -and hastened to the gallery, seeking for a representation of her whom -he had seen during the day--he was successful in his search; he saw -the lovely Lionette seated between the old people in the cavern, and -when, on separating for the night, they extinguished the light, and -she was in darkness, he still remained gazing in the direction of the -cavern, and did not leave the gallery until the following morning -was sufficiently advanced for him to go and meet the lovely huntress -herself. In traversing the forest he lost himself, and that was the -cause of his being so long before he rejoined his beautiful Lionette. - -Unfortunately for the Fairy, her skill was now useless to her--from -the moment Fairies fall in love, their art cannot protect them; when -they recover their reason they regain their power; but in the interim -they can neither punish their rivals nor discover them, unless chance -assist them, as it might common mortals. Three months elapsed without -her having an idea of the cause of the change in Prince Coquerico; -she heard no more of his ambitious aspirations; a country life and -retirement was all he now desired; he dressed himself as a shepherd; he -composed eclogues and madrigals; he engraved them upon the trees in the -park, accompanied by gallant and amorous devices that the Fairy could -not understand. When she asked him for an explanation, he smiled, and -told her it was not for him to instruct so learned a person as she was. -"Ask your own heart, Madam," added he, "that will teach you; it was -mine that dictated it all to me." - -The Fairy was quite contented with this answer; she interpreted it -according to her own wishes, but she could not reconcile to herself the -Prince's frequent absence, after all he had said to her; for he went -out the first thing in the morning, and did not return till the last -thing at night. She passed whole days in thinking about new dresses -and different entertainments. As she had a lively imagination, she -succeeded with the latter, but the former were absolutely useless--her -age and her horn entirely defeated all attempts at decoration. It was -upon this occasion that she invented the _Bal-Masqués_, which have been -ever since so successful. The Prince often indulged in this agreeable -delusion, and with his heart full of the beautiful Lionette, he spoke -to the Fairy as though he were addressing his love, and the credulous -Cornue took it all to herself. - -Towards the end of the third month of this intense and secret passion, -the Prince at length resolved to ask the Fairy to conduct him to his -own kingdom. It was not ambition that induced him to wish it, but a -higher and more delicate sentiment. Why conceal it? Love itself made -him anxious to ascend the throne, that he might place the beautiful -Lionette on it beside him. He had scarcely spoken to the Fairy about -it before she consented, flattering herself that he wished to share -his crown with her. With what pleasure did she order everything for -his departure. The Prince, as we know, took leave of his lovely -shepherdess, and set out, with the Fairy and a numerous suite, for the -kingdom of the Fortunate Isles. Cornue was seated with him in a car of -rock crystal, drawn by a dozen unicorns; their harness was of gold and -rubies, as brilliant as the sun. A dozen other chariots, as pompous, -followed; and the Prince, as beautiful as Cupid, and magnificently -dressed, attracted the attention of every one. He had most carefully -concealed the necklace that the lovely Lionette had given him; he wore -it on his left arm as a bracelet, and his dress covered it. He was -delighted at the thought of appearing before Lionette in such grand -apparel, and to read in her looks the joy such proof of his love would -give her; but he could not help feeling a secret anxiety, which at -times cast a cloud over his mind; he attributed it to the distance -between him and his love, and sometimes he thought he had done wrong in -going so far away from her. "The happiness I am seeking, is it worth -what I lose?" said he. "Lionette loves me as she has seen me; will she -love me more for possessing a crown? Ah! Lionette, I know you too well -to wrong you so much; your noble and simple heart only estimates that -true grandeur which places man above his fellows by the elevation of -his mind." - -At length he arrived at the Fortunate Isles, and the people, delighted -to see their Prince again, received him with acclamations. He was -crowned, and by the attentions of the enamoured Cornue, the ceremony -was followed by magnificent fêtes, in which the Prince, from gratitude, -insisted on her sharing all the honours. The fêtes ended, and the -affairs of this fine kingdom put in order by the Fairy and the -ministers she had chosen, she determined to have a complete explanation -with the King, and began by adroitly proposing that he should marry. -She had gained the ministers over to her wishes, and induced them to -join in the proposition she had made to him; but who can tell Cornue's -astonishment when the young Prince replied by acknowledging his love -for the beautiful Lionette, and entreating her to assist in rendering -him happy, by enabling him to share his throne with the object of his -affections! "Ah! where have you seen this Lionette?" replied the Fairy, -with a look in which astonishment, rage, and vexation were equally -visible. "What, then," added she, "is this the return for my care of -you?" The Prince, astonished at this sharp reply, and not fearing -her reproaches, ended by relating his interview with Lionette, and -painted his affection in such glowing colours that she plainly saw -the opposition she might make against it would only tend to irritate -him and increase his passion; then cleverly making her decision, "I -would not speak thus to you," said she, "but to reproach you for -your want of confidence, that you did not open your heart to me. I -should have served you better, and Lionette would have been to-day -Queen of the Fortunate Isles; but you have acted like a young man -without experience, and I doubt if I can serve you at present as I -could otherwise have done." "Ah! Madam," replied the King, "you can if -you will. Give me your chariot, and let me go and seek my beautiful -Lionette." "I will do better for you," said she, with a forced smile; -"I will go with you as soon as it strikes midnight; hold yourself in -readiness; we shall be on our way back before the sun is up, and I know -no other means of satisfying your impatience." - -The Prince embraced the Fairy's knees, transported with joy and -gratitude, which wounded her much more than his unfortunate confidence; -she took leave of him under a pretext of consulting her books, but -really because she could not contain herself, and her fury had -risen to a most horrible height. Who could describe it? All that an -amorous, jealous, and mistaken woman could feel, she, as a Fairy, felt -still more; nor could the most forcible language paint but feebly -the tortures which racked her heart. She had promised, however, -to accompany the Prince; but that would enable her to execute the -vengeance she meditated. - -She felt the more assured of her revenge as the Prince had let the -necklace fall from his arm, and had left her without being aware of -his loss. She picked it up, and thanking the stars for so lucky an -accident, no longer delayed taking measures for her revenge, which -would have been useless without that precious necklace. She closed -the doors of her apartment, that her absence might not be perceived, -and desired the King might be told she must consult her books in -private, and at midnight she would be visible. She mounted a flying -dragon, and speedily arrived in the cavern, where everything was in -profound repose; the dragon sneezed, which was like a clap of thunder, -and enough to rend the cavern. She accomplished, as we have already -seen, her wicked intentions, and returned to the Fortunate Isles as -the clock struck eleven. She could hardly restrain her delight while -waiting for the King; but soon the idea of his being in love, and -without doubt loved in return, renewed her fury; she was in a transport -of rage when he entered her room with an eagerness which assisted not a -little to increase it. - -She endeavoured to calm herself, or rather to dissemble her rage; -her fury was at such a height that her horn was in a flame, and the -enamoured and too credulous Coquerico, thinking it was an attention she -was paying him to guide him in the darkness of the night, thanked her -a thousand times for this precaution. They mounted a chariot drawn by -three owls, set off at full speed, and descended in the forest close to -the cavern wherein Lionette had been reared. The Prince only knew it -from Lionette's description of it. Love invests with interest the most -trifling circumstance connected with its object. - -He had often asked her to describe the place she inhabited. He -remembered every little detail distinctly. He could not be deceived; -besides, he knew her bow and arrow that were in the cabinet in which -she slept. His grief was excessive at not finding her; he called her, -he went in and out of the cavern a thousand and a thousand times, he -entreated the Fairy to throw a light from her horn upon places that -were obscure, and seeing some little pictures she had painted--"Ah! -this is her work," cried he; "I will preserve them all my life." The -Fairy was so irritated at his transports, that she threw out a flame -from her horn, which in a moment destroyed everything that was in the -cavern. - -The Prince had great difficulty to save himself from this -conflagration. The Fairy protected him, however, and triumphed within -herself at the absence of her rival. She advised the Prince to seek -for her elsewhere. "Perhaps," said she, "her parents have married her; -or perhaps," she continued, ironically, "grief at your loss has caused -her death." "I know not what has happened," said the Prince, in a tone -which marked the agitation of his mind, and distracted at not being -able to find his mistress; "but I would rather believe her to be dead -than unfaithful; and if it be true that she exists no longer, very soon -I shall follow her to the grave." "Here is a furious determination of a -lover!" cried the Fairy; but considering that under the circumstances -it would be better not to irritate the King, she changed her tone. -"What I have said," pursued she, "is to prove the interest I take in -you. I am sorry you should have conceived an affection for a person -of such low extraction, and I cannot sufficiently thank Fate that, in -accordance with my own opinion, has removed this shepherdess, and thus -assisted your heart to recover from its error." "I know not if Fate has -assisted you to drive me mad," replied the Prince, sharply; "but if so, -I feel she has been more successful in that attempt than the other. -As to Lionette, I will repair the defect, if it be one, to be born of -obscure parents,--not that I believe it possible for her to be what -she appears. In any case, however, happy are the princesses who are as -high-minded as she is." - -The Prince now, seeing how uselessly he was seeking for her in this -place, entered the chariot again with the Fairy, and returned to the -Fortunate Isles, where they arrived at sunrise without having spoken a -single word, both of them occupied--the one by her fury, the other by -his grief. - -The King, upon his return, shut himself up in his palace, and thought -of nothing but by what steps he might recover Lionette. It occurred to -him he ought to go to Tigreline. This resolution taken, he proceeded -to Cornue to tell her his project. "I cannot imagine," said he to -her, "why you do not assist me in this affair; is your power so -limited? Is Tigreline's more extensive than yours?--for I believe," -he added, instantly, "you are so interested in my happiness, that -you would exert all the skill you possess to increase it, if it were -possible. I could not even doubt it, without being ungrateful. I have -had sufficient proofs to be quite sure of it, and I feel that I can -never forget them." Cornue blushed at this question, which she did not -expect, and becoming acquainted with the extent of her misfortune by -the latter part of the King's discourse. "It is in consequence of that -very affection I have for you," said she, "as you ought to know, that -I will not serve you in fostering a passion that would diminish your -glory; and if you are as grateful as you say you are for the care I -have taken to make you happy, and for preserving your life, you will -discard an infatuation which will be your ruin. What an idea will your -people--will the whole universe--have of a king so little master of -himself that he runs after a poor shepherdess, to give her a crown -which he might share with the first princesses in the world--no matter -whom: perhaps even a fairy might not have disdained to partake of one -with you." These last words, which escaped her in spite of herself, -opened the King's eyes, and looking at the Fairy with astonishment, he -was convinced of the truth of his suspicions when he saw her standing -silent, confused, and carefully avoiding his gaze. - -It was some time before he could find words to answer, from his -excessive astonishment; but unwilling either to irritate the Fairy at -the moment he so much wanted her assistance, or to encourage a hope -that he felt incapable of sustaining. "The knowledge you have of the -human heart, Madam," said he, at last, "ought to have taught you that -a King cannot dispense with the laws of nature more than other men. So -pure and intense a passion as I have for Lionette is not of a character -to be easily extinguished. Why did you not exert your power to render -me insensible? I should not then have felt the grief I have to-day, nor -the happiness you speak of. This choice of a great princess or of a -fairy who would deign to receive my vows and my crown--this happiness, -I say, does not at all affect me. Is it necessary that to be happy I -must sacrifice myself for ever to the whims of my people? I must choose -for myself. I would willingly make them happy. I feel a pleasure even -in desiring and being able to do so--but what can it signify to them -who I give them for their Queen? I value my greatness only because -it enables me to elevate her whom I love. This sweet pleasure would -induce me to support the weight of a crown; without it, what would be -every other enjoyment? And am I compelled, because I am their master, -to be deprived of the only pleasure I sigh for? No, Madam; in giving -them Lionette I consider that I make them as happy as I make myself. -Should they refuse to receive her, they will repent their temerity; and -whoever ventures to oppose me will find that my love has not made me -forget I am a king." - -"Proceed, ungrateful one! Proceed to destroy me!" said the Fairy. -"You know too well all the violence of my love for you, and you only -pretend not to see it to overwhelm me the more by your severity. It is -I--it is I only--who will expose myself to the danger of resisting thy -base inclinations. Dare to punish me, and so complete the measure of -your crimes! But how wilt thou do it? Thou art in my power, and the -necklace which I hold, and which dropped from thine arm yesterday in my -room, will revenge me for thy ingratitude." In saying this, she arose, -and touching the King with her wand as he advanced to recover his -mistress's love-token, she transformed him into a cock; then, opening -one of the windows, she threw him down into the court of the palace; -after which, assembling the Council, she informed them that the King -had absented himself upon urgent business, and she, not being able to -remain longer in that kingdom, had determined to appoint a regent. This -affair concluded, she ascended her chariot and disappeared from their -sight. - -The King was dizzy with his fall, but his wings had supported him, -in spite of himself, and when he had a little recovered his senses -he jumped upon a balustrade of white and rose-coloured marble, -which surrounded a piece of magnificent water in the centre of -the court-yard, to see himself in it. He was astounded at his -appearance--not but that he was the most beautiful bird in the world; -his body seemed as though it was covered with emeralds,--his wings were -of a bright rose-colour, and on his head was a crest of brilliants, -which threw out a most dazzling light,--his tail was a plume of green -and rose-colour,--his feet, of the latter hue, with claws blacker than -ebony, and his beak was a single ruby. - -We will leave this unhappy King reflecting upon the cruelty of this -transformation, and return to Lionette, whom we left still more -unhappy. This beautiful Princess, after having been six months amongst -the tigers of the Fairy Tigreline, deploring her sad fate, was at -length withdrawn from them by the Fairy herself, who pitying her -situation, came to seek her and carry her to her palace, with both her -unfortunate companions. Then, after caressing them and conducting them -to a very comfortable den, she said to the Princess, "My dear Lionette, -you have been a sufficiently long time punished for your imprudence -in having given away your necklace, without my adding further useless -remonstrances to the misery you endure in not being able to change -your form until you have recovered that talisman; therefore, my dear -child, I shall not scold you any more--on the contrary, I will mitigate -your penalty as much as I can, and I am going to prove it to you by -restoring your good guardians to their natural forms, that they may -have the pleasure of talking to you, and consoling you." Poor Lionette -threw herself at the Fairy's feet, and by the tears she shed, evinced -at the same time her joy and her sorrow at not being able to answer -her. Tigreline touched the Lion and Lioness with her wand; in an -instant they resumed their human form, and after embracing the Fairy's -knees, they embraced Lionette a thousand times, who returned their -caresses as well as she could. - -After this affecting scene, at which even Tigreline herself could -not restrain her tears, she thus addressed the old man and his wife: -"Good people, the days of your transformation will not be reckoned -in the term of your existence, neither will Lionette's when she has -passed through hers. Live to serve and console her until the time of -her severe punishment shall have ended. I will not have her shut up -any longer; she can run freely about my gardens and in my forest; as -for yourselves, you will remain in my palace, and have charge of her. -Let us wait patiently for time to bring about a more happy termination -to this adventure than I can dare to hope for, and at least by our -fortitude cause Fate to blush for her injustice." The Fairy ceased -speaking, and embraced Lionette with all her heart. Lionette's was -so full that she shed a torrent of tears, and uttered groans which -increased the affliction both of the Fairy and the good people. - -She spent her days in the forest, hunting game, which the Fairy had -ordered to be put there for her. The tigers respected and saluted her -whenever she passed. She reclined during the heat of the day in the -most secluded and shady places, meditating on her fate, and feeling -less distressed at her own situation than at the absence or the loss of -Prince Coquerico. She sighed affectionately at the remembrance of him, -and her greatest grief was her separation from him. She scrawled with -her talons on the barks of the trees rudely formed initials, hearts and -arrows, and wept over her lover's and her own misfortune. At night she -returned to her den, and to the Fairy, who showed her great kindness. -The old man and his wife amused her by relating anecdotes to her. - -One day that she was at the Fairy's with her guardians, she seized a -sheet of paper and a pen, and wrote a request to the Fairy that she -would tell her who she was. She presented it to Tigreline, who, as she -was very clever, contrived to read what the Lioness had written. (No -one but a Fairy could well have deciphered it.) She sighed, and raised -her eyes to Heaven, then looking affectionately at Lionette, she said, -"I am going to satisfy you, my dear Lionette. The trials that mortals -encounter often serve as lessons to persons of your rank. May it please -the just gods that those which you have endured from the commencement -of your life be the only trials ordained for you. But do not cease to -bear them with resignation and courage. You are a Princess, my dear -child; they did not deceive you when they told you so; you are the -daughter of the King of the Island of Gold; the Queen, your mother, -died in giving birth to you, and the King, your father, resolved not -to marry again, that he might preserve the crown for you. You were -scarcely four years old when a fugitive Queen, driven from her kingdom, -came to implore your father's assistance to regain the throne that her -rebellious subjects had made her descend from, for having persisted -in reigning to the prejudice of her only son, whom she detained at a -distance from the capital, for fear he should claim the sceptre. - -"This ambitious Princess, perceiving that the King, your father, -would afford his assistance too slowly for her impatience, turned -her thoughts in another direction. She cared not where she reigned, -provided she did reign. She therefore resolved to marry your father; -but knowing he did not wish for an increase of family that might -deprive you of the crown, and that consequently as long as you lived -he would never marry, she came to consult me. She did not attempt to -conceal from me her sanguinary intentions respecting you; and I knew if -I were mistress of the necklace that she wore, I should be able to save -your life.[44] I listened, therefore, quietly to her, notwithstanding -the horror that these propositions gave me of her. 'Queen,' said I -to her, 'you will never obtain your object until I have possession -of your necklace. Give it to me, and be sure of the success of your -undertaking.' 'A Fairy who presided at my birth,' said she, 'commanded -that I should always wear it.' Those were her only words; but since -it has not prevented my falling from the throne to which my birth had -entitled me, I part with it willingly, and place it in your hands, -relying much more on your assistance than on the pretended charm to -make me happy.' 'Go,' said I, 'return to the Island of Gold, and wait -patiently the effect of my power, and above all, do not attempt the -life of the young Princess; I will serve you without adopting such -cruel means.' - -"She returned to the Island, and after some time, married your father. -That very day I transported you, with the King and the Queen, into the -cavern where the old man found you, and changed them both into Lions. -The King because I feared his weakness, and the Queen to punish her -for her wickedness. I not only took from her the power of doing you -any harm, but obliged her to take care of you. As for the King, I knew -I need not inspire him with feelings of humanity; he retained them, -notwithstanding the natural ferocity of the animal into which I had -transformed him." - -Poor Lionette at these words interrupted the Fairy by a melancholy -roar. Tigreline smiled, and caressing the Lioness, "Take courage, my -dear girl," said she; "you mourn the death of a good father; your -susceptible heart will feel equal joy in learning that I have saved his -life; that he is at present residing in a part of the world to which I -transported him after I had cured his wound; and that he is as anxious -to see you again as you can possibly desire." Lionette, who was couched -upon a great stone at the feet of the Fairy, licked her hand softly, -to show her gratitude, and her eyes sparkled with so much pleasure -that the Fairy, delighted at the effect of her good-tidings, kissed -her most tenderly. "As for the Lioness, your mother-in-law," continued -Tigreline, "she died, not from grief at losing the Lion, but from rage -at finding her projects frustrated by his death, which she really -believed; and the tears you have shed for her were far more than she -deserved for the unwilling care she took of you." - -The Fairy had arrived at this point in her story, when in at the window -flew a cock of singular beauty, and perched upon her shoulder; they -were all very much astonished; the Fairy, who was spinning, let fall -her spindle, but quickly recovering herself, she held out her finger -to the bird, which jumped upon it, and flapping its wings in token of -gratitude, crowed out "Coquerico" two or three times. At the first -note the Lioness took fright, and ran off as fast as possible,[45] her -guardians following her. In the meanwhile, Tigreline examined the bird, -and seeing how wonderfully beautiful he was, immediately unravelled -the mystery of this adventure. "Prince," said she, "I believe I know -you, and I am much deceived if you have not just told me your name." -The Prince (for it was he) stooped his beak to her feet, as making a -low bow to the Fairy. "Oh, Heavens!" cried she, "is it possible there -should be such a complicated chain of misfortunes. The barbarous being -who has reduced you to this sad state has only allowed you the power of -pronouncing a name which is the cause of all kinds of evil to you. It -has even now occasioned your Princess to fly from you, and perhaps it -may have been the last time in your life that you could have seen her." - -The Cock at these words looked at the Fairy with amazement; he had -only perceived in the room a lioness and two old people; he could -not comprehend these words of Tigreline; she read his thoughts, for -he could not express them. "She was here, I tell you," replied she, -"and I forgive you for not recognising her; but if my sister, the -cruel Cornue, has been able to change you into a cock, has she not -the power also of turning the Princess into a lion?" The Cock felt -as if he should faint at this cruel news. "Oh, Fate! pitiless Fate!" -continued the Fairy, "how blind are thy decrees! Why dost thou punish -the innocent, and let the guilty live?" Her thoughts would have quite -absorbed her if her eyes had not fallen upon the poor bird, who had -fallen down, and appeared dying. She took him in her arms, and giving -him some wonderful liquid to smell, he recovered his senses, but sighed -bitterly at being compelled to see the light again. "Do not distress -yourself, my dear Prince," said the Fairy, "I will use all my skill to -assist you; but to ensure my success you must second my endeavours. I -cannot render you perfectly happy so long as Cornue is in possession of -the necklace, and it is only through you that I can recover it. Repose -yourself, dear Prince; my books that I am going to consult to-night -will enlighten me as to what we shall do to-morrow." - -The King could not sufficiently express his gratitude--he pressed his -beak on the Fairy's hand, and squeezed her arm gently with his claw--in -short, he displayed as much feeling as he possibly could. Tigreline, -after giving him something to eat and to drink, which he scarcely -touched, placed him upon a shelf in her cabinet, and then saluting -him, retired to her chamber to set about the work she had promised to -undertake for him. - -While this was passing, poor Lionette, overcome with a fear she could -not recover from, fled with all her might, and had already gone far -beyond the Forest of Tigers, notwithstanding those animals had used -all their endeavours to detain her, for they were all fond of her, and -several of them were even in love with her; but she had forced her way -through every obstacle, and having no guide but terror, still believing -the Cock was pursuing her, she ran a hundred leagues at once, and never -stopped till her strength failed her. Her poor guardians called to -her and sought for her in vain; they returned very much distressed at -daybreak to the Fairy, to tell her of Lionette's flight. - -The Fairy, who knew that if Lionette went beyond the limits of the -forest she had no longer any power over her, and that she would be -entirely at Cornue's mercy, left her unwillingly to her fate, and -thought only of being of service to King Coquerico. She entered the -cabinet wherein he had passed the night, to tell him what he had to -do. He flapped his wings at her arrival, and flew to the ground to -kiss the hem of her robe. The Fairy took him on her hand, placed him -on a little table, and drew it up in front of an arm-chair, in which -she seated herself. "Great King," said she, "the destiny that has -nursed you since your birth commands me to tell you that you will not -regain your natural form but upon very severe conditions. You must be -sufficiently fortunate to recover from Cornue the necklace given to you -by Lionette. If you fail to do so, you can never become a human being -again but by marrying Cornue. In that case, if Lionette, whom my wicked -sister insists upon being a witness to this ceremony, can restrain -the grief it must cause her, I foresee that you may become happy at -last; but if she have not the courage to support the terrible sight -of that marriage, I will not be answerable for anything." Coquerico at -these words bent his head and shed tears, at which the Fairy was much -affected. "A tender heart," said the Fairy, "is pardonable, and even -desirable in a King. Your grief, according to this principle, is very -excusable, but you must not abandon yourself too much to sorrow. Leave -to vulgar minds, my lord, complaints and lamentations, and without -wishing to be stronger than humanity demands, courageously resist the -blows of fate, and if you only succeed in testing your fortitude, and -finding it cannot be shaken, you ought to be content. It is the first -of all advantages, and yet one we rarely ask of the gods, because we do -not know the value of it. Take this bottle, and endeavour to throw a -drop of the liquid that is in it upon Cornue. That will make her swoon -away, and you will then obtain your object." - -Coquerico, who was in no hurry to depart, looked at the Fairy to ask -her to explain herself still further: she understood what he would -say. She related in a few words Lionette's history. He thanked her in -the most affectionate manner he could, and he now recollected that the -Fairy, in speaking of her previously, had more than once called her the -Princess. He was enchanted to learn that this lovely girl was of such -high birth, but that did not increase his affection for her. Nothing, -indeed, could augment it. It was not so with respect to his indignation -against Cornue. Every moment it became stronger, particularly when the -Fairy, at the end of her narration, told him that the unhappy Princess -had taken flight at his crowing, as well as at his name, from the -antipathy that lions had naturally to the crowing of a cock, that the -malicious Cornue had increased it in the case of Lionette, that he had -so frightened her that she had flown beyond the bounds of the forest, -and that she might have fallen already into Cornue's power, as, having -once quitted the Forest of Tigers, she could not possibly re-enter it -till she had resumed her own shape. - -King Coquerico was instantly anxious to depart, and indicated it as -well as he could to Tigreline, who could understand at half a word. -After embracing him, and fastening the bottle under his right wing, she -opened her window, and he flew away, perfectly resolved that rather -than crow to frighten the lions, he would be devoured by them. - -To what fearful extent can passions increase in the hearts of those -who do not try to conquer them? The implacable Cornue, distracted by -turns, or rather at the same moment, by the most violent love and -by the most frightful jealousy, spent her days in the Opal Palace, -meditating the deepest revenge against her rival and her lover. What -more could she desire? Were they not sufficiently wretched? They could -not recognise each other, and flew from one another as soon as they -met. Could anything more cruel be imagined? Poor Lionette, overcome by -fatigue, fell down from faintness and fright upon some beautiful green -turf, which answered as a bed for the moment. She had run an hundred -leagues without stopping, as we have said before, and with incredible -swiftness, for she had quitted the Fairy in the evening, and by sunrise -next morning found herself in this strange country. So true it is that -fear lends one wings. She looked around her, and saw nothing but that -green sward, through which flowed a clear stream, refreshing the grass -and the little wild flowers that adorned it. She slept there profoundly -after drinking of the beautiful water, which possessed the property not -only to quench thirst, but at the same time to appease hunger. - -She slept for fifteen hours. When she awoke she felt much refreshed, -and continued her journey along the bank, at the end of which she saw a -palace, of architecture as simple as it was wonderful. She entered it -by a beautiful portico of foliage; in it she saw cabinets, chambers, -and galleries, all formed of green hedges, and what charmed her -particularly was, that in the middle of each room were large groups -of flowers of all sorts, that greeted her with most friendly bows, -and said with one accord, as she approached, "Good morning, beautiful -Lionette." This wonderfully astonished her; she stopped at a tube-rose -plant that had saluted her still more graciously than the rest. "Lovely -flowers," said she to them, "by what happy chance is it that you have -given me the power of speech, that all the skill and friendship of -the generous Tigreline could not restore to me? Is it you that have -done this? Tell me, that I may return my thanks to you?" "The stream -that has quenched your thirst, beautiful Lionette," replied one of the -tube-roses, "has the merit of it; we have no power, and it is only -when we are watered by it that we have the faculty of hearing, seeing, -and expressing ourselves. We are flowers from the garden of the Fairy -Cornue; for some time past she has been very sad; she came to converse -with us, but we were unable to comfort her; perhaps that task was -reserved for you; you must use your endeavours. She will not return for -two days, as she was here yesterday; her palace is some distance from -this; wait for her, we will do all we possibly can to amuse you till -she returns." - -The Tube-rose then ceased speaking, although she was naturally a little -talkative, but she yielded from politeness to Lionette's desire to -ask some questions. "I should like to know, obliging Tube-rose," said -Lionette, "if Cornue, of whom you speak, and to whom you belong, is a -beautiful fairy; and then I should be obliged by your telling me how -you knew my name and who I was as soon as you saw me." "A Rose-tree, -who is the oracle of this place," replied the Tube-rose, "at the last -sacrifice made to it by the Fairy, our mistress, predicted that a -great princess, in the form of a lion, would one day come hither, and -that here she would terminate all her distress. The Fairy displayed -immoderate joy at this; she redoubled the incense and the bees, they -being the only victims that are immolated here. This is an answer to -your two questions at once, for by the Fairy's delight you can easily -conceive her good intentions towards you." - -The innocent Lionette thought there was great truth in the tube-rose's -conjectures; she thanked her heartily, and begged she would inform her -where the Rose-tree was, that she might consult it as to what conduct -she ought to adopt. The Tube-rose directed her, and she soon found the -spot; it was not far from the cabinet of tube-roses. This apartment -had some appearance of a temple, the hedges forming an arch above -the Rose-tree, which preserved it from the heat of the sun; a little -balustrade of jasmine and pomegranate trees surrounded this beautiful -plant, which was covered with so many roses that it was quite dazzling. -The Lioness was obliged to shut her eyes once or twice: she tremblingly -approached the balustrade, and prostrating herself, respectfully said, -"Divinity of this lovely place, deign to receive my homage, and tell me -my destiny." - -The Rose-tree at these words appeared to be much agitated, the leaves -and flowers trembled, and became pale. Then a voice interrupted by sobs -issued from its branches, and Lionette heard the following words:-- - - To the severe decree of Fate - In blind submission bend. - A Princess, most unfortunate, - Will here her sorrows end. - -The Princess was frightened at the indications of grief the Rose-tree -gave way to, and if the first words overwhelmed her, the latter -encouraged her a little. "Alas!" said she, "I fear nothing but the -prolongation of my existence; if I should end my miserable life here, I -should bless the fate that led me to this spot; but wise and generous -Rose-tree, before ending my days, may I not know if he to whom I would -willingly consecrate them still lives; and if he is happy, wherever he -may be? This is my only anxiety. I should die without one regret if I -knew that his destiny was decided." The rose-bush was again strongly -agitated, and thus replied:-- - - For the last time, at thy desire, - I raise my warning voice:-- - Thy lover only will expire - Shouldst thou oppose his choice. - -"Ah! wise Divinity," exclaimed the affectionate Lioness, "I will ask -you nothing more; if he live, I am too happy. May I alone suffer from -the severity of the Fairies! Their persecutions appear as nothing to -me if he be exempted from them, and I permitted to see him happy. -Ah! why should I fetter his inclinations? Alas! the choice which I -should be opposed to, whatever it might be, would never offend me; -what can he owe me? and what can I offer him worthy of his merits? The -unfortunate Lionette not having it in her power to make him happy, -should not prevent him from becoming so, at least I may be permitted -the desire of being the cause of it." Saying this, she retired to the -cabinet of the tube-roses, where she passed the night talking of her -shepherd, and telling her love for him to her faithful friend, who in -return more fully informed her what she knew of the Fairy Cornue and -of her floral companions. "As for the oracular Rose-tree," said she, -"all we know is, it is not of the rose-tree race, it was here when we -came, and I believe that the Fairy, to embellish its dwelling-place, -transplanted us hither; it speaks without being watered, and appears -but little amused by our conversation. It is naturally melancholy, and -you have seen for yourself it has a perfect knowledge of the past, the -present, and the future. The Fairy passes whole days, when she comes -here, in talking to it; rarely does she do us that honour, and I think -it is in consequence of the vexatious things she hears from it that she -feels no pleasure in talking to us. A pomegranate blossom, a very great -friend of mine, often repeated their conversation to me. The Rose-tree -conceals from the Fairy what it is--the Fairy cannot discover it; all -one can make out is, that it was not always a rose-tree." - -She had spoken thus far, when a pink, a ranunculus, and some other -flowers entered, and after paying their compliments to the Lioness, -they announced to the Tube-rose that Cornue intended to visit them -a day earlier than usual; that they might expect her the following -morning, and that she proposed making a pompous sacrifice to the -Rose-tree; that they were ignorant of the cause of this grand ceremony, -but thought it denoted the approach of some great event. The flowers -wondered among themselves what this great event could be, without -coming to any definite conclusion. - -They then talked about the weather, a conversation in which they shone -greatly, and which would have amused Lionette had she been in another -frame of mind, but she spoke little, and listened less. At sunset the -flowers retired each to their home; and Lionette, after taking a very -slight repast of herbs from the mossy ground, and drinking the water -from the wonderful rivulet, went to sleep at the feet of her faithful -friend the Tube-rose. The first rays of the sun having touched her -eyelids, she awoke: the flowers were already on the move. Lionette -arose, and repaired to the Rose-tree. She laid herself down in one -of the corners of its little temple, and saw all the flowers arrive, -and place themselves artistically to do honour to the Fairy, who did -not keep them long waiting. The whole of the temple glowed with the -beautiful colours of these various flowers; some formed themselves -into arbours, others into garlands, crowns, girandoles, in short, into -a thousand and a thousand kinds of ornaments, so marvellously arranged -that the general effect was dazzling. The sweetness of their perfume -was exquisite; and that which drew Lionette from her reflections was, -that after this arrangement, and on notice of the Fairy's approach, -they commenced so melodious a concert that the most melancholy beings -would have forgotten their grief, and have yielded to the sweet -enchantment in which this music wrapped the soul. The Tube-rose, above -all, was perfection. It charmed Lionette completely. She listened with -delight to this wonderful melody, and admired the poetry of the hymn -which they sang; when suddenly she saw the redoubtable Cornue enter, -blazing with jewels, but more frightfully ugly than can be described. -She was seized with a horror at this sight which she could not account -for. She reproached herself for it. "Is it possible," said she to -herself, "that I can be still affected by the weak prejudice of which -my sex is so susceptible? Ought we to decide upon the qualities of the -mind by the beauty or ugliness of the countenance? What feelings must I -inspire if they judge poor Lionette by her form? Judge thyself before -thou judgest others, and conceal not from thyself that if ugliness -induces thee to take an aversion to any one, thou must thyself inspire -a terrible horror." - -While Lionette was constraining herself to vanquish the dreadful -feeling that the presence of the Fairy had possessed her with, the -latter, to the sound of joyful music which echoed through the temple -of the Rose-tree, advanced towards the balustrade and saw the Lioness, -who, seated in the corner to which she had retired, crouched in the -most humble manner as the Fairy gazed on her. Cornue's countenance -brightened with intense joy at this sight. "Oracle, whose words are -always those of truth," exclaimed she, "you have promised me that I -should one day find that which I have sought for so earnestly, and -which doubtless you have reserved as a recompense for the many honours -I have paid to you. Come," said she to the fairies who followed her, -"chain this wild beast, and fasten it to my chariot, after which let -us immolate our victims." Four fairies threw a chain about Lionette, -who allowed herself to be dragged out of the temple notwithstanding the -grief shown by the flowers, that looked as they do when Aurora sheds -her gentle dew upon them, for they all loved Lionette; but their tears -did not in the least soften the inflexible heart of the jealous Cornue. -The Rose-tree shot from its stem a flame which consumed the offering -of bees which the fairies had just placed upon a little golden altar -they had drawn towards it. Its roses became amaranth colour. Cornue -was quite alarmed at this change. "What prodigy is this?" cried she. -"Divinity of these realms, do you protect my rival, or is it the joy of -delivering her into my power that has produced this mysterious change?" -The Rose-tree shuddered at these words, and with a strong and terrible -voice thus answered the Fairy:-- - - Immolate to my just wrath - The first fowl that shall cross thy path. - Mercy to it dare to show - None thyself shall ever know! - -The Rose-tree after this closed its flowers and leaves, and by this -action appeared to bid the Fairy depart. She left the temple much -discontented, and remounted her chariot, to which they had fastened -Lionette, with three other lions who were very handsome. She took the -reins that united these animals and drove slowly over the velvet lawn -by the side of the rivulet, the gentle murmuring of which favoured -her meditations, until one of the fairies, following in another -chariot, exclaimed that she saw a fowl in the water, which appeared -to be drowning. Cornue stopped her chariot, and ordered them to catch -and bring to her the bird that so luckily came to reconcile her with -the oracular Rose-tree. The fairies who were the lightest clad threw -themselves into the stream, and caught the poor bird, which was already -insensible. They carried it to Cornue, who was not at all surprised -at its beauty, for she instantly recognised, to her great dismay, the -unfortunate King Coquerico. "Oh, Heavens!" exclaimed she to herself; -"is it thus, cruel oracle, thou wouldst have me understand thee?" She -held the King up by his feet, and having made him eject the water -that he had swallowed, he reopened his eyes, already darkened by the -approach of death, then quickly touching him with her wand, said to -him, "Resume thy proper form, and save me thereby from the horror of -taking thy life, upon which mine depends." At these words the King, -safe and sound, appeared more brilliant than the sun, his royal mantle -on his shoulders, and his crown of brilliants gracefully encircling his -temples. What became of Lionette at this sight? Her lover stood before -her--her lover a king, and more beautiful than the day! She would have -been speechless with astonishment even had she not resolved beforehand -that she would not speak to the Fairy until she had discovered her -motive for ill-treating her so cruelly. She remained silent, therefore, -but her eyes were so affectionately fixed on the King, that if he had -not been pre-occupied by the adventure that had just occurred, he would -easily have recognised his unhappy Princess. - -"What more do you require of me, Madam?" said he to Cornue. "Is it to -make me feel my miseries more keenly that you have restored me to my -form of which you so unjustly deprived me? or do you at last repent -that you have done me so much mischief?" "Ungrateful ever, and still -more ungrateful," replied the Fairy, presenting her hand for him to -assist her to descend from her chariot. "Come and justify yourself, -and do not accuse me." So saying, she stepped with him upon the mossy -bank of the rivulet, and leaving her chariot and her companions at -some distance, spoke thus to the King, whom she made to sit down -beside her:--"I need scarcely tell you that I have loved you from your -infancy; the care that I have taken of you must convince you of it, -if you still remember it, for I do not expect gratitude for such poor -benefits. I will only slightly touch upon what has hitherto passed, -for I experienced but cruel ingratitude, which my affection for you -disguised under the name of indifference, arising, perhaps, from my -lack of beauty. I believed for some time that by kindness I should -overcome this coldness. 'Beauty,' I said, 'is but a poor possession--a -sensible man is only caught at first by it. Unlimited power--a fairy -who condescends so far as to desire to please a mortal is always -sufficiently beautiful.' I discovered but too late the abuse of my -confidence, and saw with horror that I had a rival. What did I then do -to be revenged, but what every woman would have done? Far from availing -myself of my power, I only exercised my discretion. I took Lionette -away from you, but I did not kill her--what excess of weakness!--for -she was at my mercy--and what a proof of my love do you not recognise -in that weakness? Your insults and contemptuous coldness drove me to -despair. I deprived you of your form, and I left you. What greater -cruelty could you show me than I had inflicted on myself? No, all your -hatred did not torture me as much. In what misery did I pass my days -after that frightful separation! I accused myself of cruelty, I forgot -all your injustice, and when, becoming more calm, I thought of it as -it really had been, I reproached myself with having given you cause -for it by too much vivacity--in short, your image always present in -my mind, the thought of your anger constantly weighing on my heart, -I could get no rest. Some of the fairies who attended on me in the -Opal Palace advised me to consult the oracular Rose-tree respecting -my destiny. This Oracle, without any one knowing the reason, has -established itself here, or at least has planted itself in the Sward -of Eloquence (the name that is given to that which you behold here, -from the rivulet which surrounds it, because it possesses the faculty -of making everything speak that is watered by it). Persecuted by my -enemies, I came at last to consult this new Oracle. I found at first -some relief to my troubles; I took great pleasure in embellishing its -abode; by my art I caused all kinds of flowers to grow here; I raised -a little temple of verdure, and watering all the flowers from the -Rivulet of Eloquence, I enabled them to converse with the Rose-tree and -entertain it. The information I gathered respecting my destiny made -me grateful to the Oracle, and gave me confidence in its predictions. -I came often to question it, and I endeavoured to discover by whom it -could possibly be inspired. I ascertained that it was not one of those -deities who take pleasure in manifesting themselves to mortals, as at -Delphi. It was a man transformed into a rose-tree, and protected by a -power unknown to me, and carefully kept a secret. I offered him all -my power as a reward for what he had promised me, but he constantly -declined it. At last, having predicted an event which has occurred to -me this very day, and the commencement of my happiness, he commanded -me to sacrifice to him the first fowl that I should see. Judge if all -the happiness I could expect from its promises is to be weighed in the -balance against your life--for that is what he demands of me. Could I -feel, could I know, a comfort, deprived of it? Let the Oracle be angry -with me, overwhelm me if it will with the most dreadful calamities, I -will not avoid them by the sacrifice of your life. Continue, if you -dare, to treat me inhumanly, cruelly--I will submit to it, provided I -can still behold you; for I have resolved to suffer everything your -hatred can inflict upon me, sooner than consent to immolate you to the -strange caprice of the Rose-tree." - -Cornue ceased speaking, and the King, having expressed his -acknowledgments, replied,--"What can I do for you, Madam? My heart -is mine no longer; I have no wish to deceive you; not only is such -perfidy incompatible with my nature, but you too well know what I think -for me to attempt to impose on your credulity, and I owe you too much -gratitude for saving my life willingly to deceive you, were it in my -power. But why have you preserved one who never can make you happy? Far -better would it have been for you to have obeyed your Oracle. Certain -that you will always oppose my happiness, I should have received my -death at your hands with pleasure, since I can never entertain for you -a warmer feeling than gratitude. You would have relieved me from the -shame of appearing thankless to you, and from being obliged to drag out -an existence far from the object of my eternal affection." - -The King was silent, and the Fairy greatly agitated; neither spoke for -some time. "What did this deceitful Oracle promise you?" at length -inquired the King. "If you can be rendered happy by ending my life, why -defer the sacrifice? The generosity you have shown in preserving it, -excites in my heart a feeling of emulation. Conduct me to the temple, -it will not be you that will immolate me, at least; Love will acquit -you, for Love will dispose of my life, as it is he who prevents my -making you the mistress of it." "Talk no more of sacrifice," said the -Fairy, rising; "your life is too precious for me not to struggle to -preserve it, at the risk of all that may happen. Come to my palace, and -we will see to-morrow what can be done." She then moved towards her -chariot, which she stepped into with the Prince, and the Lions went at -such speed that they arrived almost immediately at the Opal Palace. - -Here it was that Lionette abandoned herself to the bitterest grief when -she saw the Fairy descend from her chariot with the Prince, desiring -that her lions might be put into a grotto where a thousand other wild -animals were lodged that she drove in harness. "Oh, Heavens!" she -cried, "to what am I reduced?" She permitted herself to be led away to -the grotto, and retiring into a dark corner, stretched herself upon -a little straw, and passed the night groaning at her fate. Some days -elapsed without any one disturbing her sad repose; at the end of which -time two young fairies came to take four lions, some tigers, and two -bears to be hunted for the entertainment of the Fairy and in honour of -the King. - -As the Princess was ignorant of the purpose for which these animals -were selected, she did not speak to the Fairies. But what a situation -for her! Her lover, whom she could not doubt was in the Palace, and who -could not know her--the severity of the Fairy--the horror of passing -her days in this strange place--all gave her a disgust to life, which -would not yield to the love she possessed for the King, though it had -been redoubled by the sight of him. "Ah, why should I continue to love -him?" she exclaimed. "Doubtless he no longer loves me. And to render my -punishment the greater, I feel he is more lovely than ever. Let me die; -and may he never know the extent of the misery he has caused me. Bereft -of his love--bereft of him--why should I regret to die?" - -She could not suppose him to be enamoured of Cornue; she tried in vain -to think why he was at the Opal Palace; she lamented the timidity -that induced her to fly from Tigreline at the crowing of the cock. In -recalling to her mind the few circumstances she was cognizant of, she -felt convinced that the cock that flew in at the window was certainly -the same which was brought to Cornue, and re-transformed upon the -Sward of Eloquence. "How contrary is my destiny!" said she. "My heart -pants for an object which certainly compels me to fly from it. Let me -hasten to put an end to this torment. Can the approach of death be a -greater punishment? Coquerico, ungrateful Coquerico, has forgotten me. -Why should I any longer doubt it? Let me go and expire at the foot of -the Rose-tree, and for ever fly from a place that only aggravates and -redoubles my grief." - -Fortunately the fairies had not shut the door of the grotto. The -wretched Princess stole out, and found herself in Cornue's forest. She -heard a great noise of horns and dogs; she entered a thick part of the -wood which appeared likely to conceal her. Anxious to let the chase -go by, she had thrust herself under some low branches, when she heard -a dear voice she could not be mistaken in. This voice spoke to one -whom she soon knew to be the Fairy Cornue. "Yes, Madam, I avow it. I -have an invincible repugnance to hunt lions ever since the unfortunate -Lionette has been changed into one. I know not what has become of her. -You wish me to remain in ignorance about her; you object to my taking -any means by which I might obtain knowledge of her present position. -You wish to kill me. Ah, why, then, do you hesitate, when your Oracle -demands my death? Let me go to consult it, or with my sword will I rid -myself of a life which is rendered insupportable by your tyranny." "How -can you imagine," replied the Fairy, "that I should allow you to seek -this Oracle who demands your death? For it is not that he desires a -cock as a sacrifice more than any other bird--it is you yourself that -the barbarous Oracle would have immolated; and do you think I will -consent to that? I love you, and you hate me--that is all my offence -in your eyes. And if I were to restore Lionette to you, you would soon -forget even the trifling gratitude you might profess to entertain for -me." "I," exclaimed the King, "forget it? Never! I forget that I was -indebted to you for the happiness of my existence? Do not imagine it. -Restore her to her natural shape, and I swear to you I will agree to -everything that depends upon myself. You will command my obedience, -and my friendship will be unbounded. In fact, if I cannot give you my -heart, at least there will be so little apparent difference, that you -yourself will scarcely perceive it." "Enough," said the Fairy; "I trust -to your oath, and I will yield to your impatience. To-morrow we will -proceed to the temple of the Rose-tree. I will expose myself to its -anger. I will try to appease it, and then we shall see if your word is -inviolable." - -The King and the Fairy passed on, and the Princess, delighted to find -her lover as faithful as she had believed him inconstant, turned her -footsteps towards the temple of the Rose-tree, and arrived there late -at night. - -All the flowers were asleep. She did not disturb any of them; she went -and lay at the feet of the Tube-rose--she did not sleep. The beauty -of the night filled her soul, already prepared to receive delightful -impressions, with the purest joy, unmingled with a shade of sorrow. -The amiable Coquerico, faithful and loving, appeared in her idea so -worthy of being loved, that she did not regret all she had suffered -for him. She never thought about his being a King; she disdained every -advantage that was the mere consequence of chance. He was worthy of -her affection--that was all she considered. Cornue's reproaches had -revealed her jealousy. Lionette in an instant therefore understood why -the Fairy had so ill-treated her; and as the happiest love is subject -to reverses, she distressed herself at what the King would have to -suffer if he resisted the Fairy's passion. She immediately determined -to abandon her lover to her rival in order to save his life, which -the Oracle had told her he would lose if she opposed his choice. Some -mournful reflections upon this situation succeeded to those that had -so pleasantly occupied her. She determined to seek the Oracle without -delay. She arose very quietly, and entered the temple as the day broke. - -King Coquerico was not in a better situation. The horror with which -Cornue had inspired him by her new barbarity in wishing his mistress -to perish by his hand under the pretence of affording him the -entertainment of a lion hunt, was unconquerable: his patience was -exhausted, and he only feigned to agree to her wishes in order to gain -time to be revenged, by getting the necklace out of her possession. - -The Fairy had luckily not noticed the little bottle under his wing the -day she restored him to his form; he therefore still possessed it, and -trusted it would be of great use to him. He retired early that night, -under pretence of being fatigued, and the Fairy begged he would wear -the ornaments that she had ordered to be put into his room, that he -might make a grander figure in the eyes of the Rose-tree. He was no -sooner in his own apartment than the recollection of what Cornue had -said, and of what he had promised, threw him into deep distress, as he -foresaw that if he could not anticipate the artful Fairy's intention, -he should only obtain from this jealous enemy the pleasure of once more -seeing Lionette, in return for which Cornue would undoubtedly insist -upon his marrying her. - -This cruel thought made him more eager for revenge, and that feeling -was increased by his observing a large basket made of pearls and -garnets in filigree work, which stood on a table beside him. He made -no doubt it contained the presents she had requested him to wear. He -raised the white taffeta embroidered in gold which covered this elegant -basket, and perceived with astonishment, mingled with rage, the royal -robes that are worn at the marriage of the Kings of the Fortunate -Islands. As they were the work of the Fairies, it is impossible to -describe their magnificence. - -A moment afterwards, recollecting that he should appear thus attired -before the Princess, he could not divest himself of the idea that -occurred to him, that perhaps such magnificence might make an -impression on her. However, believing the Fairy to be asleep, he -resolved to put his plan in execution without delay, and throwing all -the ornaments back into the basket, he ascended a private staircase -which led to Cornue's bed-chamber. He arrived without any obstacle -at her bed-side; the curtains were open, and held back by Cupids of -mother-of-pearl; these also supported crystal chandeliers filled with -wax lights, to illumine the room. When she could not sleep the Cupids -sang, or read to her the news of the day, Gazettes, or fresh stories -that were written about the Fairies. On that night they must certainly -have been reading to her as long a story as this, for she snored -terribly. She could not have foreseen the King's unseasonable visit, -for no one could look so ugly in bed as she did. She had neither rouge -nor patches; and her livid and unhealthy-looking skin, gave her more -the appearance of a corpse than of a living and amorous Fairy. Her horn -assisted in making her more hideous. She had the fatal necklace round -her neck, which was partly uncovered. The King was not at all enchanted -by the sight of her. His desire to free himself from so hideous an -object made him hastily draw forth his little bottle, in order to fling -some drops of its contents over the Fairy, when all the Cupids suddenly -began to cry, "Who goes there? who goes there?" The Fairy opened her -eyes, and the King remained more surprised and more distressed than -it is possible to say. "What do you here, Prince?" said she, sitting -upright; "what has brought you into my room without having sent me word -of your intention?" She would have asked him a thousand other questions -if she had had the time, for the King, more alarmed at her ugliness -than at the menacing tone she gave to her words, allowed her to talk, -and did not answer her. "What would you?" she said again. "Explain your -object." - -"I am very sorry, Madam, to have disturbed your rest," at length said -the King; "but not knowing your projects, before I definitively pledge -my word to you I wish to know what you propose to exact from me." -"Would there not have been time to-morrow," said the Fairy, "to have -asked me this mighty question, and was it necessary to awake me for so -silly a purpose? Go to your rest, my Lord, and to-morrow we shall be in -a condition for you to propose, and for me to resolve." The King, truly -seeing no other way of getting out of this embarrassment, was very well -disposed to return to his room, when the Fairy called him back. "Come -here," cried she, "where are you going? Ought you not to apologize for -your imprudence, or do you think you have not committed any?" The King, -annoyed by this fresh obstacle, which prevented him from retiring, -said, "Ah, Madam, do not make me commit a greater fault, in any longer -disturbing your rest; it ought to be precious to me, and the respect -I owe you----" "No, no," replied the Fairy, "approach; I do not wish -to sleep any more, and I will absolutely know what brought you here; -do not fear to offend me, but dread to conceal your feelings from me. -I wish for a candid avowal, and," continued she, looking at him most -affectionately, "I expect you will entertain me as a punishment for -awaking me." - -The King, at this disagreeable proposition, thought he should lose all -patience, but being in the power of this terrible person he suppressed -his first movement, and seating himself, out of respect, some distance -from the Fairy's bed, said, "Since you wish it, Madam, I will obey -you. I came, not thinking you were asleep, to ask you to restore the -Princess to her natural form immediately, and to declare, without that, -I cannot follow you to the temple of the rose-tree." "Truly," replied -the Fairy, much annoyed at this commencement, "this is a beautiful -subject to disturb every one about; could not that have been deferred -till to-morrow?" "No, Madam," replied the King, "and I am very sorry -I did not urge it yesterday, without being under the necessity of -waiting another day." "Well," said the Fairy, "what will you do for -me in return, and what have I to expect from your gratitude?" "I have -told you, Madam, the strongest friendship, and all that an affectionate -heart could further give----" "Friendship," replied the Fairy; "no, -no, King Coquerico, it is not at such a price that I dispense my -favours--it must be of more value than that. Shall I tell you what -it is? It is not worth while to wait till to-morrow to inform you. I -cannot ask you for your love, I am convinced of that; you are incapable -of feeling it for me; you have made me sufficiently understand that; -but I will forgive you upon condition that to-morrow you will solemnly -give me your faith." - -The King, prepared as he had been for this event by Tigreline, -could not quietly listen to her discourse, and find himself so near -renouncing for ever a Princess whom he loved, without feeling it most -cruelly. "If my heart were free," he replied, in a tone of voice -changed by the excessive effort he made to suppress his fury, "I could -offer you the one or the other; but, Madam, I have disposed of my heart -beyond my own control, and I will not offer you my hand, the possession -of which would make you miserable, for at every instant I should make -you feel, in spite of myself, that, my heart being separated from it, -I was not worthy the honour you conferred on me. The gratitude I owe -you, therefore, obliges me absolutely to refuse you, at the peril -of my life." "We shall see that to-morrow," replied Cornue. "Go and -strengthen or change your noble resolutions; but remember that if you -resist mine, it will not be your life that will answer to me for it. I -shall know how to find, in spite of you, the sensitive place of a heart -you assure me is so indifferent." - -The King, maddened by rage and grief, departed, and returned to his own -apartments, where he abandoned himself to the deepest despair. Twenty -times he was about to plunge his sword in his heart, and sacrifice his -life to the Princess; but thinking he might perhaps revenge her, or at -least save her from the fury of the Fairy, he abandoned that frightful -idea, and resolved upon going to the temple of the Rose-tree. - -As soon as the morning appeared, the palace of the Fairy resounded -with music and nuptial hymns; she sent to know if the King was ready, -giving an order that they should attend to him as her husband. A -pompous chariot was in the palace court. All the fairies from far and -near were summoned to this ceremony; they arrived from every quarter. -Tigreline only announced that she should be at the temple. At length -the King appeared; his pale and thin face indicated that he was the -victim of the sacrifice, rather than the person to whom it was to be -offered. With all that he was as lovely as the day. - -Cornue was attired as a Queen; all the skill in the world had been -employed about her robes. She seated herself with the King in her -chariot, and all the fairies followed according to their rank, riding -upon eagles, dragons, tigers, and leopards. A dozen beautiful young -fairies of the Court of Cornue, led in couples a dozen lions, upon -which, during all the journey, the King had his eyes fixed, seeking to -discover if the unfortunate Lionette were not amongst them. They set -out amidst a flourish of drums and trumpets, and they arrived at the -Sward of Eloquence: the flowers were already on the boundaries, and -formed two ranks six feet high, between which the brilliant procession -passed, amidst loud acclamations and joyous songs. - -The temple was crowded. The most beautiful flowers had formed two -thrones of exquisite taste, and the _coup-d'œil_ was enchanting, -so well was everything arranged. The unfortunate Lionette was already -in the temple, and the pleasure of seeing Tigreline there, whom she -remembered directly, had relieved in a slight degree the deep grief she -was in at being compelled to witness the happiness of her cruel rival. -"I shall die, Madam," said she to the Fairy, "but at any rate let the -King know, after my decease, that my affection has equalled his own, -and that I pardon him a fault which fate has made him commit. I do not -condemn him for his inconstancy." She wept so bitterly in finishing -these words, and she was so overcome by the violence of her grief, that -she did not see the King and the Fairy enter. Cornue first approached -the Rose-tree. "I come," said she, "to redeem my word. Divinity of this -place, you demanded of me the sacrifice of a fowl. I have too well -understood your oracle; behold what you required, and I think I shall -interpret your wishes by demanding of him, at the foot of your altar, -the hand he is so reluctant to bestow on me; a sacrifice which is to -him greater than that of his life." The Rose-tree drooped its leaves -and blossoms, as if in approval of the words of the Fairy. Cornue then -turning to the King, who had remained a few steps behind her, said, -"Approach, my Lord, and fulfil the decree of fate." He was at this -moment much more occupied with what he saw than with what was said to -him; he had perceived Tigreline, and he no longer doubted that the -lioness at her side was his divine Princess; he looked at her tenderly -and sorrowfully, not daring, however, to approach her, for fear of -displeasing Tigreline, who had made him a severe sign to prevent him. - -Cornue, surprised at his silence, turned towards him, and saw him in -this pleasant occupation; then placing on the altar the crown which -she held in her hand, in order that the King might put it on her head, -she approached him. "What are you about," said she; "is this a time -for dreaming?" "I delay my reply, Madam," said the King, without much -emotion, "till you shall render to the Princess of the Golden Island -the form which you have so unjustly deprived her of; afterwards I will -do what gratitude demands of me, and I will not deceive you." Cornue -perceiving that it was not time to recede, especially as she saw -Tigreline present, her superior in power, and that the day which she -had chosen for this ceremony was precisely that on which the fairies -are subject to death, was very cautious not to let the King know this, -for fear that he should take advantage of those four-and-twenty hours -to revenge himself for the cruelty which she had exercised on him and -the Princess; yet, nevertheless, she was not willing to delay the -fulfilment of her happiness; knowing, therefore, that it was impossible -to deceive the King any longer, she turned to Tigreline, who led the -lioness to the altar. "My Sister," said Cornue, taking off the necklace -and presenting it to Tigreline, "I restore the Princess to you, and you -can use your power to make her resume her proper form, but spare her -the grief of seeing me crowned by the hand of her lover, and depart -with her, as she can never be his." - -Tigreline lost not a moment: in lieu of replying to Cornue, the good -Fairy touched the lioness with her wand, and the Princess stood before -them more beautiful and more amiable than ever. She was by the care -of the Fairy clothed magnificently and in the finest taste: she had a -dress of cloth of silver, covered with garlands of everlasting flower -of _gris-de-lin_[46] colour; her beautiful light hair, adorned with -diamonds and the same sort of flowers as those on her dress, fell in -curls on her shoulders, and made her appear more beautiful than the -day. The King was transported: he advanced towards her, and falling on -one knee--"Will you permit, beautiful Princess," said he, "that the -faith which I have plighted you should be taken from you, and that the -unjust Fairy, who has made us so unhappy, should quietly enjoy a crown -which should be yours?" - -The Princess Lionette, during the time that her lover was speaking, -kept her eyes tenderly fixed upon him, and by the tears which gently -rolled down her cheeks let him see the effort which she made in giving -him up. "I cannot," said she at length, "oppose fate; yes, my dear -Prince, you must submit; I release you from your vows, live happy -without me, if it be possible for you to do so; and as I must of -necessity lose you, I quit this life without a regret, and am happy in -dying at having been able to tell you once more without its being a -crime that I love you." "Yes, you shall die," cried the furious Cornue; -"I have borne enough insults, and that is another happiness which you -have not counted amongst those you boast of at this fatal moment!" -The King at these words rose from the feet of the Princess, who did -not seem alarmed even at seeing her rival advance towards her with a -poniard in her hand. He arrested the Fairy with one hand, and with the -other drew his sword. "It is I who will perish," cried he, "and you -cannot attempt the life of my Princess, which mine will answer for." -"Oh, heavens!" cried the Fairy and Lionette at the same time. "Hold!" -Tigreline then advanced towards Cornue; she had not spoken till that -moment; she had allowed everything to proceed, and those to speak who -were most anxious to do so. She raised her wand, and touching Cornue, -"Receive," said she, "to-day, the reward of your misdeeds, and witness -in your turn the happiness of these two lovers." At the words Cornue -remained motionless, but her eyes shone with such terrible fury, that, -not being able to find expression for it, her horn seemed on fire, and -she foamed with rage. "And you, wise Rose-tree," continued Tigreline, -"resume your form, and enjoy the pleasure of embracing your amiable -daughter." She had not finished these words when the Rose-tree, bending -itself a little, appeared in its true form. - -It was that of a man about fifty years of age, nobly made, and -magnificently attired; he had a long regal mantle, and a crown of -gold, set with precious stones, on his head. Lionette resembled him so -extremely that no one in the whole assembly could doubt she was his -daughter. That beautiful Princess threw herself into his arms with so -much natural delight, that all the company were affected by it. The -good King received her with transports of joy, which would have been -more prolonged if he had not perceived at his feet the young King of -the Fortunate Islands, who embraced his knees. He quitted his daughter -a moment to raise the handsome Coquerico. "I give you my daughter," -said he to him, embracing him. "Receive her, my Lord, and live as -happily as I have seen you miserable. I add my crown to this gift, and -though I do not expect it will increase your happiness, judging by the -vexations it has brought on me, still, such as it is, I give it to my -daughter to present to you." - -At this moment the King would have taken off his crown, but the young -King cried, "No, sire, you shall not cease to reign: the charming, the -tender Lionette fulfils all my wishes, and my crown is at her feet. -Permit us to live with you, and let nothing separate us any more." -Tigreline applauded this mark of generosity in King Coquerico; and -taking Lionette by the hand, she presented her to him. He received -her with transports of love more easily imagined than described. Then -raising his crown, and placing one knee on the ground, he presented it -to Lionette, who accepted it as she plighted her troth to him. - -The Temple resounded with the nuptial hymn. It was only interrupted -by Cornue, who uttered a piercing cry, and expired, it being her day -of doom. Her death caused no extraordinary sensation. The young King -and the Princess alone appeared affected by the result of her despair. -Tigreline had her carried away, and the ceremony was concluded. King -Coquerico then turning towards the King, his father-in-law, asked him -if he wished to witness the coronation of the Queen Lionette, or if -he would prefer waiting where he was for some days. "And I," said -Lionette, "I would entreat a favour of the kind Tigreline, and of my -dear husband, if I dare speak at this moment." "My dear Princess," -replied the King, tenderly, "what do you fear?" "I would, then," said -the Princess, "that, disembarrassed of the cares of government, we -could live here always, and that, content with my happiness, I might be -occupied with nothing but the pleasure of enjoying it. It is here that -I have regained what is to me most valuable. What signifies to me the -rest of the world if I live with these two persons; and if you, Madam," -added she, addressing the Fairy, "deign to come and see me, and restore -to me my two unfortunate guardians?" "I consent," said the two Kings -at once. "Yes, my daughter," said the Fairy in her turn, "I approve of -these noble sentiments, and you shall live here as a Queen, but without -feeling the inconvenience of it. You shall both also enjoy the gift of -fairydom. I bestow it on you." - -Then touching the hedges that formed the walls of the temple, the whole -structure was changed into a palace of emeralds so brilliant and so -magnificent, that never was anything seen to equal it. The flowers -became living and speaking persons, having as the sole mark of their -transformation a flower of their name on the head. The greensward -became a magnificent garden: on one side appeared a vast forest, at -one end of which the Fairy caused to be built a little palace of -rose-colour and white marble; and at the other, one of rock crystal, -in which she had the kindness to place the fine model of the universe, -which had been the delight of the King in his youth. The Princess was -enchanted. "It is for me," said the King, "an inestimable gift--it will -recall to me without ceasing the pleasure I have enjoyed in exploring -it in search of my dear Princess." "And I," said she, "will hold it -dear, because it has taught you that I was occupied with your memory." - -The Fairy was charmed to see them so happy, with a degree of love so -little known in our time or even in that at which they lived. "Love -each other always thus, my children," said she, embracing them; "I -can give you nothing preferable to that blessing; it is the only -real happiness." She then made them observe that each palace had its -separate gardens, its cascades, fountains, and charming flower-beds. -On the other side of the garden was a large and flowing river, upon -which were a thousand superb gondolas, silver and _gris-de-lin_, which -wound round towards a castle built entirely of flowers, the marvellous -variety of which had an admirable effect, and crowning the summit of -a mountain with terraces laid out as gardens, descending to the brink -of the river, and which served as a country house to the Palace of -Emeralds. "I give you all this," said Tigreline, embracing Lionette; -"live here, my children, millions of years; your subjects will love -you, and never betray you. If you wish for more, a touch of this wand," -said she, giving hers to Lionette, "will change all the flowers into -speaking and rational beings, and they will become flowers again at -your will." - -The King and Lionette threw themselves at the feet of the Fairy, and -thanked her heartily. She raised them, and again embraced them. "Wave -your wand," said she to the Princess, "that your guardians may have -the pleasure of being recalled by yourself." The beautiful Lionette -quickly made this first trial of her power; the good people appeared -immediately. She ran to embrace them, but they feared to receive her -caresses; the beautiful Queen, however, pressed them to her heart -so affectionately that they at length returned her embraces with a -tenderness which drew tears from all beholders. The Queen seeing them -so aged and decrepit, turned her beautiful eyes, full of tears, on -the Fairy, who comprehended what she suffered. "I like to see so much -sensibility, madam," said Tigreline; "use your power, you cannot employ -it better than in the way you at present desire." She had not finished -these words, when the old man and his wife appeared to be,--he a man -of twenty years, and the old woman a girl of eighteen. They threw -themselves at the feet of the Fairy, and kissed the hands of the Queen, -who, delighted to see them so young and amiable, embraced the Fairy to -thank her for this great favour. - -The good King then addressed his daughter, who turned her eyes -affectionately on him, "Do not confer on me the same gift, my dear -daughter; I do not wish to possess second youth. I see you happy, that -is the only thing which would affect me; I shall never be sensible of -greater joy; leave to the gods the disposal of my days." "It is for -me," said the Fairy, "to render them happy; you shall live, Sire, -till you are sufficiently tired of life to wish to lose it. Adieu; my -affairs compel me now to leave you, but I shall speedily see you again." - -The Queen conducted the Fairy to her car, the two Kings handed her into -it, after which they returned to the Palace, where, charmed with each -other's society, they passed their golden days, more happy than they -had ever been miserable. They lived millions of years, and the King -and Queen presented the world with fairies and beneficent genii, who -are at this moment actually occupied in promoting the happiness of the -universe. - - -FOOTNOTES: - -[41] See note, page 360. - -[42] The "Académie Française," for which Cardinal Richelieu -obtained letters patent, January, 1635. The number of members was fixed -at forty, and they were called "_les immortels_." - -[43] This opera, founded on the well-known episode in Tasso's -_Gerusaleme Liberata_, and produced at Paris in 1686, is considered the -_chef-d'œuvre_ of Quinault. - -[44] The necklace must also have preserved the Queen from the -tigers, or (according to the Author, page 420) one with so wicked an -object for her visit must have fallen their prey. - -[45] The crowing of a cock was supposed by the ancients to -terrify the lion exceedingly. This idea is alluded to in Mademoiselle -D'Aulnoy's story--"The Pigeon and the Dove." - -[46] _Gris-de-lin_, Englished into Gridelin, was an -exceedingly fashionable colour, both in France and England, at this -period. It is variously described, but appears to have been a reddish -grey--"gris tirant sur le rouge"--not unlike lilac. - - - - -MADAME DE BEAUMONT. - - - - -THE PRINCE DÉSIR - -and - -THE PRINCESS MIGNONE. - - -There was once upon a time a King who passionately loved a Princess, -but she could not be married because she was enchanted. He went in -search of a Fairy to learn what he should do to be loved by this -Princess. The Fairy said to him, "You know that the Princess has a -large cat, of which she is very fond. She is destined to marry the man -who shall be sufficiently adroit to tread on the tail of her cat." The -King said to himself, "That will not be very difficult." So he quitted -the Fairy, determined to crush the tail of the cat rather than fail to -tread on it. He ran to the palace of his mistress, where Minon came -towards him, putting up his back, as he was accustomed to do; the King -raised his foot, but when he thought he was certain to set it on the -cat's tail, Minon turned round so quickly that his Majesty trod on -nothing but the floor. He tried for eight days to step on this fatal -tail, but it appeared to be full of quicksilver, so continually was it -in motion. At length the King had the good fortune to surprise Minon -whilst he was sleeping, and stamped upon his tail with all his force. -Minon awoke, squalling horribly. Then suddenly he took the form of a -great man, and regarding the Prince with eyes full of anger, he said -to him, "Thou shalt wed the Princess, because thou hast destroyed the -enchantment which prevented thee from doing so, but I will be avenged. -Thou shalt have a son who shall be always unhappy until the moment -when he shall discover that he has too long a nose, and if thou darest -to divulge the threat I have uttered, thou shalt die immediately." -Although the King was very frightened at the sight of this great man, -who was an enchanter, he could not help laughing at this threat. "If -my son has too long a nose," said he to himself, "unless he be either -blind or without arms, he can always see it or feel it." - -The Enchanter having disappeared, the King sought the Princess, who -consented to marry him; but his happiness was of brief duration, for he -died at the end of eight months. A month afterwards the Queen brought -into the world a little prince, whom they named Désir. He had large -blue eyes, the most beautiful in the world, and a pretty little mouth, -but his nose was so big that it covered half his face. The Queen was -inconsolable when she saw this great nose; but the ladies who were -with her told her that the nose was not so large as it appeared to -her: that it was a Roman nose, and that she might learn from history -that all heroes had large noses. The Queen, who passionately loved her -son, was charmed at this discourse, and from constantly looking at -Désir his nose did not appear so large to her as at first. The Prince -was brought up with care, and as soon as he could speak they told all -sorts of shocking stories before him about people with short noses. -They allowed no one to come near him but those whose noses in some -degree resembled his own, and the courtiers, to pay their court to the -Queen and her son, pulled the noses of their little children several -times in the day to make them longer; but it was no use pulling, for -they appeared snub-nosed by the side of Prince Désir. As soon as he -could understand it they taught him history, and when they spoke of -any great prince or beautiful princess they always said they had long -noses. All his apartments were full of portraits of persons with large -noses, and Désir became so accustomed to regard the length of the nose -as a beauty, that he would not for a crown have had his in the least -diminished. - -When he was twenty years of age, and they thought of marrying him, -they presented him with the portraits of several princesses. He was -enchanted with that of Mignone. She was the daughter of a great -King, and heiress to several kingdoms; but Désir thought nothing of -that, so much was he engrossed by her beauty. This Princess, whom he -found so charming, had, however, a little turned-up nose, which had -the prettiest effect in the world on her face, but which threw the -courtiers into the utmost embarrassment. They had acquired the habit of -ridiculing little noses, and they could not restrain a smile at that of -the Princess, but Désir would allow no raillery on this subject, and -he banished from his court two courtiers who had dared to disparage -the nose of Mignone. The others, profiting by this example, corrected -themselves, and there was one who said to the Prince, that in truth a -man could not be handsome without a large nose, but that female beauty -was altogether different, and that a scholar who spoke Greek had told -him that he had read, in an old Greek manuscript, that the beautiful -Cleopatra had the tip of her nose turned up. - -The Prince made a magnificent present to the person who told him -this good news, and he sent ambassadors to demand Mignone's hand in -marriage. They granted his request, and he went more than three leagues -to meet her, so anxious was he to behold her; but when he advanced to -kiss her hand, the Enchanter descended, carried off the Princess before -his face, and left him inconsolable. Désir resolved not to return to -his kingdom till he had recovered Mignone. He would not allow any of -his courtiers to follow him, and being mounted on his good horse he put -the bridle on his neck and let him take his own road. - -The horse entered a large plain, over which he travelled all day -without seeing a single house. The master and the horse were both dying -of hunger, when at length in the evening the Prince saw a cavern, -in which was a light. He entered, and perceived a little woman, -who appeared to be more than an hundred years old. She put on her -spectacles to look at the Prince, but she was a long time adjusting -them, because her nose was too short. The Prince and the Fairy (for -she was one) each burst out laughing at seeing the other, and cried -out both at once, "Ah, what a droll nose!" "Not so droll as yours," -said Désir to the Fairy; "but, Madam, let us leave our noses as they -are, and be so good as to give me something to eat, for I am dying of -hunger, and so is my poor horse." "With all my heart," said the Fairy; -"although your nose is so ridiculous, you are no less the son of my -best friend. I loved the King your father like my own brother; he had -a very handsome nose, that Prince!" "And what is wanting in mine?" -said Désir. "Oh, there is nothing wanting," replied the Fairy; "on the -contrary, there is but too much of it; but never mind, one may be a -very good man, even with too long a nose. I have told you that I was -the friend of your father; he came to see me very often in those days; -and _à propos_ of those days, let me tell you I was then very pretty, -and he used to say so. I must tell you a conversation we had together -the last time that he saw me." - -"Oh, Madam," said Désir, "I shall listen to you with much pleasure -when I have supped; think, I pray you, that I have not eaten all day." -"Poor boy," said the Fairy, "he is right: I forgot all about that; I -will give you your supper directly, and whilst you eat I will tell you -my history in few words, for I am not fond of long stories. Too long a -tongue is still more insupportable than a long nose, and I remember, -when I was young, that I was admired because I was not a great talker; -they told the Queen my mother this, for notwithstanding what you now -see me, I am the daughter of a great King. My father----" "Your father -ate when he was hungry," said the Prince, interrupting her. "Yes, -without doubt," replied the Fairy, "and you shall sup also, presently. -I wanted only to tell you that my father----" "And I will listen to -nothing till I have eaten," said the Prince, who began to be in a -passion. He calmed down, however, for he had need of the Fairy, and he -said to her, "I know that the pleasure I should have in listening to -you would make me forget my hunger, but my horse, who will not hear -you, has need of food." - -The Fairy bridled up at this compliment. "You shall not wait any -longer," said she, calling her domestics; "you are very polite, and -notwithstanding the enormous size of your nose, you are very good -looking." "Plague take the old woman with my nose," said the Prince -to himself; "one would imagine that my mother had stolen from her the -quantity of which her own nose is deficient. If I did not so much -want something to eat, I would leave this chatterbox, who thinks she -talks so little. One must be a great fool not to know his own defects: -this comes of being born a Princess; flatterers have spoiled her, and -have persuaded her that she is a little talker." Whilst the Prince -was thus thinking, the servants laid the table, and he could not but -wonder at the Fairy, who put a thousand questions to them merely for -the pleasure of talking; he admired, above all, a waiting-woman, who, -whatever the Fairy said, praised her mistress for her discretion. -"Well," thought he, whilst eating, "I am charmed at having come here. -This example makes me see how wisely I have acted in not listening to -flatterers. Such people praise us shamelessly, hide our defects from -us, and change them into perfections: as for me, I shall never be -their dupe--I know my faults, thank God." The poor Désir believed this -thoroughly, and did not feel that those who had praised his nose mocked -him as much as the Fairy's waiting-woman mocked her (for the Prince saw -that she turned aside from time to time to laugh). As for him, he said -not a word, but ate with all his might. - -"Prince," said the Fairy, when he began to be satisfied, "turn yourself -a little, I beg; your nose throws a shadow which prevents my seeing -what is on my plate. Now, come, let us speak of your father: I went to -his Court at the time that he was a little boy, but it is forty years -since I retired to this solitude. Tell me a little about the way they -live at Court at present: the ladies, do they still love running from -place to place? In my time, one saw them the same day at the assembly, -at the theatres, at the promenades, at the ball--How long your nose is! -I cannot get accustomed to the sight of it!" "Indeed," replied Désir, -"I wish you would cease to speak of my nose--it is as it is--what does -it matter to you? I am content with it, and I would not have it any -shorter; every one has his nose as it pleases Providence." "Oh! I see -plainly that you are angry, my poor Désir," said the Fairy; "it was -not, however, my intention to annoy you, quite the contrary, I am one -of your friends, and I wish to render you a service; but, in spite -of that, I cannot help being shocked at your nose; I will, however, -try not to speak of it, I will force myself even to think you are -snub-nosed, although, to tell you the truth, there is enough material -in that nose to make three reasonable noses." - -Désir, who had supped, became so impatient at the endless talk which -the Fairy kept up on the subject of his nose, that he threw himself -on his horse and rode off. He continued his journey, and wherever he -passed he thought everybody was mad, because every one exclaimed at -his nose; but notwithstanding this, he had been so accustomed to -hear it said that his nose was handsome, that he could never admit -to himself that it was too long. The old Fairy, who wished to render -him a service in spite of himself, took it into her head to shut up -Mignone in a crystal palace, and placed this palace in the road of the -Prince. Désir, transported with joy, strove to break it, but he could -not succeed; in despair, he wished to approach so as at least to speak -to the Princess, who, on her part also stretched out her hand close to -the glass. He wished to kiss this hand, but whichever way he turned he -could not get his mouth near it, because his nose prevented him. He -perceived, for the first time, its extraordinary length, and putting -his hand to it to bend it on one side, "It must be confessed," said he, -"that my nose is too long." At that moment the crystal palace fell to -pieces, and the old woman, who held Mignone by the hand, said to the -Prince, "Confess that you are under a great obligation to me; I might -have spoken in vain to you of your nose, you would never have believed -in the defect had it not become an obstacle to the attainment of your -wishes." - -It is thus that self-love hides from us the deformities of our soul and -body. Reason in vain seeks to exhibit them to us, we do not admit them -till the moment when this same self-love finds them contrary to its -interest. Désir, whose nose had now become an ordinary one, profited by -this lesson; he married Mignone, and lived happily with her for a great -number of years. - - - - -PRINCE CHÉRI. - - -There was once upon a time so excellent a monarch that his subjects -called him King Good. One day, when he was hunting, a little white -rabbit which the dogs were about to kill, jumped into his arms. The -King caressed the little rabbit, and said, "As it has put itself under -my protection, I will not allow any harm to be done to it." He carried -the little rabbit into his palace and gave it a pretty little house -and nice herbs to eat. At night, when he was alone in his chamber, a -beautiful lady appeared before him; she was arrayed neither in gold nor -in silver, but her robe was white as snow, and her head-dress consisted -simply of a crown of white roses. The good King was much surprised to -see this lady, as his door was locked, and he knew not how she had -entered. She said to him, "I am the Fairy Candid; I passed through the -wood as you were hunting, and I wished to ascertain if you were as -good as everybody said you were. For that purpose I took the form of a -little rabbit, and I saved myself by jumping into your arms; for I know -that those who have pity for animals have more still for men; and if -you had refused me your assistance I should have thought you wicked. I -come to thank you for the kindness you have shown me, and to assure you -I shall always be your friend. You have only to ask me for anything you -wish, I promise to grant it." - -"Madam," said the good King, "as you are a Fairy, you ought to know all -I wish for. I have but one son, whom I love exceedingly, and on that -account they have named him Prince Chéri; if you have any affection -for me, become the friend of my son." "With all my heart," said the -Fairy; "I can make your son the handsomest Prince in the world, -or the richest, or the most powerful; choose which you wish him to -be." "I desire none of those things for my son," said the good King; -"but I shall be much obliged if you will make him the best of all -Princes. What will it profit him to be handsome, rich, to have all the -kingdoms of the world, if he should be wicked? You know well he would -be miserable, and that nothing but virtue can make him happy." "You -are quite right," said Candid; "but it is not in my power to make the -Prince Chéri a good man in spite of himself; he must himself endeavour -to become virtuous. All I can promise you is to give him good advice, -to point out to him his faults, and to punish him if he will not -correct them and punish himself." - -The good King was quite content with this promise, and died a short -time afterwards. Prince Chéri wept much for his father, for he loved -him with all his heart, and he would have given all his kingdoms, his -gold, and his silver, to have saved him, if such things had power to -change the will of fate. Two years after the death of the good King, -Chéri being in bed, Candid appeared to him. "I promised your father," -said she to him, "to be your friend; and, to keep my word, I come to -make you a present." At the same time she placed on the finger of Chéri -a little gold ring, and said to him, "Keep this ring carefully--it is -more precious than diamonds. Every time you commit a bad action it will -prick your finger; but if in spite of this pricking you persist in the -evil deed, you will lose my friendship, and I shall become your enemy." - -Candid disappeared as she uttered these words, and left Chéri much -astonished. For some time his conduct was so faultless that the ring -did not prick him at all, and this gave him so much gratification, that -his subjects added to his name Chéri, or Beloved, that of Heureux, or -Happy. One day he went out hunting, and caught nothing, which put him -in a bad humour. It appeared to him, then, that the ring pressed his -finger a little; but as it did not prick him he paid no great attention -to it. On entering his apartment, however, his little dog Bibi came -jumping about him affectionately, when he said, "Get thee gone, I am -not in a humour to receive thy caresses!" The poor little dog, who did -not understand him, pulled at his coat, to oblige him at least to -look at him. This irritated Chéri, and he gave him a violent kick. In -a moment the ring pricked him, as if it had been a pin; he was much -astonished, and seated himself, quite ashamed, in a corner of the room. -"I think the Fairy mocks me," said he to himself. "What great evil -have I done in kicking an animal which worried me? Of what use is it -to be master of a great empire if I may not chastise my own dog?" "I -do not mock you," said a voice which replied to the thoughts of Chéri. -"You have committed three faults instead of one. You have been in an -ill-humour because you did not like to be disappointed, and because -you believe both beasts and men were only made to obey you. You put -yourself in a passion, which is very wrong, and, lastly, you have been -cruel to a poor animal that did not deserve to be ill-treated. I know -you are much superior to a dog; but if it were a reasonable thing, and -permissible for the great to ill-treat those who are beneath them, I -would at this moment beat you--kill you, for a Fairy is stronger than a -man. The advantage of being master of a great empire is not to be able -to do all the harm that you may wish, but all the good that you can." -Chéri confessed his fault, and promised to correct it; but he did not -keep his word. He had been reared by a foolish nurse, who had spoilt -him when he was little. If he wanted anything he had only to cry, pout, -and stamp his foot, and this woman gave him all he wished for; and this -had made him wilful. She had told him also, from morning to night, that -he would be King some day, and that kings were very happy, because -everybody must obey them, and treat them with great respect, and that -no one could prevent their doing whatever they pleased. - -When Chéri grew up, and was capable of reasoning, he soon learnt that -there was nothing so odious as to be proud, vain, and obstinate. -He made some efforts to correct himself, but he had unfortunately -contracted all three defects; and a bad habit is very difficult to -eradicate. It was not that he had naturally a bad heart: he wept with -annoyance when he had committed a fault, and said, "How unfortunate am -I in having to fight thus all my days against my pride and my temper! -If they had corrected me when I was young, I should not now have had so -much trouble." - -His ring pricked him very often. Sometimes he stopped immediately, at -others he persisted in his ill-behaviour; and what was very singular -was, that it pricked him very slightly for a light offence, but when -he did anything really wicked, it would make the blood spurt from his -finger. At length he grew impatient at this, and wishing to sin at his -ease, he threw away his ring. He thought himself the happiest of men -when he was released from its pricking. He abandoned himself to all the -follies which entered his head, till at length he became quite wicked, -and nobody could bear him. - -One day that Chéri was out walking he saw a young maiden so beautiful, -that he determined to marry her. She was called Zélie, and she was as -good as she was pretty. Chéri imagined that Zélie would be most happy -to become a great Queen; but the girl told him, with much firmness, -"Sire, I am only a shepherdess; I have no fortune; but in spite of -that, I will not marry you." "Am I displeasing to you?" asked Chéri, -a little offended. "No, Prince," replied Zélie; "I think you are very -handsome; but what would be the advantage to me of your beauty, your -riches, the fine clothes and magnificent carriages which you would -give me, if the bad actions I should daily see you commit forced me to -despise and hate you?" - -Chéri became enraged with Zélie, and ordered his officers to carry -her by force to his palace. He brooded all day long over the contempt -with which this girl had treated him; but as he loved her, he could -not make up his mind to harm her. Amongst the favourites of Chéri was -his foster-brother, whom he had made his confidant. This man, whose -inclinations were as low as his birth, flattered the passions of his -master, and gave him very bad advice. When he saw Chéri so sad, he -asked the cause of his grief. The Prince having replied that he could -not bear the contempt of Zélie, and that he had determined to correct -himself of his faults, because he must be virtuous to please her, this -wicked man said, "You are very good to give yourself so much trouble -for a little girl. If I were in your place, I would force her to obey -me. Remember that you are King, and that it would be a shame for you -to submit to the will of a shepherdess, who should be only too happy -to be amongst your slaves. Make her fast on bread and water; put her -in prison; and if she continue to refuse to marry you, let her die by -torture, in order to teach others to yield to your wishes. You will be -disgraced if it be known that a simple girl resists your pleasure, and -all your subjects will forget that they are placed in this world only -to serve you." "But," said Chéri, "shall I not be disgraced if I put -to death an innocent girl? For in fact Zélie is guilty of no crime." -"No one is innocent who refuses to obey your commands," replied the -confidant. "But suppose you do commit an injustice, it is better to -be accused of that than to let it be known that it is permitted to be -wanting in respect for you or to contradict you." - -The courtier knew Chéri's weak point; and the fear of seeing his -authority diminished made such an impression on the King, that he -stifled the good impulse which had given him the wish to correct -himself. He resolved to go the same evening into the chamber of the -shepherdess, and to ill-treat her if she still refused to marry him. - -The foster-brother of Chéri, who feared some good change in him, -assembled three young lords as wicked as himself to carouse with the -King. They supped together; and the courtiers took care to cloud the -reason of the poor Prince, by making him drink deep. During the repast -they excited his anger against Zélie, and made him so ashamed of the -tenderness he had shown for her, that he rose like a madman, swearing -that he would make her obey him, or sell her the next day as a slave. - -Chéri having entered the chamber in which the girl had been shut up, -was surprised not to find her there, for he had the key in his pocket. -He was in a frightful rage, and swore to be avenged on those whom he -should suspect of having aided her to escape. His confidants hearing -him speak thus, resolved to profit by his anger to rid themselves -of a nobleman who had been Chéri's governor. This worthy man had -occasionally taken the liberty of pointing out to the King his faults, -for he loved him as though he had been his own son. At first Chéri had -thanked him, but at length he grew impatient at being contradicted, and -then began to think it was only from a spirit of opposition that his -governor found fault with him, whilst every one else praised him. He -ordered him, therefore, to retire from Court; but, notwithstanding this -order, he admitted now and then that he was an honest man; that he no -longer loved him, but that he esteemed him in spite of himself. The -favourites were always in dread of the King recalling the governor, and -they now imagined they had found a favourable opportunity of getting -rid of him altogether. They represented to the King that Suliman (such -was the name of the worthy man) had boasted that he would set Zélie at -liberty. They bribed three men, who deposed that they had overheard -Suliman speak to this effect; and the Prince, transported with anger, -commanded his foster-brother to send a guard to bring the governor to -him fettered like a criminal. - -After having given these orders, Chéri retired to his room; but hardly -had he entered it, when the ground trembled, he heard a tremendous clap -of thunder, and Candid appeared before him. "I promised your father," -said she to him, in a severe tone, "to give you advice, and to punish -you if you refused to follow it. You have scorned that advice; you have -retained but the form of a man; your crimes have changed you into a -monster, the horror of heaven and earth. It is time I should fulfil my -promise by punishing you. I condemn you to become like the beasts whose -inclinations you already copy. You have resembled the lion in your -rage, the wolf in your gluttony, the serpent by wounding him who has -been your second father, and the bull by your brutality. You shall bear -in your new form the trace of all these animals." - -Hardly had she finished these words before Chéri saw with horror he -was the monster she described. He had the head of a lion, the horns of -a bull, the feet of a wolf, and the tail of a viper. At the same time -he found himself in a great forest, on the brink of a fountain wherein -he saw his horrible form reflected, and heard a voice, which said, -"Consider attentively the state to which thy crimes have reduced thee. -Thy mind is become a thousand times more frightful than thy body." -Chéri recognised the voice of Candid, and in his fury he turned to -throw himself on her, and, if it had been possible, to devour her; but -he saw no one, and the same voice said to him, "I mock thy impotent -fury, and will humble thy pride by placing thee under the power of -thine own subjects." - -Chéri thought that by flying from this fountain he should escape -from much of his vexation, as he should no longer have his ugliness -and deformity before his eyes: he rushed therefore into the wood; but -hardly had he gone a few steps, when he fell into a hole which had been -made to catch a bear, and immediately the hunters, who had climbed the -trees to watch for their prey, descended, and having secured him with -chains, led him towards the capital city of his kingdom. - -On the way, instead of perceiving that he had drawn on himself this -chastisement by his own fault, he cursed the Fairy, gnawed his -chains, and gave himself up to his rage. As he approached the city -to which they were conducting him, he observed great rejoicing going -on; and the hunters having asked what had happened, were told that -Prince Chéri, who had had no pleasure but in tormenting his people, -had been destroyed in his chamber by a thunderbolt, for so they -imagined. "The gods," said they, "could no longer support the excess -of his wickedness, and have thus ridden the world of him. Four lords, -accomplices of his crimes, thought to profit by the event, and to -divide his kingdom amongst them; but the people who knew that it was -their evil counsel which had corrupted the King, tore them to pieces, -and have offered the crown to Suliman, whom the wicked Chéri had -wished to put to death. This worthy Lord has just been crowned, and -we celebrate this day as that of the deliverance of the kingdom; for -Suliman is virtuous, and will restore to us peace and prosperity." - -Chéri groaned with rage at hearing this discourse; but it was far -worse when he arrived in the Great Square before the Palace. He saw -Suliman on a superb throne, and heard the people wish him a long life, -to repair all the evils which his predecessor had committed. Suliman -made a sign with his hand to request silence, and said to the crowd: "I -have accepted the crown which you offered me, but only to preserve it -for Prince Chéri; he is not dead, as you believe. A Fairy has revealed -this to me, and perhaps some day you will see him again as virtuous as -he was in his youth. Alas!" continued he, shedding tears, "flatterers -ruined him. I knew his heart, it was formed for virtue; and but for the -poisonous discourse of those who surrounded him, he would have been a -father to you. Detest his vices, but pity him, and let us all pray the -gods to restore him to us. As for me, I should esteem myself too happy -to bathe this throne with my blood, if I could see him ascend it again -with those good dispositions which would make him fill it worthily." - -The words of Suliman went to the heart of Chéri. He found then how -sincere had been the attachment and fidelity of this excellent man, and -for the first time reproached himself for his wickedness. Hardly had he -listened to this good impulse than he felt the rage which had animated -him subdued, he reflected on the crimes he had committed, and confessed -he had not been punished as severely as he had deserved. He ceased to -struggle in his iron cage, and became mild as a lamb. They placed him -in a large menagerie, where they kept all sorts of monsters and wild -beasts, and chained him up with the rest. - -Chéri then came to the resolution of beginning to amend of his faults, -by showing obedience to the man who kept him. This man was very brutal -when he was in an ill-temper. Although the Monster was very docile, he -beat him without rhyme or reason. One day that this man was asleep, a -tiger that had broken his chain threw himself upon him to devour him; -at first Chéri felt an emotion of joy at seeing himself about to be -delivered from his persecutor, but immediately after he condemned this -feeling and wished himself at liberty. "I would," said he, "render good -for evil by saving the life of this unhappy man." Hardly had he formed -the wish, than he saw his iron cage open, he threw himself before -the man, who was now awake and defending himself from the tiger. The -Keeper thought himself lost when he saw the Monster; but his fear was -soon turned into joy--the benevolent Monster sprang upon the tiger, -strangled him, and then laid himself down at the feet of him whom he -had saved. The man, penetrated by gratitude, was about to stoop to -caress the Monster which had rendered him so great a service, when -he heard a voice which said, "A good action never goes without its -reward," and at the same moment he saw only a pretty dog at his feet. -Chéri, charmed at this metamorphosis, bestowed a thousand caresses on -his Keeper, who took him in his arms and carried him to the King, to -whom he related this marvellous story. The Queen desired to have the -dog; and Chéri would have been very happy in his new condition had he -been able to forget that he was once a man and a monarch. The Queen -loaded him with caresses; but fearing that he would grow larger, she -consulted her physicians, who told her that she must give him no food -but bread, and only a moderate quantity of that. Poor Chéri was dying -of hunger half the day, but he was obliged to have patience. - -One morning that they brought him his little roll for his breakfast, -he had a fancy to go and eat it in the garden of the Palace. He took -it in his mouth, and walked towards a canal which he knew was a short -distance off; but he could nowhere find it, and in its place he saw -a large mansion, the exterior of which blazed with gold and precious -stones. He observed in it an immense number of persons of both sexes -magnificently dressed: they sang and danced, and fared sumptuously -within the building; but all those who came out of it were pale, thin, -covered with wounds, and nearly naked, for their clothes were torn -into shreds. Some fell dead as they issued from it without having -strength to drag themselves a step further; others proceeded with great -difficulty; whilst some remained lying on the ground dying of hunger -and begging a morsel of bread from those who entered the house, but -who did not vouchsafe a look at them. Chéri approached a young girl -who was trying to tear up some grass to eat; touched with compassion, -the Prince said to himself, "I have a good appetite, but I shall not -die of hunger if I wait till dinner-time and sacrifice my breakfast to -this poor creature; perhaps I shall save her life." He resolved to act -on this good impulse, and placed his bread in the hand of the girl, -who put it to her mouth with avidity. She soon appeared quite restored -by it; and Chéri, transported with joy at having so opportunely come -to her relief, was about to return to the Palace when he heard loud -cries. It was Zélie in the hands of four men, who dragged her towards -the mansion, which they forced her to enter. Chéri then regretted his -form of a monster, which would have afforded him the means of rescuing -Zélie; but a poor little dog as he was, he could only bark at the -ravishers and strive to follow them. They drove him away by kicks; -but he resolved not to quit the spot, and find out what had become of -Zélie. He reproached himself for the misfortunes of this beautiful -girl. "Alas!" said he to himself, "I am indignant with those who have -carried her off. Have I not committed the same crime myself? and if the -justice of the gods had not frustrated my attempt, should I not have -treated her with the same barbarity?" - -The reflections of Chéri were interrupted by a noise which he heard -above his head. He saw a window open; and his joy was extreme when he -perceived Zélie, who threw from this window a plateful of meat so well -dressed that it made him hungry to see it. The window was shut again -immediately; and Chéri, who had not eaten all day, was about to devour -the meat, when the young girl to whom he had given the bread uttered a -cry, and having taken him in her arms, "Poor little animal," said she, -"do not touch that food; this house is the Palace of Voluptuousness; -all who come out of it are poisoned." At the same moment Chéri -heard a voice which said, "Thou seest a good action never remains -unrecompensed;" and immediately he was changed into a beautiful little -white pigeon. He remembered that this colour was the favourite one of -Candid, and began to hope that she might at length restore him to her -good graces. He was desirous of rejoining Zélie; and rising in the air, -flew all round the palace, and found with joy one window open; but in -vain did he traverse all the building--he could not find Zélie. In -despair at her loss, he resolved not to rest till he should meet with -her. He flew for several days, and having entered a desert, observed -a cavern, which he approached. How great was his delight! Zélie was -seated there by the side of a venerable hermit, and sharing with him a -frugal repast. Chéri, transported with joy, flew on to the shoulder of -the lovely shepherdess, and expressed by his caresses the pleasure he -felt at seeing her. Zélie, charmed with the gentleness of the little -creature, stroked it gently with her hand, and although she thought it -could not understand her, she told it that she accepted the gift it -made her of itself, and that she would always love it. "What have you -done, Zélie?" said the hermit. "You have plighted your faith." "Yes, -charming shepherdess," said Chéri to her, who resumed at this moment -his natural form, "the termination of my metamorphosis was dependent -on your consent to our union. You have promised always to love me, -confirm my happiness, or I shall hasten and implore the Fairy Candid, -my protectress, to restore me to the form under which I have had the -happiness of pleasing you." "You need not fear her inconstancy," said -Candid, who, quitting the form of the hermit under which she had been -concealed, appeared before them in her proper person. "Zélie loved you -from the first moment she saw you; but your vices compelled her to -conceal the passion with which you had inspired her. The change in your -heart leaves her at liberty to show her affection for you. You will -live happily, because your union will be founded on virtue." - -Chéri and Zélie threw themselves at the feet of Candid. The Prince was -never tired of thanking her for her goodness, and Zélie, enchanted to -find that the Prince detested his former evil ways, confirmed to him -the Fairy's avowal of her affection. "Rise, my children," said the -Fairy to them, "I will transport you to your Palace, and restore to -Chéri a crown of which his vices had rendered him unworthy." Hardly -had she finished speaking when they found themselves in the chamber of -Suliman, who, charmed to see his dear master once more become virtuous, -abdicated the throne, and remained the most faithful of his subjects. -Chéri reigned for a long period with Zélie; and it is said that he -applied himself so well to his duties, that the ring, which he again -wore, never once pricked his finger severely enough to draw a single -drop of blood. - - - - -THE WIDOW AND HER TWO DAUGHTERS. - - -Once upon a time there was a Widow, a very worthy woman, who had -two daughters, both of whom were very amiable; the eldest was named -Blanche, the second Vermeille. They had been given these names because -the first had the fairest complexion in the world, and the second -cheeks and lips as red as vermilion or the finest coral. One day the -good Widow, sitting at her door spinning, saw a poor old woman, who -could with difficulty walk, even with the aid of a stick. "You seem -very tired," said the good Widow to the old creature; "sit down a -moment and rest," and immediately desired her daughter to place a chair -for her. They both rose directly, but Vermeille ran quicker than her -sister and brought the chair. "Will you take something to drink?" said -the good woman to the old one. "With all my heart," replied she; "I -could even eat something, if you could give me a morsel to refresh me." -"I will give you all in my power," said the good Widow: "but I am poor, -and it will not be much." At the same time she told her daughters to -attend on the old woman, who placed herself at the table; and the good -Widow told her eldest daughter to go and gather some plums from a tree -which the young girl had planted herself, and of which she was very -fond. - -Blanche, instead of obeying her mother cheerfully, murmured against -this order, and said to herself, "It was not for this old greedy -creature that I have taken so much care of my plum-tree." She dared not -refuse, however, to gather some of the plums; but she did so with an -ill grace, and unwillingly. - - [Illustration: The Widow and her Two Daughters.--P. 495.] - -"And you, Vermeille," said the good woman to her second daughter, "you -have no fruit to give this good lady, for your grapes are not yet -ripe." "True," said Vermeille, "but I hear my hen cluck; she has just -laid an egg, and if madame will like to eat it warm I will give it her -with all my heart." At the same time, without awaiting the reply of -the old woman, she ran to fetch her egg; but at the same moment that -she presented it to the stranger she disappeared, and they saw in her -place a beautiful lady, who said to the mother, "I am about to reward -your two daughters according to their deserts. The eldest shall become -a great Queen, the second a farmer's wife." At the same time striking -the cottage with her stick, it disappeared, and they saw in its place a -pretty farm. "There is your lot," said she to Vermeille. "I know that I -have given to each that which she will like best." - -The Fairy departed as she uttered these words, and the mother, as well -as her two daughters, remained struck with astonishment. They entered -the farmhouse, and were charmed with the style of the furniture. The -chairs were only of wood, but they were so polished that they could see -themselves reflected in them as in a mirror. The bed-linen was white as -snow. In the farmyard there were twenty rams and as many sheep, four -oxen, four cows, and in the poultry-yard all kinds of fowls, hens, -ducks, pigeons, &c. There was also a pretty garden, filled with fruits -and flowers. Blanche saw without envy the present which had been made -to her sister, and revelled in the delightful anticipations of being -a Queen. Suddenly she heard hunters passing, and going to the door to -see them, she appeared so beautiful in the eyes of the King, who was -returning from the chase, that he resolved immediately to marry her. - -Blanche having become Queen, said to her sister Vermeille, "I will not -have you remain a farmer; come with me, sister, and I will give you -in marriage to a great lord." "I am much obliged, sister," replied -Vermeille, "but I am accustomed to the country, and wish to remain -there." For the first few months Queen Blanche was so much occupied -with balls, fine clothes, and plays, that she thought of nothing else. -But she soon became accustomed to such things, and they amused her no -longer; on the contrary, she became very miserable. All the ladies of -the Court paid her great respect in her presence, but she knew that -they did not like her, and that they said amongst themselves, "Look at -this little peasant, how she assumes the fine lady: the King had a very -low taste to choose such a wife." This kind of conversation made the -King reflect. He began to think he had done wrong in marrying Blanche, -and as his love for her declined he neglected her, and passed his time -with the handsomest ladies of his Court. - -When it was perceived that the King no longer loved his wife, the -courtiers ceased to pay her any respect. She was very unhappy, for -she had not a single real friend to whom she could relate her griefs. -She saw that it was the fashion at Court to betray friends for -interested motives, to appear to love those whom they hated, and to -tell falsehoods every moment. She was obliged to look serious, because -they said a Queen ought to have a grave and majestic air. She had -several children, and during all this time she had a doctor continually -attending her, who examined everything she ate, and took from her -everything she liked. They put no salt in her soup; they forbade her to -walk when she was inclined to do so; in a word, she was contradicted -from morning till night. They gave governesses to her children, who -brought them up very improperly, without her having the liberty to -find fault. Poor Blanche was near dying of grief, and she became so -thin that she excited the commiseration of everybody. She had not seen -her sister during the three years that she had been Queen, because -she thought that a person of her rank would be degraded by visiting a -farmer; but being overcome with melancholy, she resolved at length to -go and pass some days in the country to amuse herself a little. She -asked permission of the King, who willingly granted it, because he -thought it would be a good riddance. - -On her road she came to the farm of Vermeille, and at a distance she -saw before the door a troop of shepherds and shepherdesses, dancing -and amusing themselves with all their hearts. "Alas!" said the Queen, -sighing, "when shall I ever divert myself like these poor people, with -no one to find fault with me?" As soon as she appeared her sister -ran to her to embrace her. She had such a contented air, she was -grown so stout, that the Queen could not help crying at seeing her. -Vermeille had married a young peasant who had no fortune, but he always -remembered that he was indebted to his wife for all that he possessed, -and he sought, by his indulgent manner, to mark his gratitude for her. -Vermeille had not many servants, but they were as fond of her as if -they had been her children, because she treated them as such. All her -neighbours also loved her, and all sought to give her proof of it. She -had not much money, but she had no need of it, for she obtained from -her land corn, wine, and oil in sufficiency. Her flocks furnished her -with milk, with which she made butter and cheese. She spun the wool of -her sheep to make clothes for herself, as well as for her husband, and -for two children which she had. They were in wonderfully good health; -and in the evenings, when their work was done, they amused themselves -with all kinds of games. "Alas!" cried the Queen, "the Fairy has made -me an unlucky present in bestowing on me a crown. Happiness is not to -be found in magnificent palaces, but in the innocent occupations of the -country." - -Hardly had she uttered these words when the Fairy appeared. "I intended -not to reward you but to punish you by making you a Queen," said the -Fairy, "because you begrudged giving me your plums. In order to be -happy, you must, like your sister, only possess such things as are -necessary, and wish for no more." "Ah! Madam," cried Blanche, "you are -sufficiently revenged. Terminate my misery." "It is ended," replied the -Fairy; "the King, who loves you no longer, has just repudiated you to -marry another wife, and to-morrow his officers will come to order you, -in his name, not to return to the palace." This occurred as the Fairy -had predicted. Blanche passed the rest of her days with her sister -Vermeille in peace and happiness, and never thought of the court but to -thank the Fairy for having brought her back to the village. - - - - -PRINCE FATAL AND PRINCE FORTUNÉ. - - -There was once upon a time a Queen who had two little boys, who were -perfectly beautiful. A Fairy, who was a great friend of the Queen, had -been requested to be godmother to these Princes, and to endow each -with some gift. "I endow the eldest," said she, "with all sorts of -misfortunes until he attains the age of twenty-five, and I name him -Fatal." At these words the Queen uttered piercing cries, and conjured -the Fairy to change her gift. "You know not what you ask," said she to -the Queen. "If he be not unfortunate, he will be wicked." The Queen -dared say no more, but she begged the Fairy to allow her to choose a -gift for her second son. - -"Perhaps you will make a bad choice," replied the Fairy; "but never -mind--I will agree to give him all that you shall request of me -for him." "I wish," said the Queen, "that he may succeed always in -everything he may desire to do--that is the way to make him perfect." -"You may be deceived," said the Fairy; "therefore I grant him this gift -only for five-and-twenty years." - -They selected nurses for the two little Princes; but on the third day -the nurse of the eldest Prince caught a fever; they gave him another, -who fell and broke her leg; a third lost her milk as soon as she -was appointed. And the report being spread that the Prince brought -misfortune on all his nurses, no one would suckle him or approach him. -The poor child, who was famished, cried, and no one pitied him. A fine -stout countrywoman, who had a great number of children whom she had -much trouble in supporting, said that she would take care of him if -they would give her a large sum of money; and as the King and Queen did -not like Prince Fatal, they gave the nurse what she asked, and told her -to carry him to her village. - -The second Prince, whom they had named Fortuné, got on wonderfully. -His papa and mamma loved him passionately, and never thought of their -eldest-born. The wicked woman to whom they had given him was no sooner -in her own house than she took from him the beautiful clothes in which -he was enveloped, and gave them to her own son, who was the same age as -Fatal; and having wrapped the Prince in an old petticoat, she carried -him into a wood where there was an immense number of wild beasts, and -put him into a hole with three little lions, in order that he might -be devoured. But the mother of these lions did him no harm; on the -contrary, she suckled him, which made him so strong, that he ran quite -alone at six months. Meanwhile the son of the nurse, whom she made pass -for the Prince, died, and the King and Queen were charmed to think they -had got rid of him. - -Fatal remained in the wood until he was two years old; and a nobleman -of the Court, who went to hunt there, was astonished to find him in the -midst of the beasts. He took pity on him, carried him to his house, and -having learnt that they sought for a child to keep Fortuné company, he -presented Fatal to the Queen. - -They gave a master to Fortuné to teach him to read, but they forbad the -master to make him cry. The young Prince, who had overheard this, cried -every time that he took up his book--so that at five years old he did -not know his letters, whilst Fatal read perfectly, and already knew how -to write. To frighten the Prince, they commanded the master to whip -Fatal every time that Fortuné failed in his duties. Thus Fatal, however -good he might be, did not escape being beaten; whilst Fortuné was so -wilful and so naughty, that he always ill-treated his brother, whom, -however, he did not know to be such. If any one gave Fatal an apple or -a toy, Fortuné snatched it out of his hands; he made him be silent when -he wished to speak; obliged him to speak when he wished to be silent; -in a word, he was a little martyr, on whom no one had any pity. - -They lived thus till they were ten years old, and the Queen was much -surprised at the ignorance of her son. "The Fairy has deceived me," -said she; "I thought that my son would be the wisest of Princes, -because I wished he might succeed in all that he should desire to -undertake." She went to consult the Fairy on the subject, who said to -her, "Madam, you should have wished your son to have a good disposition -rather than talent. He only desires to be wicked, and he succeeds in -being so, as you see." After having said these words to the Queen, she -turned her back on her. The poor Princess, much afflicted, returned to -the palace. She would have scolded Fortuné to oblige him to do better; -but instead of promising to correct his faults, he said that if they -vexed him he would starve himself to death. Then the Queen, quite -frightened, took him on her knee, kissed him, gave him sugar-plums, and -told him that he should not study for a week if he would but eat as -usual. - -Meanwhile Prince Fatal became a prodigy of learning and of gentleness; -he was so accustomed to be contradicted, that he had no will of his -own, and devoted himself to forestall the fancies of Fortuné. But that -naughty child, who was enraged at seeing him more clever than himself, -could not bear him, and the masters, in order to please the young -Prince, beat Fatal every minute. At length the wicked boy told the -Queen that he would not have Fatal any longer in his sight, and that he -would not eat till they had driven him from the Palace. Thus poor Fatal -was turned into the street, and as they were afraid of displeasing the -Prince, no one would receive him. - -He passed the night under a tree dying with cold, for it was winter, -and having nothing for his supper but a morsel of bread which some one -had given him in charity. The next morning he said to himself, "I will -not remain here doing nothing; I will work to gain my livelihood until -I shall be big enough to go to the wars. I remember having read in -history that common soldiers have become great captains; perhaps I may -have the same good fortune if I am an honest man. I have neither father -nor mother, but God is the Father of orphans; He has given me a lioness -for my foster-mother; He will not forsake me." After having said this, -Fatal rose up and said his prayers--for he never failed to pray to God -morning and evening--and when he prayed he cast down his eyes, joined -his hands, and did not look about him. A countryman, who was passing, -and saw that Fatal was praying with all his heart, said to himself, -"I am sure that must be an honest boy; I should like to take him to -keep my sheep; God will bless me for his sake." The countryman waited -till Fatal had finished his prayer, and then said, "My little friend, -will you come and keep my sheep?--I will feed and take care of you." -"I will, certainly," replied Fatal; "and I will do all in my power to -serve you well." - -This countryman was a large farmer, who had a great number of servants -who robbed him very often, and his wife and children robbed him also. -When they saw Fatal, they were very well contented. "He is a child," -said they; "he will do all we wish." One day the wife said to him, "My -little friend, my husband is a miser who never gives me any money; let -me take a sheep, and you can say the wolf has carried it off." "Madam," -replied Fatal, "I would render you a service with all my heart, but -I would much rather die than tell a story or be a thief." "You are a -little fool," said the woman; "no one will know what you have done." -"God will know it, Madam," replied Fatal; "He knows all that we do, -and He will punish liars and those who steal." When the farmer's wife -heard these words, she threw herself on him, beat him, and tore out a -handful of his hair. Fatal cried, and the farmer hearing him, asked his -wife why she beat the child? "Because," said she, "he is a glutton; I -saw him this morning eat a pot of cream which I was going to take to -market." "Fie! how horrid it is to be greedy," said the farmer; and -immediately called a servant, and bade him whip Fatal. - -It was of no use the poor child saying he had not eaten the cream; -they believed the mistress rather than him. After this, he went into -the fields with his sheep, and the farmer's wife said to him, "Well! -will you now give me a sheep?" "I should be very sorry to do so," -said Fatal; "you can do what you will with me, but you cannot oblige -me to tell a lie." To revenge herself, the wicked creature then set -all the other servants to treat Fatal ill. He remained in the fields -night and day; and instead of giving the same food to him as to the -other servants, she sent him nothing but bread and water, and when he -returned she accused him of all the harm that was done in the house. - -He passed a year with this farmer, and although he lay on the bare -ground and was so ill-fed, he became so strong that he appeared to be -fifteen when he was only thirteen; besides, he was become so patient, -that he did not mind even when they scolded him unjustly. One day that -he was at the farm, he heard say that a neighbouring King was engaged -in a great war. He asked his master to discharge him, and went on foot -into the kingdom of this Prince to become a soldier. He engaged himself -to a Captain who was a great lord, but behaved himself more like a -common porter, he was so brutal; he swore, he beat his soldiers, he -robbed them of half the money which the King gave for their food and -clothing; and under this wicked Captain, Fatal was even more unhappy -than with the farmer. He had engaged himself for ten years, and -although he saw the greater number of his comrades desert, he would -never follow their example, for he said, "I have received the money -to serve ten years; I should rob the King if I failed in my word." -Although the Captain was a wicked man, and ill-treated Fatal like the -others, he could not help esteeming him because he saw that he always -did his duty. He gave him money to do his commissions, and Fatal had -the key of his chamber when he went to the country, where he dined with -his friends. - -This Captain was not fond of reading; but he had a large library, to -make believe to those who came to his house that he was a clever man, -for in that country they thought that an officer who did not read -history could never be anything but a fool and an ignoramus. When -Fatal had finished his duties as a soldier, instead of going to drink -and gamble with his comrades, he shut himself up in the Captain's -chamber and tried to learn his profession by reading the lives of great -Generals, and by these means he became capable of commanding an army. - -He had already been seven years a soldier when he went to the war. His -Captain took six soldiers with him, to make a search in a little wood; -and when in this little wood, the soldiers said quite low, "We must -kill this wicked man, who beats us and steals our bread." Fatal told -them they must not do such a wicked action; but, instead of listening -to him, they said they would kill him with the Captain, and all five -drew their swords. Fatal placed himself by the side of the Captain, and -fought with so much valour that he alone killed four of the soldiers. -His Captain, seeing that he owed his life to him, begged his pardon -for all the ill he had done him; and having reported his conduct to -the King, Fatal was made a Captain, and the King granted him a large -pension. - -Oh, you may be sure the soldiers did not wish to kill Fatal, for -he loved them like his children; and far from robbing them of what -belonged to them, he gave them his own money when they were wounded, -and never took it away again when in an ill humour. Meanwhile a great -battle was fought, and the General commanding the army having been -killed, all the officers and soldiers were retreating in disorder, but -Fatal cried aloud that he would rather die sword in hand than fly like -a coward. His own men answered that they would not abandon him, and -their good example having shamed the others, they rallied round Fatal -and fought so well that they routed the enemy, and took the hostile -King's son prisoner. The other King was very pleased when he heard that -he had gained the battle, and said to Fatal that he would make him -General of all the army. He presented him to the Queen and the Princess -his daughter, who gave him their hands to kiss. - -When Fatal saw the Princess, he remained motionless. She was so -beautiful, that he felt madly in love with her, and then he was indeed -miserable; for he felt that a man like himself was not fit to marry a -great Princess. He resolved, therefore, carefully to conceal his love, -and every day he suffered the greatest torment; but it was much worse -when he found that Fortuné, having seen a picture of the Princess, who -was named Gracieuse, had fallen in love with her, and that he had sent -ambassadors to demand her hand in marriage. - -Fatal thought he should die of grief; but the Princess Gracieuse, who -knew that Fortuné was a wicked, cowardly Prince, begged the King, her -father, so hard not to make her marry him, that he replied to the -ambassador that the Princess did not wish to marry yet. Fortuné, who -had never been contradicted, was in a fury when he heard the reply of -the Princess; and his father, who could refuse him nothing, declared -war with the father of Gracieuse, who did not distress himself much -about it, for he said, "So long as I have Fatal at the head of my army, -I do not fear being defeated." - -He sent for his General, and ordered him to prepare for war; but -Fatal, throwing himself at his feet, told him that he was born in the -kingdom of the father of Fortuné, and that he could not fight against -his native Sovereign. The father of Gracieuse was in a great rage, and -told Fatal that he would put him to death if he refused to obey him; -but that, on the contrary, he would give him his daughter in marriage -if he gained the victory over Fortuné. Poor Fatal, who loved Gracieuse -passionately, was sorely tempted, but in the end resolved to do his -duty. - -Without saying anything to the King, he quitted the Court, and -abandoned all his wealth. Meanwhile, Fortuné put himself at the head -of his troops, and marched to give the King battle; but at the end -of four days he fell ill of fatigue, for he was very delicate, never -having taken any exercise. The heat, the cold--everything made him -ill. However, the ambassador, who wished to make his court to Fortuné, -told him that he had seen at the Court of Gracieuse the little boy -who had been banished from the Palace, and that they said the father -of Gracieuse had promised him his daughter. Fortuné at this news put -himself in a great passion, and as soon as he was better, set out again -determined to dethrone the father of Gracieuse, and promised a large -sum of money to any one who would bring Fatal to him dead or alive. - -Fortuné won a great victory, although he did not fight himself, for he -was afraid of being killed. At length he besieged the capital city of -his enemy, and resolved to take it by assault. The eve of this day they -brought Fatal to him, bound in chains, for a great number of people -had been tempted by the reward to seek for him. Fortuné, charmed at -being able to revenge himself, resolved, before commencing the assault, -to have Fatal beheaded in sight of the enemy. That same day he gave -a great feast to his officers to celebrate his birthday, being just -twenty-five years old. The soldiers in the besieged city having learnt -that Fatal was taken, and that in an hour he was to be beheaded, -resolved to perish or save him, for they remembered the benefits he had -conferred on them whilst he was their General. They asked permission of -the King to make a sortie, and this time they were victorious. - -The gift of Fortuné had ceased, and he was killed in endeavouring to -escape. The victorious soldiers ran to take off the chains of Fatal, -and at the same moment they saw two brilliant chariots appear in the -air. The Fairy was in one of these chariots, and the father and mother -of Fatal were in the other, but asleep. They only awoke as their -chariot touched the ground, and they were very much astonished to find -themselves in the midst of the army. - -The Fairy then addressing the Queen, and presenting Fatal to her, said, -"Madam, behold in this hero your eldest son; the misfortunes which he -has undergone have corrected the defects of his character, which was -violent and passionate. Fortuné, on the contrary, who was born with -good inclinations, has been entirely spoilt by flattery, and God has -not permitted him to live longer, because he would have become more -wicked every day. He has just been killed; but to console you for his -death, learn that he was on the point of dethroning his father, because -he was tired of waiting to be King." The King and Queen were very much -astonished, and embraced Fatal with all their heart, of whom they had -heard speak honourably. The Princess Gracieuse and her father learnt -with joy the adventures of Fatal, who married Gracieuse, with whom -he lived a long time in perfect happiness, because it was founded in -virtue. - - - - -APPENDIX. - - - - -CHARLES PERRAULT. - - -Member of the Académie Française, and _premier commis des batimens du -Roi_, was born, as he himself tells us in the _Mémoires_ he left to -his children, in Paris, on the 12th of January, 1628; and at eight -and a half years of age was sent to the College of Beauvais, where he -gave early proof of his literary abilities. He died in 1703. Although -the author of many creditable compositions, both in prose and verse, -he is indebted for his celebrity to that collection of Fairy tales -which, under the title of _Histoires, ou Contes du Tems passé_, were -first published in 1697, and speedily obtained a world-wide popularity -as _Les Contes de ma Mère l'Oye_, known in England as _Mother Goose's -Fairy Tales_. - -They were published by Perrault, under the name of his son, Perrault -D'Armancour, at that time a child only ten years old, whose name is -appended to the dedication of the first edition to "Mademoiselle," -_i.e_., Elizabeth Charlotte d'Orleans, sister of Philippe, Duke of -Chartres, and, after the death of Louis XIV., Regent of France. -Mademoiselle was born 13th September, 1676. The title, _Contes de ma -Mère l'Oye_, has given rise to much controversy, and a great deal of -paper, not to say learning, has been wasted in the attempt to discover -the original source of the stories, and the reason of their being -called those of "Ma Mère l'Oye." The former question I shall reserve -for discussion in my notices of the tales themselves. The latter we -will dispose of at once. Monsieur Colin de Plancy, in his valuable -edition of the _Œuvres Choisis de Charles Perrault_, 8vo, Paris, -1826; and Baron Walkenaër in his _Lettres sur les Contes des Fées -attribués à Perrault, &c_., Paris, 12mo, same date, have pretty well -exhausted the subject. The three principal derivations that have been -insisted upon, are:-- - -Firstly. That in an ancient _fabliau_, "a goose is represented telling -stories to her goslings, worthy of them and of her." - -Secondly. That in the frontispiece to the first edition of Perrault's -_Fairy Tales_, an old woman is represented spinning, and beside her are -three children, one boy and two girls, whom she is apparently amusing -by her stories; and that as underneath this are the words _Contes de -ma Mère l'Oye_,[47] this old woman is no less a personage than Ma Mère -l'Oye _in propria persona_. - -Thirdly. That Ma Mère l'Oye is one and the same individual with La -Reine Pédauque, the goose or bird-footed Queen, a soubriquet applied by -some to a Bertha, Queen of France; and by others to St. Clotilde and -the Queen of Saba. - -The first is an assertion without proof. The second a mere opinion, -which is instantly met by another--namely, that the old woman is -repeating to her hearers the stories of Ma Mère l'Oye. The third is a -tangible proposition, and has been dealt with accordingly. - -At St. Marie de Nesle, in the diocese of Troyes, at St. Bénigne de -Dijon, at St. Pierre de Nevers, St. Pourcain in Auvergne, and in divers -other churches in France, the statue is to be seen of a queen with a -web-foot, and therefore called La Reine Pied-d'oie, or Pédauque.[48] -This statue is said by Mabillon, but without giving any authority for -his assertion, to represent St. Clotilde. - -The Abbé Lebœuf believes that the origin of this name is to be found -at Toulouse. He quotes a passage in Rabelais, who, speaking of certain -large-footed persons, says, "they were splay-footed, like geese, or -Queen Pédauque in her portrait formerly at Toulouse;" "and the Abbé -concludes," says Monsieur de Plancy, "curiously enough, that the Queen -Pédauque is the Queen of Saba;" supporting his opinion by the following -tale in the _Targum of Jerusalem_:-- - - -"The Queen of Saba was so fond of bathing, that she plunged every day -in the sea. When she went to visit Solomon, he received her in an -apartment of crystal. The Queen of Saba on entering it, imagined that -the Monarch was in the water, and in order to pass through it to him, -she lifted her robe. The King then seeing her feet, which were hideous, -said to her: 'Your face unites all the charms of the most beautiful -women, but your legs and feet correspond but little to it.'" - -Even if we could suppose Solomon to have been so ungallant, there does -not appear much in this Hebrew story to bear upon the subject; for what -possible reason was there for attributing these stories to the Queen of -Saba? Bullet, _doyen_ of the University of Besançon, goes back to the -eleventh century, in France, for the source of this epithet. The Good -King Robert had married his relative, Bertha; Gregory V. compelled him -to divorce her, and imposed on him a penance of seven years. The King, -who loved Bertha, refused obedience, and the Pope excommunicated him. -He was deserted by everybody except two servants. In the meanwhile, -Bertha was said to have been brought to bed of a monster resembling -an ill-formed duck, or, according to others, a goose. Abbon, Abbot of -Fleury, brought the supposed offspring to the King, who, horrified at -the sight of it, repudiated Bertha, leaving her, however, the title of -Queen. The dreadful story was circulated that she had given birth to a -goose, and that she had herself become goose-footed, as a punishment -for her criminal marriage. Her name of Bertha gave more authority to -this story in the eyes of the people. They remembered that Bertha or -Bertrade, wife of Pepin-le-bref, was surnamed "Bertha with the Great -Foot," because she had one foot larger than the other; and they called -the repudiated wife of Robert, "Bertha au pied d'Oie." It is possible -also, remarks Mons. de Plancy, that this fable was invented to flatter -Queen Constance, who succeeded her, for it was the period of credulity -and superstition. Constance went to Toulouse. She was lodged in front -of an aqueduct so narrow that a man could not pass through it. To amuse -the Princess, they told her it was the bridge of Queen Goose, or of the -queen with the goose's foot. This story was afterwards amplified, and -it became a saying that Queen Pédauque was of Toulouse. - -In the _Contes d'Entrapel_, by Noël Dufail, published during the latter -half of the sixteenth century, a man is made to swear by "the spindle -of Queen Pédauque;" and therefore Bullet assumes that she must have -been Queen Bertha, because there is an old French saying, "when Queen -Bertha spun,"[49] which is applied to any marvellous story of bygone -days, or to events that are said to have happened "once upon a time." -This is very inconclusive. In the middle ages, spinning was a favourite -occupation of queens and princesses, and Queen Bertha was by no means -an exception.[50] There is another French saying, similarly applied to -an incredible tale--"It is of the time when King Robert sang to the -lute," the said King Robert being the husband of Queen Bertha. This -is all tantamount only to our old English sayings, "When Adam was a -little boy," and "When Adam delved and Eve span," &c. It is also more -than probable that the Bertha of the proverb is identical with the Frau -Berchta of German superstition. She is said to live in the imaginations -of the upper German races in Austria, Bavaria, Swabia, Alsace, -Switzerland, and some districts of Thuringia and Franconia. She appears -in _The Twelve Nights_ as a woman with shaggy hair, to inspect the -spinners, when fish and porridge are to be eaten in honour of her, and -all the distaffs must be spun off. This superstition was also common in -England:-- - - Partly work and partly play - You must on St. Distaff's day. - -That is, the day after Twelfth Day, and is evidently the relic of some -pagan rite in honour, most probably, of Freya or Frega, the Venus of -the Scandinavians. "Dame Bertha horned," is one of the characters in_ -Les Evangiles des Conoilles_ (Quenouilles), the joint composition -of Jean d'Arras and three other writers, in 1475. It was translated -into English, and printed by Winkyn de Worde, with the title of _The -Gospelles of Distaffs_.[51] - -A writer who signs himself Philetymus, has acutely pointed out a more -probable origin of the title of_ Contes de ma_ (or _de le_) _Mère -l'Oye_, which it is clear, from passages in Boileau and Molière, was -applied to a certain collection of old stories, long before Perrault -published his _Histoires du Temps Passé_. This writer refers us to -the customs of antiquity and the superstitions of the middle ages. -He recals to us that the ancient Romans confided their dwellings -to the care of their geese. He alludes to the two hundred thousand -Crusaders who, in 1096, directed their march by the flight of a goose -from Hungary to Jerusalem; to the guardian fairies of the Château -de Piron in the Contentin, who, at the time of the invasion of the -Normans, transformed themselves into wild geese; to the _benevolent_ -and _protecting_ dwarfs of the Canton of Berne, who are said to have -been all goose-footed; and above all, to Marguerite de Navarre, who, -in her _Heptameron_, calls herself Oisille; and he concludes by -saying, "C'est que la bonne dame Oisille, veuve de grand expérience -y représente la Mère l'Oie; c'est que du conté le moins discret elle -sait tirer toujours une conclusion favorable à la morale.... Contes de -la Mère l'Oie c'est à dire contes de la vieille grand mère, jaseuse et -criande comme l'Oie mais comme l'Oie, surtout gardienne vigilante de la -maison.... J'allais dire de la Vertu." - -There is, amidst all this suggestion, one fact to repose upon. It is, -that Perrault was not the inventor of the stories he published; that -he merely transmitted to writing, no doubt with some touches of his -own, tales of the nursery which had descended orally from the earliest -ages of the Celtic occupation of Armorica or Bretagne, to the peculiar -superstitions of which we shall find, as we proceed, they all have -more or less reference, and that the particular stories printed in -the first edition of his _Histoires du Temps Passé_, had long been -popularly known as _Contes de ma Mère l'Oye_. In 1678, at the age of -fifty, Perrault retired from his public office to dedicate himself -entirely to literature and the education of his children. Some ten -years afterwards he composed a novel in verse, founded on a celebrated -tale in the _Decamerone_ of Boccaccio, and well known to us as _Patient -Grizzel_, his title being _La Marquise de Salusses; ou, la Patience de -Griselidis_. It was published at Paris, by Jean Baptiste Coignard, in -1691. La Fontaine had, as early as 1678, said, in the fourth Fable of -his eighth Book, _Le Pouvoir des Fables_-- - - ----"Et moi même - Au moment que je fais cette moralité - Si Peau d'Ane m'etait conté - J'y prendrais un plaisir extrême." - -These lines it would seem induced Perrault to versify the old nursery -story of _Peau d'Ane_, with which Louis XIV., when an infant, used -to be rocked to sleep; and in 1694, on the publication of the second -edition of his _Griselidis_, he added to it his metrical version of -_Peau d'Ane_, and _Les Souhaits Ridicules_, known to us as _The Three -Wishes_. The success of these stories led him to publish, in 1697, -his collection of _Les Contes de ma Mère l'Oye_, under the title of -_Histoires du Temps Passé_, and in the name of his son, as before -stated. This collection consisted of eight stories only, all in prose: -_La Belle au Bois Dormant_, _Le Petit Chaperon Rouge_, _Barbe Bleue_, -_Le Chat Botté_, _Les Fées_, _Cendrillon_, _Riquet à la Houpe_, and _Le -Petit Poucet_--a proof that _Peau d'Ane_ was not one of the _Contes de -ma Mère l'Oie_, any more than _Griselidis or Les Souhaits Ridicules_. -The same eight stories alone appear in the second edition in 1707 -(four years after the death of Perrault), and in the third edition by -Nicolas Gosselin, in 1724. It is not until 1742, when an edition of the -_Histoires du Temps Passé_ was published at the Hague,[52] that we find -any addition to the first eight stories, and then we have for the first -time the story of _L'Adroite Princesse; ou, Les Aventures de Finette_, -presented to us, with a dedication to the Countess of Murat, as a story -by Perrault, although a story with that title and on that subject was -published by Madlle. Lheritier in 1696, in a work entitled, _Œuvres -Mêlées, contenant Nouvelles et autres Ouvrages en Verse et en Prose_, -in which also appears a letter from the author to the daughter of -Perrault. But even in the Hague edition of 1742, there is no _Peau -d'Ane_, and it is only in comparatively modern collections that a prose -version of that story, as well as the one in verse actually written -by Perrault, is, with _L'Adroite Princesse_, _Griselidis_, and _Les -Souhaits Ridicules_, added to the eight original _Contes de ma Mère -l'Oie_, or _Histoires du Temps Passé_. - -From these eight stories I have selected six, omitting only _Le Petit -Chaperon Rouge_, and _Les Fées_, so well known in the nursery as -_Little Red Riding Hood_ (why "Riding?") and _Toads and Diamonds_, and -for the atmosphere of which they are alone calculated. On the others I -shall now offer a few observations in their order of publication, and -in the same spirit as those appended to the Fairy Tales of the Countess -d'Aulnoy. - - -BLUE BEARD. - -_La Barbe Bleue_ is founded, according to Mons. Colin de Plancy, on a -tradition of Lower Brittany; and he remarks that Perrault must have -heard it from the lips of nurses, or perhaps peasants, to have written -with so much _naïveté_ the scene of Sister Anne. He states also that -it is pretended that Blue Beard was actually a nobleman of the house -of Beaumanoir. He does not, however, seem to have been aware that the -original of this terrible portrait is also said to have been Gilles de -Laval, Seigneur de Raiz, created Maréchal de France, June 21st, 1429, -for his defence of Orleans against the English, but whose infamous -conduct in Brittany so exasperated the public against him, that in -1440 he was arrested by order of the Procureur-Général de Bretagne, -and having been tried and found guilty, was condemned to be hanged -and burnt, and underwent that sentence in a field at Nantes, on the -8th of October (some say 23rd of December) of that same year, after -exhibiting, says the chronicler, great signs of repentance; his body -was taken out of the flames, and buried in the church of the Carmelites -at Nantes. It was, we are told, his taste for luxury and libertinism -which plunged him into all the crimes for which he was so fearfully -punished. He squandered a revenue of two hundred thousand crowns per -annum, an enormous sum in those days, and which he had inherited at -the age of twenty. He never travelled without being accompanied by an -army of cooks, musicians, dancers of both sexes, packs of hounds, -and two hundred saddle horses. Unfortunately for him, he thought it -necessary to include in his suite of attendants some fortune-tellers -and pretended magicians, which it is possible in those days may have -caused the credulous multitude to impute to him some atrocities of -which he may have been innocent. The whole _procès_ is said to be still -extant: but we are not furnished with any details which would identify -him with the gentleman who rejoiced in a blue beard, and expiated his -offences by being run through the body with cold iron, instead of being -roasted at a stake like the guilty but penitent Marshal.[53] Whether -the line of Beaumanoir or of Laval has the best claim to the honour -of his relationship, may be still a matter of dispute; but the fact -more important to our present inquiry is, that in either case it is a -tradition of Bretagne, and therefore strengthens the theory of Mons. de -Plancy and the Baron Walkenaër. - -There is no fairy in this story, but there is an enchanted key. "La -clef," says the author, "etait fée." In the old translations this is -rendered "the key was a fairy." "Fée" is, however, in such instances -as these, not a noun substantive, but an adjective, now obsolete, but -to be found in Cotgrave, spelt with a third e in the feminine. "Fée, -m.; éee, f.: Fatall appointed, destined; also, taken, _bewitched_ or -forespoken; also, _charmed_, _inchanted_."--EDIT. 1650. - -There is another popular passage in this story which requires a word -of remark:--"Je ne vois rien que le soleil qui poudroie et l'herbe -qui verdoie." This has been generally translated, "I see nothing but -the sun which makes a dust, and the grass which _looks_ green." Mons. -de Plancy appends a note to this passage, as follows:--"1. Poudroyer, -darder, éblouir les yeux. 2. Verdoyer, jeter un éclat vert." - -With great submission to so high an authority, I must venture to differ -with him on this point. "Poudroyer" is an old French verb, signifying -to reduce to powder. "Je poudroie, tu poudroies, il poudroie," &c. -"Un cheval Espagnol _poudroyant_ tous les champs," J. B. Rouss; and -Bescherelle, in his _Dictionnaire National_, remarks, quoting the -actual passage from Perrault, "Ce mot sonore poètique, épargnant une -périphrase est a regretter." Verdoyer is also a verb active, signifying -to grow or become green, and I have therefore taken the liberty to -render the above celebrated reply, "I see nothing but the sun making -dust" (that is to say, reducing the soil to dust by its heat), "and the -grass growing green." It is the flock of sheep that afterwards raise -or make _a_ dust. It may be thought I am "making a dust," to use a -familiar phrase, about a trifle; but I wished to point out that unless -we could say in English, "the sun that _dusts_ and the grass that -_greens_," we cannot approach the terse and graphic description of dear -Sister Anne. - -Mons. de Plancy observes that the incidents of this story (excepting, -of course, that of the enchanted key) are not impossible, provided they -are supposed to have occurred in the middle ages; but that Perrault has -placed them nearer his own times, by saying that Blue Beard's widow -employed part of her fortune in purchasing commissions for her two -brothers, as the sale of commissions in the French army was not known -before the reign of Francis I.; but he does not notice that the mention -of dragoons and musqueteers brings them still nearer. Blue Beard has -been a favourite subject with the dramatists, both French and English. -The celebrated melodrama by George Colman the younger, produced at -Drury Lane Theatre, in 1798, in which the scene was transferred to the -East, was rendered still more popular by the music of Michael Kelly: -the "March in Blue Beard" was perpetrated on every piano alternately -with the "Duke of York's March," the "Battle of Prague," and the -"Overture to Lodoiska." - - -THE SLEEPING BEAUTY IN THE WOOD. - -The charming fairy tale of _La Belle au Bois dormant_ is the gem of the -collection. Its popularity is as great at the present day as it was two -hundred years ago. I have called the reader's attention in a marginal -note to the first mention probably of seven league boots,[54] but I -reserved for the Appendix some observations upon the earliest mention -of Ogres and Ogresses. The Baron Walkenaër, in his letters already -quoted, has, I think successfully, combated the earlier notion that the -word Ogre was derived from a classical source. He deduces it from the -Oigours or Igours, a Turkish race mentioned by Procopius in the sixth -century. Some tribes of Oigurs established themselves in the Crimea, -and their language was called "Lingua _Ouguresca_" by the Italian -merchants who first traded with them. In the twelfth and thirteenth -centuries all Tartars were confounded under the name of Oigurs. When -the Magyars, a Tartar tribe from the banks of the Wolga, overran Dacia -and Pannonia, the names of the ancient Huns and of the ferocious Oigurs -were united to designate them. They were first called Hunnie-Gours, -and their country Hunnic-Gourie, from whence Hongrois and Hungary. The -atrocities committed by and attributed to the Oigurs spread horror and -alarm throughout Europe. Their cruelties to infants, in which they have -been only equalled by the barbarous Sepoys in the recent calamitous -events in India, took especial hold of the imaginations of those to -whose care children were specially entrusted, and the appellation of -Oigur or Ogre became synonymous with that of cannibal, or any other -ferocious monster in human form. In Roquefort's _Glossaire de la Langue -Romaine_, Ogre is also derived from the same source. That "l'Huorco" -of the Italians, the Orco of Bojardo and Ariosto, may be derived from -the Latin Orcus, according to Minucci, as Mr. Keightley imagines, I am -not prepared to dispute. Such curious coincidences are common to all -who have wandered in the mazes of etymology; but I will merely suggest -that it is quite as probable that Orco and Huorco were also derived -from Oigur, the name by which the Tartars of the Crimea were known to -the Italians as early as the twelfth century, as we have already seen. -Florio, however (1598), says, "Orco as Orca, a _sea_ monster," which -the Ogre never was. - -Spinning with the distaff is the oldest form. A wheel appears in -illuminations of the fourteenth century, but the woman hent stood -to her work. The more modern spinning-wheel, at which women sit, -was invented in 1530, by a citizen of Brunswick, named Jurgen. For -illustration of the accident to the Princess, it is perhaps worthy of -remark that in the Pyrenees and western provinces of France the spindle -is sometimes pointed with iron. "It is thus," says Mr. Akerman (the -author of a paper on the Distaff in the _Archæologia_, vol. xxxvii.), -"rendered a stiletto, with which the woman could defend herself." The -same antiquary informs us that "the art of spinning in its simplest and -most primitive forms is yet pursued in Italy, where the women of Caià -still twirl the spindle unrestrained by that '_ancient rustic law which -forbade its use without doors_.'" So that the father of the Sleeping -Beauty had a sort of precedent for his "Must not spin with spindles -Act." - -The Germans have a version of this story called _Briar-Rose_: vide -Grimm's _Kinder und Hausmärchen._ - - -MASTER CAT; OR PUSS IN BOOTS. - -_Maître Chat; ou, le Chat Botté._--This capital story is said by Mr. -Dunlop and Mr. Keightley to be taken from a collection of stories by -Giovan Francesco Straparola, printed at Venice in 1550-54, under the -titles of _Tredici Piacevole Notte_, and translated into French "with -considerable embellishments" in 1585. That the first story of the -Eleventh Night is derived from the same source as Perrault's there -can be little doubt; but I am not by any means prepared to admit that -Perrault was indebted to that or any other printed collection for this -or any one of those eight stories which it is clear were well known -in France as _Les Contes de ma Mère l'Oye_. Straparola, who seems to -have borrowed largely from Morlini, and collected stories wherever -he could find them, drew upon the traditions of Brittany as well as -on the fabliaux of Provence. It is indeed notorious that the Italian -novelists were indebted almost entirely to the Trouvères or Troubadours -of Languedoc, whilst they themselves admit that the plots of their -romances were of Armorican origin. - - In Britanie of old time - These lays were wrought, so saith this rhyme. - -Says the old translator of the _Lai le Fraine_, the author of which -Mr. Dunlop acknowledges "must have been better informed than any modern -writer" (_History of Fiction_, 8vo, 1845, p. 196). In the second -edition of the Countess D'Aulnoy's _Fairy Tales_, I took an opportunity -of vindicating that lady from the charge so hastily preferred against -her both by Mr. Dunlop and Mr. Keightley, and I now contest as strongly -the accuracy of the opinions of the same writers respecting the tales -of Charles Perrault. Neither in the story of Straparola, first of -the Eleventh Night, nor in the _Gagliuso_ of Signor Basile (whose -_Pentamerone_, published in 1672, is also roundly asserted to have -been the "origin" of the French _Contes des Fées_[55]), do we find -_Puss in Boots_. What would _Le Maître Chat_ be, were he not also _Le -Chat Botté_? Nor is there an Ogre--that especial characteristic of a -legend of Brittany--nor consequently the delicious scene between him -and Puss, which so dramatically winds up the French story. The same -unmistakeable indications of its being a veritable _Histoire du Temps -Passé_, militate against the belief alluded to by M. de Plancy, that -the Marquis de Carabas was intended as a portrait of some particular -nobleman of the time of Louis XIV.; and therefore that the usurpation -of the castle and property of the ogre might be an allusion to the -indelicate seizure by D'Aubigné of the domains of a Protestant, an -exile in consequence of the religious persecutions at the close of the -seventeenth century, "In which case," he adds, "the Cat would be Madame -de Maintenon!" What a pity so ingenious an idea should be destitute of -foundation. It is more probable that the wits of the day compared the -illustrious individuals to the Marquis de Carabas and his Cat. - -I have kept the old English title of _Puss in Boots_, though it is -not literally that of the original. It would have been an indictable -offence to have altered it. - -The tricks of the cat to catch the rats are described almost in the -words of Lafontaine, in his fable of _Le Chat et le Vieux Rat_, in -which Maître Mitis, "l'Alexandre des chats," a second Rodillard, "se -pend la tête en bas" and "s'enfarine" for the same purpose. - - -FOOTNOTES: - -[47] "Ce qui nous indique que ce receuil contenait les contes -vulgairement connus sous ce titre."--B. W. - -[48] _Oie_ being derived from the Low Latin word _Auca_ (Du -Cange _in voce_). - -[49] The Italians have the same proverb--"Nel tempo ove Bertha -filava." - -[50] In the coffin of Jeanne de Bourgogne, the first wife of -Philip de Valois, were found the Queen's ring of silver, her _distaff_ -and _spindle_. The tomb of Jeanne de Bourbon, Queen of Charles V. -of France, also contained part of her crown, her golden ring, and -her distaff of gilt wood (_vide_ Lenoir, _Notes Historiques sur les -Exhumations faites en 1793 dans l'Abbaye de St. Denis_). - -[51] See a learned and interesting paper on the Distaff and -Spindle, by J. Y. Akerman, Esq., Sec. F.S.A., _Archæologia_, vol. -xxxvii. - -[52] There was another edition, in French and English, -published at the Hague three years afterwards:--_Contes de ma Mère -l'Oye, en Français et en Anglais_. Par Perrault, avec des figures -gravées par Fokke. La Haye: Neaulme, 1745. 12mo. It was a rare book in -1784, when it was sold, at the sale of the library of the Duc de la -Vallière, for twenty-three livres nineteen sous. - -[53] Mr. Dunlop, who alludes to this story, speaks of the -murder of his wives. The author of _L'Art de Vérifier des Dates_, -gives him but one wife, Catharine de Thouars, daughter and heiress of -Mille de Thouars, Seigneur de Chabanais et Confolent, whom he married -December 31st, 1420, and who survived him, and was re-married to Jean -de Vendôme, Vidame d'Amiens. She therefore lived with him for twenty -years, and bore him one daughter, Marie de Laval, Dame de Raiz, who -married twice, and died the 1st of November, 1458. Père Anselme says -he was contracted in 1416 to Jeanne Paynel, daughter and co-heiress -of Fouques, Seigneur de Hambye; but that she died previous to the -celebration of the marriage. - -[54] In the marginal note I have mentioned _Jack and the -Bean-stalk_. This is an error. There are no seven league boots in -that story. It is _Jack the Giant Killer_ only who is the fortunate -proprietor of the "shoes of swiftness," which either suggested, or were -suggested by, the boots aforesaid. - -[55] "Of the _ten_ stories in the _Mother Goose's Fairy Tales_ -of Perrault, _seven_ are to be found in the _Pentamerone_," says Mr. -Keightley, in his _Tales and Fictions_, p. 184. I have already shown -that there were only eight stories in the _Contes de ma Mère l'Oye_, -and in the _Pentamerone_ I find but two that have any similitude to the -tales of Perrault--viz., _Gagliuso_ and _La Gatta Cenerentola_, both -differing widely in many points from the ancient Breton traditions. - - -CINDERELLA; OR THE LITTLE GLASS SLIPPER. - -_Cendrillon; ou, la Petite Pantoufle de Verre_. Here, again, could -it enter the heart of an Englishman to call this anything but -_Cinderella_? I am proud to say I was not equal to such a sacrifice -to principle. I should have been afraid to meet the eyes of my -grandchildren. There are persons, however, who have been cruel enough -to tamper with the second title, to destroy "the little glass slipper," -and tell us that in the original story it was not a pantoufle "de -_verre_," but "de _vair_"--_i.e._, a fur much worn in the middle ages, -and from which the charge of vair in heraldry was taken. I thank the -stars that I have not been able to discover any foundation for this -alarming report. Even should it be unfortunately the fact, it would not -affect the _Conte de ma Mère l'Oye_, as handed down to us by Perrault. -In that, it is an undeniable "pantoufle de _verre_," and has been said -to represent allegorically the extreme fragility of woman's reputation, -and the prudence of flight before it is _too late_. There appears to -be no doubt that this story is founded on an old Armorican tradition, -as in 1826 an alteration of an ancient Breton chronicle was published -by Madame Piette, entitled _Laurette de Karnabas; ou, la Nouvelle -Cendrillon_, which is taken from the same source, but divested of its -fairy agency; and the Countess d'Aulnoy had previously availed herself -of some portions of the tale of _Cendrillon_ in her story of _Finette -Cendron_. - -The trial of the slipper is like that of the ring in the story of _Peau -d'Ane_, and a "little glass shoe" is the subject of a German fairy -tale. The Germans have also a version of _Cinderella_, in which the -slipper is of "pure gold." - -At the banquet it will be remembered that the Prince is said to have -given Cinderella both oranges and citrons. These do not appear to us -at present as particularly suggestive of the magnificence of a royal -collation; but in the seventeenth century, Portugal oranges were -considered a present worthy princes of the blood. "Monsieur, me vint -voir," says the Duchesse de Montpensier, in her _Memoirs_, "il me -donne des oranges de Portugal." Molière, in his description of the -comedy which formed a portion of the famous fêtes given at Versailles, -in 1668, by Louis XIV., tells us that "d'abord on vit sur le théâtre -une colation magnifique d'oranges de Portugal;" and in his own comedy, -_L'Avare_, when Harpagon apologises to his mistress for not having -prepared a collation for her, his son replies, "J'y ai pourvu, mon -père, et j'ai fait apporter ici quelques bassins _d'oranges de la -Chine, de citrons doux_, et de confitures." Also, according to L'Emery -(_Traités des Aliments_, 1705), the citron was supposed to give a -better colour to the lips, and the ladies of the Court in the 17th -century, therefore, "portoient en main _des citrons doux_, quelles -mordoient de tems en tems pour avoir les livres vermeilles."--Le Grand -D'Aussi.--_Vie Privée des Français_, tom. i. p. 251. - - -RIQUET WITH THE TUFT. - -_Riquet à la Houpe_ is perhaps the least known of the eight _Contes de -ma Mère l'Oye_; but although it has not the attractive qualities which -have occasioned the popularity of the others, it is an excellent story, -with a valuable moral, though, strangely enough, the _moralité_ with -which it concludes takes no notice of it. The object of the story is -evidently to show the superiority of mental to personal qualifications, -and the power of the former not only to compensate for ugliness and -deformity, but even to make one forget them. The concluding verses, -however, point only to the fact that love can embellish its object, and -turn even defects into beauties, passing over the more important one of -the cause of the love itself. - -Some writers have fancied the hero of this story to have been a person -of distinction at the Court of Louis XIV., forgetting that, like the -rest in the collection, it is a "histoire du tems passé." But, as -Monsieur de Plancy remarks, "On voit souvent des allusions ou il n'y en -a point;" and, as in the case of _Le Chat Botté_, the application may -have been made to the man from the story. - -The reader has been referred to this Appendix by a marginal note at -page 32, respecting the _Queue de Renard_. The explanation offered -by the editor of the French edition of 1826 is, that "les cuisiniers -élégans se coiffaient dans leur négligé de travail de la peau de -quelqu' animal, dont ils laissaient pendre la queue;" and he adds, "on -voit encore, dans certaines provinces, des _chasseurs_ coîffé ainsi." -That a huntsman should sport a fox's brush, or wear a cap made of the -fur of any animal, is not in the least remarkable or uncommon; but I -do not see how it can be taken as a fact in support of the assertion -that cooks did so either in the time of Louis XIV. or at present; and -the Editor does not give us any authority for that assertion. Of all -animals, a fox would be the last I should imagine a French cook would -select to furnish him with a trophy or a sign of company, and that -"twenty or thirty rôtisseurs" should _all_ have "_la_ lardoire à la -main et _la_ queue de renard _sur l'oreille_," appears to me, if we are -to consider the author to have meant actually the tail of a fox, a very -remarkable circumstance, as the use of the definitive article in both -cases shows the "queue de renard" must have been as much the mark of a -cook as the "lardoire," or larding-pin. I confess I am not satisfied -with this explanation; and all my own researches and those kindly made -for me by friends both in Paris and London, have hitherto failed in -throwing any light upon this curious passage. "Queue de Renard" is -the name of a plant known by us as foxtail, and it is also applied -to a particular family of flowers; but it is likewise the name of an -implement. "Outil a deux biseaux ou chanfreins par le bout dont on se -_sert pour percer_."--Bescherelle. This description looks vastly like -some accessory to the larding-pin. - -The same authority has also: "Queue de renard à étouper. Le queue de -cet animal dont se servent les doreurs pour appliquer les feuilles d'or -ou d'argent." This, as we know, is not the entire brush, but a portion -of the hair. In default of any positive information, I will merely make -three suggestions: 1. A portion of the herb foxtail, dried, which might -be used as a whisk. 2. A small instrument for piercing or skewering. -3. A portion of the brush, as used by gilders of wood or metal, and -probably by the _rôtisseurs_ of that day, as we find it was customary -to gild the beaks and legs of the game and poultry served up at the -royal banquets. Favin, amongst other writers, tells us of a grand -banquet in which "le quatrième service fut d'oyseaux tans grands que -petits, et _tous le service fut doré_." - -In the Form of Cury there is a receipt for making "Viande Riall" -(royal), in which the cook is told, after he has dressed it in -"dysshes plate," to "take _a barre of golde foyle_ and another of -_silver foyle_, and lay hom (them) on, Saint Andrew's cross wyse, -above the potage, and then take sugre plate, or gynger plate, or paste -royale, and kutte hom of lozenges, and plante hom in the voide places -between the barres, and serve hit forthe." The peacock served in his -"hakell,"--_i.e._, neck feathers, or in his "pride"--_i.e._ with tail -displayed, &c.--had always his bill gilt. - -Whatever, in fine, the "queue de renard" may have been, I cannot doubt -that, worn "sur l'oreille," it was a distinctive mark of a _rôtisseur_ -of that day, as a pen behind the ear has been of a clerk in ours; -and the probability is in favour of the third interpretation, as -_rôtisseurs_ were, as their name implies, those cooks who prepared the -roasted dishes only, and in all the old accounts it is especially the -"rotie" that is "doré." - -_Riquet à la Houpe_ is supposed to have inspired Madame de Villeneuve -with the idea of the _Beauty and the Beast_. In my notice of that -story, I shall have a word to say in refutation of that supposition. -_Riquet with the Tuft_ was the first of those fairy extravaganzas -which the public have so kindly received during twenty years, at the -Olympic, Covent Garden, Drury Lane, the Haymarket, and the Lyceum. It -was written in conjunction with Mr. Charles Dance, and produced at the -Olympic under Madame Vestris's management, December 26th, 1836. - - -LITTLE THUMBLING. - -_Le Petit Poucet._--This story, under the titles of _Hop o' my Thumb_, -_Little Thumb and his Brothers_, &c., has been continually reprinted -amongst our English nursery tales; and as I have already spoken of -ogres and seven-leagued boots, there is little else in it that calls -for observation. The latter are said to have been "fées"--_i.e._ -enchanted, as the key in _Blue Beard_. The attempt of the parents to -lose the children in the wood is an incident in Madame d'Aulnoy's story -of _Finette Cendron_, drawn, no doubt, from the same source, as Cambry, -in his _Voyage au Finisterre_, bears witness to _Le Petit Poucet_ -having been an "ancien conté populaire," which has for ages amused "les -enfans de la Basse Bretagne." I think it is quite unnecessary for me -to go into the question of this story being founded on an episode in -Homer's _Odyssey_, to prove that Perrault was not thinking of Ulysses -in the cave of Polyphemus, or that the pebbles and bread were not -suggested by the clue of Ariadne. - -In Grimm's _Kinder und Hausmärchen_ are several stories about -Thumbling; and I need scarcely remind the reader that England has her -own renowned _Thomas Thumb_. - - - - -THE COUNTESS DE MURAT. - - -HENRIETTE JULIE DE CASTELNEAU, daughter of Michel, second Marquis de -Castelnau, Governor of Brest, and granddaughter by the mother's side, -to the Count d'Angnon, Marshal of France, was born at Brest in 1670. -At the age of sixteen, she came to Paris in the costume worn by the -peasants in Brittany, the language of which province she spoke very -fluently. Her appearance in this dress caused such a sensation that the -Queen desired her to wear it on her presentation at Court. She married -Nicholas, Count de Murat, Colonel of Infantry and Brigadier des Armées -du Roi, descended from a family established in Auvergne before 1300, -and that afterwards passed into Dauphiné. Being suspected by Madame -de Maintenon of having been part author of a libel in which all the -persons composing the Court of Louis XIV., in 1694, were caricatured or -insulted, she was banished to Auch, Department du Gers. After the death -of Louis XIV., the Regent Duke of Orleans, at the request of Madame de -Parabere, recalled Madame de Murat in 1715. She did not, however, long -enjoy her return to Paris, as she died at her Château de la Buzardiere -in Maine the following year (1716), at the early age of forty-six. -She was the author of many works, both in prose and verse,[56] but is -best known by her _Contes des Fées_, six of the most popular of which -are here translated. Four of these (_Le Parfait Amour_, _Anguillette_, -_Jeune et Belle_, and _Le Palais de la Vengeance_) were printed in -1766, and again in 1817, in the collection of Fairy Tales attributed to -the Countess d'Aulnoy, of whom Madame de Murat was the contemporary, -but certainly not the rival. Her stories have more the character -of romances and novels than fairy tales, with a strong infusion of -sentiment, such as is to be found in the writings of Madame de Scuderi, -Madlle. de La Fayette, the Countess d'Auneuil, and others of that -period. - -The plots of them were most probably taken from - - "Les contes ingenus quoique remplis d'addresse Qu'ont inventés les - Troubadours." - -For to this she is specially invited in the verses at the end of the -prose story of _L'Adroite Princesse_, which is dedicated to her, and -attributed to Perrault. It has been shown, however, that if that -version of _L'Adroite Princesse_ were really written by him, it was not -published till 1742, thirty-nine years after the death of the reputed -author, and twenty-six after the death of the lady to whom it is -dedicated. - - -PERFECT LOVE. - -_Le Parfait Amour_ is a story exhibiting considerable talent, although -deficient in those lively sallies, those amusing whimsicalities and -allusions to the manners and dresses of the period which give so -much piquancy to the Fairy Tales of Perrault, and the more elaborate -compositions of Madame d'Aulnoy. The interest is entirely of a -serious character; but the magic ring, with its power over the four -elements--the value of which is destroyed by the too hasty wish of -the lover--is an ingenious and dramatic idea, and the fatal lamps a -truly affecting situation. This is the first Fairy Tale that gives -us a picture of the Gnomes, and their subterraneous magnificence--a -superstition existing all over Europe; the Trolls, or underground men -of the North; the little people and ground mannikins of Germany; and -the Korr or Korred of Brittany. - - "The wise - And prudent little people, who keep warm - By their fine fires, many a fathom down - Within the inmost rocks. Pure native gold, - And the rock crystals, shaped like towers, clear, - Transparent, gleam with colours thousand-fold - Through the fair palace; and the little folks, - So happy and so gay, amuse themselves - Sometimes with singing."[57] - -And accordingly we find them singing the charms of Irolite, and -entertaining the lovers with "une musique fort harmonieuse, mais un peu -barbare." - - -FOOTNOTES: - -[56] Her _Histoires Sublimes et Allegoriques_ has been -attributed by the Abbé Langlet du Fresnoy to the Countess d'Aulnoy. - -[57] Idyllen &c., von J. R. Wyss, translated by Mr. Keightley -(_Fairy Mythology._) - - -ANGUILLETTE. - -_Anguillette_ is a story of the same character as _Le Parfait Amour_. -The interest is wholly serious, and the termination tragical, -reminding one, by the transformation of the victims into trees, of the -catastrophe of the _Yellow Dwarf_ of Madame d'Aulnoy. The inconstancy -of Atimir is very naturally drawn; and there is considerable merit in -the general conduct of the story. - - -YOUNG AND HANDSOME. - -_Jeune et Belle_ might almost be placed amongst the pastoral romances -of D'Urfey and George de Montemayor. It is full of Watteau-like -tableaux, many of them suggested, probably, to the writer as to the -painter by the Fêtes Champêtre so much in vogue during the seventeenth -and eighteenth centuries at the Court of Versailles. - -The sudden and unexpected introduction of Zephyr at the very close of -the story as the Deus ex machinâ, is quite in accordance with the taste -of the period, though much out of place in a fairy tale. It is not, -however, for me to find fault with it, as it afforded me a hint for a -character which enabled Mr. Robson to display the versatility of his -genius in the last of that long series of extravaganzas I have already -alluded to. - -In the "Collection" above mentioned, this tale was substituted for -Madame d'Aulnoy's _Serpentin Vert_, the _dénouement_ of which is also -produced by the incongruous introduction of mythological personages. - - -THE PALACE OF VENGEANCE. - -_Le Palais de la Vengeance_ was printed in the "Collection" as -Madame d'Aulnoy's, under the title of the _Palace of Revenge_. It is -principally remarkable for its satirical conclusion--a very original -one for a fairy tale, as the lovers are married, and do not "live happy -ever afterwards." - - -THE PRINCE OF LEAVES. - -_Le Prince des Feuilles_ is, to the best of my knowledge, presented for -the first time in an English garb. It is more of a fairy tale than the -four preceding it, and appears to me to have been suggested to Madame -de Murat by her residence at Auch, where, indeed, it is most likely to -have been written. - -The natural history of the turquoise had been newly popularized by -the publications of Chardin and other Oriental travellers; and more -particularly by that of a book by Boethius de Boot, _Le Parfait -Joallier_; Lyons, 1644. The turquoise "de la Vieille Roche," that -Madame de Murat speaks of, is a stone found near Nichapour and -Carasson, in Persia--the true Oriental turquoise; whilst those called -"de la Nouvelle Roche," are not stones, but petrified bones, and are -found in Europe, particularly in France, at Auch, (the very place -to which Madame de Murat was exiled;) and near Simmorre, in the -Département du Gers; and in the Nivernais, according to the account of -Reamur in the _Mémoires de l'Académie_, 1715. - -Turquoises were formerly very highly prized, and all kinds of virtues -and properties attributed to them, the greater part of which are -fabulous, although detailed gravely by de Boot, who was physician to -Rodolph II., Emperor of Germany. The jewellers, even in his day, took -great pains to distinguish between those that retained their colour -and those that turned green. A fine unchanging turquoise, the size of -a filbert, sold in that day for two hundred thalers and upwards. "The -turquoise possesses such attractions," says de Boot, "that men do not -think their hands are well adorned, nor their magnificence sufficiently -displayed, if they are not decked with some of the finest." The name is -supposed to have been derived from Turkey, the country from which they -were probably first imported; but others deduce it from Turchino, a -name given by Italians to a particular blue. - -Even at this day, the discoloration or loss of a turquoise is -considered a prognostication of evil. - - -THE FORTUNATE PUNISHMENT. - -_L'Heureuse Peine_ is also, I believe, new to the English reader. It is -an exceedingly graceful story, and the _dénouement_ is novel as well -as ingenious. The "little animal" into which the unfortunate Naimée is -transformed, is not specified by the author, but from an allusion to -its _manière de marcher_, I suppose it to be a crayfish, a favourite -with the writers of fairy tales. - - - - -MADEMOISELLE DE LA FORCE. - - -CHARLOTTE ROSE DE LA FORCE was the daughter of François de Caumont, -Marquis de Castel-Moron, and granddaughter of Jacques de Caumont, Duc -de la Force, whose escape from the massacre of St. Bartholomew is -celebrated in the _Henriade_ of Voltaire, and who afterwards greatly -signalized himself by his exploits during the reign of Henry IV. and -Louis XIII. She was born in the Castle of Casenove, near Bazas, in -Guienne, about 1650, and died in Paris in 1724. Her mother, Marguerite -de Vicof, was Dame de Casenove, and daughter of the Baron de Castelnau. -Mademoiselle de la Force would therefore appear to be maternally -connected with Madame de Murat. She is said to have been married, in -1687, to Charles de Brion; but that the marriage was declared null and -void ten days afterwards. She was the author of several memoirs and -romances, and of an Epistle, in verse, to Madame de Maintenon; but is -best known by her fairy tales, _Contes des Contes_, though only one of -them has, to my knowledge, appeared previously in English. That one is-- - - -FAIRER THAN A FAIRY. - -_Plus Belle que Fée_ was published, with the usual abridgments and -alterations, about twenty years ago, in a collection of nursery tales. -The story bears a strong resemblance to the _Gracieuse and Percinet_ of -the Countess d'Aulnoy; and though the plot is rendered more intricate -by the addition of another pair of lovers, it does not gain in interest -as much as it loses in coherence and simplicity. The fair author has, -however, appended a note to her story called _L'Enchanteur_, which -forbids us to suppose that she was indebted to any previous writer for -the plot of her story. She says--"This story (_L'Enchanteur_) is taken -from an ancient romance ('ancien livre Gothique') named _Perséval_, -several things being omitted which were not in accordance with our -modern tastes, and several others added. Some names are changed. It -is the only story that is not entirely the composition of the author. -_All the others are purely of her invention._" After this positive -declaration, which we have no right to question, why should we refuse -to give credit to the Countess d'Aulnoy for the possession of equal -powers of imagination? - -I am by no means impugning the originality of _Plus Belle que Fée_, -in pointing out that the notion of the _Fair of Time_ seems to have -been suggested by an old fairy legend of Normandy. "Near the village -of Puys, half a league to the north-east of Dieppe, there is a high -plateau, surrounded on all sides by high entrenchments, except that -over the sea, where the cliffs render it inaccessible. It is named -'La Cité de Limes,' or 'Le Camp de Cæsar,' or simply 'Le Catel' or -'Castel.' Tradition tells that _the Fées used to hold a fair there, -at which all sorts of magic articles from their secret stores were -offered for sale_, and the most courteous entreaties and blandishments -were employed to induce those who frequented it to become purchasers; -but the moment any one did so, and stretched forth his hand to take -the article he had selected, the perfidious Fées seized him, and -hurled him down the cliffs."[58] I cannot say that Mademoiselle de la -Force has made the most of this tradition, supposing her to have been -acquainted with it. Her allusion to the entertainments at Marly, to -which alone she says this fair was to be compared, has reference, I -think, to a "Fancy Fair," as we should now call it, in which the stalls -were attended, as in our days, by the principal personages of the -Court. I feel satisfied that I have somewhere seen an account of that -entertainment, but unfortunately have no note which would enable me to -turn to the authority. - - -FOOTNOTES: - -[58] Keightley's _Fairy Mythology_, 12mo, 1850, p. 474. There -was also a piece, called _La Foire des Fées_, written by Le Sage, and -acted at the Foire St. Germain. - - -THE GOOD WOMAN. - -_La Bonne Femme_ is far superior to _Plus Belle que Fée_. It is indeed -worthy of Madame d'Aulnoy, and I cannot account for its never having -previously met with a translator. It will be recognised by playgoers -as the foundation of my Fairy Extravaganza, _The Good Woman in the -Wood_, in which form the dramatic incidents of this charming story -were first introduced to a London public. As we are bound, after the -author's declaration, to consider it an original story, we need not -trouble ourselves to hunt after its source. The other original fairy -tales--_Percinet_, _Tourbillon_, _Vert et Blue_, _Le Pays des Délices_, -and _La Puissance d'Amour_--bear no comparison to the two I have -selected. - - - - -MADAME DE VILLENEUVE. - - -GABRIELLE SUSANNE BARBOT, "daughter of a gentleman of Rochelle," and -widow of Monsieur de Gallon, Seigneur de Villeneuve, Lieutenant-Colonel -of Infantry, died at Paris, in the house of Crebillon, the tragic -writer, Dec. 29th, 1755. Such is the sum of the information afforded us -by editors and biographers, concerning the author of one of the most -popular fairy tales ever written. - - -THE BEAUTY AND THE BEAST. - -_La Belle et la Bête._--Thousands of English readers have no doubt been -all their lives under the impression that they knew nearly by heart -the story of _Beauty and the Beast_; and though few, alas! may have -taken the trouble to inquire who was the author of it, those who have, -imagine themselves indebted for it to Madame Leprince de Beaumont. Nay, -there are many, no doubt, in France who are under the same belief, for -"_La Belle et la Bête_, par Madame Leprince de Beaumont," is, without -a word of explanation, at this moment circulating as a portion of the -French Railway Library, and was published, with various other stories, -in a small edition of _Contes des Fées_ only last year, under her name, -by a bookseller on the Quai des Augustins, Paris. It is only those -who have read the original story by Madame de Villeneuve, either in -the _Contes Marins_,[59] or in the _Cabinet des Fées_, who will not -be surprised to find that Madame de Beaumont has merely the merit of -having cut this admirable work down to the smallest comprehensible -dimensions, and made a pretty little nursery tale of one of the most -ingeniously constructed stories in the whole catalogue of fairy -chronicles. - -The story of the Beast is but alluded to in a few words, and that of -the real parents of Beauty altogether omitted. It is no answer to say -that the version by Madame de Beaumont is an agreeable story, that -the moral is preserved, and that there are portions of the original -tale which required alteration or omission. In justice to Madame de -Villeneuve, it ought never to be printed without the acknowledgment -that it is simply an abridgment of her composition, adapted to the -use of juvenile readers, by Madame de Beaumont. I have omitted a -dozen lines, and softened one objectionable expression; but, with the -exception of this very slight and indispensable alteration, Madame -de Villeneuve's story is now placed before the English public in its -entirety. - -It was published in 1740, and Mr. Dunlop remarks that "it surpasses all -that has been produced by the lively and fertile imaginations of France -or Arabia;" but in his notice of the tales of Perrault, he says that -it is an expansion of and adoption from _Riquet à la Houpe_. I think -this is one of those hasty conclusions of which we are all occasionally -guilty. I cannot, for my part, see any resemblance between the two -stories. In _Riquet_, an ugly and deformed prince wins the hand of a -lovely princess--the usual triumph of mind over matter; but in _Beauty -and the Beast_, the suitor is not merely a repulsive man, but a monster -of the most horrible and tremendous description, and who is specially -prohibited from availing himself of those mental powers which might -in the slightest degree affect the judgment of the lady. Pity and -gratitude are the motives which influence Beauty to sacrifice her own -happiness to ensure that of the Beast. In the other case, admiration -of the talent of Riquet renders the Princess gradually blind to the -defects of his person. _Le Mouton_ of Madame d'Aulnoy offers infinitely -more points of resemblance. The transformation of the King into a ram -by a jealous and vindictive fairy, and the permission given by him to -Merveilleuse to visit her family, on her solemnly promising to return -by a stated period, are features too obvious to be overlooked. The -despair of the Ram in consequence of her not fulfilling her promise on -the last occasion, is also like that of the Monster; but Madame de -Villeneuve has avoided the tragical catastrophe; and notwithstanding -the similarity I have pointed out, _Beauty and the Beast_, taken as a -whole, deserves all the praise that those who are best acquainted with -it have unanimously accorded to it. - -It is a curious circumstance that the _Gatta Cennerentola_ of Basile, -and the German version of _Cinderella_, both commence with the -departure of the father on a journey, and the requests of his daughters -corresponding exactly in their general character with those in _Beauty -and the Beast_, while we find nothing of the sort in Perrault's -_Cendrillon_. I infer from this that the Italian and German writers -have mixed two old stories together, and that Madame de Villeneuve's is -founded on one of them. - -FOOTNOTES: - -[59] So called from being supposed to be narrated on board -a ship bound to St. Domingo. 4 vols. 12mo. Paris, 1740-41. They were -republished under the title of _Le Temps et la Patience_, in 1768. - - - - -THE COUNT DE CAYLUS. - - -ANNE CLAUDE DE TUBIERRE, DE GRIMOAD, DE PESTILS, DE LEVI, COMTE DE -CAYLUS, was born in Paris, in 1692, and died the 3rd of September, -1765. He entered the French army early, and distinguished himself in -Catalonia and at the siege of Fribourg. After the Peace of Rastadt -he visited Italy, and in 1717 went to the Levant in the suite of -the Ambassador of France to the Sublime Porte. During this journey -he undertook an adventure which proves his courage as well as his -love of art. On arriving at Smyrna, he was anxious to profit by the -necessary delay of a few days to visit the ruins of Ephesus, which -are about twelve hours' journey from that place. The neighbourhood -was at that time infested by a band of brigands, the chief of which -was the notorious and terrible Caracayoli. The roads were exceedingly -unsafe for travellers; but the Count de Caylus was not to be daunted. -He provided himself with a dress made simply of sail-cloth, and -carrying nothing about him that could tempt the most petty thief, he -sought out two of the band of Caracayoli, and bargained with them for -a safe conduct from Smyrna to Ephesus and back again, the money to -be paid only on his return. It being their interest to take care of -him, he found them the most faithful guides in the world. Caracayoli, -on learning the object of his journey, politely offered to assist -his researches. He informed the Count that in the neighbourhood of -his retreat there were some ruins well worthy his inspection, and to -expedite his visit to them, he mounted him and one of his guides on -two fine Arabian horses. The ruins proved to be those of Colophon. -The Count returned to the retreat of Caracayoli, and passed the night -there, and the next morning proceeded to the site of the ancient city -of Ephesus, from whence he was safely conducted back to Smyrna by the -brigands, each party well satisfied with their bargain. - -After his return to France, in 1717, he made several other journeys -abroad, and paid two visits to London. At Paris he occupied himself -with drawing, music, painting, writing, and sculpture. He wrote the -lives of the most celebrated painters and sculptors of the Royal -Academy, and founded in that Academy an annual prize for the students -who were most successful in expressing the passions. In 1742 he was -elected an honorary member of "L'Académie des Inscriptions," in which -he founded another prize of five hundred livres for the best essays -on the manners and customs of the ancients. He formed a splendid -collection of Etruscan, Greek, Roman, and Gaulish antiquities, an -account of which was published (seven vols. 4to, the last in 1767) by -Monsieur le Beau. He discovered the ancient art of encaustic painting, -and of tinging marble, from hints in the works of the elder Pliny. But -all this occupation and study did not prevent this eminent scholar -and antiquary from indulging in the lighter pursuits of literature. -He did not disdain to acknowledge the fascination of a fairy tale, or -to contribute to the number of them. I have selected three from his -_Féeries Nouvelles_, which are in my judgment the best, and display the -greatest variety of style and power of imagination. The first,-- - - -PRINCESS MINUTE AND KING FLORIDOR. - -_La Princesse Minutie et le Roi Floridor_ is written in a spirit of -playful satire, which reminds one of those sprightly caricatures of -fairy tales which flowed so pleasantly from the pen of Count Hamilton; -but, unlike _Le Belier_ and _Fleur d'Epine_ of that accomplished -satirist, _Princess Minute and King Floridor_ presents us with a -sound and serious moral, which at this moment, when the sacrifice -of important interests to routine and etiquette has caused so much -animadversion, is singularly _apropos_. It also reads a pleasant lesson -to those who neglect or misuse the great means and opportunities -which it has pleased Providence to bestow upon them, and amidst all -its whimsical extravagances, never ceases to whisper in the words of -Solomon-- - - Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways and be wise. - -Floridor was the name of a celebrated French actor of the seventeenth -century. In _Le Temple du Destin_, written by Le Sage, and acted at -the Fair of St. Laurent in 1715, the High Priest of Destiny observes -upon the vanity of an actor-- - - Tout ce qui reluit n'est pas or - Ils out tous ce génie, - Chacun se croit un Floridor - La plaisante manie! - - -THE IMPOSSIBLE ENCHANTMENT. - -_L'Enchantement Impossible_ is an amusing story with one blemish, which -I have ventured to correct by the omission of half a dozen lines, and -the suppression of an unnecessary indelicacy. Unlike the last, this -is a mere work of fancy, without any particular object--a sort of -illustration of the old song and saying, _Love will find out the way_. -The Mer-man and his sister would seem to point out a Breton origin for -this story, as the belief in these marine marvels is strong upon the -coast of Brittany, where the females are called Morgan (sea-women), -or Morver'de (sea-daughters), and are supposed to draw down to their -palaces of gold and crystal, at the bottom of the ocean, those who -venture imprudently too near the edge of the water; but the Count de -Caylus was too well acquainted with the classical Tritons and Syrens to -render it necessary for him to draw upon the legends of Armorica for -such materials, and it is probable the story is entirely of his own -invention. - -The absurd fashions in hair-dressing, glanced at in this story, -by the introduction of a fairy with her hair dressed _en chien -fou_, are commented upon in a little volume called _Histoires des -Modes Française_; Amsterdam and Paris, 1773. "The number of these -_frisures_," says the writer, "is almost infinite. Every year, every -month, produces new ones. We have seen, in succession, hair dressed _en -bequille_ (crutch fashion), _en graine d'epinards_ (spinach fashion!), -_en baton rompu_ (broken stick!); yesterday it was _en aile de pigeon_, -to-day it is _en débacle_." - - -BLEUETTE AND COQUELICOT. - -_Bleuette et Coquelicot_ is a charming fairy tale of the pastoral -order, unexceptionable in its style, and salutary in its instruction. I -have only to add, in further illustration of the head-dress of Arganto -(p. 360), that "Foreign _Marshalle_ Powder" was advertised in 1781 at -sixteen shillings per pound, by R. Langwine, at the sign of the "Rose," -opposite New Round Court, Strand; and that receipts for making it occur -as late as in Gray's _Supplement to the Pharmacopœia_, in 1836. The -author of _L'Histoire des Modes Française_, quoted above, says he does -not "despair of one day seeing rose-coloured hair powder, blue heads," -&c.; and in _Plocacosmos_ (1781), we actually find receipts for making -yellow, _rose-pink_, and black hair powder; while Goldsmith, in his -_Citizen of the World_, Letter III., mentions both black and _blue_. - - - - -MADEMOISELLE DE LUBERT. - - -Of this lady we have but very meagre information. She was born about -the year 1710, and is said by some writers to have been the daughter -of a President; and by others, of a "Trésorier de Marine." She appears -to have led a studious and retired life, her love of literature -indisposing her to marriage. Her _Contes des Fées_ were commenced about -1740; and several have been attributed to her pen which she disavowed. -Those she acknowledged were:--_Terserion_, _La Princesse Lionette et le -Prince Coquerico_, _Le Prince Glacé et la Princesse Etincelante_,_ La -Princesse Couleur de Rose et le Prince Celadon_, _La Princesse Camion_, -and _La Nouvelle Léonille_. She was also the author of a translation -of _Amadis des Gaules_, _Les Hauts Faits d'Esplandian_, and _Anecdotes -Africaines_, published in 1752. Voltaire and Fontenelle called her -"Muse et grace." She was living in 1772, and died before 1779. She had -disappeared from society for some time previously, and was presumed -to be still living at that date; but a letter written by some one who -knew of her decease, inserted in the _Journal de Paris_ of that year -(No. 69), addressed to the author of _L'Almanach des Dames Illustres_, -by "l'Ombre de Mademoiselle de Lubert," and dated from the "Mille et -unième Bosquet des Champs Elisées," seems to have been considered -sufficient authority; though as no precise time or place is mentioned, -the letter might have been written by the lady herself had she wished -to deceive the public. She had, however, reached a very respectable -age, and it is probable that she was dead at that period. - -"Her _Contes des Fées_," remarks one of her critics, "are not nearly -equal to those of Mademoiselle de Murat and other ladies who have -written in that style. They have less of moral purpose and allegorical -allusion." This is quite true; and my object in publishing the two -I have selected is to illustrate, as I have mentioned in my preface, -the decline of the Fairy tale. Mademoiselle de Lubert is one of -the latest of her class. Her stories are only designed to amuse. -The publication of _The Thousand and One Nights_, by Galland, and -the immense popularity that work immediately obtained, evidently -affected the composition of fairy tales. Wild, extravagant adventures, -unconnected incidents, transformations without point or object, a -straining after the merely marvellous, and a total abandonment of the -laughing philosophy and the unaffected morality which distinguish -and immortalize the stories of Perrault and d'Aulnoy, were the first -effects of the circulation of the _Arabian Nights Entertainments_. The -next was the Orientalizing of every tale of enchantment. Dull Caliphs -and Sultans deposed the merry old Kings who "once upon a time" ruled in -Fairyland. The amours of the seraglio and the harem were substituted -for the innocent courtships of princes or shepherds. The manners and -dresses of the time, those delicious anachronisms which impart so much -pleasantry--ay, and instruction--to the fairy tale, were carefully -avoided; and the characters, arrayed in what the writers flattered -themselves were Eastern costumes, were seriously placed in situations -compared to which that of Molière's _Monsieur Jourdain_ as _Mamamonchi_ -was a nearer approach to reality. Even those that had some claim to -Oriental origin were so altered and "manufactured for the European -market" that they were said to appear-- - - --en sortant de chez Barbin[60] - Plus Arabe qu'en Arabie. - -_Le Mercure Galant_ was flooded with these productions. _Almanzor et -Zehra, Conte Arabe_; _Almerine et Zelima, Conte Oriental_; _Balky, -Conte Oriental_; _Zaman, Histoire Oriental_, _&c._ Then we have _Contes -Mogol_, _Contes Turcs_, _Contes Chinois_, _Contes Tartares_, _Contes -Persans_, _&c._; but we are forgetting Mademoiselle de Lubert and her - - -FOOTNOTES: - -[60] Barbin was the publisher of the _Mille et une Nuits_. - - -PRINCESS CAMION. - -A translation of _La Princesse Camion_, much abridged and altered, -was published in the _Child's Fairy Library_ some twenty years -ago, under the title of _Princess Minikin._ The plot of this story -is intricate without being ingenious. The persecution of Camion -by Marmotte is purely capricious, and her contrivances are of the -clumsiest description. In the original, Zirphil is commanded to -"take off, one by one, the scales of the whale;" but a whale has no -scales that it could feel the deprivation of. It is skinning the fish -alive that would be a cruel operation, and I have therefore rendered -"_écorcher_" in that sense, and not to scale, as it had been previously -translated, in accordance with the specific direction quoted above. -The transformation of the unfortunate Princess into a crayfish, and -her being shelled instead of pounded as Marmotte had decreed, is all -of the same character. The long story told by her in that state to the -other crayfish in the plantation is a lame way of enlightening either -Zirphil or the reader, and has to be continued in as lame a manner by -Citronette. The pounding the crayfish for the King's soup, and the -disappearance of them in flames when they are put into the mortar, -seems to point to an Eastern origin. The latter portion reminds us of -the black man flinging the fish into the fire, in the story of "The -Fisherman and the Genius," in the _Arabian Nights_, where there is also -a city changed into a lake, and all its inhabitants into fishes, and -re-transformed in the end and restored to the rightful monarch, the -young King of the Black Island. The crayfish broth may be an allusion -to the well-known _Bisque d'Ecrévisse_, but it is also an Oriental -dish; for while this book was passing through the press, a morning -journal announced that "the eldest royal son of his Majesty the First -King of Siam," on his arrival at Claridge's Hotel, "after satisfying -himself that due provision had been made for the comfort of his staff, -retired to rest, having first partaken of a frugal repast, prepared -by his own _chef-de-cuisine_, consisting of _crabfish pounded_ with -various Eastern condiments."--_Morning Post_, October 31st, 1857. - -The eagerness with which the nobles of the Court sought for the servile -office of filling the King of the Whiting's bowl with sea-water, is -the only stroke of satire in the story, and evidently levelled at -the candle-holding and similar ceremonies of "le grand et le petit -coucher." To stand and hold a "bougeoir allumé," while Louis XIV. -undressed himself, was, says St. Simon, "une distinction et une faveur -qui se comptait, tant le Roi avait l'art de donner l'être à des riens." - -In a note to the expression, "shrieks like Melusine's," page 398, I -have suggested that some portion of _Princess Camion_ might have been -founded on the romance of _Melusine_. This romance was composed towards -the end of the fourteenth century, by Jean d'Arras, at the desire of -the Duke de Berri, son of John, King of France, and was founded on an -incident recorded in the archives of the family of Lusignan, which were -in possession of the Duke. It is briefly as follows:-- - - -THE LEGEND OF MELUSINE. - -A King of Albania, named Elinas, had married the beautiful Fay -Pressine, by whom he had three daughters at a birth, Melusine, Melior, -and Palatine. Fay had stipulated that he should never enter her chamber -during the period of her confinement; but the King having broken -his promise in his anxiety to embrace his newly-born children, the -Queen cried out that she was compelled to leave him, and immediately -disappeared with her three daughters. She retired to the Court of her -sister, the Queen of the "Isle Perdue," and as her children grew up, -instructed them in the art of sorcery. Melusine having learned from her -mother the conduct of her father, determined to be revenged on him, -and proceeding to Albania, by means of her newly-acquired art carried -off the King and shut him up in a mountain called Brandelois. The -Queen, who still retained some affection for her husband, on becoming -acquainted with this unnatural act, punished Melusine by sentencing -her to become every Saturday a serpent from the waist downwards, till -she should meet with a lover who would marry her on condition of never -intruding on her during the time of her transformation, when she was -ordered to bathe; with a promise that if she strictly attended to this -injunction, she might eventually be relieved from her weekly disgrace -and punishment. Melusine was excessively beautiful, and Raimondin, -son of the Count de Forez, having met with her in the forest of -Colombiers,[61] fell in love with her so deeply that he married her -without hesitation on the prescribed conditions. She built for him, -near the spot where they had met, the Castle of Lusignan, and bore him -several children; but her husband's jealousy being excited by a cousin, -who suggested to him that Melusine had a criminal object in secreting -herself on a Saturday, he made a hole with his sword in the door of the -chamber to which she was wont to retire, and perceived her in her state -of transformation. The various versions of this legend differ in the -details of the consequences; but all agree in stating that Melusine, -reproaching him with the breach of his word, disappeared, and left him -to end his days as a hermit on Montserrat. The popular belief was, that -she appeared on what was called the Tower of Melusine when any of the -lords of Lusignan were about to die; and Mezeray assures us, on the -faith "of people who were not by any means credulous," that previous -to the death of a Lusignan, or of a king of France, she was seen on -this tower in a mourning dress, and uttered for a long time the most -heart-piercing lamentations. The Duke de Montpensier destroyed the -castle in 1574, on account of the resistance made to his arms in it -by the Huguenots; but the family of Lusignan, till it merged in that -of Montmorency-Luxembourg, continued to bear for its crest a woman -bathing, in allusion to the story of Melusine. - - Ange par la figure, et serpent par la reste.--_Delisle._ - - -PRINCESS LIONETTE AND PRINCE COQUERICO. - -_La Princesse Lionette et le Prince Coquerico_ is an infinitely better -story than _La Princesse Camion_: but, like that, its aim is no higher -than to excite the interest and awaken the wonder of its readers. As -a work of fancy, however, it is one of the best of its class, and I -believe is now for the first time translated into English. - -I do not recollect any story on which it could be said to be founded; -but at the end of _La Tyranine des Fées détruite_, by the Countess -d'Anneuil, is a story, entitled _La Princesse Lionne_, in which a -princess is changed into a lioness, and persecuted by a fairy called La -Rancune; but there the similarity ends. Mademoiselle de Lubert edited -an edition of the _Nouveaux Contes des Fées_ of the Countess d'Anneuil, -and may have taken an idea from that particular incident. - -The model of the globe in which Prince Coquerico saw and heard all -that passed in the universe, and witnessed the opera, the play, and -the orations at the _Académie Française_, reminds one of the room in -the Palace of the Beast, the various windows of which afforded Beauty -similar entertainment. - -The Fairy Tigreline's employments of spinning and threading pearls, -is in strict accordance with the manners of the sixteenth century. -"Passons avec les dames," says Rabelais, "nostres vie et nostres temps -_à enfiler les perles ou à filer_, comme Sardanapalus."--Livre i. chap. -33. I have mentioned (p. 438) that the opera of _Armide_ was considered -the _chef-d'œuvre_ of Quinnault. The music was composed by Lulli, -and it is reported that he made Quinnault write the last act over again -five times, which so disgusted the poet that he ceased to write for the -stage from that period. The incident of the shield is that in which -Ubaldo holds before Rinaldo his adamant or diamond shield, in which the -latter sees himself reflected in his effeminate attire, is awakened to -a sense of his degraded situation, and abandons the enchanted gardens -of Armida.--Book xvi. - - -FOOTNOTES: - -[61] At a spring called the Fountain of Thirst, or the -Fountain of the Fays, "corruptly called 'La Font des _Sees'_" (says a -writer in 1698), and every year, in the month of May, a fair is held -in the neighbouring mead, when the pastrycooks sell figures of women -'_bien coiffées,_' called 'Merlusines.' - - - - -MADAME LEPRINCE DE BEAUMONT. - - -JEANNE LEPRINCE DE BEAUMONT was born at Rouen, in 1711, and commenced -her literary career in 1748, by the production of a romance, called -_La Triomphe de la Vérité_; shortly after which she came to England, -and resided in London for a considerable time, occupying herself as -a governess, and in writing works for the instruction as well as the -amusement of youth. That which acquired the most popularity was _Le -Magazin des Enfans_, in which appeared her abridgment of _Beauty and -the Beast_, and her original _Fairy Tales_. She was twice married. Her -first was an unfortunate union, annulled almost immediately afterwards. -Her second marriage took place in England, but to a Frenchman; and in -1762 she returned to France for the benefit of her native air. In 1768, -she purchased a small estate, called Chenavoi, and died in 1780. Her -miscellaneous works amount to seventy volumes; but even _Le Magazin des -Enfans_ is scarcely remembered in the present day, and the four short -fairy tales which terminate this volume are, with the abridgment of -_Beauty and the Beast_, the only effusions by which she is popularly -known in England. The best of them is - - -PRINCE DÉSIR AND PRINCESS MIGNONE. - -It is more like one of the good old Breton stories--pleasant, short, -and with a sound moral. - - -PRINCE CHÉRI, - -Corrupted into "Prince Cherry" in our children's books, exhibits -the influence of the importations from the East. But that it has so -manifest a moral, it might pass for a French alteration of an Oriental -tale. The names of Suliman and Zélie would encourage the suspicion. - - -THE WIDOW AND HER TWO DAUGHTERS. - -_La Veuve et ses Deux Filles_ is better known by the title of _Blanche -and Vermillion_, under which it has been frequently printed, and was -also produced on the French stage by Mons. Florian, in March, 1781. -The moral of the story is declared by the Fairy to be that excessively -trite and common-place axiom, that happiness consists in content, or, -in the words of the author, the possession of things only that are -necessary without wishing for more; but the author forgot to show us -that Blanche was discontented. It does not appear that she wished for -superfluities, or to be a "great Queen," or that such an idea ever -entered her head till the Fairy promised her she should become one, -"not to reward," but "to punish," her for begrudging to give away -her plums. Poor Blanche is therefore made an _unhappy_ queen; her -low birth renders her an object of contempt at Court; the King is a -worthless person, who neglects the innocent girl his passion induced -him to place upon his throne, and who is the mother of his children; -and at length the miserable wife exclaims that "happiness is not to -be found in magnificent palaces but in the innocent occupations of -the country." Now this is foolish--it is worse, for it is false and -injurious. There is as much happiness in palaces and on thrones, thank -God, as there is in cottages. The occupations of a virtuous sovereign -are as innocent as those of a husbandman, while the power to do good, -existing with the will, must make the balance of happiness greatly in -favour of the former. The cares of State are burdensome enough, no -doubt, and the more conscientious the monarch, the weightier the sense -of responsibility; but has the countryman no cares, no sorrows, no -_vices_? The legal occupations of all classes are "innocent." Is it -only kings and nobles who yield to temptations or indulge in the evil -propensities of our common nature? There has been too much of this -fallacy infused into what are called moral stories, and at the risk of -being accused of breaking a butterfly on the wheel, I have singled out -this particular instance, as _Blanche and Vermillion_ is to be found -in almost every child's story-book. That the author's intention was -laudable, I do not doubt; but to read a wholesome lesson, she should -have shown Blanche to have been discontented with the lot assigned to -her by Providence, pining to mix in society for which she was neither -fitted by birth nor education, and dreaming that happiness consisted -solely in rank, wealth, and luxury. The moral should have been, not -that such possessions were incompatible with virtue and happiness, but -that their owners were not exempted from the frailties and sufferings -of humanity, and that unequal marriages were rarely fortunate ones. -All this, it will be said, she might mean, but it is not evident; -and the only impression made upon a child's mind by this story, if -any impression can be made by it whatever, is the very absurd and -objectionable one, that all kings and queens are wicked and unhappy, -and all farmers and dairy-maids virtuous and contented. - - -PRINCE FATAL AND PRINCE FORTUNÉ. - -This is another of the moral Fairy Tales of Madame de Beaumont, and, as -_Fatal and Fortuné_, a great favourite with the compilers of children's -story-books. It is healthier in tone than the preceding: the value of -adversity is difficult to impress on a young mind, and it is pointed -out in this little tale as well, perhaps, as it could be; but there -is one observation I must venture to make in reference to a point of -taste. The writers of the old Fairy Tales never mix up the Almighty -with fairies and enchanters. The superior powers are invariably the -mythological divinities of ancient Greece and Rome. Their heroes and -heroines pray to "the gods," not to "God." The introduction of the -sacred name is, I am well aware, too frequent in familiar French -conversation, to render it a matter of criticism in the original -language; and I fully acquit Madame de Beaumont of any intentional -irreverence; but it is a fact worthy of remark, that in an age and at -a Court which are described as particularly licentious, the writers -for youth or entertainment carefully abstained from an unnecessary -profanity of which they had examples enough in the older fabliaux and -romances, not only of their own country, but throughout Europe; and -that although the majority of these authors were in the highest ranks -of society--members of the circle that surrounded the throne of one of -the most despotic monarchs in the civilized world--they never spared -the foibles or the crimes of princes, or the hypocrisy and treachery of -their parasites. - -The fearless frankness, indeed, with which they satirized the follies -and inveighed against the vices of the great, is as honourable to -them as their perfect freedom from that questionable morality which -would deny in any class the existence of virtue and the enjoyment -of happiness founded upon it. Madame de Beaumont's admission that -such may be the case concludes her story of _Fatal and Fortuné_ more -satisfactorily than her insinuation to the contrary does that of _The -Widow and her Two Daughters_. - -So much has been said in this Appendix about _Peau d'Ane_ and -_L'Adroite Princesse_, that although, as in the case of _Prince -Marcassin_ and _Le Dauphin_, in my former volume, I have not included -them in the body of the work, I think it may be as well, as in the -above instance, to give in this place an analysis of their plots, they -being undoubtedly two of the oldest fairy tales of their class on -record. - - -PEAU D'ANE. - -A Princess, in order to escape the persecution of the King, her father, -on a point of conscience, consults a fairy, who is her godmother, -and by her advice successively requests her father to give her three -dresses--the first of the colour of the sky, the second of the colour -of the moon, and the third of the colour of the sun, believing he will -be unable to fulfil his promises. He succeeds, however, in procuring -for her the three dresses; and she is then instructed to ask him for -the skin of a marvellous ass in the royal stables, which supplies the -King daily with an ample quantity of gold coin, under the impression -that his Majesty will never consent to such a sacrifice. The infatuated -Monarch, however, does cause the ass to be killed and flayed, and the -Princess, on the receipt of the skin she has requested, is reduced to -flight. The Fairy tells her to put the three fine dresses and all her -jewellery, &c. in a large trunk, which by magical power is to follow -her underground, and appear whenever she needs it; and begriming -her face and hands, and wrapping herself up in the ass's skin, the -Princess escapes from the palace, and travels into the dominions of -a neighbouring monarch. She there obtains employment in a farm as -a scullion and keeper of the pigs and poultry, her only pleasure -consisting in occasionally locking herself up in her miserable room, -and putting on her fine dresses and jewellery, which appear at her -wish, as the Fairy promised her. - -The son of the King of this country happens to visit this farm -occasionally as he returns from hunting, and one day peeps through the -keyhole of the door, and sees Peau d'Ane (as the Princess is called, -from the only dress she wears in public) arrayed in one of her richest -robes. He is dazzled with her beauty, and believing her to be some -divinity, he is afraid to burst open the door, and returns to the -palace, where he falls perfectly love-sick, refusing to eat, drink, -or take any amusement. He inquires who lives in that wretched room -at the farm, and is told an ugly, dirty, kitchen wench, called Peau -d'Ane, for the reason aforesaid. He declares that nothing can cure him -but a cake made by her hands. After all sorts of expostulations, they -yield to his wishes, and Peau d'Ane is ordered to make a cake for the -Prince. She has seen him on his visits to the farm, and is equally in -love with him. She makes the cake, and drops, by accident or design, -a magnificent emerald ring into it. The Prince devours the cake, and -finds the ring. He immediately declares that he will marry no one but -the woman who owns that ring. On this determination being made public, -all the unmarried ladies in the Court and kingdom endeavour to fit on -the ring, but it is too small for any one to pretend to the ownership. -At length Peau d'Ane is sent for at the Prince's wish, and dropping -her hideous ass's skin, appears in magnificent attire, and places the -ring easily on her finger. Everybody is astonished, the Prince and his -parents delighted, and the nuptials take place, being honoured by the -presence of Kings and Fairies from all quarters, and specially by the -father of the Princess, who has recovered from his infatuation. - -This story, founded originally on the legend of St. Dipne, was a -favourite in France from an exceedingly early period, and was versified -by Perrault, and published with _Les Souhaits Ridicules_, as I have -already stated, in 1694. He alludes to the original nursery tale in his -_Parallele des Anciens et des Modernes_, 1689, in which he makes the -partisan of the ancients say, "Les fables Milesiennes sont si puériles, -que c'est leur faire assez d'honneur que de leur opposer nos Contes de -_Peau d'Ane_ et de _la Mère l'Oye_." The prose version of this tale was -not published until many years after his death, and is supposed by -Baron Walkenäer not to have been his composition; and I think there is -a point unnoticed by the Baron which supports that opinion. The story -is dedicated to Mademoiselle Eleanore de Lubert.[62] Now, if this be -Mademoiselle de Lubert, author of _La Princesse Camion_, &c., she was -not born till some years after the death of Perrault; and as in the -dedication we find the lines - - "Quoique vous soyez à l'aurore, - Du printemps de vos jeunes ans," - -the dedication itself could not have been written much before 1720, -Mademoiselle de Lubert having been born about 1710. - -There is another story in the _Contes ou Joyeux Devises de Bonaventure -Desperiers_, Novel 130, of a young girl named "Peau d'Ane," and "how -she got married by the means furnished her by the Ants." A gentleman -fell in love with a merchant's daughter, named Pernette. The father -and mother, not daring flatly to refuse their consent, attached to it -what they considered an impossible condition--namely, that for a given -period previous to her marriage the girl should wear no other apparel -than the skin of an ass. Pernette, returning the gentleman's affection, -was not to be discouraged by this obstacle, and cheerfully wore the -skin of an ass for the appointed time. Foiled in this matter, they -set their wits to work to invent something more impracticable. They -insisted that she should lick up, grain by grain, a bushel of barley, -which they spilt for that purpose on the ground. Nothing daunted, she -applied herself to this task; but the ants repaired to the same spot, -and took away all the barley by degrees, without being noticed, so that -it appeared as if Pernette had done it; and her parents considering -further opposition useless, the girl obtained her husband. The story -concludes with the assertion that "Vray est que tant quelle vesquit le -sobriquet de Peau d'Ane lui demeura." - -There is nothing whatever in this story to remind one of the last, -beyond the simple circumstance of the skin; nor have we any clue as to -which may be the oldest: but both were called _Peau d'Ane_, and it may -be just possible that one furnished a hint for the other, or, indeed, -that there was a collection of stories so entitled; for La Porte, -the valet of Louis XIV., tells us, in his _Mémoires_, that when that -monarch was still a child, but had passed from the hands of females -into those of men, he could not go to sleep "parcequ'on ne lui contait -plus _les contes_ de Peau d'Ane ainsi que les femmes qui le gardaient -avaient coutume de le faire." - - -L'ADROITE PRINCESSE; OU, LES AVENTURES DE FINETTE. - -A King departing for the Crusades commits to a Fairy the charge of -his three daughters--Nonchalante, Babillarde, and Finette, names -descriptive of their characters. They are shut up in a tower without a -door, and furnished with three enchanted distaffs of glass, which they -are told will break on the commission of any indiscretion. They were -to be provided with everything they might properly require by means of -a basket let up and down by a crane and pulley fixed on the top of the -tower. The two eldest Princesses soon become weary of solitude, and -one day pull up in the basket an old beggar woman, Nonchalante hoping -she will be her servant, and Babillarde being anxious to have somebody -else to talk to. The beggar woman proves to be a Prince disguised, the -son of a neighbouring King who is a bitter enemy of the father of the -three Princesses, and who has had recourse to this expedient in order -to revenge himself for some insult or injury he has sustained. By -flattering the foibles of the two Princesses who introduced him into -the tower, he succeeds in causing them to break both their distaffs, -but all his artifices are foiled by Finette (L'Adroite Princesse), who -gets rid of him by making him fall through a trap door into the ditch -under the tower. Enraged at his defeat, he has recourse to another -scheme, and succeeds in inducing Finette to descend in the basket -to procure assistance for her sisters, who are suffering from the -consequences of their indiscretions. He seizes Finette, and is about to -have her rolled down a precipice in a tub filled with spikes, when she -adroitly flings him into it, and he suffers the fate he had projected -for the Princess. Mortally hurt, he bequeaths his vengeance to his -brother, who swears to him that he will marry Finette, and murder -her on the night of his nuptials. She, however, places a figure of -straw in the bed, which the Prince unwillingly stabs, and is only too -delighted to find he is not guilty of murdering a woman he loves, and -who becomes his happy Queen. - -This story was not published till 1742, when it was printed as -Perrault's, although it was well known that Mademoiselle Lheritier, -who had read Perrault's _Histoires du Temps Passé_ in manuscript, had -conceived from them the idea of trying her hand at the same sort of -composition, and had actually published, in 1695-6, this very story, -under the title of _Les Aventures de Finette_ in her _Œuvres -Meslées_, with a letter to the daughter of Perrault. - -Speaking of that very story she says--"vous savez que dans le _Conte -de Finette_, les deux sœurs sont très eloignées d'être aussi -vertueuses que je les fais, on ne parle point de mariage: ce sont deux -indignés personnes de qui on raconte des faiblesses odieuses avec les -circonstances choquantes;" and she also observes, "j'ai pour moi la -tradition qui met ce Conte de _Finette_; au Temps des Croisades." - -There cannot surely be more evidence required to refute the assertion -of Mr. Dunlop, that _L'Adroite Princesse_ (be it written by Perrault or -Mademoiselle Lheritier) is taken from the _Pentamerone_, with little -variation of machinery or incident. The story he alludes to is the -fourth of the third day, and is entitled _Sapia Liccarda_. There is -no such name as Finette in it, and it is well known, independently of -Mademoiselle Lheritier's declaration, that _Le Conte de Finette_ was -one of the oldest of the French nursery tales. - -Nor can we desire clearer evidence of the way in which these stories -were written than that which is afforded to us by the repeated -acknowledgments of Mademoiselle Lheritier:-- - - "Ce que je viens de vous dire - Est toujours au fond bien naïvement - Tel qu'on ma conté quand j'etais enfant." - -And, again,-- - - "Cent fois ma nourrice on ma mie - M'ont fait ce beau recit pres des tissons - Je n'ai fait qu'adjouter un peu de broderie." - -Let any one compare these lines with those of the concluding portion of -the story of _L'Adroite Princesse_ commencing "Voila Madame," &c., and -they must be struck by the singular resemblance. - - * * * * * - -There will be many general readers, and perhaps some critics, who -may think I have been unnecessarily minute in my notes and humble -attempts at illustration; but whilst I feel that the fairy tales I have -selected contain in themselves nothing that may not afford innocent -entertainment to children, I certainly hope that the little information -I have been able to collect respecting some hitherto obscure and -disputed points may give both this and the book that preceded it an -interest in the eyes of elder readers, who may meet, where they least -expect it, some fact or suggestion, trifling in itself, but furnishing -a clue to more important matter. - -My principal object has been, however, in this volume, to disabuse -the minds of those who have taken for granted the assertions of our -historians of fiction concerning the original sources from whence -Perrault and Madame d'Aulnoy in particular derived the plots of their -fairy tales--assertions which I confess I had not thought necessary to -notice until, in a kind and complimentary review of my former volume, -it was publicly regretted as an omission. I trust I have now made it -perfectly clear that whether or not the writers of those tales were -cognizant of the existence in the collections of Straparola and Basile -of some half-dozen meagre and garbled versions of stories told for ages -in all the tongues of Europe and Asia, that the real foundation of -those of Perrault were the old Breton _Contes de ma Mère l'Oye_, which -in company - - "De Peau d'Ane et de Fier à bras - Et de cent autres vieux fatras," - -he had heard in his own nursery, and with which Louis XIV. had -been rocked to sleep when a child, as well as all the rest of the -children in his dominions; and that Madame d'Aulnoy, when not indebted -to similar recollections, drew upon her own fertile and lively -imagination, introducing occasionally an incident from one of the old -Trouvères of Languedoc, or some of those Oriental stories which were -circulated in manuscript long before their publication by Galland, or -picked up by herself during her residence in Spain from the Moorish -and Turkish slaves around her, nay, from her own little servant Zayde, -who, though she could speak no language but her own at the time her -mistress so pleasantly describes her, might have eventually acquired -sufficient French or Spanish for such a purpose. - -Her account of this child is so interesting that I shall not apologise -for quoting it:-- - - "They have here great numbers of slaves who are bought and sold - at high prices. They are Moors and Turks, some of them worth four - or five hundred crowns a piece.... You are extremely well served - by these unhappy wretches, they are far more diligent, laborious, - and humble than other servants.... I have one that is not above - nine years old. She is as black as jet, and would be reckoned in - her own country a wonderful beauty, for her nose is quite flat, - her lips prodigiously thick, her eyes of a red and white colour, - and her teeth admirable in Europe as well as in Africa. She - understands not a word of any language than her own. Her name is - Zayde; we have got her baptized.... Those who sold her to me told - me she was a girl of quality; and the poor child will come often - and fall down on her knees before me, clasp her hands, cry, and - point towards her country. I would willingly send her thither if - she could there be a Christian; but this impossibility obliges me - to keep her. _I would fain understand her, for I believe her to - be intelligent_--all her actions show it. She dances after her - fashion, and so pleasantly that she affords us much entertainment. - I make her wear white patches, with which she is mightily taken. - She is dressed as they are at Morocco, that is, in a short gown - almost without any plaits, large shift sleeves of fine cloth - striped with different colours like those of our Bohemians and - gipseys. A pair of stays made of merely a strip of crimson velvet - on a gold ground, and fastened at the sides with silver buckles - and buttons, and a mantle of exceedingly fine woollen stuff, very - long and very large, in which she wraps herself, and with one - corner of it covers her head. - - "This dress is very handsome; her short hair, which looks like - wool, is cut in several places, on each side like a half-moon, - on the crown in a circle, and in front like a heart. She cost - me twenty pistoles. My daughter has made her governess of her - Marmoset, the little monkey given to her by the Archbishop of - Burgos. I assure you Zayde and the Marmoset are capitally matched, - and understand each other extremely well."--_Relation du Voyage en - Espagne._ - -With this characteristic and suggestive extract from a book deserving -to be better known, I leave a subject to which it is not likely I shall -return in print, though it will never cease to interest me in the study. - - -THE END. - - -FOOTNOTES: - -[62] In the _Cabinet des Fées_, 1785, it is printed "de -Huber," quite a different name; but the edition of the works of -Perrault, 1826, by M. Collin de Plancy, is more carefully printed, and -there it is distinctly de Lubert. - - - - - LONDON: FARRINGDON STREET. - _December_, 1857. - - GEORGE ROUTLEDGE & CO.'S - - New List of Illustrated Books - - SUITABLE FOR PRESENTS. - - - THE FAVOURITE GIFT BOOKS OF THE SEASON. - - Price =21=s., elegantly bound, gilt edges, with Steel Plates from Birket - Foster's designs, - -THE UPPER RHINE, from Mayenz to the Lake of Constanz. 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- color: black; - font-size:smaller; - padding:0.3em; - margin-bottom:1em; - font-family:sans-serif, serif; } -} - - - -</style> - - -</head> - - -<body> - - -<pre> - -The Project Gutenberg EBook of Four and Twenty Fairy Tales, by Various - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most -other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions -whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of -the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at -www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you'll have -to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook. - -Title: Four and Twenty Fairy Tales - Selected From Those of Perrault, and other Popular Writers - -Author: Various - -Translator: J. R. Planche - -Release Date: August 4, 2016 [EBook #52719] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: UTF-8 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK FOUR AND TWENTY FAIRY TALES *** - - - - -Produced by David Edwards, Matthias Grammel and the Online -Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This -file was produced from images generously made available -by The Internet Archive) - - - - - - -</pre> - - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_i"></a></span></p> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_ii">[Pg ii]</a></span></p> -<p class="pmb3" /> - -<h1 class="no-break">Fairy Tales.</h1> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_iii">[Pg iii]</a></span></p> -<p class="pmb3" /> - -<div class="figcenter"> - <img src="images/frontis.jpg" alt="frontispiece" /> -</div> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_iv">[Pg iv]</a></span></p> - - -<p class="p3 center font12 pmb3">FOUR AND TWENTY</p> - -<p class="center font20 pmb2">FAIRY TALES.</p> -<p class="center font08">SELECTED FROM THOSE OF</p> - -<p class="p2 center font12 pmb3">PERRAULT, AND OTHER POPULAR WRITERS.</p> - -<p class="center font09 pmb1">TRANSLATED</p> -<p class="center font12 pmb3"><span class="smcap">By</span> J. R. PLANCHÉ.</p> - -<hr class="r15" /> -<p class="center font08">WITH ILLUSTRATIONS BY GODWIN, CORBOULD, AND HARVEY.</p> -<hr class="r15" /> - -<p class="p2 center font10">LONDON:<br /> -G. ROUTLEDGE & CO., FARRINGDON STREET.</p> -<p class="center font09">NEW YORK: 18, BEEKMAN STREET.</p> -<p class="center font10 pmb1">1858.</p> - -<p class="center font08 pmb3">[<i>This Translation is Copyright.</i>]</p> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_v">[Pg v]</a></span></p> - - -<p class="p3 center font09 pmb3"> -LONDON:<br /> -SAVILL AND EDWARDS, PRINTERS, CHANDOS STREET,<br /> -COVENT GARDEN.<br /> -</p> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_vi">[Pg vi]</a></span></p> - - -<p class="p3 center font07 pmb1">TO</p> - -<p class="center font10 pmb1">THE AUTHOR</p> - -<p class="center font07 pmb1">OF</p> - -<p class="center font10 pmb1">"A TRAP TO CATCH A SUNBEAM,"</p> - -<p class="center font12 pmb1">THIS VOLUME</p> - -<p class="center font10 pmb1">Is Inscribed,</p> - -<p class="center font09 pmb1">BY HER AFFECTIONATE FATHER,</p> - -<p class="center font10 pmb3">J. R. PLANCHÉ.</p> - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_vii"></a></span></p> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_viii">[Pg viii]</a></span></p> - - -<h2 class="no-break" id="CONTENTS">CONTENTS.</h2> - - -<div class="block2"> -<table border="0" cellspacing="2" cellpadding="2" class="tdl" summary="Table of Contents"> - <colgroup> - <col width="80%" /> <col width="10%" /> - </colgroup> - <tr> - <td colspan="2" align="right"><span class="font07">PAGE</span></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>PREFACE</td> - <td align="right"><span class="font09"><a href="#Page_ix">ix</a></span></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>BLUE BEARD</td> - <td align="right"><span class="font09"><a href="#Page_3">3</a></span></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>THE SLEEPING BEAUTY IN THE WOOD</td> - <td align="right"><span class="font09"><a href="#Page_8">8</a></span></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>MASTER CAT; OR, PUSS IN BOOTS</td> - <td align="right"><span class="font09"><a href="#Page_17">17</a></span></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>CINDERELLA; OR, THE LITTLE GLASS SLIPPER</td> - <td align="right"><span class="font09"><a href="#Page_22">22</a></span></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>RIQUET WITH THE TUFT</td> - <td align="right"><span class="font09"><a href="#Page_28">28</a></span></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>LITTLE THUMBLING</td> - <td align="right"><span class="font09"><a href="#Page_35">35</a></span></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>PERFECT LOVE</td> - <td align="right"><span class="font09"><a href="#Page_47">47</a></span></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>ANGUILLETTE</td> - <td align="right"><span class="font09"><a href="#Page_75">75</a></span></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>YOUNG AND HANDSOME</td> - <td align="right"><span class="font09"><a href="#Page_108">108</a></span></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>THE PALACE OF REVENGE</td> - <td align="right"><span class="font09"><a href="#Page_131">131</a></span></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>THE PRINCE OF LEAVES</td> - <td align="right"><span class="font09"><a href="#Page_145">145</a></span></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>THE FORTUNATE PUNISHMENT</td> - <td align="right"><span class="font09"><a href="#Page_163">163</a></span></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>FAIRER THAN A FAIRY</td> - <td align="right"><span class="font09"><a href="#Page_183">183</a></span></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>THE GOOD WOMAN</td> - <td align="right"><span class="font09"><a href="#Page_203">203</a></span></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>THE STORY OF BEAUTY AND THE BEAST</td> - <td align="right"><span class="font09"><a href="#Page_225">225</a></span></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>PRINCESS MINUTE AND KING FLORIDOR</td> - <td align="right"><span class="font09"><a href="#Page_329">329</a></span></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>THE IMPOSSIBLE ENCHANTMENT</td> - <td align="right"><span class="font09"><a href="#Page_336">336</a></span></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>BLEUETTE AND COQUELICOT</td> - <td align="right"><span class="font09"><a href="#Page_358">358</a></span></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>PRINCESS CAMION</td> - <td align="right"><span class="font09"><a href="#Page_375">375</a></span></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>PRINCESS LIONETTE AND PRINCE COQUERICO</td> - <td align="right"><span class="font09"><a href="#Page_416">416</a></span></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>PRINCE DÉSIR</td> - <td align="right"><span class="font09"><a href="#Page_477">477</a></span></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>PRINCE CHÉRI</td> - <td align="right"><span class="font09"><a href="#Page_483">483</a></span></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>THE WIDOW AND HER TWO DAUGHTERS</td> - <td align="right"><span class="font09"><a href="#Page_494">494</a></span></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>PRINCE FATAL AND PRINCE FORTUNÉ</td> - <td align="right"><span class="font09"><a href="#Page_498">498</a></span></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>APPENDIX</td> - <td align="right"><span class="font09"><a href="#Page_509">509</a></span></td> - </tr> -</table> -</div> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_ix"></a></span></p> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_x">[Pg x]</a></span></p> - - -<h2 class="no-break" id="PREFACE">PREFACE.</h2> - - -<p>The success attending the publication of a new translation of -the Fairy Tales of the Countess d'Aulnoy has justified the -publishers in believing that an equally faithful version of some -of the most popular stories of her contemporaries and immediate -successors, similarly annotated, might meet with as -favourable a reception. I have therefore selected twenty-four -of the best Fairy Tales, according to my judgment, remaining -in the <i>Cabinet des Fées</i>, commencing with those of Charles -Perrault, the earliest, and terminating with some of Madame -Leprince de Beaumont, the latest French writer of European -celebrity in that particular class of literature. Independently -of the fact that, with the exception of those of Madame de -Beaumont, few if any in the present volume have ever been -placed in their integrity before the English reader, I trust -that the chronological order I have observed in their arrangement -will give them a novel interest in the eyes of those -"children of a larger growth," who are not ashamed to confess, -with La Fontaine—</p> - -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">Si "<i>Peau d'ane</i>" m'étoit conté<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">J'y prendrais un plaisir extrême.<br /></span> -</div></div> - -<p>Or with the great Reformer, Martin Luther—</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_xi">[Pg xi]</a></span></p> - -<blockquote> -<p class="font09">"I would not for any quantity of gold part with the -wonderful tales which I have retained from my earliest childhood -or have met with in my progress through life."</p> -</blockquote> - -<p>The reader will by this arrangement observe, in a clearer -way than probably he has yet had an opportunity of doing, -the rise, progress, and decline of the genuine Fairy Tale—so -thoroughly French in its origin, so specially connected with -the age of that "Grand Monarque" whose reign presents -us, in the graphic pages of St. Simon and Dangeau, with -innumerable pictures of manners and customs, dresses and -entertainments, the singularity, magnificence, profusion, and -extent of which scarcely require the fancy of a d'Aulnoy to -render fabulous. In my introduction to the tales of that -"lively and ingenious lady," I have already shown the progress -of the popularity of this class of composition; but in -the present volume it will be seen how, in the course of little -more than half a century, the Fairy Tale, from a fresh, -sparkling, simple yet arch version of a legend as old as the -monuments of that Celtic race by whom they were introduced -into Gaul, became first elaborated into a novel, comprising -an ingenious plot, with an amusing exaggeration of the -manners of the period; next, inflated into a preposterous and -purposeless caricature of its own peculiarities; and finally, -denuded of its sportive fancy, its latent humour, and its -gorgeous extravagance, subsided into the dull common-place -moral story, which, taking less hold of the youthful imagination, -was, however laudable in its intention, a very ineffective -substitute for the merry monitors it vainly endeavoured to -supersede. Too much like a lesson for the child, it was -too childish for the man. The Fairies were dismissed in -consequence of the incapacity of the writers to employ -them; but they were not to be annihilated. They still live - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_xii">[Pg xii]</a></span> -in their own land, to laugh at those mortals who will not -laugh with them and learn while they laugh. Modern art -may vainly invoke them to perform fresh marvels, but enough -power still exists in their old spells to enchant youth, amuse -manhood, and resuscitate age; and, despite the hypercritic -and the purist, they will continue to exercise their magic -influence over the human mind so long as it is capable of -appreciating wit, fancy, and good feeling. As Mademoiselle -Lheritier wrote two hundred years ago—</p> - -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">Ils ne sont pas aisées à croire,<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">Mais tant que dans le monde on verra des enfans,<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">Des mères et des mères-grands<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">On en gardera la memoire.<br /></span> -</div></div> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_xiii">[Pg xiii]</a></span></p> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_1"></a></span></p> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_2">[Pg 2]</a></span></p> - - -<h2 class="no-break" id="CHARLES_PERRAULT">CHARLES PERRAULT.</h2> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_3">[Pg 3]</a></span></p> - - -<h3 class="no-break" id="BLUE_BEARD">BLUE BEARD.</h3> - - -<p>Once on a time there was a man who had fine town and -country houses, gold and silver plate, embroidered furniture, -and coaches gilt all over; but unfortunately, this man had a -blue beard, which made him look so ugly and terrible, that -there was not a woman or girl who did not run away from -him. One of his neighbours, a lady of quality, had two -daughters, who were perfectly beautiful. He proposed to -marry one of them, leaving her to choose which of the two -she would give him. Neither of them would have him; and -they sent him from one to the other, not being able to make -up their minds to marry a man who had a blue beard. What -increased their distaste to him was, that he had had several -wives already, and nobody knew what had become of them.</p> - -<p>Blue Beard, in order to cultivate their acquaintance, took -them, with their mother, three or four of their most intimate -friends, and some young persons who resided in the neighbourhood, -to one of his country seats, where they passed an -entire week. Nothing was thought of but excursions, hunting -and fishing, parties, balls, entertainments, collations; -nobody went to bed; the whole night was spent in merry -games and gambols. In short, all went off so well, that the -youngest daughter began to find out that the beard of the -master of the house was not as blue as it used to be, and that -he was a very worthy man. Immediately upon their return -to town the marriage took place. At the end of a month -Blue Beard told his wife that he was obliged to take a -journey, which would occupy six weeks at least, on a matter -of great consequence; that he entreated she would amuse -herself as much as she could during his absence; that she - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_4">[Pg 4]</a></span> -would invite her best friends, take them into the country -with her if she pleased, and keep an excellent table everywhere.</p> - -<p>"Here," said he to her, "are the keys of my two great -store-rooms; these are those of the chests in which the gold -and silver plate is kept, that is only used on particular occasions; -these are the keys of the strong boxes in which I keep -my money; these open the caskets that contain my jewels; -and this is the pass-key of all the apartments. As for this -little key, it is that of the closet at the end of the long gallery, -on the ground floor. Open everything, and go everywhere -except into that little closet, which I forbid you to -enter, and I forbid you so strictly, that if you should venture -to open the door, there is nothing that you may not have to -dread from my anger!" She promised to observe implicitly -all his directions, and after he had embraced her, he got into -his coach and set out on his journey.</p> - -<p>The neighbours and friends of the young bride did not -wait for her invitation, so eager were they to see all the -treasures contained in the mansion, not having ventured -to enter it while the husband was at home, so terrified -were they at his blue beard. Behold them immediately -running through all the rooms, closets, and wardrobes, each -apartment exceeding the other in beauty and richness. They -ascended afterwards to the store-rooms, where they could -not sufficiently admire the number and elegance of the -tapestries, the beds, the sofas, the cabinets, the stands,<a id="FNanchor_1_1"></a><a href="#Footnote_1_1" class="fnanchor">[1]</a> -the tables, and the mirrors in which they could see themselves -from head to foot, and that had frames some of glass,<a id="FNanchor_2_2"></a><a href="#Footnote_2_2" class="fnanchor">[2]</a> -some of silver, and some of gilt metal, more beautiful and -magnificent than had ever been seen. They never ceased -enlarging upon and envying the good fortune of their friend, -who in the meanwhile was not in the least entertained by the -sight of all these treasures, in consequence of her impatience to -open the closet on the ground floor.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_5">[Pg 5]</a></span></p> - -<p>Her curiosity increased -to such a degree that, without reflecting how rude it was to -leave her company, she ran down a back staircase in such haste -that twice or thrice she narrowly escaped breaking her neck. -Arrived at the door of the closet, she paused for a moment, -bethinking herself of her husband's prohibition, and that -some misfortune might befall her for her disobedience; but -the temptation was so strong that she could not conquer it. -She therefore took the little key and opened, tremblingly, the -door of the closet. At first she could discern nothing, the -windows being closed; after a short time she began to perceive -that the floor was all covered with clotted blood, in which -were reflected the dead bodies of several females suspended -against the walls. These were all the wives of Blue Beard, -who had cut their throats one after the other. She was ready -to die with fright, and the key of the closet, which she had -withdrawn from the lock, fell from her hand. After recovering -her senses a little, she picked up the key, locked the door -again, and went up to her chamber to compose herself; but -she could not succeed, so greatly was she agitated. Having -observed that the key of the closet was stained with blood, -she wiped it two or three times, but the blood would not -come off. In vain she washed it, and even scrubbed it with -sand and free-stone, the blood was still there, for the key was -enchanted, and there were no means of cleaning it completely: -when the blood was washed off one side, it came back on the -other.</p> - -<p>Blue Beard returned that very evening, and said that he -had received letters on the road informing him that the -business on which he was going had been settled to his advantage. -His wife did all she could to persuade him that she -was delighted at his speedy return. The next morning he -asked her for his keys again; she gave them to him; but her -hand trembled so, that he had not much difficulty in guessing -what had occurred. "How comes it," said he, "that the -key of the closet is not with the others?" "I must have left -it," she replied, "upstairs on my table." "Fail not," said -Blue Beard, "to give it me presently." After several excuses, -she was compelled to produce the key. Blue Beard having -examined it, said to his wife, "Why is there some blood on -this key?" "I don't know," answered the poor wife, paler -than death. "You don't know?" rejoined Blue Beard. "I - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_6">[Pg 6]</a></span> -know well enough. You must needs enter the closet. Well, -madam, you shall enter it, and go take your place amongst -the ladies you saw there." She flung herself at her husband's -feet, weeping and begging his pardon, with all the signs of -true repentance for having disobeyed him. Her beauty and -affliction might have melted a rock, but Blue Beard had a -heart harder than a rock. "You must die, madam," said he, -"and immediately." "If I must die," she replied, looking -at him with streaming eyes, "give me a little time to say my -prayers." "I give you half a quarter of an hour," answered -Blue Beard, "but not a minute more." As soon as he had left -her, she called her sister, and said to her, "Sister Anne" (for -so she was named), "go up, I pray thee, to the top of the tower, -and see if my brothers are not coming. They have promised -me that they would come to see me to-day; and if you see -them, sign to them to make haste." Sister Anne mounted to -the top of the tower, and the poor distressed creature called -to her every now and then, "Anne! sister Anne! dost thou -not see anything coming?" And sister Anne answered her, -"I see nothing but the sun making dust, and the grass growing -green."</p> - -<p>In the meanwhile Blue Beard, with a great cutlass in -his hand, called out with all his might to his wife, "Come -down quickly, or I will come up there." "One minute more, -if you please," replied his wife; and immediately repeated in -a low voice, "Anne! sister Anne! dost thou not see anything -coming?" And sister Anne replied, "I see nothing but the -sun making dust, and the grass growing green." "Come down -quickly," roared Blue Beard, "or I will come up there." "I -come," answered his wife, and then exclaimed, "Anne! sister -Anne! dost thou not see anything coming?" "I see," said -sister Anne, "a great cloud of dust moving this way." "Is -it my brothers?" "Alas! no, sister, I see a flock of sheep." -"Wilt thou not come down?" shouted Blue Beard. "One -minute more," replied his wife, and then she cried, "Anne! -sister Anne! dost thou not see anything coming?" "I -see," she replied, "two horsemen coming this way; but they -are still at a great distance." "Heaven be praised!" she -exclaimed, a moment afterwards. "They are my brothers! I -am making all the signs I can to hasten them." Blue Beard -began to roar so loudly that the whole house shook again. - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_7">[Pg 7]</a></span> -The poor wife descended, and went and threw herself, with -streaming eyes and dishevelled tresses, at his feet.</p> - -<p>"It is of no use," said Blue Beard. "You must die!" -Then seizing her by the hair with one hand, and raising his -cutlass with the other, he was about to cut off her head. The -poor wife turned towards him, and fixing upon him her dying -eyes, implored him to allow her one short moment to collect -herself. "No, no," said he; "recommend thyself heartily to -Heaven." And lifting his arm—— At this moment there -was so loud a knocking at the gate, that Blue Beard stopped -short. It was opened, and two horsemen were immediately -seen to enter, who, drawing their swords, ran straight at -Blue Beard. He recognised them as the brothers of his wife—one -a dragoon, the other a musqueteer, and, consequently, -fled immediately, in hope to escape; but they pursued him so -closely, that they overtook him before he could reach the -step of his door, and, passing their swords through his body, -left him dead on the spot. The poor wife was almost as dead -as her husband, and had not strength to rise and embrace her -brothers. It was found that Blue Beard had no heirs, and so -his widow remained possessed of all his property. She employed -part of it in marrying her sister Anne to a young -gentleman who had long loved her; another part, in buying -captains' commissions for her two brothers, and with the rest -she married herself to a very worthy man, who made her -forget the miserable time she had passed with Blue Beard.</p> - -<div class="block2"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">Provided one has common sense,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">And of the world but knows the ways,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">This story bears the evidence</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Of being one of bygone days.</span> -<span class="i0 font09">No husband now is so terrific,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Impossibilities, expecting:</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Though jealous, he is still pacific,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Indifference to his wife affecting.</span> -<span class="i0 font09">And of his beard, whate'er the hue,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">His spouse need fear no such disaster.</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Indeed, 'twould often puzzle you</span> -<span class="i0 font09">To say which of the twain is master.</span> -</div></div> -</div> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - -<p class="break" /> -<div class="footnotes"><b>FOOTNOTES:</b> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_1_1"></a><a href="#FNanchor_1_1"><span class="label">[1]</span></a> Gueridons, <i>i.e.</i>, stands to place lights or china upon. The word is now -used to signify any small round table with one foot; but the old-fashioned -stand, which was higher than a table, and its top not bigger than a dessert plate, -is occasionally to be met with.</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p class="pmb1"><a id="Footnote_2_2"></a><a href="#FNanchor_2_2"><span class="label">[2]</span></a> Looking-glasses with frames of the same material were much in vogue -at that period. Of silver-framed mirrors some magnificent specimens remain -to us at Knowle Park, Kent.</p></div></div> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_8">[Pg 8]</a></span></p> - - -<h3 class="no-break" id="THE_SLEEPING_BEAUTY_IN_THE_WOOD">THE SLEEPING BEAUTY IN THE WOOD.</h3> - - -<p>Once upon a time there was a King and a Queen, who were -so vexed at not having any children—so vexed, that one -cannot express it. They visited all the baths in the world. -Vows, pilgrimages, everything was tried, and nothing succeeded. -At length, however, the Queen was brought to bed -of a daughter. There was a splendid christening. For godmothers -they gave the young Princess all the Fairies they -could find in the country (they found seven), in order that -each making her a gift, according to the custom of Fairies in -those days, the Princess would, by these means, become possessed -of all imaginable perfections. After the baptismal -ceremonies all the company returned to the King's palace, -where a great banquet was set out for the Fairies. Covers -were laid for each, consisting of a magnificent plate, with a -massive gold case, containing a spoon, a fork, and a knife of -fine gold, enriched with diamonds and rubies. But as they -were all taking their places at the table, there was seen to -enter an old Fairy, who had not been invited, because for -upwards of fifty years she had never quitted the tower she -resided in, and it was supposed she was either dead or -enchanted.</p> - -<p>The King ordered a cover to be laid for her; but there was -no possibility of giving her a massive gold case such as the -others had, because there had been only seven made expressly -for the seven Fairies. The old lady thought she was treated -with contempt, and muttered some threats between her teeth. -One of the young Fairies, who chanced to be near her, overheard -her, and imagining she might cast some misfortune on - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_9">[Pg 9]</a></span> -the little Princess, went, as soon as they rose from table, -and hid herself behind the hangings, in order to have the -last word, and be able to repair, as fast as possible, any -mischief the old woman might do. In the meanwhile, the -Fairies began to endow the Princess. The youngest, as her -gift, decreed that she should be the most beautiful person in -the world; the next Fairy, that she should have the mind of -an angel; the third, that she should evince the most admirable -grace in all she did; the fourth, that she should dance -to perfection; the fifth, that she should sing like a nightingale; -and the sixth, that she should play on every instrument -in the most exquisite manner possible. The turn of the old -Fairy having arrived, she declared, while her head shook -more with malice than with age, that the Princess should -pierce her hand with a spindle, and die of the wound. This -terrible fate made all the company tremble, and there was -not one of them who could refrain from tears. At this -moment the young Fairy issued from behind the tapestry, and -uttered aloud these words: "Comfort yourselves, King and -Queen—your daughter shall not die of it. It is true that I -have not sufficient power to undo entirely what my elder has -done. The Princess will pierce her hand with a spindle; but, -instead of dying, she will only fall into a deep slumber, which -will last one hundred years, at the end of which a King's son -will come to wake her."</p> - -<p>The King, in hope of avoiding the misfortune predicted -by the old Fairy, immediately caused an edict to be published, -by which he forbade any one to spin with a spindle, -or to have spindles in their possession, under pain of death.</p> - -<p>At the end of fifteen or sixteen years, the King and Queen, -being absent at one of their country residences, it happened -that the Princess, while running one day about the castle, -and from one chamber up to another, arrived at the top of a -tower, and entered a little garret, where an honest old woman -was sitting by herself, spinning with her distaff and spindle. -This good woman had never heard of the King's prohibition -with respect to spinning with a spindle. "What are you doing -there?" asked the Princess. "I am spinning, my fair child," -answered the old woman, who did not know her. "Oh, how -pretty it is!" rejoined the Princess. "How do you do it? -Give it to me, that I may see if I can do it as well." She - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_10">[Pg 10]</a></span> -had no sooner taken hold of the spindle, than, being very -hasty, a little thoughtless, and, moreover, the sentence of the -Fairies so ordaining it, she pierced her hand with the point -of it, and fainted away. The good old woman, greatly -embarrassed, called for help. People came from all quarters; -they threw water in the Princess's face; they unlaced her -stays; they slapped her hands; they rubbed her temples with -Queen of Hungary's water,<a id="FNanchor_3_3"></a><a href="#Footnote_3_3" class="fnanchor">[3]</a> but nothing could bring her -to. The King, who had run upstairs at the noise, then remembered -the prediction of the Fairies, and, wisely concluding -that this must have occurred as the Fairies said it -would, had the Princess conveyed into the finest apartment -in the palace, and placed on a bed of gold and silver embroidery. -One would have said she was an angel, so lovely -did she appear—for her swoon had not deprived her of her -rich complexion: her cheeks preserved their crimson, and -her lips were like coral. Her eyes were closed, but they -could hear her breathe softly, which showed that she was -not dead. The King commanded them to let her repose in -peace until the hour arrived for her waking. The good Fairy -who had saved her life, by decreeing that she should sleep for -an hundred years, was in the Kingdom of Mataquin, twelve -thousand leagues off, when the Princess met with her accident; -but she was informed of it instantly by a little dwarf, who -had a pair of seven-league boots (that is, boots which enabled -the wearer to take seven leagues at a stride<a id="FNanchor_4_4"></a><a href="#Footnote_4_4" class="fnanchor">[4]</a>). The Fairy -set out immediately and an hour afterwards they saw her -arrive in a fiery chariot, drawn by dragons. The King -advanced, to hand her out of the chariot. She approved of -all he had done; but, as she had great foresight, she considered -that, when the Princess awoke, she would feel considerably -embarrassed at finding herself all alone in that old -castle; so this is what the Fairy did. She touched with her -wand everybody that was in the castle (except the King and -Queen): governesses, maids of honour, women of the bed-chamber, -gentlemen, officers, stewards, cooks, scullions, boys, -guards, porters, pages, footmen; she touched also the horses -that were in the stables, with their grooms, the great mastiffs -in the court-yard, and little Pouste, the tiny dog of the -Princess, that was on the bed, beside her. As soon as she -had touched them, they all fell asleep, not to wake again -until the time arrived for their mistress to do so, in order -that they might be all ready to attend upon her when she -should want them. Even the spits that had been put down -to the fire, laden with partridges and pheasants, went to sleep, -and the fire itself also.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_11">[Pg 11]</a></span></p> - -<p>All this was done in a moment; the fairies never lost -much time over their work. After which, the King and -Queen, having kissed their dear daughter without waking -her, quitted the Castle, and issued a proclamation forbidding -any person, whosoever, to approach it. These orders were -unnecessary, for in a quarter of an hour there grew up around -the Park so great a quantity of trees, large and small, of -brambles and thorns, interlacing each other, that neither man -nor beast could get through them, so that nothing more was -to be seen than the tops of the Castle turrets, and they only -at a considerable distance. Nobody doubted but that was also -some of the Fairy's handiwork, in order that the Princess -might have nothing to fear from the curiosity of strangers -during her slumber.</p> - -<p class="pmb1">At the expiration of an hundred years, the son of the King -at that time upon the throne, and who was of a different -family to that of the sleeping Princess, having been hunting -in that neighbourhood, inquired what towers they were that -he saw above the trees of a very thick wood. Each person -answered him according to the story he had heard. Some -said that it was an old castle, haunted by ghosts. Others, -that all the witches of those parts held their Sabbath in it. -The more general opinion was, that it was the abode of an -ogre; and that he carried thither all the children he could -catch, in order to eat them at his leisure, and without being -pursued, having alone the power of making his way through -the wood. The Prince did not know what to believe about it, -when an old peasant spoke in his turn, and said to him, -"Prince, it is more than fifty years ago since I heard my -father say that there was in that Castle the most beautiful - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_12">[Pg 12]</a></span> -Princess that was ever seen. That she was to sleep for a -hundred years, and would be awakened by a King's son for -whom she was reserved." The young Prince, at these words, -felt himself all on fire. He believed, without hesitation, that -he was destined to accomplish this famous adventure; and, -impelled by love and glory, resolved to see what would come -of it, upon the spot. Scarcely had he approached the wood, -when all those great trees, all those brambles and thorns made -way for him to pass of their own accord. He walked towards -the Castle, which he saw at the end of a long avenue he had -entered, and what rather surprised him was, that he found -none of his people had been able to follow him, the trees -having closed up again as soon as he had passed. He continued, -nevertheless, to advance; a young and amorous prince -is always courageous. He entered a large fore-court, where -everything he saw was calculated to freeze his blood with -terror. A frightful silence reigned around. Death seemed -everywhere present. Nothing was to be seen but the bodies -of men and animals stretched out apparently lifeless. He -soon discovered, however, by the shining noses and red -faces of the porters, that they were only asleep; and their -goblets, in which still remained a few drops of wine, sufficiently -proved that they had dosed off whilst drinking. He -passed through a large court-yard paved with marble; he -ascended the staircase. He entered the guard-room, where -the guards stood drawn up in line, their carbines shouldered, -and snoring their loudest. He traversed several apartments, -with ladies and gentlemen all asleep; some standing, others -seated. He entered a chamber covered with gold, and saw -on a bed, the curtains of which were open on each side, the -most lovely sight he had ever looked upon—a Princess, who -seemed to be about fifteen or sixteen, the lustre of whose -charms gave her an appearance that was luminous and supernatural. -He approached, trembling and admiring, and knelt -down beside her. At that moment, the enchantment being -ended, the Princess awoke, and gazing upon the Prince with -more tenderness than a first sight of him seemed to authorize, -"Is it you, Prince?" said she; "you have been long awaited." -The Prince, delighted at these words, and still more by the -tone in which they were uttered, knew not how to express -to her his joy and gratitude.</p> - -<div class="figcenter"> - <img src="images/i001.jpg" alt="" /> - <p class="center font08">The Sleeping Beauty.—P. 12.</p> -</div> -<p class="pmb2" /> - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_13">[Pg 13]</a></span></p> - -<p>He assured her he loved her -better than himself. His language was not very coherent, -but it pleased the more. There was little eloquence, but a -great deal of love. He was much more embarrassed than she -was, and one ought not to be astonished at that. The Princess -had had time enough to consider what she should say to him, -for there is reason to believe (though history makes no mention -of it) that, during her long nap, the good Fairy had -procured her the pleasure of very agreeable dreams. In short, -they talked for four hours without having said half what they -had to say to each other.</p> - -<p>In the meanwhile, all the Palace had been roused at the -same time as the Princess. Everybody remembered their -duty, and, as they were not all in love, they were dying with -hunger. The lady-in-waiting, as hungry as any of them, -became impatient, and announced loudly to the Princess that -the meat was on the table. The Prince assisted the Princess -to rise; she was full dressed, and most magnificently, but he -took good care not to hint to her that she was attired like -his grandmother, and wore a stand-up collar.<a id="FNanchor_5_5"></a><a href="#Footnote_5_5" class="fnanchor">[5]</a> She looked, -however, not a morsel the less lovely in it. They passed into -a hall of mirrors, in which they supped, attended by the -officers of the Princess. The violins and hautbois played old -but excellent pieces of music, notwithstanding it was a -hundred years since they had been performed by anybody; and -after supper, to lose no time, the grand Almoner married the -royal lovers in the chapel of the Castle.</p> - -<p>Early next morning the Prince returned to the city, where -his father was in great anxiety about him. The Prince -told him that he had lost himself in the forest whilst -hunting, and that he had slept in a woodcutter's hut, who -had given him some black bread and cheese for his supper. -The King, his father, who was a simple man, believed him, -but his mother was not so easily satisfied; and observing that -he went hunting nearly every day, and had always some story -ready as an excuse, when he had slept two or three nights -away from home, she no longer doubted but that he had some -mistress, for he lived with the Princess for upwards of two -years, and had two children by her; the first, which was a -girl, was named Aurora, and the second, a son, was called -Day, because he was still more beautiful than his sister.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_14">[Pg 14]</a></span></p> - -<p>The Queen often said to her son, in order to draw from -him some avowal, that he ought to form some attachment; -but he never ventured to trust her with his secret. -He feared her, although he loved her, for she was of the race of -Ogres, and the King had married her only on account of her -great wealth. It was even whispered about the Court that -she had the inclinations of an Ogress, and that when she saw -little children passing, she had the greatest difficulty in restraining -herself from pouncing upon them. The Prince, therefore, -would never say one word about his adventure. On the -death of the King, however, which happened two years -afterwards, the Prince being his own master, he made a public -declaration of his marriage, and went in great state to bring -the Queen, his wife, to the palace. She made a magnificent -entry into the capital with her two children, one on each -side of her. Some time afterwards, the King went to war -with his neighbour, the Emperor Cantalabute. He left the -regency of the kingdom to the Queen, his mother, earnestly -recommending to her care his wife and his children. He was -likely to be all the summer in the field, and as soon as he was -gone, the Queen-mother sent her daughter-in-law and the -children to a country house in the wood, that she might -more easily gratify her horrible longing. She followed them -thither a few days after, and said one evening to her Maître -d'Hôtel, "I will eat little Aurora for dinner to-morrow." -"Ah, Madam!" exclaimed the Maître d'Hôtel. "I will," -said the Queen (and she said it in the tone of an Ogress -longing to eat fresh meat), "and I will have her served up -with <i>sauce Robert</i>."<a id="FNanchor_6_6"></a><a href="#Footnote_6_6" class="fnanchor">[6]</a> The poor man seeing plainly an Ogress -was not to be trifled with, took his great knife and went up -to little Aurora's room. She was then about four years old, -and came jumping and laughing to throw her arms about his -neck, and ask him for sweetmeats. He burst into tears, the -knife fell from his hands, and he went down again into the -kitchen court and killed a little lamb, and served it up with -so delicious a sauce, that his mistress assured him she had -never eaten anything so excellent. In the meanwhile, he had -carried off little Aurora, and given her to his wife, to conceal -her in the lodging which she occupied at the further end of -the kitchen court.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_15">[Pg 15]</a></span></p> - -<p>A week afterwards, the wicked Queen said to her Maître -d'Hôtel, "I will eat little Day for supper." He made no -reply, being determined to deceive her as before. He went -in search of little Day, and found him with a tiny foil in his -hand, fencing with a great monkey, though he was only three -years old. He carried him to his wife, who hid him where -she had hidden his sister, and then cooked a very tender -little kid in the place of little Day, and which the Ogress -thought wonderfully good. All went well enough so far, but -one evening this wicked Queen said to the Maître d'Hôtel, -"I would eat the Queen with the same sauce that I had with -her children." Then, indeed, did the poor Maître d'Hôtel -despair of being again able to deceive her. The young Queen -was turned of twenty, without counting the hundred years -she had slept; her skin was a little tough, though it was -white and beautiful, and where was he to find in the menagerie -an animal that would pass for her.</p> - -<p>He resolved that, to save his own life, he would cut the -Queen's throat, and went up to her apartment with the determination -to execute his purpose at once. He worked himself -up into a passion, and entered the young Queen's chamber -poniard in hand. He would not, however, take her by -surprise, but repeated, very respectfully, the order he had -received from the Queen-mother. "Do it! do it!" said she, -stretching out her neck to him. "Obey the order that has -been given to you. I shall again behold my children, my -poor children, that I loved so dearly." She had imagined -them to be dead ever since they had been carried off without -explanation. "No, no, Madam!" replied the poor Maître -d'Hôtel, touched to the quick, "you shall not die, and you -shall see your children again, but it shall be in my own house, -where I have hidden them; and I will again deceive the -Queen-mother by serving up to her a young hind in your -stead." He led her forthwith to his own apartments, where -leaving her to embrace her children and weep with them, he -went and cooked a hind, of which the Queen ate at her -supper, with as much appetite as if it had been the young - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_16">[Pg 16]</a></span> -Queen. She exulted in her cruelty, and intended to tell the -King, on his return, that some ferocious wolves had devoured -the Queen his wife, and her two children.</p> - -<p>One evening that she was prowling, as usual, round the -courts and poultry yards of the Castle, to inhale the smell of -raw flesh, she overheard little Day crying in a lower room, -because the Queen, his mother, was about to whip him for -having been naughty, and she also heard little Aurora begging -forgiveness for her brother. The Ogress recognised the voices -of the Queen and her children, and, furious at having been -cheated, she gave orders, in a tone that made everybody -tremble, that the next morning early there should be brought -into the middle of the court a large copper, which she had -filled with toads, vipers, adders, and serpents, in order to fling -into it the Queen, her children, the Maître d'Hôtel, his wife, -and his maid servant. She had commanded that they should -be brought thither with hands tied behind them. There -they stood, and the executioners were preparing to fling them -into the copper, when the King, who was not expected so -early, entered the court-yard on horseback. He had ridden -post, and in great astonishment inquired what was the meaning -of that horrible spectacle? Nobody dared to tell him, -when the Ogress, enraged at the sight of the King's return, -flung herself head foremost into the copper, and was devoured -in an instant by the horrid reptiles she had caused it to be -filled with. The King could not help being sorry for it; -she was his mother, but he speedily consoled himself in the -society of his beautiful wife and children.</p> - -<div class="block2"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">Some time for a husband to wait<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">Who is young, handsome, wealthy, and tender,<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">May not be a hardship too great<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">For a maid whom love happy would render.<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">But to be for a century bound<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">To live single, I fancy the number<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">Of Beauties but small would be found<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">So long who could patiently slumber.<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">To lovers who hate time to waste,<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">And minutes as centuries measure,<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">I would hint, Those who marry in haste<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">May live to repent it at leisure.<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">Yet so ardently onwards they press,<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">And on prudence so gallantly trample,<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">That I haven't the heart, I confess,<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">To urge on them Beauty's example.<br /></span> -</div></div> -</div> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - -<p class="break" /> -<div class="footnotes"><b>FOOTNOTES:</b> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_3_3"></a><a href="#FNanchor_3_3"><span class="label">[3]</span></a> A celebrated distillation of spirit of wine upon rosemary, so-called from -the receipt, purporting to have been written by a Queen Elizabeth of Hungary, -and first published at Frankfort in 1659.</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_4_4"></a><a href="#FNanchor_4_4"><span class="label">[4]</span></a> From the explanation contained in this parenthesis, it is probable that -we have here the earliest mention of these celebrated articles in a French -story; <i>Jack the Giant-killer</i> and <i>Jack and the Bean-stalk</i> being of English -origin.</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_5_5"></a><a href="#FNanchor_5_5"><span class="label">[5]</span></a> <i>Collet-monté.</i> The contemporary of the ruff. In the reign of Louis the -Fourteenth it was succeeded by the <i>collet-rabattu</i>, and totally discarded before -his decease.</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_6_6"></a><a href="#FNanchor_6_6"><span class="label">[6]</span></a> A sauce piquante, as ancient as the fifteenth century, being one of the -seventeen sauces named by Taillevant, chief cook to Charles VII. of France, -in 1456.</p></div></div> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_17">[Pg 17]</a></span></p> - - -<h3 class="no-break" id="MASTER_CAT">MASTER CAT;<br /> - -<span class="font07">OR,</span><br /> - -PUSS IN BOOTS.</h3> - - -<p>A Miller bequeathed to his three sons all his worldly goods, -which consisted only of his mill, his ass, and his cat. The -division was speedily made. Neither notary nor attorney -were called in; they would soon have eaten up all the little -patrimony. The eldest had the mill; the second son, the -ass; and the youngest had nothing but the cat. The latter -was disconsolate at inheriting so poor a portion. "My -brothers," said he, "may earn an honest livelihood by entering -into partnership; but, as for me, when I have eaten my Cat, -and made a muff of his skin, I must die of hunger." The -Cat, who had heard this speech, but without appearing to do -so, said to him, with a sedate and serious air, "Do not -afflict yourself, master; you have only to give me a bag and -get a pair of boots made for me, to go amongst the bushes -in, and you will see that you are not so badly left as you -believe." Though the Cat's master did not place much confidence -in this assertion, he had seen him play such cunning -tricks in catching rats and mice, when he would hang himself -up by the heels, or lie in the flour as if he were dead, that he -was not altogether hopeless of being assisted by him in his -distress.</p> - -<p>As soon as the Cat had what he asked for, he pulled -on his boots boldly, and hanging the bag round his neck, -he took the strings of it in his fore paws, and went into a -warren where there were a great number of rabbits. He put -some bran and some sow-thistles in his bag, and stretching -himself out as if he were dead, he waited till some young - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_18">[Pg 18]</a></span> -rabbit, little versed in the wiles of the world, should come and -ensconce himself in the bag, in order to eat what he had put -into it. He had hardly laid down before he was gratified. -A young scatterbrain of a rabbit entered the bag, and -Master Cat instantly pulling the strings, caught it and killed -it without mercy. Proud of his prey, he went to the King's -Palace, and demanded an audience. He was ushered up to -his Majesty's apartment, into which having entered, he made -a low bow to the King, and said to him, "Sire, here is a wild -rabbit, which my Lord the Marquis de Carabas (such was -the name he took a fancy to give to his master) has ordered -me to present, with his duty, to your Majesty." "Tell your -master," replied the King, "that I thank him, and that he -has given me great pleasure." Another day he went and hid -himself in the wheat, holding the mouth of his bag open, as -usual, and as soon as a brace of partridges entered it, he -pulled the strings, and took them both. He went immediately -and presented them to the King, in the same way -that he had the wild rabbit. The King received with equal -gratification the brace of partridges, and gave him something -to drink his health. The Cat continued in this manner -during two or three months to carry to the King, every now -and then, presents of game from his master. One day when -he knew the King was going to drive on the banks of the -river, with his daughter, the most beautiful Princess in the -world, he said to his master, "If you will follow my advice, -your fortune is made; you have only to go and bathe in a -part of the river I will point out to you, and leave the rest to -me." The Marquis de Carabas did as his cat advised him, -without knowing what good would come of it. While he -was bathing, the King passed by, and the Cat began to shout -with all his might, "Help! help! My Lord the Marquis de -Carabas is drowning!" At this cry, the King looked out of -the coach window, and recognising the cat who had so often -brought game to him, ordered his guards to fly to the help of -my Lord the Marquis de Carabas. Whilst they were getting -the poor Marquis out of the river, the Cat approaching the -royal coach, told the King that during the time his master -was bathing, some robbers had come and carried off his -clothes, although he had called "Thieves!" as loud as he -could. The rogue had hidden them himself under a great - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_19">[Pg 19]</a></span> -stone. The King immediately ordered the officers of his -wardrobe to go and fetch one of his handsomest suits for -my Lord the Marquis de Carabas. The King embraced him a -thousand times, and as the fine clothes they dressed him in -set off his good looks (for he was handsome and well made), -the King's daughter found him much to her taste; and the -Marquis de Carabas had no sooner cast upon her two or three -respectful and rather tender glances, than she fell desperately -in love with him. The King insisted upon his getting into -the coach, and accompanying them in their drive. The Cat, -enchanted to see that his scheme began to succeed, ran on -before, and having met with some peasants who were mowing -a meadow, said to them, "You, good people, who are mowing -here, if you do not tell the King that the meadow you are -mowing belongs to my Lord the Marquis de Carabas, you -shall be all cut into pieces as small as minced meat!" The -King failed not to ask the mowers whose meadow it was -they were mowing? "It belongs to my Lord the Marquis -de Carabas," said they altogether, for the Cat's threat had -frightened them. "You perceive, Sire," rejoined the Marquis, -"it is a meadow which yields an abundant crop every year." -Master Cat, who kept in advance of the party, came up -to some reapers, and said to them, "You, good people, who -are reaping, if you do not say that all this corn belongs to -my Lord the Marquis de Carabas, you shall be all cut into -pieces as small as minced meat!" The King, who passed by -a minute afterwards, wished to know to whom all those cornfields -belonged that he saw there. "To my Lord the Marquis -de Carabas," repeated the reapers, and the King again wished -the Marquis joy of his property. The Cat, who ran before -the coach, uttered the same threat to all he met with, and -the King was astonished at the great wealth of my Lord -the Marquis de Carabas. Master Cat at length arrived -at a fine Château, the owner of which was an Ogre, the -richest that was ever known, for all the lands through which -the King had driven were held of the Lord of this Château. -The Cat took care to inquire who the Ogre was, and what he -was able to do; and then requested to speak with him, -saying that he would not pass so near his Château without -doing himself the honour of paying his respects to him. The -Ogre received him as civilly as an Ogre could, and made him - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_20">[Pg 20]</a></span> -sit down. "They assure me," said the Cat, "that you possess -the power of changing yourself into all sorts of animals; that -you could, for instance, transform yourself into a lion, or an -elephant." "'Tis true," said the Ogre, brusquely, "and to -prove it to you, you shall see me become a lion." The Cat -was so frightened at seeing a lion before him, that he immediately -scampered up into the gutter, not without trouble -and danger, on account of his boots, which were not fit to -walk on the tiles with. A short time afterwards, the Cat -having perceived that the Ogre had resumed his previous -form, descended, and admitted that he had been terribly -frightened. "They assure me, besides," said the Cat, "but -I cannot believe it, that you have also the power to assume -the form of the smallest animal; for instance, to change yourself -into a rat or a mouse. I confess to you I hold that to -be utterly impossible." "Impossible!" replied the Ogre; -"you shall see!" and immediately changed himself into a -mouse, which began to run about the floor. The Cat no -sooner caught sight of it than he pounced upon and devoured -it. In the meanwhile, the King, who saw from the road the -fine Château of the Ogre, desired to enter it. The Cat, who -heard the noise of the coach rolling over the drawbridge, ran -to meet it, and said to the King, "Your Majesty is welcome -to the Château of my Lord the Marquis de Carabas." "How, -my Lord Marquis," exclaimed the King, "this Château also -belongs to you? Nothing can be finer than this court-yard, -and all these buildings that surround it. Let us see the -inside of it, if you please." The Marquis handed out the -young Princess, and following the King, who led the way upstairs, -entered a grand hall, where they found a magnificent -collation, which the Ogre had ordered to be prepared for -some friends who were to have visited him that very day, -but who did not presume to enter when they found the King -was there. The King, as much enchanted by the accomplishments -of my Lord the Marquis de Carabas as his daughter, -who doted upon him, and seeing the great wealth he possessed, -said to him, after having drunk five or six bumpers, "It -depends entirely on yourself, my Lord Marquis, whether or -not you become my son-in-law." The Marquis, making several -profound bows, accepted the honour the King offered him; -and on the same day was united to the Princess. The Cat - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_21">[Pg 21]</a></span> -became a great lord, and never again ran after mice, except -for his amusement.</p> - -<div class="block2"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">Be the advantage ne'er so great<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">Of owning a superb estate,<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">From sire to son descended.<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">Young men oft find, on industry,<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">Combined with ingenuity,<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">They'd better have depended.<br /></span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">Also</span></p> - -<div class="block1"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">If the son of a Miller so quickly could gain<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">The heart of a Princess, it seems pretty plain,<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">With good looks and good manners, and some aid from dress,<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">The humblest need not quite despair of success.<br /></span> -</div></div> -</div> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_22">[Pg 22]</a></span></p> - - -<h3 class="no-break" id="CINDERELLA">CINDERELLA;<br /> - -<span class="font07">OR,</span><br /> - -THE LITTLE GLASS SLIPPER.</h3> - - -<p>Once on a time there was a gentleman who took for a -second wife the haughtiest and proudest woman that had -ever been seen. She had two daughters of the same temper, -and who resembled her in everything. The husband, on his -side, had a daughter, but whose gentleness and goodness were -without parallel. She inherited them from her mother, who -was the best creature in the world. The wedding was hardly -over before the stepmother's ill-humour broke out. She -could not abide the young girl, whose good qualities made her -own daughters appear more detestable. She employed her -in all the meanest work of the house. It was she who cleaned -the plate, and the stairs, who scrubbed Madame's chamber, -and those of Mesdemoiselles, her daughters. She slept at the -top of the house, in a loft, on a wretched straw mattress, -while her sisters occupied rooms, beautifully floored, in which -were the most fashionable beds, and mirrors wherein they -could see themselves from head to foot. The poor girl -bore everything with patience, and did not dare complain to -her father, who would only have scolded her, as his wife -governed him entirely. When she had done her work, she -went and placed herself in the chimney-corner, and sat down -amongst the cinders, which caused her to be called by the -household in general Cindertail. The second daughter, however, -who was not so rude as her elder sister, called her -Cinderella. Notwithstanding, Cinderella, in her shabby -clothes, looked a thousand times handsomer than her sisters, -however magnificently attired.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_23">[Pg 23]</a></span></p> - -<p>It happened that the King's son gave a ball, and invited -to it all persons of quality. Our two young ladies were -included in the invitation, for they cut a great figure in the -neighbourhood. Behold them in great delight, and very busy -choosing the most becoming gowns and head-dresses. A new -mortification for Cinderella, for it was she who ironed her -sisters' linen, and set their ruffles. Nothing was talked of -but the style in which they were to be dressed. "I," said -the eldest, "will wear my red velvet dress and my English -point-lace trimmings." "I," said the youngest, "shall only -wear my usual petticoat; but to make up for that, I shall put -on my gold-flowered mantua, and my necklace of diamonds, -which are none of the poorest." They sent for a good milliner -to make up their double-frilled caps, and bought their patches -of the best maker. They called Cinderella to give them her -opinion, for she had excellent taste. Cinderella gave them -the best advice in the world, and even offered to dress their -heads for them, which they were very willing she should do; -and whilst she was about it, they said to her, "Cinderella, -shouldst thou like to go to the ball?" "Alas! Mesdemoiselles, -you make game of me; that would not befit me at all." -"Thou art right, they would laugh immensely to see a -Cindertail at a ball!" Any other but Cinderella would have -dressed their heads awry, but she was good natured, and -dressed them to perfection. They could eat nothing for -nearly two days, so transported were they with joy. More -than a dozen laces were broken in making their waists as -small as possible, and they were always before their looking-glasses. -At last the happy day arrived. They set off, and -Cinderella followed them with her eyes as long as she could. -When they were out of sight, she began to cry. Her godmother, -who saw her all in tears, inquired what ailed her. -"I should so like—I should so like—" she sobbed so much -that she could not finish the sentence. "Thou wouldst so -like to go to the ball—Is not that it?" "Alas! yes," said -Cinderella, sighing. "Well, if thou wilt be a good girl, I -will take care thou shalt go." She led her into her chamber, -and said to her, "Go into the garden and bring me a pumpkin." -Cinderella went immediately, gathered the finest she -could find, and brought it to her godmother, unable to guess -how the pumpkin could enable her to go to the ball. Her - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_24">[Pg 24]</a></span> -godmother scooped it out; and, having left nothing but the -rind, struck it with her wand, and the pumpkin was immediately -changed into a beautiful coach gilt all over. She -then went and looked into the mouse-trap, where she found -six mice, all alive. She told Cinderella to lift the door of the -mouse-trap a little, and to each mouse, as it ran out, she -gave a tap with her wand, and the mouse was immediately -changed into a fine horse, thereby producing a handsome -team of six horses, of a beautiful dappled mouse-grey colour. -As she was in some difficulty as to what she should make a -coachman of, Cinderella said, "I will go and see if there be -not a rat in the rat-trap; we will make a coachman of him." -"Thou art right," said her godmother. "Go and see." Cinderella -brought her the rat-trap, in which there were three -great rats. The Fairy selected one from the three, on account -of its ample beard, and having touched it, it was changed into -a fat coachman, who had the finest moustaches that ever were -seen. She then said, "Go into the garden, thou wilt find -there, behind the watering-pot, six lizards, bring them to -me." She had no sooner brought them than the godmother -transformed them into six footmen, who immediately jumped -up behind the coach, with their liveries all covered with lace, -and hung on to it as if they had done nothing else all their -lives. The Fairy then said to Cinderella, "Well, there is -something to go to the ball in. Art thou not well pleased?" -"Yes; but am I to go in these dirty clothes?" Her godmother -only touched her with her wand, and in the same -instant her dress was changed to cloth of gold and silver, -covered with jewels. She then gave her a pair of glass -slippers, the prettiest in the world. When she was thus -attired, she got into the coach; but her godmother advised -her, above all things, not to stay out past midnight—warning -her, that if she remained at the ball one minute longer, her -coach would again become a pumpkin; her horses, mice; her -footmen, lizards; and her clothes resume their old appearance. -She promised her godmother she would not fail to -leave the ball before midnight, and departed, out of her senses -with joy.</p> - -<p>The King's son, who was informed that a grand Princess -had arrived whom nobody knew, ran to receive her. He -handed her out of the coach and led her into the hall, where - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_25">[Pg 25]</a></span> -the company was assembled. There was immediately a dead -silence; they stopped dancing, and the fiddlers ceased to play, -so engrossed was every one in the contemplation of the great -attractions of the unknown lady. Nothing was heard but a -low murmur of "Oh! how lovely she is!" The King himself, -old as he was, could not take his eyes from her, and observed -to the Queen, that it was a long time since he had seen so -beautiful and so amiable a person. All the ladies were intently -occupied in examining her head-dress and her clothes, that -they might have some like them the very next day, provided -they could find materials as beautiful, and workpeople sufficiently -clever to make them up.</p> - -<p>The King's son conducted her to the most honourable seat, -and then led her out to dance. She danced with so much -grace that their admiration of her was increased. A very -grand supper was served, of which the Prince ate not a morsel, -so absorbed was he in contemplation of her. She seated herself -beside her sisters, and showed them a thousand civilities. -She shared with them the oranges and citrons which the -Prince had given to her; at which they were much surprised, -for she appeared a perfect stranger to them. Whilst they -were in conversation together, Cinderella heard the clock -strike three-quarters past eleven. She immediately made a -profound curtsey to the company, and departed as quickly -as she could. As soon as she had reached home, she went to -find her godmother; and after having thanked her, said she -much wished to go to the ball again the next day, because -the King's son had invited her. While she was occupied in -telling her godmother all that had passed at the ball, the two -sisters knocked at the door. Cinderella went and opened it—"How -late you are!" said she to them, yawning, rubbing her -eyes, and stretching herself as if she had but just awoke. -She had not, however, been inclined to sleep since she had left -them. "Hadst thou been at the ball," said one of her sisters -to her, "thou wouldst not have been weary of it. There -came to it the most beautiful Princess—the most beautiful -that ever was seen. She paid us a thousand attentions. She -gave us oranges and citrons." Cinderella was beside herself -with delight. She asked them the name of the Princess; but -they replied that nobody knew her; that the King's son was -much puzzled about it, and that he would give everything in - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_26">[Pg 26]</a></span> -the world to know who she was. Cinderella smiled and said, -"She was very handsome, then? Heavens! how fortunate -you are!—Could not I get a sight of her? Alas! Mademoiselle -Javotte, lend me the yellow gown you wear every -day?" "Truly," said Mademoiselle Javotte, "I like that! -Lend one's gown to a dirty Cindertail like you!—I must be -very mad indeed!" Cinderella fully expected this refusal, and -was delighted at it, for she would have been greatly embarrassed -if her sister had lent her her gown.</p> - -<p>The next day the two sisters went to the ball, and Cinderella -also, but still more splendidly dressed than before. The -King's son never left her side, or ceased saying tender things -to her. The young lady was much amused, and forgot what -her godmother had advised her, so that she heard the clock -begin to strike twelve when she did not even think it was -eleven. She rose and fled as lightly as a fawn. The Prince -followed her, but could not overtake her. She dropped one -of her glass slippers, which the Prince carefully picked up. -Cinderella reached home almost breathless, without coach or -footmen, and in her shabby clothes, nothing having remained -of all her finery, except one of her little slippers, the fellow of -that she had let fall. The guards at the palace gate were -asked if they had not seen a Princess go out; they answered -that they had seen no one pass but a poorly-dressed girl, who -had more the air of a peasant than of a lady. When the two -sisters returned from the ball, Cinderella asked them if they -had been as much entertained as before, and if the beautiful -lady had been present. They said yes, but that she had fled -as soon as it had struck twelve, and so precipitately that she -had let fall one of her little glass slippers, the prettiest in the -world; that the King's son had picked it up; that he had -done nothing but gaze upon it during the remainder of the -evening; and that, undoubtedly, he was very much in love -with the beautiful person to whom the little slipper belonged. -They spoke the truth; for a few days afterwards the King's -son caused it to be proclaimed by sound of trumpet that he -would marry her whose foot would exactly match with the -slipper. They began by trying it on the Princesses, then on -the Duchesses, and so on throughout all the Court; but in -vain. It was taken to the two sisters, who did their utmost -to force one of their feet into the slipper, but they could not - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_27">[Pg 27]</a></span> -manage to do so. Cinderella, who witnessed their efforts and -recognised the slipper, said, laughingly, "Let me see if it will -not fit me." Her sisters began to laugh and ridicule her. The -gentleman who had been entrusted to try the slipper, having -attentively looked at Cinderella and found her to be very handsome, -said that it was a very proper request, and that he had -been ordered to try the slipper on all girls without exception. -He made Cinderella sit down, and putting the slipper to her -little foot, he saw it go on easily and fit like wax. Great was -the astonishment of the two sisters, but it was still greater -when Cinderella took the other little slipper out of her pocket -and put it on her other foot. At that moment the godmother -arrived, who having given a tap with her wand to -Cinderella's clothes, they became still more magnificent than -all the others she had appeared in. The two sisters then -recognised in her the beautiful person they had seen at the -ball. They threw themselves at her feet to crave her forgiveness -for all the ill-treatment she had suffered from them. -Cinderella raised and embracing them, said that she forgave -them with all her heart, and begged them to love her dearly -for the future. They conducted her to the young Prince, -dressed just as she was. He found her handsomer than ever, -and a few days afterwards he married her. Cinderella, who -was as kind as she was beautiful, gave her sisters apartments -in the palace, and married them the very same day to two -great lords of the court.</p> - -<div class="block1"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">Beauty in woman is a treasure rare<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">Which we are never weary of admiring;<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">But a sweet temper is a gift more fair<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">And better worth the youthful maid's desiring.<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">That was the boon bestowed on Cinderella<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">By her wise Godmother—her truest glory.<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">The rest was "nought but leather and prunella."<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">Such is the moral of this little story—<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">Beauties, that charm becomes you more than dress,<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">And wins a heart with far greater facility.<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">In short, in all things to ensure success,<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">The real Fairy gift is Amiability!<br /></span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">Also</span></p> - -<div class="block2"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">Talent, courage, wit, and worth<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">Are rare gifts to own on earth.<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">But if you want to thrive at court—<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">So, at least, the wise report—<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">You will find you need some others,<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">Such as god-fathers or mothers.<br /></span> -</div></div> -</div> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_28">[Pg 28]</a></span></p> - - -<h3 class="no-break" id="RIQUET_WITH_THE_TUFT">RIQUET WITH THE TUFT.</h3> - - -<p>Once upon a time there was a Queen, who was brought to -bed of a son so ugly and so ill-shaped that it was for a long -time doubtful if he possessed a human form. A Fairy, who -was present at his birth, affirmed that he would not fail to be -amiable, as he would have much good-sense. She added, -even, that he would be able, in consequence of the gift she -had endowed him with, to impart equal intelligence to the -person he should love best. All this consoled the poor Queen -a little, who was much distressed at having brought into the -world so hideous a little monkey. It is true that the child -was no sooner able to speak than he said a thousand pretty -things, and that there was in all his actions an indescribable -air of intelligence which charmed one. I had forgotten to say -that he was born with a little tuft of hair on his head, which -occasioned him to be named Riquet with the Tuft; for Riquet -was the family name.</p> - -<p>At the end of seven or eight years, the Queen of a neighbouring -kingdom was brought to bed of two daughters. The -first that came into the world was fairer than day. The Queen -was so delighted, that it was feared her great joy would prove -hurtful to her. The same Fairy who had assisted at the birth -of little Riquet with the Tuft was present upon this occasion, -and to moderate the joy of the Queen, she declared to her -that this little Princess would have no mental capacity, and -that she would be as stupid as she was beautiful. This mortified -the Queen exceedingly; but a few minutes afterwards -she experienced a very much greater annoyance, for the second -girl she gave birth to, proved to be extremely ugly. "Do not - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_29">[Pg 29]</a></span> -distress yourself so much, Madam," said the Fairy to her. -"Your daughter will find compensation; she will have so much -sense that her lack of beauty will scarcely be perceived." -"Heaven send it may be so," replied the Queen; "but are -there no means of giving a little sense to the eldest, who is so -lovely?" "I can do nothing for her, Madam, in the way of -wit," said the Fairy, "but everything in that of beauty; and -as there is nothing in my power that I would not do to gratify -you, I will endow her with the ability to render beautiful the -person who shall please her."</p> - -<p>As these two Princesses grew up, their endowments increased -in the same proportion, and nothing was talked of -anywhere but the beauty of the eldest and the intelligence -of the youngest. It is true that their defects also greatly -increased with their years. The youngest became uglier -every instant, and the eldest more stupid every day. She -either made no answer when she was spoken to, or she said -something foolish. With this she was so awkward, that she -could not place four pieces of china on a mantel-shelf without -breaking one of them, nor drink a glass of water without -spilling half of it on her dress. Notwithstanding the great -advantage of beauty to a girl, the youngest bore away the -palm from her sister nearly always, in every society. At -first they gathered round the handsomest, to gaze at and -admire her; but they soon left her for the wittiest, to listen to -a thousand agreeable things; and people were astonished to find -that, in less than a quarter of an hour, the eldest had not a -soul near her, and that all the company had formed a circle -round the youngest. The former, though very stupid, noticed -this, and would have given, without regret, all her beauty for -half the sense of her sister. The Queen, discreet as she was, -could not help reproaching her frequently with her folly, -which made the poor Princess ready to die of grief. One day -that she had withdrawn into a wood to bewail her misfortune, -she saw a little man approach her, of most disagreeable -appearance, but dressed very magnificently. It was the -young Prince Riquet with the Tuft, who, having fallen in -love with her from seeing her portraits, which were sent all -round the world, had quitted his father's kingdom to have the -pleasure of beholding and speaking to her. Enchanted to -meet her thus alone, he accosted her with all the respect and - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_30">[Pg 30]</a></span> -politeness imaginable. Having remarked, after paying the -usual compliments, that she was very melancholy, he said to -her, "I cannot comprehend, Madam, how a person so beautiful -as you are can be so sad as you appear; for though I -may boast of having seen an infinity of lovely women, I can -avouch that I have never beheld one whose beauty could be -compared to yours." "You are pleased to say so, Sir," -replied the Princess; and there she stopped. "Beauty," -continued Riquet, "is so great an advantage, that it ought -to surpass all others; and when one possesses it, I do not see -anything that could very much distress you." "I had -rather," said the Princess, "be as ugly as you, and have good -sense, than possess the beauty I do, and be as stupid as I -am." "There is no greater proof of good sense, Madam, than -the belief that we have it not; it is the nature of that gift, -that the more we have, the more we believe we are deficient -of it." "I do not know how that may be," said the Princess, -"but I know well enough that I am very stupid, and that is -the cause of the grief which is killing me." "If that is all -that afflicts you, Madam, I can easily put an end to your -sorrow." "And how would you do that?" said the Princess. -"I have the power, Madam," said Riquet with the Tuft, "to -give as much wit as any one can possess to the person I love -the most; and as you, Madam, are that person, it will depend -entirely upon yourself whether or not you will have so much -wit, provided that you are willing to marry me." The -Princess was thunderstruck, and replied not a word. "I -see," said Riquet with the Tuft, "that this proposal pains -you; and I am not surprised at it; but I give you a full year -to consider of it." The Princess had so little sense, and at -the same time was so anxious to have a great deal, that she -thought the end of that year would never come; so she -accepted at once the offer that was made her. She had no -sooner promised Riquet with the Tuft that she would marry -him that day twelve months, than she felt herself to be quite -another person to what she was previously. She found she -possessed an incredible facility of saying anything she wished, -and of saying it in a shrewd, yet easy and natural manner. -She commenced on the instant, and kept up a sprightly conversation -with Riquet with the Tuft, during which she - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_31">[Pg 31]</a></span> -chatted away at such a rate, that Riquet with the Tuft began -to believe he had given her more wit than he had kept for -himself. When she returned to the Palace, the whole Court -was puzzled to account for a change so sudden and extraordinary, -for in proportion to the number of foolish things -they had heard her say formerly, were the sensible and exceedingly -clever observations she now gave utterance to. -All the Court was in a state of joy which is not to be -conceived. The younger sister alone was not very much -pleased, as no longer possessing over her elder sister the -advantage of wit, she now only appeared, by her side, as a -very disagreeable-looking person. The King was now led by -his eldest daughter's advice, and sometimes even held his -Council in her apartment. The news of this alteration having -spread abroad, all the young Princes of the neighbouring -kingdoms exerted themselves to obtain her affection, and -nearly all of them asked her hand in marriage; but she found -none of them sufficiently intelligent, and she listened to all of -them without engaging herself to any one.</p> - -<p>At length arrived a Prince so rich, so witty, and so handsome, -that she could not help feeling an inclination for him. -Her father, having perceived it, told her that he left her at -perfect liberty to choose a husband for herself, and that she -had only to make known her decision. As the more sense -we possess, the more difficulty we find in making up one's -mind positively on such a matter, she requested, after having -thanked her father, that he would allow her some time to -think of it. She went, by chance, to walk in the same wood -where she had met with Riquet with the Tuft, in order to -ponder with greater freedom on what she had to do. While -she was walking, deep in thought, she heard a dull sound -beneath her feet, as of many persons running to and fro, and -busily occupied. Having listened more attentively, she heard -one say, "Bring me that saucepan;" another, "Give me that -kettle;" another, "Put some wood on the fire." At the -same moment the ground opened, and she saw beneath her -what appeared to be a large kitchen, full of cooks, scullions, -and all sorts of servants necessary for the preparation of a -magnificent banquet. There came forth a band of from -twenty to thirty cooks, who went and established themselves - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_32">[Pg 32]</a></span> -in an avenue of the wood at a very long table, and who, each -with larding-pin in hand and <i>the queue de renard</i><a id="FNanchor_7_7"></a><a href="#Footnote_7_7" class="fnanchor">[7]</a> behind the -ear, set to work, keeping time to a melodious song.</p> - -<p>The Princess, astonished at this sight, inquired for whom -they were working. "Madam," replied the most prominent -of the troop, "for Prince Riquet with the Tuft, whose -marriage will take place to-morrow." The Princess, still -more surprised than she was before, and suddenly recollecting -that it was just a twelvemonth from the day on which she -had promised to marry Prince Riquet with the Tuft, was lost -in amazement. The cause of her not having remembered her -promise was, that when she made it she was a fool, and on -receiving her new mind, she forgot all her follies. She had -not taken thirty steps in continuation of her walk, when -Riquet with the Tuft presented himself before her, gaily and -magnificently attired, like a Prince about to be married. -"You see, Madam," said he, "I keep my word punctually, and -I doubt not but that you have come hither to keep yours, and -to make me, by the gift of your hand, the happiest of men." -"I confess to you, frankly," replied the Princess, "that I -have not yet made up my mind on that matter, and that I -do not think I shall ever be able to do so to your satisfaction." -"You astonish me, Madam," said Riquet with the -Tuft. "I have no doubt I do," said the Princess; "and -assuredly, had I to deal with a stupid person—a man without -mind,—I should feel greatly embarrassed. 'A Princess is -bound by her word,' he would say to me, 'and you must -marry me, as you have promised to do so.' But as the person -to whom I speak is the most sensible man in all the world, -I am certain he will listen to reason. You know that, when -I was no better than a fool, I nevertheless could not resolve -to marry you—how can you expect, now that I have the -sense which you have given me, and which renders me much -more difficult to please than before, that I should take a -resolution to-day which I could not do then? If you seriously -thought of marrying me, you did very wrong to take away -my stupidity, and enable me to see clearer than I saw then." -"If a man without sense," replied Riquet with the Tuft, -"should meet with some indulgence, as you have just intimated, -had he to reproach you with your breach of promise, -why would you, Madam, that I should not be equally so in a -matter which affects the entire happiness of my life? Is it -reasonable that persons of intellect should be in a worse condition -than those that have none? Can you assert this—you -who have so much and have so earnestly desired to possess -it? But let us come to the point, if you please. With the -exception of my ugliness, is there anything in me that displeases -you? Are you dissatisfied with my birth, my understanding, -my temper, or my manners?"</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_33">[Pg 33]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Not in the least," -replied the Princess; "I admire in you everything you have -mentioned." "If so," rejoined Riquet with the Tuft, "I -shall be happy, as you have it in your power to make me the -most agreeable of men." "How can that be done?" said -the Princess. "It can be done," said Riquet with the Tuft, -"if you love me sufficiently to wish that it should be. And -in order, Madam, that you should have no doubt about it, -know that the same fairy, who, on the day I was born, endowed -me with the power to give understanding to the person I -chose, gave you also the power to render handsome the man -you should love, and on whom you were desirous to bestow -that favour." "If such be the fact," said the Princess, "I -wish, with all my heart, that you should become the handsomest -Prince in the world, and I bestow the gift on you to -the fullest extent in my power."</p> - -<p>The Princess had no sooner pronounced these words, than -Riquet with the Tuft appeared to her eyes, of all men in the -world, the handsomest, the best made, and most amiable -she had ever seen. There are some who assert that it was -not the spell of the Fairy, but love alone that caused this -metamorphosis. They say that the Princess, having reflected -on the perseverance of her lover—on his prudence, and all the -good qualities of his heart and mind, no longer saw the -deformity of his body nor the ugliness of his features—that -his hunch appeared to her nothing more than the effect of a -man shrugging his shoulders, and that instead of observing, -as she had done, that he limped horribly, she saw in him no -more than a certain lounging air, which charmed her. They -say also that his eyes, which squinted, seemed to her only -more brilliant from that defect, which passed in her mind -for a proof of the intensity of his love, and, in fine, that his - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_34">[Pg 34]</a></span> -great red nose had in it something martial and heroic. -However this may be, the Princess promised on the spot to -marry him, provided he obtained the consent of the King, -her Father. The King, having learned that his daughter -entertained a great regard for Riquet with the Tuft, whom -he knew also to be a very clever and wise prince, accepted -him with pleasure for a son-in-law. The wedding took place -the next morning, as Riquet with the Tuft had foreseen, -and, according to the instructions which he had given a long -time before.</p> - -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0">No beauty, no talent, has power above<br /></span> -<span class="i0">Some indefinite charm discern'd only by love.<br /></span> -</div></div> -<p class="pmb3" /> - -<p class="break" /> -<div class="footnotes"><b>FOOTNOTES:</b> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_7_7"></a><a href="#FNanchor_7_7"><span class="label">[7]</span></a> See Appendix.</p></div></div> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_35">[Pg 35]</a></span></p> - - -<h3 class="no-break" id="LITTLE_THUMBLING">LITTLE THUMBLING.</h3> - - -<p>Once upon a time there was a Woodcutter and his wife who -had seven children, all boys; the eldest was but ten years old, -and the youngest only seven. People wondered that the -Woodcutter had had so many children in so short a time; -but the fact is, that his wife not only had them very fast, but -seldom presented him with less than two at a birth. They -were very poor, and their seven children troubled them greatly, -as not one of them was yet able to gain his livelihood. -What grieved them still more was that the youngest was -very delicate, and seldom spoke, which they considered a -proof of stupidity instead of good sense. He was very diminutive, -and, when first born, scarcely bigger than one's thumb, -which caused them to call him Little Thumbling.</p> - -<p>This poor child was the scapegoat of the house, and was -blamed for everything that happened. Nevertheless he was -the shrewdest and most sensible of all his brothers, and if -he spoke little, he listened a great deal. There came a very -bad harvest, and the famine was so severe that these poor -people determined to get rid of their children. One evening, -when they were all in bed, and the Woodman was sitting -over the fire with his wife, he said to her, with an aching -heart, "Thou seest clearly that we can no longer find food -for our children. I cannot let them die of hunger before -my eyes, and I am resolved to lose them to-morrow in the -wood, which will be easily done, for whilst they are occupied -in tying up the faggots, we have but to make off -unobserved by them." "Ah!" exclaimed the Woodcutter's -wife, "Canst thou have the heart to lose thine own children?" - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_36">[Pg 36]</a></span> -Her husband in vain represented to her their exceeding -poverty; she could not consent to the deed. She was poor, -but she was their mother. Having, however, reflected on the -misery it would occasion her to see them die of hunger, she -at length assented, and went to bed weeping.</p> - -<p>Little Thumbling heard everything they had said, for -having ascertained, as he lay in his bed, that they were talking -of their affairs, he got up quietly, and slipped under his -father's stool to listen, without being seen. He went to bed -again, and slept not a wink the rest of the night, thinking -what he should do. He rose early and repaired to the banks -of a rivulet, where he filled his pockets with small white -pebbles, and then returned home. They set out all together, -and Little Thumbling said nothing of what he had heard to -his brothers. They entered a very thick forest, wherein, at -ten paces distant, they could not see one another. The Woodcutter -began to cut wood, and his children to pick up sticks -to make faggots with. The father and mother, seeing them -occupied with their work, stole away gradually, and then fled -suddenly by a small winding path. When the children found -themselves all alone, they began to scream and cry with all -their might. Little Thumbling let them scream, well knowing -how he could get home again, for as he came he had -dropped all along the road the little white pebbles he had in -his pockets. He said to them then, "Fear nothing, brothers, -my father and mother have left us here, but I will take you -safely home, only follow me." They followed him, and he -led them back to the house by the same road that they had -taken into the forest. They feared to enter immediately, but -placed themselves close to the door to listen to the conversation -of their father and mother.</p> - -<p>Just at the moment that the Woodcutter and his wife -arrived at home, the lord of the manor sent them ten crowns -which he had owed them a long time, and which they had -given up all hope of receiving. This was new life to them, -for these poor people were actually starving. The Woodcutter -sent his wife to the butcher's immediately. As it was -many a day since they had tasted meat, she bought three -times as much as was necessary for the supper of two persons. -When they had satisfied their hunger, the Woodcutter's wife -said, "Alas! where now are our poor children; they would - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_37">[Pg 37]</a></span> -fare merrily on what we have left. But it was thou, Guillaume, -who wouldst lose them. Truly did I say we should -repent it. What are they now doing in the forest! Alas! -Heaven help me! the wolves have, perhaps, already devoured -them! Inhuman that thou art, thus to have destroyed thy -children!" The Woodcutter began to lose his temper, for -she repeated more than twenty times that they should repent -it, and that she had said they would. He threatened to beat -her if she did not hold her tongue. It was not that the -Woodcutter was not, perhaps, even more sorry than his wife, -but that she made such a noise about it, and that he was -like many other men who are very fond of women who can -talk well, but are exceedingly annoyed by those whose words -always come true. The wife was all in tears. "Alas! where -are now my children, my poor children?" She uttered this, -at length, so loudly, that the children, who were at the door, -heard her, and began to cry altogether, "We are here! we -are here!" She ran quickly to open the door to them, and, -embracing them, exclaimed, "How happy I am to see you -again, my dear children; you are very tired and hungry. -And how dirty thou art, Pierrot; come here and let me wash -thee." Pierrot was her eldest son, and she loved him better -than all the rest because he was rather red-headed, and she -was slightly so herself. They sat down to supper, and ate -with an appetite that delighted their father and mother, to -whom they related how frightened they were in the forest, -speaking almost always all together. The good folks were -enchanted to see their children once more around them, and -their joy lasted as long as the ten crowns; but when the -money was spent they relapsed into their former misery, and -resolved to lose the children again, and to do so effectually -they determined to lead them much further from home than -they had done the first time.</p> - -<p>They could not talk of this so privately, but that they -were overheard by Little Thumbling, who reckoned upon -getting out of the scrape by the same means as before; but -though he got up very early to collect the little pebbles, he -could not succeed in his object, for he found the house door -double locked. He knew not what to do, when the Woodcutter's -wife, having given them each a piece of bread for their -breakfast, it occurred to him that he might make the bread - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_38">[Pg 38]</a></span> -supply the place of the pebbles by strewing crumbs of it along -the path as they went, and so he put his piece in his pocket. -The father and mother led them into the thickest and darkest -part of the forest; and as soon as they had done so, they gained -a by-path, and left them there. Little Thumbling did not -trouble himself much, for he believed he should easily find his -way back by means of the bread which he had scattered -wherever he had passed; but he was greatly surprised -at not being able to find a single crumb. The birds had -eaten it all up! Behold the poor children then, in great -distress, for the further they wandered the deeper they -plunged into the forest. Night came on, and a great wind -arose, which terrified them horribly. They fancied they -heard on every side nothing but the howling of wolves, -hastening to devour them. They scarcely dared to speak or -look behind them. It then began to rain so heavily that they -were soon drenched to the skin; they slipped at every step, -tumbling into the mud, out of which they scrambled in a -filthy state, not knowing what to do with their hands. -Little Thumbling climbed up a tree to try if he could see -anything from the top of it. Having looked all about him, -he saw a little light like that of a candle, but it was a long -way on the other side of the forest. He came down again, -and when he had reached the ground he could see the light -no longer. This distressed him greatly; but having walked -on with his brothers for some time in the direction of the -light, he saw it again on emerging from the wood. At length -they reached the house where the light was, not without many -alarms, for they often lost sight of it, and always when they -descended into the valleys. They knocked loudly at the door, -and a good woman came to open it. She asked them what -they wanted. Little Thumbling told her they were poor -children who had lost their way in the forest, and who begged -a night's lodging for charity. The woman, seeing they were -all so pretty, began to weep, and said to them, "Alas! my -poor children, whither have you come? Know that this is the -dwelling of an Ogre who eats little boys!" "Alas, Madam!" -replied Little Thumbling, who trembled from head to foot, as -did all his brothers; "what shall we do?—It is certain that -the wolves of the forest will not fail to devour us to-night, if -you refuse to receive us under your roof, and that being the - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_39">[Pg 39]</a></span> -case, we had rather be eaten by the gentleman; perhaps he -may have pity upon us, if you are kind enough to ask him." -The Ogre's wife, who fancied she could contrive to hide them -from her husband till the next morning, allowed them to come -in, and led them where they could warm themselves by a -good fire, for there was a whole sheep on the spit roasting for -the Ogre's supper. Just as they were beginning to get warm, -they heard two or three loud knocks at the door. It was the -Ogre who had come home. His wife immediately made the -children hide under the bed, and went to open the door. The -Ogre first asked if his supper was ready and if she had drawn -the wine, and with that he sat down to his meal. The mutton -was all but raw, but he liked it all the better for that. He -sniffed right and left, saying that he smelt fresh meat. "It -must be the calf I have just skinned that you smell," said his -wife. "I smell fresh meat, I tell you once more," replied the -Ogre, looking askance at his wife; "there is something here -that I don't understand." In saying these words, he rose from -the table and went straight to the bed—"Ah!" he exclaimed, -"it is thus, then, thou wouldst deceive me, cursed woman! I -know not what hinders me from eating thee also! It is well -for thee that thou art an old beast! Here is some game, -which comes in good time for me to entertain three Ogres of -my acquaintance who are coming to see me in a day or two." -He dragged them from under the bed one after the other. -The poor children fell on their knees, begging mercy; but -they had to deal with the most cruel of all the Ogres, and -who, far from feeling pity for them, devoured them already -with his eyes, and said to his wife they would be dainty bits, -when she had made a good sauce for them. He went to fetch -a great knife, and as he returned to the poor children, he -whetted it on a long stone that he held in his left hand. He -had already seized one, when his wife said to him, "What -would you do at this hour of the night? will it not be time -enough to-morrow?" "Hold thy peace," replied the Ogre, -"they will be the more tender." "But you have already -so much meat," returned his wife; "Here is a calf, two sheep, -and half a pig." "Thou art right," said the Ogre; "give -them a good supper, that they may not fall away, and then -put them to bed." The good woman was enchanted, and -brought them plenty for supper, but they couldn't eat, they - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_40">[Pg 40]</a></span> -were so paralysed with fright. As for the Ogre, he seated -himself to drink again, delighted to think he had such a treat -in store for his friends. He drained a dozen goblets more than -usual, which affected his head a little, and obliged him to go -to bed.</p> - -<p>The Ogre had seven daughters who were still in their -infancy. These little Ogresses had the most beautiful complexions, -in consequence of their eating raw flesh like their -father; but they had very small, round, grey eyes, hooked -noses, and very large mouths, with long teeth, exceedingly -sharp, and wide apart. They were not very vicious as yet; -but they promised fairly to be so, for they already began to -bite little children, in order to suck their blood. They had -been sent to bed early, and were all seven in a large bed, having -each a crown of gold on her head. In the same room was -another bed of the same size. It was in this bed that the -Ogre's wife put the seven little boys to sleep, after which she -went to sleep with her husband.</p> - -<p>Little Thumbling, who had remarked that the Ogre's -daughters had golden crowns on their heads, and who feared -that the Ogre might regret that he had not killed him and -his brothers that evening, got up in the middle of the night, -and, taking off his own nightcap and those of his brothers, -went very softly and placed them on the heads of the Ogre's -seven daughters, after having taken off their golden crowns, -which he put on his brothers and himself, in order that the -Ogre might mistake them for his daughters, and his daughters -for the boys whose throats he longed to cut.</p> - -<p>Matters turned out exactly as he anticipated, for the Ogre -awaking at midnight, regretted having deferred till the -morning what he might have done the evening before. He -therefore jumped suddenly out of bed, and seizing his great -knife, "Let us go," said he, "and see how our young rogues -are by this time; we won't make two bites at a cherry." -Therewith he stole on tiptoes up to his daughters' bed-room, -and approached the bed in which lay the little boys, who were -all asleep except Thumbling, who was dreadfully frightened -when the Ogre placed his hand upon his head to feel it, as he -had in turn felt those of all his brothers.</p> - -<p>The Ogre, who felt the golden crowns, said, "Truly, I was -about to do a pretty job! It's clear I must have drunk too - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_41">[Pg 41]</a></span> -much last night." He then went to the bed where his -daughters slept, and having felt the little nightcaps that -belonged to the boys. "Aha!" cried he. "Here are our -young wags! Let us to work boldly!" So saying, he cut -without hesitation the throats of his seven daughters. Well -satisfied with this exploit, he returned and stretched himself -beside his wife. As soon as Little Thumbling heard the Ogre -snoring, he woke his brothers, and bade them dress themselves -quickly and follow him. They went down softly into the -garden and jumped over the wall. They ran nearly all night -long, trembling all the way, and not knowing whither they -were going.</p> - -<p>The Ogre, awaking in the morning, said to his wife, "Get -thee up stairs and dress the little rogues you took in last -night." The Ogress was astonished at the kindness of her -husband, never suspecting the sort of dressing he meant her -to give them, and fancying he ordered her to go and put on -their clothes; she went up stairs, where she was greatly surprised -to find her daughters murdered and swimming in their -blood. The first thing she did was to faint (for it is the first -thing that almost all women do in similar circumstances). -The Ogre, fearing that his wife would be too long about the -job he had given her to do, went upstairs to help her. He was -not less surprised than his wife, when he beheld this frightful -spectacle. "Hah! what have I done?" he exclaimed. "The -wretches shall pay for it, and instantly!" He then threw a -jugfull of water in his wife's face, and having brought her to, -said, "Quick! give me my seven-league boots, that I may go -and catch them." He set out, and after running in every -direction, came at last upon the track of the poor children, -who were not more than a hundred yards from their father's -house. They saw the Ogre striding from hill to hill, and who -stepped over rivers as easily as if they were the smallest brooks. -Little Thumbling, who perceived a hollow rock close by -where they were, hid his brothers in it, and crept in after -them, watching all the while the progress of the Ogre. The -Ogre, feeling very tired with his long journey to no purpose -(for seven-league boots are very fatiguing to the wearer), was -inclined to rest, and by chance sat down on the very rock in -which the little boys had concealed themselves. As he was -quite worn out, he had not rested long before he fell asleep, - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_42">[Pg 42]</a></span> -and began to snore so dreadfully that the poor children were -not less frightened than they were when he took up the great -knife to cut their throats.</p> - -<p>Little Thumbling was not so much alarmed, and told his -brothers to run quickly into the house while the Ogre was -sound asleep, and not to be uneasy about him. They took his -advice and speedily reached home. Little Thumbling having -approached the Ogre, gently pulled off his boots, and put -them on directly. The boots were very large and very long; -but as they were fairy boots, they possessed the quality of -increasing or diminishing in size according to the leg of the -person who wore them, so that they fitted him as perfectly -as if they had been made for him. He went straight to the -Ogre's house, where he found his wife weeping over her murdered -daughters. "Your husband," said Little Thumbling to -her, "is in great danger, for he has been seized by a band of -robbers, who have sworn to kill him if he does not give them -all his gold and silver. At the moment they had their daggers -at his throat he perceived me, and entreated me to come and -tell you the situation he was in, and bid you give me all his -ready cash, without keeping back any of it, as otherwise they -will kill him without mercy. As time pressed, he insisted I -should take his seven-league boots, which you see I have on, -in order that I might make haste, and also that you might be -sure I was not imposing upon you."</p> - -<p>The good woman, very much alarmed, immediately gave -him all the money she could find, for the Ogre was not a -bad husband to her, although he ate little children. Little -Thumbling, thus laden with all the wealth of the Ogre, -hastened back to his father's house, where he was received -with great joy.</p> - -<p>There are many persons who differ in their account of this -part of the story, and who pretend that Little Thumbling -never committed this robbery, and that he only considered -himself justified in taking the Ogre's seven-league boots, -because he used them expressly to run after little children. -These people assert that they have heard it from good authority, -and that they have even eaten and drunk in the Woodcutter's -house. They assure us that when Little Thumbling -had put on the Ogre's boots, he went to Court, where he knew -they were in much trouble about an army which was within - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_43">[Pg 43]</a></span> -two hundred leagues of them, and anxious to learn the success -of a battle that had been fought. They say he went to seek -the King, and told him that if he desired it, he would bring -him back news of the army before the end of the day. The -King promised him a large sum of money if he did so. -Little Thumbling brought news that very evening, and this -first journey having made him known, he got whatever he -chose to ask; for the King paid most liberally for taking his -orders to the army, and numberless ladies gave him anything -he chose for news of their lovers, and they were his best customers. -He occasionally met with some wives who entrusted -him with letters for their husbands, but they paid him so -poorly, and the amount was altogether so trifling, that he did -not condescend to put down amongst his receipts what he got -for that service. After he had been a courier for some time, -and saved a great deal of money, he returned to his father, -where it is impossible to imagine the joy of his family at -seeing him again. He made them all comfortable. He bought -newly-made offices for his father and his brothers, and by -these means established them all, making his own way at -Court at the same time.</p> - -<div class="block2"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">Often is the handsome boy<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">Made, alone, his father's joy;<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">While the tiny, timid child<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">Is neglected or reviled.<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">Notwithstanding, sometimes he<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">Lives, of all, the prop to be.<br /></span> -</div></div> -</div> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_44"></a></span></p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_45">[Pg 45]</a></span></p> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_46">[Pg 46]</a></span></p> - - -<h2 class="no-break" id="THE_COUNTESS_DE_MURAT">THE COUNTESS DE MURAT.</h2> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_47">[Pg 47]</a></span></p> - - -<h3 class="no-break" id="PERFECT_LOVE">PERFECT LOVE.</h3> - - -<p>In one of those agreeable countries subject to the Empire of -the Fairies, reigned the redoubtable Danamo. She was -learned in her art, cruel in her deeds, and proud of the honour -of being descended from the celebrated Calypso, whose charms -had the glory and the power, by detaining the famous Ulysses, -to triumph over the prudence of the conquerors of Troy.</p> - -<p>She was tall, fierce-looking, and her haughty spirit had -with much difficulty been subjected to the rigid laws of -Hymen. Love had never been able to reach her heart, but -the idea of uniting a flourishing kingdom to that of which -she was Queen, and another which she had usurped, had -induced her to marry an old monarch, who was one of her -neighbours.</p> - -<p>He died a few years after his marriage, and left the Queen -with one daughter, named Azire. She was exceedingly ugly, -but did not appear so in the eyes of Danamo, who thought -her charming, perhaps because she was the very image of -herself. She was heiress also to three kingdoms, a circumstance -which softened down many defects, and her hand was -sought in marriage by all the most powerful princes of the -adjacent provinces. Their eagerness, joined to the blind -affection of Danamo, rendered her vanity insupportable. She -was ardently besought—she must, therefore, be worthy of -such solicitation. It was thus that the Fairy and the Princess -reasoned in their own minds, and enjoyed the pleasure of -deceiving themselves. Meanwhile, Danamo thought only of -rendering the happiness of the Princess as perfect as she -considered was her due, and, with this object, brought up in -her palace a young Prince, the son of her brother.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_48">[Pg 48]</a></span></p> - -<p>His name was Parcin Parcinet. He had a noble bearing, a -graceful figure, a profusion of beautiful fair hair. Love might -have been jealous of his power, for that deity had never, -amongst his golden-pointed arrows, any so certain to triumph -irresistibly over hearts as the fine eyes of Parcin Parcinet. -He could do everything well that he chose to undertake—danced -and sang to perfection, and bore off all the prizes in -the tournament whenever he took the trouble to contend for -them.</p> - -<p>This young Prince was the delight of the Court, and -Danamo, who had her motives for it, made no objection to -the homage and admiration which he received.</p> - -<p>The King who was the father of Parcinet was the Fairy's -brother. She declared war against him without even seeking -for a reason. The King fought valiantly, at the head of his -troops; but what could any army effect against the power of -so skilful a Fairy as Danamo? She allowed the victory to -remain in doubt only long enough for her unfortunate brother -to fall in the combat. As soon as he was dead, she dispersed -all her enemies with one stroke of her wand, and made herself -mistress of the kingdom.</p> - -<p>Parcin Parcinet was at that time still in his cradle. They -brought him to Danamo. It would have been in vain to -attempt hiding him from a Fairy. He already displayed -those seductive graces which win the heart. Danamo -caressed him, and a few days afterwards took him with her -to her own dominions.</p> - -<p>The Prince had attained the age of eighteen, when the -Fairy, desirous at length of executing the designs which she -had so many years contemplated, resolved to marry Parcin -Parcinet to the Princess, her daughter. She never for a -moment doubted the infinite delight which that young Prince, -born to a throne, and condemned by misfortune to remain a -subject, would feel at becoming in one day the sovereign of -three kingdoms. She sent for the Princess, and revealed to -her the choice she had made of a husband for her. The -Princess listened to this disclosure with an emotion which -caused the Fairy to believe that this resolution in favour of -Parcin Parcinet was not agreeable to her daughter. "I see -clearly," she said to her, as she perceived her agitation -increasing, "that thou hast much more ambition, and wouldst - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_49">[Pg 49]</a></span> -unite with thine own empire that of one of those kings who -have so often proposed for thee; but where is the King whom -Parcin Parcinet cannot conquer? In courage he surpasses -them all. The subjects of so perfect a prince might one day -rebel in his favour. In giving thee to him I secure to thee -the possession of his kingdom. As to his person, it is unnecessary -to speak—thou knowest that the proudest beauties -have not been able to resist his charms." The Princess, -suddenly flinging herself at the feet of the Fairy, interrupted -her discourse, and confessed to her that her heart had not -been able to defy the young victor, famous for so many -conquests. "But," added she, blushing, "I have given a -thousand proofs of my affection to the insensible Parcin -Parcinet, and he has received them with a coldness which -distracts me." "'Tis because he dares not raise his thoughts -so high as thee," replied the haughty Fairy. "He fears, no -doubt, to offend me, and I appreciate his respect."</p> - -<p>This flattering idea was too agreeable to the inclination -and the vanity of the Princess for her not to be persuaded of -its truth. The Fairy ended by sending for Parcin Parcinet. -He came, and found her in a magnificent cabinet, where she -awaited him with the Princess, her daughter. "Call all thy -courage to thy assistance," said she to him as soon as he -appeared—"not to support affliction, but to prevent being -overcome by thy good fortune. Thou art called to a throne, -Parcin Parcinet, and to crown thy happiness, thou wilt mount -that throne by espousing my daughter." "I, Madam!" exclaimed -the young Prince, with an astonishment in which it -was easy to perceive that joy had no share, "I espouse the -Princess," continued he, retreating a few paces. "Hah! what -deity is meddling with my fate? Why does he not leave -the care of it to the only one from whom I implore assistance?"</p> - -<p>These words were uttered by the Prince with a vehemence -in which his heart took too much part to allow it to be controlled -by his prudence. The Fairy imagined that the -unhoped-for happiness had driven Parcin Parcinet out of his -wits; but the Princess loved him, and love sometimes renders -lovers more keen sighted than even wisdom. "From what -deity, Parcin Parcinet," said she to him with emotion, "do -you implore assistance so fondly? I feel too deeply that I - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_50">[Pg 50]</a></span> -have no share in the prayers you address to him." The -young Prince, who had had time to recover from his first -surprise, and who was conscious of the imprudence he had -committed, summoned his brain to the assistance of his heart. -He answered the Princess with more gallantry than she had -hoped for, and thanked the Fairy with an air of dignity that -sufficiently proved him to be worthy not only of the empire -that was offered him, but of that of the whole world.</p> - -<p>Danamo and her proud daughter were satisfied with his -expressions, and they settled everything before they left the -apartment, the Fairy deferring the wedding-day a short time, -only to give opportunity to all her Court to prepare for this -grand solemnity.</p> - -<p>The news of the marriage of Parcin Parcinet and Azire -was spread throughout the Palace the moment they had -quitted the Queen's cabinet. Crowds came to congratulate -the Prince. However unamiable the Princess, it was to -high fortune she conducted him. Parcin Parcinet received -all these honours with an air of indifference, which surprised -his new subjects the more, for that they detected beneath it -extreme affliction and anxiety. He was compelled, however, -to endure for the rest of the day the eager homage of the -whole Court, and the ceaseless demonstrations of affection -lavished upon him by Azire.</p> - -<p>What a situation for a young Prince, a prey to the keenest -anguish. Night seemed to him to have delayed its return a -thousand times longer than usual. The impatient Parcin -Parcinet prayed for its arrival. It came at length. He -quitted precipitately the place in which he had suffered so -much. He retired to his own apartments, and, having dismissed -his attendants, opened a door which led into the -Palace Gardens, and hurried through them, followed only by -a young slave.</p> - -<p>A beautiful, but not very extensive, river ran at the end of -the gardens, and separated from the magnificent Palace of the -Fairy a little Château, flanked by four towers, and surrounded -by a tolerably deep moat, which was filled by the river aforesaid. -It was to this fatal spot that the vows and sighs of -Parcin Parcinet were incessantly wafted.</p> - -<p>What a miracle was confined in it! Danamo had the treasure -carefully guarded within it. It was a young Princess, - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_51">[Pg 51]</a></span> -the daughter of her sister, who, dying, had confided her to -the charge of the Fairy. Her beauty, worthy the admiration -of the universe, appeared too dangerous to Danamo to allow -her to be seen by the side of Azire. Permission was occasionally -accorded to the charming Irolite (so was she named), -to come to the Palace, to visit the Fairy and the Princess her -daughter, but she had never been allowed to appear in public. -Her dawning beauties were unknown to the world, but there -was one who was not ignorant of them. They had met the -eyes of Parcin Parcinet one day at the apartments of the -Princess Azire, and he had adored Irolite from the moment -that he had seen her. Their near relationship afforded no -privilege to that young Prince; from the time Irolite ceased -to be an infant the pitiless Danamo suffered no one to behold -her.</p> - -<p>Nevertheless Parcin Parcinet burned with a flame as ardent -as such charms as Irolite's could not fail to kindle. She was -just fourteen. Her beauty was perfect. Her hair was of a -charming colour. Without being decidedly dark or fair, her -complexion had all the freshness of spring. Her mouth was -lovely, her teeth admirable, her smile fascinating. She had -large hazel eyes, sparkling and tender, and her glances appeared -to say a thousand things which her young heart was -ignorant of.</p> - -<p>She had been brought up in complete solitude. Near as -was the Palace of the Fairy to the Château in which she dwelt, -she saw no more persons than she might have seen in the -midst of deserts. Danamo's orders to this effect were strictly -followed. The lovely Irolite passed her days amongst the -women appointed to attend her. They were few in number, -but little as were the advantages to be gained in so solitary -and circumscribed a Court, Fame, which feared not Danamo, -published such wonders of this young Princess, that ladies of -the highest rank were eager to share the seclusion of the -youthful Irolite. Her appearance confirmed all that Fame -had reported. They were always finding some new charm to -admire in her.</p> - -<p>A governess of great intelligence and prudence, formerly -attached to the Princess who was the mother of Irolite, had -been allowed to remain with her, and frequently bewailed the -rigorous conduct of Danamo towards her young mistress. - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_52">[Pg 52]</a></span> -Her name was Mana. Her desire to restore the Princess to -the liberty she was entitled to enjoy, and the position she -was born to occupy, had induced her to favour the love of -Parcin Parcinet. It was now three years since he had contrived -to introduce himself one evening into the Château in -the dress of a slave. He found Irolite in the garden, and -declared his passion for her. She was then but a charming -child. She loved Parcin Parcinet as if he had been her -brother, and could not then comprehend the existence of any -warmer attachment. Mana, who was rarely absent from the -side of Irolite, surprised the young Prince in the garden; he -avowed to her his love for the Princess, and the determination -he had formed to perish, or to restore her one day to liberty, -and then to seek, by a personal appeal to his former subjects, -a glorious means of revenging himself on Danamo, and of -placing Irolite upon the throne.</p> - -<p>The noble qualities which were daily developed in the -nature of Parcin Parcinet, might have rendered probable his -success in still more difficult undertakings, and it was also the -only hope of rescue which offered itself to Irolite. Mana -allowed him to visit the Château occasionally after nightfall. -He saw Irolite only in her presence, but he spoke to her of -his love, and never ceased endeavouring, by tender words and -devoted attentions, to inspire her with a passion as ardent as -his own. For three years Parcin Parcinet had been occupied -solely with this passion. Nearly every night he visited the -Château of his Princess, and all his days he passed in thinking -of her. We left him on his road through Danamo's gardens, -followed by a slave, and absorbed in the despair to which the -determination of the Fairy had reduced him. He reached -the river's bank: a little gilded boat, moored to the shore, in -which Azire sometimes enjoyed an excursion on the water, -enabled the enamoured Prince to cross the stream. The slave -rowed him over, and as soon as Parcin Parcinet had ascended -the silken ladder which was thrown to him from a little terrace -that extended along the entire front of the Château, the -faithful servant rowed the boat back to its mooring-place, and -remained with it there until a signal was made to him by his -master. This was the waving, for a few minutes, of a lighted -flambeau on the terrace.</p> - -<p>This evening the Prince took his usual route, the silken - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_53">[Pg 53]</a></span> -ladder was thrown to him, and he reached, without any -obstacle, the apartment of the youthful Irolite. He found -her stretched on a couch, and bathed in tears. How beautiful -did she appear to him in her affliction. Her charms had -never before affected the young Prince so deeply.</p> - -<p>"What is the matter, my Princess?" asked he, flinging -himself on his knees before the couch on which she lay. -"What can have caused these precious tears to flow? Alas!" -he continued, sighing, "have I still more misfortunes to learn -here?" The young lovers mingled their tears and sighs, and -were forced to give full vent to their sorrow before they could -find words to declare its cause. At length the young Prince -entreated Irolite to tell him what new severity the Fairy had -treated her with. "She would compel you to marry Azire," -replied the beautiful Irolite, blushing; "which of all her -cruelties could cause me so much agony?" "Ah! my dear -Princess," exclaimed the Prince, "you fear I shall marry -Azire! My lot is a thousand times more happy than I could -have imagined it!" "Can you exult in your destiny," sadly -rejoined the Princess, "when it threatens to separate us? I -cannot express to you the tortures that I suffer from this -fear! Ah, Parcin Parcinet, you were right! The love I bear -to you is far different from that I should feel for a brother!" -The enamoured Prince blessed Fortune for her severities; never -before had the young heart of Irolite appeared to him truly -touched by love, and now he could no longer doubt having -inspired her with a passion as tender as his own. This -unlooked-for happiness renewed all his hopes. "No!" he -exclaimed with rapture; "I no longer despair of overcoming -our difficulties, since I am convinced of your affection. Let -us fly, my Princess. Let us escape from the fury of Danamo -and her hateful daughter. Let us seek a home more favourable -to the indulgence of that love, in which alone consists our -happiness!" "How!" rejoined the young Princess with astonishment. -"Depart with you! And what would all the kingdom -say of my flight?" "Away with such idle fears, beautiful -Irolite," interrupted the impatient Parcin Parcinet, "everything -urges us to quit this spot. Let us hasten—" "But -whither?" asked the prudent Mana, who had been present -during the entire interview, and who, less pre-occupied than -these young lovers, foresaw all the difficulties in the way of - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_54">[Pg 54]</a></span> -their flight. "I have plans which I will lay before you," -answered Parcin Parcinet; "but how did you become so -soon acquainted here with the news of the Fairy's Court?" -"One of my relatives," replied Mana, "wrote to me the -instant that the rumour was circulated through the Palace, -and I thought it my duty to inform the Princess." "What -have I not suffered since that moment!" said the lovely -Irolite. "No, Parcin Parcinet, I cannot live without you!" -The young Prince, in a transport of love, and enchanted by -these words, imprinted on the beautiful hand of Irolite a -passionate and tender kiss, which had all the charms of a first -and precious favour. The day began to dawn, and warned -Parcinet, too soon, that it was time for him to retire. He -promised the Princess he would return the following night to -reveal his plans for their escape. He found his faithful slave -in waiting with the boat, and returned to his apartments. -He was enraptured with the delight of being beloved by the -fair Irolite, and agitated by the obstacles which he clearly -perceived would have to be surmounted, sleep could neither -calm his anxiety, nor make him for one moment forget his -happiness.</p> - -<p>The morning sun had scarcely lighted his chamber, when -a dwarf presented him with a magnificent scarf from the -Princess Azire, who in a note, more tender than Parcin Parcinet -would have desired, entreated him to wear it constantly -from that moment. He returned an answer which it embarrassed -him much to compose; but Irolite was to be -rescued, and what constraint would he not have himself -endured to restore her to liberty. He had no sooner dismissed -the dwarf than a giant arrived to present him, from -Danamo, with a sabre of extraordinary beauty. The hilt -was formed by a single stone, more brilliant than a diamond, -and which emitted so dazzling a lustre that it would light -the way by night. Upon its blade were engraven these -words—</p> - -<p class="center font09">"For the hand of a conqueror."</p> - -<p>Parcin Parcinet was pleased with this present. He went -to thank the Fairy for it, and entered her apartment, wearing -the marvellous sabre she had sent him, and the beautiful -scarf he had received from Azire. The assurance of Irolite's - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_55">[Pg 55]</a></span> -affection for him had relieved him from all anxiety, and filled -his bosom with that gentle and perfect happiness which is -born of mutual love. An air of joy was apparent in all his -actions. Azire attributed it to the effect of her own charms, -and the Fairy to satisfied ambition. The day passed in entertainments -which could not diminish the insupportable length -of it to Parcin Parcinet. In the evening they walked in the -Palace gardens, and were rowed on that very river with which -the Prince was so well acquainted. His heart beat quickly as -he stepped into that little boat. What a difference between -the pleasure to which it was accustomed to bear him, and the -dreary dulness of his present position. Parcin Parcinet could -not help casting frequent glances towards the dwelling of the -charming Irolite. She did not make her appearance upon the -terrace of the Château, for there was an express order that -she was not to be permitted to leave her chamber, whenever -the Fairy or Azire was on the water. The latter, who narrowly -watched all the Prince's actions, observed that he often looked -in that direction. "What are you gazing at, Prince?" said -she. "Amidst all the honours that surround you, is the prison -of Irolite deserving so much attention?" "Yes, Madam," -replied the Prince, very imprudently, "I feel for those who -have not drawn on themselves by their own misconduct the -misfortunes they endure." "You are too compassionate," -replied Azire, contemptuously; "but to relieve your anxiety," -added she, lowering her voice, "I can inform you that Irolite -will not long continue a prisoner." "And what is to become -of her, then?" hastily inquired the young Prince. "The -Queen will marry her in a few days to Prince Ormond," -answered Azire. "He is, as you know, a kinsman of ours; -and, agreeable to the Queen's intentions, the day after the -nuptials he will conduct Irolite to one of his fortresses, from -whence she will never return to the Court." "How!" exclaimed -Parcin Parcinet, with extraordinary emotion; "will -the Queen bestow that beautiful Princess on so frightful a -Prince, and whose vices exceed even his ugliness? What -cruelty!"—The latter word escaped his lips despite himself: -but he could no longer be false to his courage and his heart. -"Methinks it is not for you, Parcin Parcinet," retorted -Azire, haughtily, "to complain of the cruelties of Danamo."</p> - -<p>This conversation would, no doubt, have been carried too - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_56">[Pg 56]</a></span> -far for the young Prince, whose safety lay in dissimulation; -when, fortunately for Parcin Parcinet, some of the ladies in -waiting on Azire approached her, and a moment afterwards -the Fairy having appeared on the bank of the river, Azire -signified her desire to rejoin her. On landing, Parcin Parcinet -pretended indisposition in order to obtain at least the liberty -of lamenting alone his new misfortunes.</p> - -<p>The Fairy, and more particularly Azire, testified great -anxiety respecting his illness. He returned to his own apartments. -There he indulged in a thousand complaints against -destiny for the ills it threatened to inflict on the charming -Irolite, abandoned himself to all his grief and all his passion, -and beginning at length to seek consolation for sufferings so -agonizing to a faithful lover, wrote a letter full of the most -moving phrases that his affection could dictate, to one of his -Aunts, who was a Fairy as well as Danamo, but who found as -much pleasure in befriending the unfortunate as Danamo did -in making them miserable. Her name was Favourable. The -Prince explained to her the cruel situation to which love and -fate had reduced him, and not being able to absent himself -from the Court of Danamo without betraying the design he -had formed, he sent his faithful slave with the letter to -Favourable. When every one had retired to rest, he left his -apartment as usual, crossed the gardens alone, and stepping -into the little boat, took up one of the oars without knowing -whether or not he could manage to use it: but what cannot -love teach his votaries? He can instruct them in much more -difficult matters. He enabled Parcin Parcinet to row with as -much skill and rapidity as the most expert waterman. He -entered the Château, and was much surprised to find no one -but the prudent Mana, weeping bitterly in the Princess's -chamber. "What afflicts you, Mana?" asked the Prince, -eagerly; "and where is my dear Irolite?" "Alas! my Lord," -replied Mana, "she is no longer here. A troop of the Queen's -Guards, and some women, in whom she apparently confides, -removed the Princess from the Castle about three or four -hours ago."</p> - -<p>Parcin Parcinet heard not the last of these sad words. He -had sunk insensible on the ground the instant he learned the -departure of the Princess. Mana, with great difficulty, -restored him to consciousness. He recovered from his swoon - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_57">[Pg 57]</a></span> -only to give way to a sudden paroxysm of fury. He drew a -small dagger from his girdle, and had pierced his heart, if the -prudent Mana, dragging back his arm as best she could, and -falling at the same time on her knees, had not exclaimed—"How, -my Lord! would you abandon Irolite? Live to save -her from the wrath of Danamo. Alas! without you, how will -she find protection from the Fairy's cruelty?" These words -suspended for a moment the despair of the wretched Prince. -"Alas!" replied he, shedding tears, which all his courage -could not restrain, "whither have they borne my Princess? -Yes, Mana! I will live to enjoy at least the sad satisfaction -of dying in her defence, and in avenging her on her enemies!" -After these words, Mana conjured him to quit the fatal -building to avoid fresh misfortunes. "Hasten, Prince," said -she to him; "how know we that the Fairy has not here some -spy ready to acquaint her with everything that passes within -these walls? Be careful of a life so dear to the Princess whom -you adore. I will let you know all that I can contrive to -learn respecting her."</p> - -<p>The Prince departed after this promise, and regained -his chamber, oppressed with all the grief which so tender -and so luckless a passion could inspire. He passed the night -on a couch on which he had thrown himself on entering the -room. Daybreak surprised him there: and the morning was -advanced some hours, when he heard a noise at his chamber -door. He ran to it with the eager impatience which we feel -when we await tidings in which the heart is deeply interested. -He found his people conducting to him, a man who desired to -speak with him instantly. He recognised the messenger as -one of Mana's relations, who placed in the hand of Parcin -Parcinet a letter which he took with him into his cabinet to -read, in order to conceal the emotion its receipt excited in -him. He opened it hastily, having observed it was in Mana's -handwriting, and found these words:—</p> - -<p>"Mana, to the greatest Prince in the world. Be comforted, -my Lord; our Princess is in safety, if such an expression be -allowable, so long as she is subjected to the power of her -enemy. She requested Danamo to permit my attendance on -her, and the Fairy consented that I should rejoin her. She -is confined in the Palace. Yesterday evening the Queen -caused her to be brought into her cabinet, ordered her to look - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_58">[Pg 58]</a></span> -upon Prince Ormond as one who would be in a few days her -husband, and presented to her that Prince so unworthy of -being your rival. The Princess was so distressed that she -could answer the Queen only by tears. They have not yet -ceased to flow. It is for you, my Lord, to find, if possible, -some means of escape from the impending calamity."</p> - -<p>At the foot of the letter were the following lines, written -with a trembling hand, and some of the words being nearly -effaced. "How I pity you, my dear Prince; your sufferings -are more terrible to me than my own. I spare your feelings -the recital of what I have endured since yesterday. Why -was I born to disturb your peace? Alas! had you never -known me, perhaps you might have been happy."</p> - -<p>What mingled emotions of joy and grief agitated the heart -of the young Prince in reading this postscript. What kisses -did he not imprint on this precious token of the love of the -divine Irolite! He was so excited that it was with the greatest -difficulty in the world that he succeeded in writing a coherent -answer. He thanked the prudent Mana; he informed the -Princess of the assistance he expected from the Fairy Favourable; -and what did he not say to her of his grief or his love! -He then took the letter to Mana's kinsman, and presented -him with a clasp set with jewels of inestimable beauty and -value, as an earnest of the reward he had deserved, for the -pleasure he had given him. Mana's kinsman had scarcely -departed, when the Queen and Princess Azire sent to enquire -how the Prince had passed the night. It was easily seen by -his countenance that he was not well. He was entreated to -return to his bed, and as he felt he should be under less -restraint there than in the company of the Fairy, he consented -to do so.</p> - -<p>After dinner, the Queen came to see him, and spoke to him -of the marriage of Irolite and Prince Ormond as of a matter -she had decided upon. Parcin Parcinet, who had at length -made up his mind to control himself, so as not to awaken -suspicions which might frustrate his designs, pretended to -approve of the Fairy's intentions, and only requested her to -await his perfect recovery, as it was his wish to be present at -the festivities which would take place on the occasion of these -grand nuptials. The Fairy and Azire, who were in despair -about his illness, promised him everything he desired; and - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_59">[Pg 59]</a></span> -Parcin Parcinet thus retarded, for some days at least, the -threatened marriage of Irolite. His conversation with Azire, -when on the water with her, had hastened the approach of -that misfortune to the beautiful Princess he loved so tenderly. -Azire had related to the Queen the words of Parcin Parcinet, -and the pity he had expressed for Irolite. The Queen, who -never paused in the execution of what she had determined on, -sent that very evening for Irolite, and decided, in conjunction -with Azire, that the marriage of the former should immediately -take place, and that her departure should be expedited -before Parcin Parcinet was established in the higher authority -his match with Azire would invest him with. Before ten days -had expired, however, the Prince's faithful slave returned from -his mission. With what delight did the Prince discover in -the letter Favourable had written to him, the proofs of her -compassion and of her friendship for him and for Irolite. She -sent him a ring made of four separate metals, gold, silver, -brass, and iron. This ring had the power to save him four -times from the persecution of the cruel Danamo, and Favourable -assured the Prince that the Fairy would not order him -to be pursued more often than that ring was able to protect -him. These good tidings restored the Prince to health, and -he sent with all speed for Mana's kinsman. He entrusted -him with a letter for Irolite, informing her of the success -they might hope for. There was no time to be lost. The -Queen had determined the wedding of Irolite should take -place in three days. That evening there was to be a ball -given by the Princess Azire. Irolite was to be present. -Parcin Parcinet could not endure the idea of appearing "<i>en -négligé</i>," as his recent illness might have permitted him, he -dressed himself in the most magnificent style, and looked -more brilliant than the sun. He dared not at first speak to -the fair Irolite; but what did not their eyes discourse when -occasionally, they ventured to glance at each other. Irolite -was in the most beautiful costume in the world. The Fairy -had presented her with some marvellous jewels, and as she -had only four days to remain in the palace, Danamo had -resolved, during that short period, to treat her with all due -honour. Her beauty, which had hitherto been unadorned, -in such splendour, appeared wonderful to the whole court, -and, above all, to the enamoured Parcin Parcinet. He even - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_60">[Pg 60]</a></span> -imagined he could read in some joyous flashes of her bright -eyes an acknowledgment that she had received his letter. -Prince Ormond addressed Irolite frequently; but he was so -ill-looking, notwithstanding the gold and jewels with which -he was burthened, that he was not a rival worth the jealousy -of the young Prince. The ball was nearly over, when Parcin -Parcinet, carried away by his love, wished with intense ardour -for an opportunity to speak for one moment to his Princess. -"Cruel Queen, and thou, also, hateful Azire!" he mentally -exclaimed; "will ye still longer deprive me of the delightful -pleasure of repeating a thousand times to the beautiful Irolite -that I adore her! Jealous witnesses of my happiness, why -do ye not quit this spot? Love can only triumph in your -absence." Scarcely had Parcin Parcinet formed this wish, -than the Fairy, feeling rather faint, called to Azire, and passed -with her into an adjoining apartment, followed by Ormond. -Parcin Parcinet had on his finger the ring which the fairy -Favourable had sent him, and which had the power to rescue -him four times from the persecutions of Danamo. He should -have reserved such certain help for the most pressing necessity; -but when did violent love obey the dictates of prudence?</p> - -<p>The young Prince was convinced by the sudden departure -of the Fairy and Azire, that the ring had begun to favour his -love. He flew to the fair Irolite. He spoke to her of his -affection in terms more ardent than eloquent. He felt that -he had perhaps invoked the spell of Favourable too thoughtlessly; -but could he regret an imprudence which obtained for -him the sweet gratification of speaking to his dear Irolite? -They agreed as to the place and hour at which, the next day, -they would meet, to fly from their painful bondage. The -Fairy and Azire, after some time, returned to the ball-room. -Parcin Parcinet separated with regret from Irolite. He looked -at the fatal ring, and perceived that the iron had mixed with -the other metals, and was no longer distinguishable, he therefore -saw too clearly that he had only three more wishes to -make. He resolved to render them more truly serviceable -to the Princess than the first had been. He confided the -secret of his flight to no one but his faithful slave, and passed -the rest of the night in making all the necessary preparations. -The next morning he calmly presented himself to the Queen, - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_61">[Pg 61]</a></span> -and appeared even in better spirits than usual. He jested -with Prince Ormond on his marriage, and conducted himself -in such a manner as to lull all suspicions, had any existed as -to his intentions. Two hours after midnight he repaired to -the Fairy's Park; he found there his faithful slave, who, in -obedience to his master's orders, had brought thither four of -his horses. The Prince was not kept long waiting. The -lovely Irolite appeared, walking with faltering steps, and -leaning upon Mana. The young Princess felt some pain in -taking this course. It had needed all the cruelties of Danamo, -and all the bad qualities of Ormond, to induce her to do so. -Love alone had not sufficed to persuade her.</p> - -<p>It was autumn. The night was beautiful, and the moon, -with a host of brilliant stars, illuminated the sky, shedding -around a more charming light than that of day. The Prince -eagerly advanced to meet his beloved, there was no time for -long speeches, Parcin Parcinet tenderly kissed the hand of -Irolite and assisted her to mount her horse. Fortunately she -rode admirably. It was one of the amusements she had taken -pleasure in during her captivity. She had frequently ridden -with her attendants in a little wood close to the Château she -resided in, and of which the Fairy allowed her the range. -Parcin Parcinet, after the interchange of a few words with -the Princess, mounted his own horse. The other two were -for Mana and the faithful slave. The Prince then drawing -the brilliant sabre he had received from the Fairy, swore on -it to adore the beautiful Irolite as long as he should live, and -to die, if it were necessary, in defending her from her enemies. -They then set out, and it seemed as if the Zephyrs were in -league with them, or that they mistook Irolite for Flora, for -they accompanied them in their flight.</p> - -<p>Morning disclosed to Danamo the unexpected event. The -ladies in attendance on Irolite were surprised that she slept -so much later than usual; but, in obedience to the orders -the prudent Mana had given them over-night, they did not -venture to enter the Princess's apartment without being summoned -by her. Mana slept in Irolite's chamber, and they had -quitted it by a small door that opened into a court-yard of -the Palace that was very little frequented. This door was in -Irolite's cabinet. It had been fastened up, but, with a little -trouble, in two or three evenings, they had found means to - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_62">[Pg 62]</a></span> -open it. The Queen at length sent orders for Irolite to come -to her. The Fairy's commands were not to be disobeyed by any -one. They accordingly knocked at the chamber door of the -Princess. They received no answer. Prince Ormond arrived. -He came to conduct Irolite to the Queen, and was much surprised -to find them knocking loudly at the door. He caused -it to be broken open. They entered, and finding the little -door of the cabinet had been forced, no longer doubted that -the Princess had fled the Palace. They bore these tidings to -the Queen, who trembled with rage at hearing them. She -ordered a search to be made everywhere for Irolite, but in -vain did they endeavour to obtain a clue to her evasion, no -one knew anything about it. Prince Ormond himself set out -in pursuit of Irolite. The Fairy's Guards were despatched in -all haste, and in every direction it was thought possible she -might have taken. It was observed, however, by Azire, that -amidst this general agitation, Parcin Parcinet had not made -his appearance. She sent an urgent message to him, and -jealousy opening her eyes, she felt certain that the Prince -had carried off Irolite, although she had not until that -moment suspected he was in love with her. The Fairy -could not believe it; but she hastened to consult her books, -and discovered that Azire's suspicion was but too well -founded.</p> - -<p class="pmb1">In the meanwhile that Princess having learned that Parcin -Parcinet was not in his apartments, and could not be found -anywhere in the Palace, sent some one to the Château in -which Irolite had so long resided, to see if they could find -any evidence that would convict or acquit the Prince. The -prudent Mana had taken care to leave nothing in it that -could betray the understanding that had existed between -Irolite and Parcin Parcinet; but they found near the seat on -which the Prince had lain so long insensible, the scarf Azire -had given to him. It had been unfastened during his swoon, -and the Prince and Mana, absorbed in their grief, had neither -of them subsequently observed it. What were the feelings of -the haughty Azire at the sight of this scarf? Her love and -her pride were equally wounded. She was exasperated beyond -measure. She flung into the Fairy's prisons all who had been -in the service of Irolite or of the Prince. Parcin Parcinet's -ingratitude to the Queen also goaded her naturally furious -temper into madness, and she would have willingly parted -with one of her kingdoms to be revenged on the two -lovers.</p> - -<div class="figcenter"> - <img src="images/i002.jpg" alt="" /> - <p class="center font08">Perfect Love.—P. 63.</p> -</div> -<p class="pmb2" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_63">[Pg 63]</a></span></p> - -<p>Meanwhile the fugitives were hotly pursued: Ormond and -his troop found everywhere fresh horses in readiness for them -by the Fairy's orders. Those of Parcin Parcinet were fatigued, -and their speed no longer answered to the impatience of their -master. As they issued from a forest, Ormond appeared in -sight. The first impulse of the young Prince was to attack -his unworthy rival. He was spurring towards him with his -hand on the hilt of his sword, when Irolite exclaimed, -"Prince! Rush not into useless danger! Obey the orders of -Favourable!" These words calmed the anger of Parcin -Parcinet, and in obedience to his Princess, and to the Fairy, -he wished that the beautiful Irolite was safe from the persecution -of the cruel Queen. He had scarcely formed the wish, -when the earth opened between him and Ormond, and presented -to his sight a little misshapen man in a very magnificent -dress, who made a sign to him to follow him. The -descent was easy on his side, he rode down it accompanied -by the fair Irolite. Mana and the faithful slave followed them, -and the earth reclosed above them. Ormond, astonished at -so extraordinary an event, returned with all speed to inform -Danamo.</p> - -<p>Meanwhile our young lovers followed the little man -down a very dark road, at the end of which they found -a vast Palace, lighted only by a great quantity of lamps and -flambeaux. They were desired to dismount, and entered a -Hall of prodigious magnitude. The roof was supported by -columns of shining earth covered with golden ornaments. -The walls were of the same material. A little man all covered -with jewels was seated at the end of the Hall on a golden -throne surrounded by a great number of persons as misshapen -as the one who had conducted the Prince to that spot. As -soon as the latter appeared leading the charming Irolite, the -little man rose from his throne and said, "Approach, Prince. -The great Fairy Favourable, who has long been a friend of -mine, has requested me to save you from the cruelties of -Danamo. I am the King of the Gnomes. You and the fair -Princess who accompanies you are welcome to my Palace." -Parcin Parcinet thanked him for the succour he had afforded - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_64">[Pg 64]</a></span> -them. The King and all his subjects were enchanted with -the beauty of Irolite. They looked upon her as a star that -had descended to illuminate their abode. A magnificent -banquet was served up to the Prince and Princess. The -King of the Gnomes did the honours. Music of a very -melodious, though somewhat barbaric, character, formed the -entertainment of the evening. They sang the charms of -Irolite, and the following verses were frequently repeated:—</p> - -<div class="block2"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">What lovely star hath left its sphere<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">This subterranean realm to cheer?<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">Beware! for in its dazzling light<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">Is more than danger to the sight.<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">The while its lustre we admire<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">It sets the gazer's heart on fire.<br /></span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p>After the concert the Prince and Princess were each conducted -to magnificent apartments. Mana and the faithful -slave attended on them. The next morning they were shown -all over the King's Palace. He was master of all the treasures -contained in the bosom of the earth. It was impossible to -add to his riches. They presented a confused mass of beautiful -things; but art was wanting everywhere. The Prince and -Princess remained for a week in this subterranean region. -Such was the order of Favourable to the King of the Gnomes. -During this time entertainments were made for the Princess -and her lover, which, though not very tasteful, were exceedingly -magnificent. The eve of their departure, the King, to -commemorate their sojourn in his empire, caused statues of -them to be erected, one on each side of his throne. They -were of gold, and the pedestals of white marble. The following -inscription, formed with diamonds, was upon the pedestal of -the Prince's statue:—</p> - -<div class="block1"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">"We desire no longer to behold the sun,—<br /></span> -<span class="i2 font09">We have seen this Prince;<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">He is more beautiful and more brilliant."<br /></span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p>And on that of the Princess were these words, formed in a -similar manner:—</p> - -<div class="block2"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i2 font09">"To the immortal glory<br /></span> -<span class="i2 font09">Of the Goddess of Beauty.<br /></span> -<span class="i2 font09">She descended to this spot<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">Under the form and name of Irolite."<br /></span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_65">[Pg 65]</a></span></p> - -<p>The ninth day they presented the Prince with the most -beautiful horses in the world. Their harness was of gold -entirely covered with diamonds. He quitted the gloomy -abode of the Gnomes with his little troop, after having expressed -his gratitude to the King. He found himself again -on the very spot where Ormond had confronted him. He -looked at his ring, and perceived that only the silver and -brazen portions of it were discernible. He resumed his journey -with the charming Irolite, and made all speed to reach the -abode of Favourable, where at length they might feel themselves -in safety, when all on a sudden, as they emerged from -a valley, they encountered a troop of Danamo's guards, who -had not given up the pursuit. The soldiers prepared to rush -upon them, when the Prince wished, and instantly a large -piece of water appeared between the party of Parcin Parcinet -and that of the Fairy. A beautiful nymph, half naked, in a -little boat made of interwoven rushes, was seen in the middle -of it. She approached the shore, and requested the Prince -and Princess to enter the boat. Mana and the slave followed -them. The horses remained in the plain, and the little boat -suddenly sinking, the Fairy's Guards believed that the fugitives -had perished in their attempt to escape. But at the -same moment they found themselves in a Palace, the walls of -which were only great sheets of water, which incessantly -falling with perfect regularity, formed halls, apartments, -cabinets, and surrounded gardens, in which a thousand fountains -of the most extraordinary shapes marked out the lines of -the parterres. Only the Naiades, in whose empire they were, -could inhabit this Palace, as beautiful as it was singular. To -offer, therefore, a more substantial dwelling to the Prince and -the fair Irolite, the Naiade who was their conductor led them -into some grottoes of shell-work, where coral, pearls, and all -the treasures of the deep, were seen in dazzling profusion. -The beds were of moss. An hundred dolphins guarded the -grotto of Irolite, and twenty whales that of Parcin Parcinet. -The Naiades admired the beauty of the Princess, and more -than one Triton was jealous of the looks and attentions which -were bestowed on the young Prince. They served up in the -grotto of the Princess a superb collation composed of all sorts -of iced fruits. Twelve Syrens endeavoured with their sweet -and charming songs to calm the anxiety of the young Prince - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_66">[Pg 66]</a></span> -and the fair Irolite. The concert finished with these -verses:—</p> - -<div class="block1"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">Wherever with Love for our leader we stray,<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">To render us happy he knows the sweet way.<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">Rejoice, Perfect Lovers, who here, in his name<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">The floods may defy to extinguish your flame.<br /></span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p>In the evening there was a banquet, at which nothing was -served but fish, but of most extraordinary size and exquisite -flavour. After the banquet the Naiades danced a ballet in -dresses of fish-scales of various colours, which had the most -beautiful effect in the world. The horns of Tritons, and other -instruments unknown to mortals, performed the music, which, -though strange, was novel and very agreeable.</p> - -<p>Parcin Parcinet and the beautiful Irolite remained four -days in this empire. Such were the commands of Favourable. -The fifth day the Naiades assembled in crowds to escort the -Prince and Princess. The two lovers were placed in a little -boat made of a single shell, and the Naiades, half out of the -water, accompanied them as far as the border of a river, where -Parcin Parcinet found his horses waiting for him, and recommenced -his journey with the more haste, as he perceived, on -examining his ring, that the silver had disappeared, and that -nothing remained but the brass; they were, however, but a -short distance from the wished-for dwelling of the Fairy -Favourable. They travelled unmolested for three more days; -but on the fourth morning they saw weapons glitter in the -distance in the rays of the rising sun, and as those who bore -them advanced, they recognised Prince Ormond and his -band. Danamo had sent them back in pursuit with orders -not to leave them when seen again, nor to quit the spot -where anything extraordinary might occur to them, and, -above all things, to endeavour to engage Parcin Parcinet in -single combat. Danamo had correctly imagined, from the -account of Ormond, that a Fairy protected the Prince and -Princess; but her science was so great, that she did not -despair of conquering, by spells more potent than her antagonist -could cast around them. Ormond, delighted at beholding -again the Prince and Irolite, whom he had sought -with so much toil and anxiety, galloped, sword in hand, to -encounter Parcin Parcinet, according to the commands of the -Fairy. The young Prince also drew his sabre with so fierce - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_67">[Pg 67]</a></span> -an air, that Ormond more than once felt inclined to waver in -his course; but Parcin Parcinet, observing Irolite bathed in -tears, touched at the sight, formed his fourth wish, and -instantly a great fire rising almost to the clouds, separated -him from his enemy. This fire made Ormond and his troop -fall back, while the young Prince and Irolite, closely followed -by the faithful slave and the prudent Mana, found themselves -in a Palace, the first sight of which greatly alarmed the fair -Irolite.</p> - -<p>It was entirely of flame; but her alarm subsided as she -perceived that she felt no more heat than from the rays of -the sun, and that this flame had only the brilliancy and -blaze of fire, without its more insupportable qualities. Crowds -of young and beautiful personages, in dresses over which light -flames appeared to wanton, presented themselves to receive -the Princess and her lover. One amongst them, whom they -imagined to be the Queen of those regions, by the respect -that was paid to her, accosted them, saying, "Come, charming -Princess, and you also, handsome Parcin Parcinet; you are in -the Kingdom of Salamanders. I am its Queen, and it is with -pleasure I have undertaken to conceal you for seven days in -my Palace, according to the commands of the Fairy Favourable. -I would only that your stay here might be of longer -duration." After these words they were led into a large -apartment, all of flames, like the rest of the Palace, and in -which a light shone brighter than that of day. The Queen -gave that evening a grand supper, composed of every delicacy, -and well served.</p> - -<p>After the feast they repaired to a terrace, to witness a -display of fireworks of marvellous beauty and great singularity -of design, which were let off in a large court-yard of -the Palace of Salamanders. Twelve Cupids were seen upon as -many columns of various coloured marbles. Six of them -appeared to be drawing their bows, and the other six bore a -large shield, on which these words were written in letters of -fire:—</p> - -<div class="block1"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">Irolite, that matchless fair!<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">Conqueror is everywhere.<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">In vain our flaming arrows fly;<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">Those that issue from her eye<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">Burn more fiercely, yet are found<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">Cherished in the hearts they wound.<br /></span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_68">[Pg 68]</a></span></p> - -<p>The young Princess blushed at her own fame, and Parcin -Parcinet was enchanted that the Salamanders considered her -as beautiful as she appeared to him. Meanwhile, the Cupids -shot their flaming arrows, which, crossing each other in the -air, formed in a thousand places the initials of the lovely name -of Irolite, and rose up to the Heavens.</p> - -<p>The seven days she remained in the Palace were passed in -similar pleasures. Parcin Parcinet remarked that all the -Salamanders were witty and charmingly vivacious, very -gallant and affectionate. The Queen herself appeared not to -be exempt from the influence of the tender passion, but to be -enamoured of a young Salamander of wonderful beauty.</p> - -<p>The eighth day they quitted with regret a retreat so -congenial to their feelings. They found themselves in a -lovely country. Parcin Parcinet looked at his ring, and discovered -engraved upon the metals, which were now all four -mixed together, the following words:—</p> - -<p class="center font09">"You have wished too soon."</p> - -<p>These words sadly afflicted the Prince and Princess, but -they were now so near the abode of the Fairy Favourable, -that they were in hopes of arriving there before evening. -This reflection consoled them, and they proceeded, invoking -Fortune and Love; but, alas! they are frequently treacherous -conductors. Parcin Parcinet was, in short, on the point of -entering the dominions of the Fairy Favourable; but Ormond, -obeying the commands of Danamo, had not retired far from -the spot where the fire had risen between him and his rival. -He had encamped, with his party, behind a wood, and his -sentinels, who kept incessant watch, brought him word that -the Prince and Princess had re-appeared in the plain. He -ordered his men to mount, and about sunset encountered the -unfortunate Prince and the divine Irolite. Parcin Parcinet -was not dismayed at the numbers that fell upon him altogether. -He charged them with a courage that daunted them. -"I fulfil my promise, beautiful Irolite," he exclaimed, as he -drew his sabre; "I will die for you or deliver you from your -enemies!" With these words he made a blow at the foremost, -and felled him to the earth. But oh, unexpected misfortune! -the wonderful sabre, which was the gift of the Fairy - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_69">[Pg 69]</a></span> -Danamo, flew into a thousand pieces. She had foreseen this -result of the combat. Whenever she made a present of -weapons, she charmed them in so peculiar a manner, that the -instant they were employed against her, the first blow shivered -them to pieces.</p> - -<p>Parcin Parcinet, then disarmed, could not make any prolonged -resistance. He was overwhelmed by numbers, taken, -laden with chains, and the young Irolite shared his fate. -"Ah, Fairy Favourable," mournfully ejaculated the Prince, -"abandon me to all the severity of Danamo, but save the fair -Irolite!" "You have disobeyed the Fairy," replied a youth -of surprising beauty, who appeared in the air. "You must -suffer the penalty. Had you not been so prodigal of her -favour, we should to-day have saved you for ever from the -cruelties of Danamo. All the Empire of the Sylphs laments -being deprived of the glory of securing happiness to so -charming a Prince and so beautiful a Princess." So saying, -he vanished, and Parcin Parcinet groaned at the recollection -of his imprudence: he seemed insensible to his own misfortunes, -but how deeply did he feel those of Irolite! His -remorse at having been the cause of them would have destroyed -him, had not Destiny resolved that he should live to -suffer still more cruel agony.</p> - -<p>The young Irolite displayed a courage worthy of the -illustrious race from which she had descended, and the pitiless -Ormond, far from being affected at so touching a spectacle, -strove to aggravate the misery he occasioned them. He had -the prisoners separated, and so deprived them of the melancholy -pleasure of mingling their tears over their departed -hopes. Their wretched journey ended, they were taken to -the palace of the wicked Fairy. She felt a malignant joy at -seeing the young Prince and Princess in a state that would -have awakened pity in the heart of any other creature. -Even Azire commiserated Parcin Parcinet, but did not dare -to evince it before the Fairy. "I shall at length, then," -said the cruel Queen, addressing herself to the Prince, "have -the pleasure of revenging myself for thy ingratitude. Go! -In lieu of ascending the throne my favour had destined thee, -enter the prison on the sea, in which thou shalt end thy -wretched life in frightful tortures." "I prefer the most -horrible dungeon," replied the Prince, looking proudly at - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_70">[Pg 70]</a></span> -her, "to the favours of so unjust a Queen as thou art!" -These words increased the irritation of the Fairy. She had -expected to see him humble himself at her feet. She sent -him instantly to the prison she had fixed upon. Irolite wept -as he was dragged away; Azire could not suppress her sighs, -and all the Court mourned in secret the merciless sentence. -As for the beautiful Irolite, the Queen had her removed to -the Château in which she had previously so long resided, -placed a strict guard upon her, and treated her with all the -inhumanity of which she was capable.</p> - -<p>The prison to which they conveyed the Prince was a -frightful tower in the midst of the sea, built on a little desert -island. They shut him up in it, laden with irons, and treated -him with all the severity imaginable. What an abode for a -Prince worthy to reign over the universe! To think of -Irolite was his sole occupation. He invoked the help of the -Fairy Favourable for his dear Princess alone, and wished a -thousand times a day, to expiate by death the only injury he -had done her. His faithful slave had been consigned to the -same prison, but he had not the satisfaction of serving his -illustrious master, and Parcin Parcinet had about him none -but fierce soldiers, devoted to the Fairy, who nevertheless, -while obeying her orders, respected, despite themselves, the -unfortunate captive. His youth, his beauty, and, above all, -his courage, excited in them an admiration which compelled -them to regard him as a man very superior to all others. -The prudent Mana had been dragged to the Château in which -they had immured Irolite, as the Prince's faithful slave had -been to the prison on the sea. Danamo's women alone -approached the Princess, and by the Fairy's orders overwhelmed -her every moment with new misery, by their accounts -of the sufferings of Parcin Parcinet. The distresses of her -lover made Irolite forget her own, and everything renewed -her tears in that spot where she had so often heard that -charming Prince swear to her eternal fidelity. "Alas!" she -murmured to herself, "why have you been so faithful, my -dear Prince? Your inconstancy would have killed me; but -what of that, you would have lived, and been happy!"</p> - -<p>After three months' suffering, Danamo, who had employed -that period in the preparation of a spell of extraordinary -power, sent to Irolite one morning a couple of lamps, one of - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_71">[Pg 71]</a></span> -gold, the other of crystal, commanding her to keep one of -the two always burning, but leaving her to choose which she -would light. Irolite, with her natural docility, sent word -that she would obey the Fairy's orders, without even seeking -to comprehend their object.</p> - -<p>She carried the two lamps carefully to a cabinet. The -golden one was lighted when she received it, and therefore -she allowed it to burn throughout that day and night, and -the next morning she lighted the other. In this manner she -continued to obey the Fairy, lighting the lamps alternately -for fifteen days, when her health became seriously affected. -She attributed her failing strength to her sorrow, and, to -increase her grief, they informed her that Parcin Parcinet -was exceedingly ill. What tidings for Irolite! Her deep -distress, her utter prostration, affected all her attendants. -One evening, when the rest were asleep, one of them softly -approached the Princess, and seeing her about to light the -crystal lamp, said to her, "Extinguish that fatal light, your -existence depends upon it. Save the life of one so lovely -from the cruel designs of Danamo." "Alas!" feebly replied -the wretched Irolite, "she has rendered my life so miserable, -that it is but kind of the Fairy to afford me such means of -ending it; but," added she, with an emotion which brought -back the colour to her pale cheeks, "what life depends upon -the golden lamp, which I have been equally careful to light -in its turn?" "That of Parcin Parcinet," answered the -confidante of Danamo, for the woman was but obeying her -orders in thus speaking to the Princess. The wicked Fairy -wished to torment her by this revelation of the cruel task -she had imposed upon her. At this intelligence her agony at -having unconsciously hastened the termination of her lover's -existence, deprived her for some considerable time of her -senses. On recovering them, she at the same time returned -to her despair. "Hateful Fairy!" she exclaimed, as soon as -she had power to speak, "Barbarous Fairy! will not my death -satisfy thy vengeance? Wouldst thou condemn me, inhuman, -to destroy with my own hand a Prince so dear to me, -and so worthy of the most perfect and tender affection? -But death, a thousand times more merciful than thou art, -will soon deliver me from all the tortures which thy wrath -hath invented, to rack such fond and faithful hearts."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_72">[Pg 72]</a></span></p> - -<p>The young Princess wept incessantly over the fatal lamp, -on which depended the life of Parcin Parcinet, and from that -moment only lighted the one that wasted her own. That -she saw burn with joy, regarding it as a sacrifice to love, and -to her lover. In the meanwhile the wretched Prince was a -prey to tortures, which surpassed even his powers of endurance. -By command of the Fairy, one of his guards, feigning to pity -the misfortunes of the illustrious prisoner, informed him that -Irolite had consented to marry Prince Ormond, a few days -after he (Parcin Parcinet) had been consigned to the frightful -dungeon in which he still languished. That the Princess had -appeared quite happy since her marriage, that she had been -present at all the entertainments given in celebration of it, -and had finally quitted the country with her husband. This -was the only misfortune the Prince had not anticipated, -and it was also the only one too heavy for him to bear. -"What!" he exclaimed, despairingly, "Thou art faithless to -me, dear Irolite! Thou art the bride of Ormond! Thou -hast not even pitied my misfortunes. Thou hast but thought -how to end those my love brought upon thyself. Live happy, -ungrateful Irolite! Inconstant as thou art, I still adore thee, -and desire but to die for love, as thou wouldst not I should -have the glory of dying for thee!"</p> - -<p>Whilst Parcin Parcinet was plunged in this affliction, and -the tender Irolite wasted her own life to prolong that of her -lover, Danamo was moved by the despair of Azire, who was -dying with sorrow for the sufferings of Parcin Parcinet. The -cruel Fairy perceived at length that, to save the life of her -child, it was necessary to pardon the Prince, to permit Azire -to visit him, and to promise him all the benefits that had -previously awaited him, provided he consented to marry her, -and the Fairy determined to put Irolite to death, the moment -the Prince had accepted that offer.</p> - -<p>The hope of again beholding Parcin Parcinet restored -Azire to life, and the Fairy allowed her to send to Irolite's -Château for the golden lamp, which she desired to keep in her -own custody, that she might be certain it was not lighted. -This mandate seemed more cruel than all the others to the -afflicted Irolite. What anxiety did she not endure respecting -the fate of Parcin Parcinet. "Do not distress yourself so -much about the Prince," said the women in attendance upon - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_73">[Pg 73]</a></span> -her, "he is going to marry the Princess Azire, and it is she -who, interested in the preservation of his life, has sent for the -lamp on which it depends."</p> - -<p>The torments of jealousy had as yet been wanting, to complete -the misery of the unfortunate Irolite. At these words -she felt them waking in her heart. In the meanwhile Azire -had visited the Prince, and offered him her hand and her -kingdoms; then, pretending to be ignorant that he had been -told that Irolite had married Ormond, she endeavoured to -convince him by citing this example, that he had been more -than sufficiently constant. Parcin Parcinet, to whom nothing -was valuable without the charming Irolite, preferred his prison -and his sufferings to liberty and sovereignty. Azire was distracted -at his refusal, and her affliction rendered her almost -as unhappy as he was.</p> - -<p>During this time the Fairy Favourable, who had hitherto -boasted of her insensibility to love, had found it impossible -to resist the attractions of a young Prince residing at her -Court. He had conceived a passion for her. The Fairy had -considerable difficulty in bringing herself to let him know -that his attentions had conquered her pride. At length, -however, she yielded to the desire of acquainting him with -his triumph. The pleasure of conversing with those we love -appeared to her then so charming and so desirable, that, -excusing the fault she had so severely punished, she repaired, -in all haste, to the assistance of Parcin Parcinet and the beautiful -Irolite.</p> - -<p>A little later, and her aid would have been useless. The -fatal lamp of Irolite had but six days longer to burn, and the -grief of Parcin Parcinet was rapidly terminating his existence, -when the Fairy Favourable arrived at the Palace of Danamo. -She was by far the most powerful, and made herself obeyed -despite the anger of the wicked Fairy. The Prince was -released from prison; but he would not quit it until he was -assured by Favourable that the fair Irolite might still be his -bride. He appeared, notwithstanding his pallor, more beautiful -than the day, the light of which he was once more permitted -to behold. He repaired, with the Fairy Favourable, -to the Château of his Princess. Her lamp emitted but a -feeble light, and the dying Irolite would not allow them to -extinguish it until she had been assured of the fidelity of her - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_74">[Pg 74]</a></span> -now happy lover. There are no words capable of expressing -the perfect joy experienced by the fond pair at this meeting. -The Fairy Favourable restored them in an instant to all their -former health and beauty, and endowed them with long life -and constant felicity. Their affection she found it impossible -to increase. Danamo, furious at beholding her authority thus -overthrown, perished by her own hand. The fate of Azire -and of Ormond was left by the Prince to the decision of -Irolite. The only vengeance she took upon them was uniting -them in marriage, and Parcin Parcinet, as generous as he was -constant, would only receive his father's kingdom, leaving -Azire to reign over those of Danamo.</p> - -<p class="pmb3">The nuptials of the Prince and the divine Irolite were -celebrated with infinite magnificence, and after duly expressing -their gratitude to the Fairy Favourable, and heaping -rewards on the slave and the prudent Mana, they departed for -their kingdom, where the Prince and the charming Irolite -enjoyed the rare happiness of loving as fondly and truly in -prosperity as they had done in adversity.</p> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_75">[Pg 75]</a></span></p> - - -<h3 class="no-break" id="ANGUILLETTE">ANGUILLETTE.</h3> - - -<p>To whatever greatness Destiny may elevate those it favours, -there is no worldly felicity exempt from serious sorrow. One -cannot be acquainted with Fairies, and be ignorant that the -most skilful amongst them have failed to discover a charm -which would secure them from the misfortune of being compelled -to change their shape some few days in every month, -for that of some animal, terrestrial, celestial, or aquatic.</p> - -<p>During that dangerous period, when they are completely -at the mercy of mankind, they have frequently great difficulty -in saving themselves from the perils to which that stern -necessity exposes them.</p> - -<p>One amongst them, who had changed herself into an Eel, -was unfortunately taken by fishermen, and flung immediately -into a small square tank in the midst of a beautiful meadow, -wherein they kept the fish that were daily required for the -table of the King of that country. Anguillette (so was the -Fairy named) found in her new abode a great many fine fish -destined, like herself, to live but a few hours. She had heard -the fishermen say to one another, that that very evening the -King purposed to give a grand banquet, for the which these -fine fish had been carefully selected.</p> - -<p>What tidings for the unfortunate Fairy! She accused the -Fates of cruelty a thousand times! She sighed most sadly; -but after hiding herself for some time at the very bottom of the -water, in order to bewail her misfortune in solitude, the desire -to escape if possible from so urgent a peril, induced her to look -about her in every direction to see if she could not by some -means get out of the reservoir, and regain the river which ran - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_76">[Pg 76]</a></span> -at no great distance from that spot. But the Fairy looked -in vain. The tank was too deep for her to hope to get out -of it without help, and her distress was augmented by seeing -the fishermen who had taken her again approaching. They -began to throw in their nets, and Anguillette, by avoiding -them with great cunning, retarded for a few moments the -death that awaited her. The youngest of the King's daughters -was walking at that time in the meadow. She approached the -tank to amuse herself by seeing the men fish.</p> - -<p>The sun, about to set, shone brilliantly on the water. The -skin of Anguillette, which was very glossy, glittered in its -rays as if partly gilt and of all the colours of the rainbow. -The young Princess caught sight of her, and thinking her -exceedingly beautiful, ordered the fishermen to try and catch -that Eel for her. They obeyed, and the unfortunate Fairy -was speedily placed in the hands of the person who would -decide her fate.</p> - -<p>When the Princess had contemplated Anguillette for a few -moments, she was touched with compassion, and running to -the riverside, put her gently into the water. This unexpected -service filled the Fairy's heart with gratitude. She appeared -on the surface, and said to the Princess, "I owe you my life, -generous Plousine (such was her name), but it is most fortunate -for you that I do so. Be not afraid," she continued, -observing the young Princess about to run away. "I am a -Fairy, and will prove the truth of my words by heaping an -infinite number of favours upon you."</p> - -<p>As people were accustomed in those days to behold Fairies, -Plousine recovered from her first alarm, and listened with -great attention to the agreeable promises of Anguillette. She -even began to answer her; but the Fairy interrupting her, -said, "Wait till you have profited by my favour before you -express your acknowledgments. Go, young Princess, and -return to this spot to-morrow morning. Think, in the meantime, -what you would wish for, and whatever it may be I will -grant it. You may, at your choice, possess the most perfect -and bewitching beauty, the finest and most charming intellect, -or incalculable riches." After these words, Anguillette sank -to the bottom of the river, and left Plousine highly gratified -with her adventure.</p> - -<p>She determined not to tell any one what had befallen her, - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_77">[Pg 77]</a></span> -"For," said she, to herself, "if Anguillette should deceive -me, my sisters will believe that I invented this story."</p> - -<p>After this little reflection, she hastened to rejoin her suite, -which was composed of only a few ladies. She found them -looking for her.</p> - -<p>The young Plousine was occupied all the succeeding night -in thinking what should be her choice. Beauty almost turned -the scale; but as she had sufficient sense to desire still more, -she finally determined to request that favour of the Fairy.</p> - -<p>She rose with the sun, and ran to the meadow under the -pretence of gathering flowers to make a garland, as she said, -to present to the Queen, her mother, at her levée. Her -attendants dispersed themselves about the meadow to cull the -freshest and most beautiful of the flowers with which it was -everywhere enamelled.</p> - -<p>Meanwhile, the young Princess hastened to the riverside, -and found upon the spot where she had seen the Fairy, a -column of white marble, of the most perfect purity. An -instant afterwards, the column opened and the Fairy emerged -from it, and appeared to the Princess no longer as a fish, but -as a tall and beautiful woman, of majestic demeanour, and -whose robes and head-dress were covered with jewels.</p> - -<p>"I am Anguillette," said she to the young Princess, who -gazed upon her with great attention; "I come to fulfil my -promise. You have chosen intellectual perfection, and you shall -possess it from this very moment. You shall have so much -sense as to be envied by those who till now have flattered -themselves they were specially endowed with it."</p> - -<p>The youthful Plousine, at these words, felt a considerable -alteration taking place in her mind. She thanked the Fairy -with an eloquence that till then she had been a stranger to.</p> - -<p>The Fairy smiled at the astonishment the Princess could -not conceal at her own powers of expression. "I am so much -pleased with you," said the benignant Anguillette, "for -making the choice you have done, in lieu of preferring beauty -of person, which has such charms for one of your sex and age, -that to reward you, I will add the gift of that loveliness you -have so prudently foregone. Return hither to-morrow, at -the same hour,—I give you till then to choose the style of -beauty you would possess."</p> - -<p>The Fairy disappeared, and left the young Plousine still - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_78">[Pg 78]</a></span> -more impressed with her good fortune. Her choice of superior -intellect was dictated by reason, but the promise of surpassing -beauty flattered her heart, and that which touches the heart -is always felt most deeply.</p> - -<p>On quitting the riverside, the Princess took the flowers -presented to her by her attendants, and made a very tasteful -garland with them, which she carried to the Queen; but what -was her Majesty's astonishment, that of the King, and of all -the Court, to hear Plousine speak with an elegance and a -fluency which captivated every heart.</p> - -<p>The Princesses, her sisters, vainly endeavoured to contest -her mental superiority; they were compelled to wonder at -and admire it.</p> - -<p>Night came. The Princess, occupied with the expectation -of becoming beautiful, instead of retiring to rest, passed into -a cabinet hung with portraits, in which, under the form of -goddesses, were represented several of the Queens and -Princesses of her family. All these were beauties, and she -indulged a hope that they would assist her in deciding on a -style of beauty worthy to be solicited from a Fairy. The -first that met her sight was a Juno. She was fair and had a -presence such as should distinguish the Queen of the Gods. -Pallas and Venus stood beside her. The subject of the picture -was the Judgment of Paris.</p> - -<p>The noble haughtiness of Pallas excited the admiration of -the young Princess; but the loveliness of Venus almost -decided her choice. Nevertheless, she passed on to the next -picture, in which was seen Pomona reclining on a couch of -turf, beneath trees laden with the finest fruits in the world. -She appeared so charming, that the Princess, who since -morning had become acquainted with all their stories, was -not surprised that a God had taken various forms in order to -please her.</p> - -<p>Diana next appeared, attired as the poets represent her, -the quiver slung behind her, and the bow in her hand. She was -pursuing a stag, and followed by a numerous band of Nymphs.</p> - -<p>Flora attracted her attention a little further off. She -appeared to be walking in a garden, the flowers of which, -although exquisite, could not be compared to the bloom of -her complexion. Next came the Graces, beautiful and enchanting. -This picture was the last in the room.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_79">[Pg 79]</a></span></p> - -<p>But the Princess was struck by that which was over the -mantel-piece. It was the Goddess of Youth. A heavenly air -was shed over her whole person. Her tresses were the fairest -in the world; the turn of her head was most graceful, her -mouth charming, her figure perfectly beautiful, and her eyes -appeared much more likely to intoxicate than the nectar with -which she seemed to be filling a cup.</p> - -<p>"I will wish," exclaimed the young Princess, after she had -contemplated with delight this lovely portrait, "I will wish -to be as beautiful as Hebe, and to remain so as long as -possible."</p> - -<p>After this determination she returned to her bed-chamber, -where the day she awaited seemed to her impatience as if it -would never dawn.</p> - -<p>At length it came, and she hastened again to the riverside. -The Fairy kept her word. She appeared, and threw a -few drops of water in the face of Plousine, who became immediately -as beautiful as she had desired to be.</p> - -<p>Some sea-gods had accompanied the Fairy. Their applause -was the first effect produced by the charms of the fortunate -Plousine. She looked at her image in the water, and could -not recognise herself. Her silence and her astonishment -were for the moment the only indications of her thankfulness.</p> - -<p>"I have fulfilled all your wishes," said the generous Fairy. -"You ought to be content; but I shall not be so if my favours -do not far exceed your desires. In addition to the wit and -beauty I have endowed you with, I bestow on you all the -treasures at my disposal. They are inexhaustible. You have -but to wish whenever you please for infinite wealth, and at -the same moment you will acquire it, not only for yourself, -but for all those you may deem worthy to possess it."</p> - -<p>The Fairy disappeared, and the youthful Plousine, now as -lovely as Hebe, returned to the palace. Everybody who met -her was enchanted. They announced her arrival to the King, -who was himself lost in admiration of her, and it was only by -her voice and her talent that they recognised the amiable -Princess. She informed the King that a Fairy had bestowed -all those precious gifts upon her; and she was no longer called -anything but Hebe, in consequence of her perfect resemblance -to the portrait of that Goddess. What new causes were here -to engender the hatred of her sisters against her! The - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_80">[Pg 80]</a></span> -beauties of her mind had excited their jealousy much less -than those of her person.</p> - -<p>All the Princes who had been attracted by their charms -became faithless to them without the least hesitation. In -like manner were all the other Court beauties abandoned by -their admirers. No tears or reproaches could stop the flight -of those inconstant lovers, and this conduct, which then -appeared so singular, has since, it is said, become a common -custom.</p> - -<p>Hebe inflamed all hearts around her, while her own remained -insensible.</p> - -<p>Notwithstanding the hatred her sisters evinced towards -her, she neglected nothing that she thought might please -them. She wished for so much wealth for the eldest—and -to wish and to give were the same thing to her,—that the -greatest Sovereign in that part of the world requested the -hand of that Princess in marriage, and the nuptials were celebrated -with incredible magnificence. The King, Hebe's -father, desired to take the field with a great army. The -wishes of his beautiful daughter caused him to succeed in all -his enterprises, and his kingdom was filled with such immense -wealth, that he became the most formidable of all the monarchs -in the universe.</p> - -<p>The divine Hebe, however, weary of the bustle of the -Court, was anxious to pass a few months in a pleasant mansion -a short distance from the capital. She had excluded from it -all magnificence, but everything about it was elegant, and of -a charming simplicity. Nature alone had taken care to embellish -the walks, which Art had not been employed to form. -A wood, the paths through which had something wild in their -scenery, intersected by rivulets and little torrents that formed -natural cascades, surrounded this beautiful retreat.</p> - -<p>The youthful Hebe often walked in this solitary wood. -One day, when her heart felt more than usually oppressed -with a tedium and lassitude to which she was now constantly -subject, she endeavoured to ascertain the reason of it. She -seated herself on the turf, beside a rivulet that with gentle -murmur courted meditation.</p> - -<p>"What sorrow is it," she asked herself, "that comes thus -to trouble the excess of my happiness? What Princess in -all the universe is blest with a lot so perfect as mine? The - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_81">[Pg 81]</a></span> -beneficence of the Fairy has accorded me all I wished for. I -can heap treasures upon all who surround me. I am adored -by all who behold me, and my heart is a stranger to every -painful emotion. No! I cannot imagine whence arises the -insupportable weariness which has for some time past detracted -from the happiness of my life."</p> - -<p>The young Princess was incessantly occupied by this reflection. -At length she determined to go to the bank of Anguilette's -river, and endeavour to obtain an interview with her.</p> - -<p>The Fairy, accustomed to indulge her inclinations, appeared -on the surface of the water. It happened to be one of the -days when she was changed into a fish.</p> - -<p>"It always gives me pleasure to see you, young Princess," -said she to Hebe. "I know you have been passing some -time in a very solitary dwelling, and you appear to me in a -languishing state, which does not at all correspond with your -good fortune. What hails you, Hebe? Confide in me." -"There is nothing the matter," replied the young Princess, -with some embarrassment. "You have showered too many -benefits upon me for anything to be wanting to a felicity -which is your own work." "You would deceive me," rejoined -the Fairy; "I see it easily. You are no longer -satisfied. Yet what more can you desire? Deserve my favour -by a frank confession," added the gracious Fairy, "and I -promise you I will again fulfil your wishes." "I know not -what I wish," replied the charming Hebe. "But nevertheless," -she continued, casting down her beautiful eyes, "I feel -a lack of something, and that, whatever it may be, it is that -which is absolutely essential to my happiness." "Ah!" -exclaimed the Fairy, "it is love that you are sighing for. -That passion alone could inspire you with such strange ideas. -Dangerous disposition!" continued the prudent Fairy. "You -sigh for love—you shall experience it. Hearts are but too -naturally disposed to be affected by it. But I warn you that -you will vainly invoke me to deliver you from the fatal -passion you believe to be so sweet a blessing. My power -does not extend so far."</p> - -<p>"I care not," quickly replied the Princess, smiling and -blushing at the same moment. "Alas! of what value to me -are all the gifts you have bestowed upon me, if I cannot in -turn make with them the happiness of another?" The - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_82">[Pg 82]</a></span> -Fairy sighed at these words, and sank to the bottom of the -river.</p> - -<p>Hebe retraced her steps to the wilderness, her heart filled -with a hope which already began to dissipate her melancholy. -The warnings of the Fairy caused her some anxiety; but her -prudent reflections were soon banished by others, as dangerous -as they were agreeable.</p> - -<p>On reaching home she found a courier awaiting her with -a message from the King, commanding her return to the -Court that very day, in order that she might be present at an -entertainment in preparation for the succeeding one. She -took her departure accordingly, a few hours after the receipt -of the message, and returned to the Court, where she was -received with great pleasure by the King and Queen; who -informed her that a foreign Prince, upon his travels, having -arrived there a few days previously, they had determined to -give him a fête, that he might talk in other countries of the -magnificence displayed in their kingdom.</p> - -<p>The youthful Hebe, obeying a presentiment of which she -was unconscious, first inquired of the Princess, her sister, if -the foreigner was handsome. "I never yet saw any one that -could be compared to him," answered the Princess. "Describe, -him to me," said Hebe, with emotion. "He is such as they -paint heroes," replied Ilerie. "His form is graceful; his demeanour -noble; his eyes are full of a fire that has already -made more than one indifferent beauty at this Court acknowledge -their power. He has the finest head in the world; -his hair is dark brown; and the moment he appears, he -absorbs the attention of all beholders."</p> - -<p>"You draw a most charming portrait of him," said the -youthful Hebe; "is it not a little flattered?" "No, sister," -replied the Princess Ilerie, with a sigh she could not suppress. -"Alas! you will find him, perhaps, but too worthy of admiration."</p> - -<p>The Queen retired, and the beautiful Hebe, as soon as she -had time to examine her heart, perceived that she had lost -that tranquillity of which, till now, she had not known the -value.</p> - -<p>"Anguillette!" she exclaimed, as soon as she was alone. -"Alas! what is this object which you have allowed to present -itself to my sight? Your prudent counsels are rendered vain - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_83">[Pg 83]</a></span> -by its presence. Why do you not give me strength enough -to resist such attractive charms? It may be, however, that -their power surpasses that of any Fairy."</p> - -<p>Hebe slept but little that night. She rose very early, and -the thought of how she should dress herself for the fête that -evening occupied her the whole day, to a degree she had been -previously a stranger to, for it was the first time she had felt -an anxiety to please.</p> - -<p>The young foreigner, actuated by the same desire, neglected -nothing that might make him appear agreeable to the eyes of -the charming Hebe. The Princess Ilerie was equally solicitous -of conquest. She possessed a thousand attractions, and when -Hebe was not beside her, she was considered the most beautiful -creature in the world; but Hebe outshone every one. -The Queen gave a magnificent ball that evening; it was succeeded -by a marvellous banquet. The young foreigner would -have been struck by its prodigious splendour, if he could have -looked at anything besides Hebe. After the banquet, a novel -and brilliant illumination shed another daylight over the -palace gardens. It was summer-time; the company descended -into the gardens for the pleasure of an evening promenade. -The handsome foreigner conducted the Queen; but this -honour did not compensate him for being deprived of the -company of his Princess, even for a few moments. The trees -were decorated with festoons of flowers, and the lamps which -formed the illumination were disposed in a manner to represent, -in every direction, bows, arrows, and other weapons of -Cupid, together, in some places, with inscriptions.</p> - -<p>The company entered a little grove, illuminated like the -rest of the gardens, and the Queen seated herself beside a -pleasant fountain, around which had been arranged seats of -turf, ornamented with garlands of pinks and roses. Whilst -the Queen was engaged in conversation with the King and a -host of courtiers that surrounded them, the Princesses amused -themselves by reading the sentences formed by small lamps -under the various devices. The handsome foreigner was at -that moment close to the beautiful Hebe. She turned her eyes -towards a spot in which appeared a shower of darts, and read -aloud these words, which were displayed beneath them:—</p> - -<p class="center font09">"Some are inevitable."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_84">[Pg 84]</a></span></p> - -<p>"They are those which are shot from the eyes of the -divine Hebe," quickly added the Prince, looking at her -tenderly. The Princess heard him, and felt confused; but -the Prince drew from her embarrassment a happy augury for -his love, as it appeared unmingled with anger. The fête terminated -with a thousand delightful novelties. The charms of -the stranger had touched too sensibly the heart of Ilerie for -her to be long without perceiving that he loved another. The -Prince had paid her some attention previous to the arrival of -Hebe at Court; but since he had seen the latter, he had been -wholly engrossed by his passion.</p> - -<p>In the meanwhile the young stranger endeavoured, by every -proof of affection, to touch the heart of the beautiful Princess. -He was devoted, amiable—her fate compelled her to love, and -the Fairy abandoned her to the inclinations of her heart. -What excuses for yielding! She could no longer struggle -against herself. The charming Stranger had informed her that -he was the son of a King, and that his name was Atimir. -This name was known to the Princess. The Prince had performed -wonders in a war between the two kingdoms; and as -they had always been opposed to each other, he had not -chosen to appear at the Court of Hebe's royal father under -his real name.</p> - -<p>The young Princess, after a conversation during which her -heart fully imbibed the sweet and dangerous poison of which -the Fairy had warned her, gave permission to Atimir to disclose -to the King his rank and his love. The young Prince -was transported with delight; he flew to the King's apartments, -and urged his suit with all the eloquence his love -could inspire him with.</p> - -<p>The King conducted him to the Queen. This proposed -marriage, assuring the establishment of a lasting peace between -the two kingdoms, the hand of the beautiful Hebe was promised -to her happy lover as soon as he had received the consent -of the King, his father. The news was soon circulated, -and the Princess Ilerie suffered anguish equal to her jealousy. -She wept—she groaned; but it was necessary to control her -emotion and conceal her vain regrets.</p> - -<p>The beautiful Hebe and Atimir now saw each other continually; -their affection increased daily, and in those happy - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_85">[Pg 85]</a></span> -days the young Princess could not imagine why the Fairies -did not employ all their skill to make mortals fall in love -when they wished to insure their felicity.</p> - -<p>An ambassador from Atimir's royal father arrived at Court. -He had been awaited with the utmost impatience. He was -the bearer of the required consent, and preparations were -immediately commenced for the celebration of those grand -nuptials. Atimir had therefore no longer any reason for -anxiety—a dangerous state for a lover one desires to retain -faithful.</p> - -<p>As soon as the Prince felt certain of his happiness, he -became less ardent. One day that he was on his way to meet -the fair Hebe in the palace gardens, he heard the voices of -females in conversation in a bower of honeysuckles. He -caught the sound of his name, and this awakened his curiosity -to know more. He approached the bower softly, and easily -recognised the voice of the Princess Ilerie. "I shall die -before that fatal day, my dear Cléonice," said she, to a -young person seated beside her. "The gods will not permit -me to behold the ungrateful object of my love united to the -too fortunate Hebe. My torments are too keen to endure -much longer." "But, madam," replied her female companion, -"Prince Atimir is not faithless; he has never avowed -love for you. Destiny alone is to blame for your misfortunes, -and amongst all the princes who adore you, you might find, -perhaps, one more amiable than he is, did not a fatal prepossession -engross your heart." "More amiable than him!" -rejoined Ilerie. "Is there such a being in the universe? -Powerful Fairy!" she added, with a sigh, "of all the blessings -with which you have laden the fortunate Hebe, I but -covet that of Atimir's devoted attachment to her." The -words of the Princess were interrupted by her tears. Ah! -how happy would she have been had she known how much -those tears had moved the heart of Atimir!</p> - -<p>She rose to leave the bower, and the Prince hid himself -behind some trees to escape observation. The tears and the -love of Ilerie had affected him deeply, but he imagined they -were but the emotions of pity which he felt for a beautiful -Princess whom he had unintentionally made so miserable. -He proceeded to join Hebe, and the contemplation of her - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_86">[Pg 86]</a></span> -charms banished for the moment all other thoughts from his -mind. In passing through the gardens, as he returned with -the Princess Hebe to the Palace, he trod upon something -which attracted his attention. He picked it up, and found it -was a set of magnificent tablets. It was not far from the -bower in which he had overheard the conversation of Ilerie -and her attendant. He feared if Hebe saw the tablets, she -would obtain some knowledge of his adventure. He hid them, -therefore, without her having observed them. She happened -at that moment to be occupied in re-adjusting some ornament -in her head-dress.</p> - -<p>That evening Ilerie did not make her appearance in the -Queen's apartments. It was reported that she had felt indisposed -on returning from her walk. Atimir perfectly understood -that her object was to conceal the agitation to which he -had seen her a prey in the bower of honeysuckles. This -reflection increased his compassion for her.</p> - -<p>As soon as he had retired to his own chamber he opened the -tablets he had picked up. On the first leaf he saw a cipher -formed of a double A, crowned with a wreath of myrtle, and -supported by two little Cupids, one of whom appeared to be -wiping the tears from his cheeks with the end of the ribbon -that bandaged his eyes, and the other breaking his arrows. -The sight of this cipher agitated the young Prince. He -knew that Ilerie drew admirably. He turned over the leaf -quickly to gain further information, and on the opposite side -found the following lines:-</p> - -<div class="block1"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">Hither all-conquering Love thy footsteps led;<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">At thy first glance sweet peace my bosom fled;<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">Oh, cruel one, to try on me the dart<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">With which you meant to wound another's heart!<br /></span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p>The handwriting, which he recognised, but too clearly proved -to him that the tablets were those of the Princess Ilerie. He -was affected by the great tenderness of these sentiments, -which far from being nourished by his love and attentions, -were not even encouraged by hope. These verses reminded -him that previous to the arrival of Hebe at Court he had -thought Ilerie lovely. He began to consider himself unfaithful -to that Princess, and he became too seriously so to -the charming Hebe.</p> - -<p>He struggled, however, against these first emotions; but - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_87">[Pg 87]</a></span> -his heart was accustomed to range, and so dangerous a habit -is rarely corrected.</p> - -<p>He threw Ilerie's tablets on a table, resolving not to look -at them any more; but he took them up again a moment -afterwards, despite himself, and found in them a thousand -things which completed the triumph of Ilerie over the divine -Hebe.</p> - -<p>The Prince's heart was occupied all night by conflicting -feelings. In the morning he waited on the King, who named -the day he had fixed on for his marriage with Hebe. Atimir -replied with an embarrassment which the King mistook for a -proof of his passion—(how little do we know of the human -heart!) It was the effect of his inconstancy! The King -desired to visit the Queen; the Prince was obliged to follow -him. He had been there but a short time when the Princess -Ilerie appeared with an air of melancholy which made her -more lovely in the eyes of the inconstant Atimir, who was -aware of its cause. He approached her, and talked to her for -some time. He gave her to understand that he was no longer -ignorant of her affection for him. He spoke with ardour of -his feelings for her. It was too much for Ilerie. Ah! how -is it possible to receive calmly the assurance of so great so -unexpected a happiness.</p> - -<p>The charming Hebe entered the Queen's apartments shortly -afterwards. Her sight brought the blood into the cheeks -both of the Princess Ilerie and of the fickle Atimir. "How -beautiful she is!" exclaimed Ilerie, looking at the Prince with -an emotion she could not conceal. "Avoid her, sir, or end -at once my existence." The Prince had not power to answer -her. Hebe approached them with a grace and charm which -unconsciously loaded with reproaches the ungrateful Atimir. -He could not long endure his position. He quitted the -Princess, saying that he was anxious to despatch a courier to -his father. She was so prepossessed in his favour that she -never noticed some eloquent glances at Ilerie, which he cast -on leaving her.</p> - -<p>While Ilerie triumphed in secret, the beautiful Hebe learned -from the King and Queen that in three days she was to be -the bride of Atimir. How unworthy was he of the sensations -which this news awakened in the heart of the lovely Hebe.</p> - -<p>The faithless Prince, though pre-occupied by his new - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_88">[Pg 88]</a></span> -passion, passed part of the day in Hebe's company. Ilerie was -present, and was a thousand times ready to die with jealousy. -Her love had redoubled since she had entertained hope.</p> - -<p>On returning to his own apartments in the evening, the -Prince was presented with a note by an unknown messenger. -He opened it hastily, and found in it these words:—</p> - -<p>"I yield to a passion a thousand times stronger than my -reason. Since I can no longer attempt to conceal sentiments -which chance has revealed to you, come, Prince, come, and -learn the determination to which I am driven by the love you -have inspired me with. Oh, how happy will it be for me if it -cost me but my life!"</p> - -<p>The bearer of the note informed the Prince that he was -commissioned to conduct him to the spot where the Princess -Ilerie awaited him. Atimir did not hesitate a moment to -follow him, and after several turnings, he was introduced into -a little pavilion at the end of a very dark avenue. The interior -of the pavilion was sufficiently lighted. He found in it -Ilerie with one of her attendants; the rest were walking in -the gardens. When she had retired to this apartment, no -one entered it without her orders. Ilerie was seated on a pile -of cushions of crimson and gold embroidery. Her dress was -rich and elegant, the material being of yellow and silver tissue. -Her hair, which was black and exceedingly beautiful, was ornamented -with ribbons of the same colour as the dress, and ties -of yellow diamonds. At her sight, Atimir could not persuade -himself that infidelity was a crime. He knelt at her feet, and -Ilerie, gazing upon him with a tenderness sufficiently indicative -of the emotion of her heart, said, "Prince, I have not -caused you to come hither in order to persuade you to break -off your marriage; I know too well it is determined upon, and -the expressions with which you have endeavoured to alleviate -my misfortune and flatter my affection do not induce me to -believe that you would abandon Hebe for me; but," she continued, -with a gush of tears, which completed the conquest of -the heart of Atimir, "I will not endure the life which you -have rendered so wretched. I will sacrifice it without regret -to my love, and this poison," she added, showing a little box -which she had in her hand, "will save me from the fearful -torment of seeing you the husband of Hebe."</p> - -<p>"No, beautiful Ilerie!" exclaimed the fickle Prince, "I will - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_89">[Pg 89]</a></span> -never be her husband. I will abandon all for your sake; I love -you a thousand times better than I loved Hebe; and despite -my duty and my faith so solemnly plighted, I am ready to -fly with you to a spot where no obstacle shall exist to our -happiness." "Ah, Prince!" said Ilerie, with a sigh, "can I -confide, then, in one so faithless?" "He will never be faithless -to you," rejoined Atimir. "And the King, your father, -who gave Hebe to me, will not refuse to sanction my union -with the lovely Ilerie, when she is already mine." "Away, -then, Atimir," said the Princess, after a few minutes' silence. -"Let us hasten whither our destiny leads us. Whatever -misery the step entails on me, nothing can weigh against the -sweet delights of loving and being beloved."</p> - -<p>After these words, they consulted together respecting their -flight. There was no time to lose. They determined to depart -the following night. They separated with regret, and, -notwithstanding the vows of Atimir, Ilerie still feared the -power of Hebe's attractions. The rest of that night and all -the next day she was a prey to that anxiety.</p> - -<p>In the meanwhile, the Prince hurriedly gave all the necessary -orders for keeping his departure secret, and the next day, -as soon as everybody in the palace had retired to their apartments, -he hastened to join Ilerie in the pavilion in the garden, -where she awaited him, attended only by Cléonice. They set -out, and made incredible haste to pass the frontiers of the -kingdom.</p> - -<p>The following morning the news was made public, by a -letter which Ilerie had written to the Queen, and another -which Atimir had addressed to the King. They were couched in -touching language, and it was easy to perceive that love had -dictated them. The King and Queen were extremely enraged; -but no words can express the agony of the unfortunate and -charming Hebe. What despair! what tears! what petitions -to the Fairy Anguillette to terminate torments equal to the -most cruel she had predicted! But the Fairy kept her word. -In vain did Hebe seek the riverside. Anguillette did not -appear, and she abandoned herself to all the horrors of desperation. -The Princes who had been discouraged by the -success of the ungrateful Atimir now felt their hopes revive; -but their attentions and professions only increased the torture -of the faithful Hebe.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_90">[Pg 90]</a></span></p> - -<p>The King ardently desired that she should select for herself -a husband, and had several times urged her to do so; but -that duty appeared too cruel to her affectionate heart. She -determined to fly from her father's kingdom; but, before her -departure, she went once more in search of Anguillette. The -Fairy could no longer resist the tears of the beautiful Hebe. -She appeared to her, and at her sight the Princess wept still -more, and had not the power to speak to her.</p> - -<p>"You have now experienced," said the Fairy, "what that -fatal pleasure which I would never willingly have accorded to -you is; but Atimir has too severely punished you, Hebe, for -your neglect of my advice. Go! Fly these scenes, where -everything recalls to you the remembrance of your love. You -will find a vessel on the coast, which will bear you to the -only spot in the world where you can be cured of your unfortunate -attachment; but take care," added Anguillette, raising -her voice, "when your heart shall have regained its tranquillity, -that you never seek to behold again the faithless Atimir, or it -will cost you your life!" Hebe wished more than once to see -that Prince again at whatever price Love might compel her to -pay for that gratification; but a whisper of Reason, and respect -for her own honour, induced her to accept the Fairy's offer. -She thanked her for this last favour, and departed the next -morning for the sea-coast, followed by such of her women as -she had most confidence in.</p> - -<p>She found the vessel Anguillette had promised her. It was -gilt all over. The masts were of marqueterie of the most -admirable pattern; the sails, of rose-colour and silver tissue; -and in every part of it was inscribed the word "Liberty." -The crew were attired in dresses of the same colours as the -sails. All appeared to breathe in this atmosphere the sweet -air of freedom.</p> - -<p>The Princess entered a magnificent cabin. The furniture -was admirable, and the paintings perfect. She was as much -a prey to sorrow in this new abode as she was in her father's -Court. They strove in vain to amuse her by a thousand -pleasures; she was not yet in a state of mind to pay the -slightest attention to them.</p> - -<p>One day while she was contemplating a painting in her -cabin, which represented a landscape, she remarked in it a -young shepherd, who, with a smiling countenance, was depicted - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_91">[Pg 91]</a></span> -cutting nets to set at liberty a great number of birds -that had been caught in them, and some of these little -creatures seemed to be soaring to the skies with marvellous -velocity. All the other pictures displayed similar subjects. -None suggested an idea of love, and all appeared to boast the -charms of Liberty. "Alas!" exclaimed the Princess, sorrowfully, -"will my heart never enjoy that sweet happiness -which reason prays for so often in vain?"</p> - -<p>The unfortunate Hebe thus passed her days, struggling -between her love and her desire to forget it. The ship had -been a month at sea without touching anywhere, when one -morning that the Princess was on deck she saw land at a distance, -which appeared to be that of a very lovely country. -The trees were of surprising height and beauty, and as the -vessel neared them, she perceived they were covered with -birds of the most brilliant plumage, whose songs made a -charming concert. Their notes were very soft, and it appeared -as if they were afraid of making too much noise. They -landed on this beautiful shore. The Princess descended from -the vessel, followed by her women, and from the moment she -breathed the air of this island, some unknown power seemed -to set her heart at rest, and she fell into an agreeable slumber, -which for a short time sealed up her beautiful eyes.</p> - -<p>This pleasant country, to which she was a stranger, was the -Peaceful Island. The Fairy Anguillette, a near relation of -the Princes who reigned in these parts, had conferred upon it, -for two thousand years, the happy power of curing unfortunate -attachments. It is confidently asserted that it still -possesses that power; but the difficulty is to find the -island.</p> - -<p>The Prince who reigned in it at that period, was descended -in a right line from the celebrated Princess Carpillon and her -charming husband, of whom a modern Fairy, wiser and more -polished than those of ancient times, has so gracefully recounted -the wonderful adventures.<a id="FNanchor_8_8"></a><a href="#Footnote_8_8" class="fnanchor">[8]</a></p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_92">[Pg 92]</a></span></p> - -<p>While the fair Hebe enjoyed a repose, the sweetness of which -she had not tasted for six months, the Prince of the Peaceful -Island was taking an airing in the wood that fringed the -shore. He was seated in his car, drawn by four young white -elephants, and surrounded by a portion of his Court. The -sleeping Princess attracted his attention. Her beauty astonished -him. He descended from his car with a haste and -vivacity unusual to his nature. He felt at the sight of her -all the love which the charms of Hebe were worthy to inspire. -The noise awoke her, and on opening her lovely eyes, she was -struck by a thousand beauties in the young Prince. He was -of the same age as Hebe—just nineteen. He was perfectly -handsome, his figure full of grace, his height above the ordinary -standard, and his hair, which fell in rich curls down to his -waist, was of the same colour as Hebe's. His dress was composed -of feathers of a thousand different colours, over which -he wore a sort of mantle, with a train all made of swan's-down, -and fastened on his shoulders by the finest jewels in -the world. His girdle was of diamonds, from which hung by -golden chains a small sabre, the hilt and sheath of which were -entirely covered with rubies. A sort of helmet, made of -feathers like the rest of his attire, crowned his handsome head, -and on one side of it, fastened by a diamond of prodigious -size, was a plume of heron's feathers, which added greatly to -the effect of his appearance.</p> - -<p>The Prince was the first object that presented itself to the -eyes of the young Princess at her waking. He appeared -worthy of her observation, and for the first time in her life she -looked upon another than Atimir with some interest.</p> - -<p>"Everything assures me," said the Prince of the Peaceful -Island to the Princess, "that you can be no other than the -divine Hebe. Alas! who else could possess so many charms?" -"Who, my Lord," replied the young Princess, blushing, as -she rose to her feet, "could have so soon informed you of my -having landed on this island?" "A powerful Fairy," answered -the young monarch, "who, desirous of making me the happiest -Prince in the world, and this country the most fortunate, had -promised to lead you hither, and had even permitted me to -indulge in the proudest hopes; but I am too well aware," he -added, with a sigh, "that my fate depends much more upon -your favour than upon hers."</p> - -<p>After this speech, to which she replied with much propriety, -the Prince requested her to enter his car, that she might be - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_93">[Pg 93]</a></span> -conducted to the palace; and out of respect to her, he would -have declined taking his place in it, but as she had gathered -from his language and his attendants that he was the sovereign -of the island, she insisted on his seating himself beside -her. Never had two such beautiful persons been seen in the -same car. All the Prince's courtiers at the sight involuntarily -burst into a tumult of applause. On the road, the -young Prince entered into conversation with Hebe, with great -animation and tenderness; and the Princess, happy to find -her heart once more at ease, had recovered all her natural -vivacity.</p> - -<p>They reached the palace; it was not far from the sea-coast. -It was approached through long and beautiful avenues, -bordered by canals of running water. It was built entirely -of ivory and roofed with agate.</p> - -<p>The Prince's guards were drawn up in line in all the courts. -In the first, they were clothed with yellow feathers, and -carried quivers, bows and arrows of silver. In the second, -they were all clothed with flame-coloured feathers, and wore -sabres with golden hilts, and sheaths ornamented with turquoises. -The royal party entered the third court, in which -the guards were dressed in white feathers, and held in their -hands demi-lances painted and gilt, and entwined with garlands -of flowers. There was never any war in that country, so that -they did not carry any formidable weapons.</p> - -<p>The Prince, descending from his car, led the lovely Hebe to -a magnificent apartment. His Court was numerous, the -ladies were beautiful; the men gallant and graceful; and -although everybody in the Island was dressed in feathers -only, they evinced so much taste in the arrangement of the -colours, that the effect was very agreeable.</p> - -<p>That evening, the Prince of the Peaceful Island gave a -superb banquet to the beautiful Hebe, which was followed by -a concert of flutes, lutes, theorbos and harpsichords. In -that country they were not fond of any noisy instruments. -The music was very charming; when it had lasted some time, -a very sweet voice sang the following words:—</p> - -<div class="block1"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">Ever to be thy beauty's slave I swear,</span> -<span class="i2 font09">Nor can my heart conceive a happier state</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Than constant bondage in a chain so fair—</span> -<span class="i2 font09">Faithful as fond—on thee depends my fate.</span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_94">[Pg 94]</a></span></p> - -<p>The Prince gazed on Hebe while this tender air was sung, -with an expression which persuaded her that the verses but -declared his own sentiments.</p> - -<p>When the concert was over, the Prince of the Peaceful -Island, as it was late, led the Princess to the apartment selected -for her. It was the most beautiful room in the palace. She -found in it a great many ladies, who had been chosen by the -Prince to have the honour of attending upon her.</p> - -<p>The Prince quitted the beautiful Hebe the most enamoured -of men. The Princess retired to rest, the ladies of the Court -withdrew, and no one remained in the bed-chamber except the -attendants she had brought with her. "Who could have -believed it?" said she to them, as soon as they were left -together, "my heart is tranquil. What deity has appeased -my sufferings? I no longer love Atimir. I can think that -he is the husband of Ilerie without dying of grief. Is not -all this a dream which passes around me? No," she continued, -after a moment's pause; "for even my dreams were -never so free from agitation." She then returned thanks a -thousand times to Anguillette, and fell asleep.</p> - -<p>When she awoke the next morning the Fairy appeared to -her with a gracious smile upon her countenance, which she had -not seen her wear since the fatal day she had requested the -gift of love. "At length," said the kind Fairy, "I have -fortunately brought you hither. Your heart is free, and -therefore it may be happy. I have cured you of a baneful -passion; but, Hebe, may I trust that the fearful torments to -which you have been exposed will sufficiently induce you to -shun for ever those places in which you might chance to meet -the ungrateful Atimir." What promises did not the young -Princess make to the Fairy! How repeatedly did she abjure -love and her faithless lover! "Remember, at least, your -promises," rejoined the Fairy, with an air that inspired -respect. "You will perish with Atimir should you ever seek -again to behold him; but everything around you here ought -to prevent your entertaining a desire so fatal to your existence. -I will no longer conceal from you what I have -determined upon in your favour. The Prince of the Peaceful -Island is my kinsman. I protect him and his empire. He -is young, he is amiable, and no Prince in the world is so -worthy of being your husband. Reign, then, fair Hebe, in - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_95">[Pg 95]</a></span> -his heart and over his realm. Your royal father consents to -your union. I was in his palace yesterday. I informed him -and the Queen of your present position, and they gave me full -power to care for your future fortunes."</p> - -<p>The Princess was greatly tempted to ask the Fairy what -news had been heard of Atimir and Ilerie since her departure, -but she dared not, after so many favours, run the risk of displeasing -her. She employed to thank her all the eloquence -the Fairy had gifted her with.</p> - -<p>Her attendants now entered the chamber, and the Fairy -disappeared. As soon as Hebe had arisen, twelve children of -the most perfect beauty, dressed as Cupids, brought to her -from the Prince twelve crystal baskets, filled with the most -brilliant and fragrant flowers in the world. These flowers -covered sets of jewels of all colours and of marvellous beauty. -In the first basket presented to her, she found a note containing -these lines:—</p> - -<div class="block1"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09"><span class="smcap">To the Divine Hebe.</span></span> -</div><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">That I adored thee yesterday I swore</span> -<span class="i0 font09">An hundred times; and broken ne'er can be</span> -<span class="i0 font09">The vows I uttered from my fond heart's core;</span> -<span class="i0 font09">For Love himself dictated them to me,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">And beauty such as thine ensureth constancy.</span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p>After what the Fairy had ordained, the Princess comprehended -that she ought to receive these attentions from her -new admirer as those of a Prince who was shortly to be her -husband.</p> - -<p>She received the little Cupids very graciously, and they -had scarcely taken their departure, when twenty-four dwarfs, -fancifully, but magnificently attired, appeared, bearing other -presents. They consisted of dresses made entirely of feathers; -but the colours, the work, and the jewels with which they -were ornamented were so beautiful, that the Princess admitted -she had never seen anything so elegant.</p> - -<p>She chose a rose-coloured dress to wear that day. Her -head-dress was composed of plumes of the same colour. She -appeared so charming with these new ornaments, that the -Prince of the Peaceful Island, who came to see her as soon as -she was dressed, felt his passion for her redoubled. All the -Court hastened to admire the Princess. In the evening the - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_96">[Pg 96]</a></span> -Prince proposed to the fair Hebe to descend into the palace -gardens, which were admirably laid out.</p> - -<p>During the promenade, the Prince informed Hebe that the -Fairy had, for the last four years, led him to expect that -Princess's arrival in the Peaceful Island; "but shortly after -that period," added the Prince, "on my pressing her to fulfil -her promise, she appeared distressed, and said to me, 'The -Princess Hebe is destined by her father to another; but if -my science does not deceive me, she will not marry the Prince -who has been chosen for her husband. I will let you know -the issue.' Some months afterwards the Fairy returned to -the island. 'Fate favours you,' said she to me: 'the Prince -who was to have married Hebe will not be her husband, and -in a short time you will behold here the most beautiful -Princess in the world.'"</p> - -<p>"It is true," replied Hebe, blushing, "that I was to have -married the son of a King whose dominions were adjacent to -those of my father; but, after several events, the love he conceived -for the Princess, my sister, induced him to fly with -her from my father's kingdom."</p> - -<p>The Prince of the Peaceful Island said a thousand tender -things to the beautiful Hebe respecting the happy destiny -which, in accordance with the Fairy's desire, had brought the -Princess into his dominions. She listened to him with greater -pleasure, as it interrupted her account of her own adventures, -for she feared she could not speak of her faithless lover without -the Prince's observing how great had been her affection -for him.</p> - -<p>The Prince of the Peaceful Island led Hebe into a grotto, -highly decorated, and embellished by wonderful fountains. -The further end of the grotto was dark; there were a great -many niches in it, filled with statues of nymphs and shepherds, -but they could scarcely be distinguished in the obscurity. As -soon as the Princess had remained a few minutes in the -grotto, she heard some agreeable music. A sudden and very -brilliant illumination disclosed to her that it was a portion of -these statues who were performing this music, whilst the rest -advanced, and danced before her a very elegant and well-conceived -ballet. It was intermixed with sweet and tender -songs.</p> - -<p>They had placed all the actors in this divertissement in - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_97">[Pg 97]</a></span> -the depths of the grotto, to surprise the Princess more -agreeably.</p> - -<p>After the ballet wild men appeared, and served up a superb -collation under an arbour of jasmine and orange flowers.</p> - -<p>The entertainment had nearly reached its termination, -when suddenly the Fairy Anguillette appeared in the air, -seated in a car drawn by four monkeys. She descended, and -announced to the Prince of the Peaceful Island a delightful -piece of good fortune, by apprising him that it was her desire -he should become the husband of Hebe, and that that beautiful -Princess had promised her consent.</p> - -<p>The Prince, transported with joy, was uncertain at the -moment whether his first thanks were due to Hebe or to -Anguillette; and although joy does not inspire one with such -affecting expressions as sorrow, he nevertheless acquitted -himself with much talent and grace.</p> - -<p>The Fairy determined not to leave the Prince and Princess -before the day fixed for their union. It was to be in three -days. She made superb presents to the fair Hebe and to the -Prince of the Peaceful Island, and at length, on the day she -had named, they repaired, followed by their whole Court and -an infinite number of the inhabitants of the Island, to the -temple of Hymen.</p> - -<p>It was constructed simply of branches of olive and palmtrees -interlaced, and which, by the power of the Fairy, never -withered.</p> - -<p>Hymen was therein represented by a statue of white marble, -crowned with roses, elevated on an altar, decorated only with -flowers, and leaning on a little Cupid of exquisite beauty, who, -with a smiling countenance, presented to him a crown of -myrtle.</p> - -<p>Anguillette, who had erected this temple, resolved that -everything in it should be marked by the greatest simplicity, -to show that love alone could render Hymen happy. The -difficulty is to unite them. As it was a miracle worthy the -power of a Fairy, she had joined them indissolubly in the -Peaceful Island, and, contrary to the custom in other kingdoms, -one could there be married, and remain fond and -faithful.</p> - -<p>In this temple of Hymen the fair Hebe, led by Anguillette, -plighted her troth to the Prince of the Peaceful Island, and - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_98">[Pg 98]</a></span> -received his vows with pleasure. She did not feel for him -the same involuntary inclination which she had done for -Atimir; but her heart, being at that moment free from -passion, she received this husband, by command of the Fairy, -as a Prince worthy of her by his personal merit, and still more -so by the affection he bore to her.</p> - -<p>The marriage was celebrated by a thousand splendid entertainments, -and Hebe found herself happy with a Prince who -adored her.</p> - -<p>In the meanwhile the King, Hebe's father, had received -some ambassadors from Atimir, who sent them to request -permission for him to espouse Ilerie. The King, Atimir's -father, was dead, and that Prince was consequently absolute -master in his own country. The hand of the Princess he -had carried off was accorded to him with joy. After the -marriage Queen Ilerie sent other ambassadors to her royal -parents to request permission for her to revisit their Court, -and to obtain their forgiveness for the fault which love had -caused her to commit, and which the merit of Atimir might -be pleaded in excuse of. The King consented, and Atimir -proceeded to the Palace with his bride. A thousand entertainments -marked the day of their arrival. Shortly afterwards -the fair Hebe and her charming husband sent ambassadors -also to the King and Queen, to announce their -marriage to them. Anguillette had already informed them -of the event, but they did not on that account receive the -ambassadors with less delight or distinction.</p> - -<p>Atimir was with the King when they were introduced to -their first audience. The lovely form of Hebe could never be -effaced from a heart in which she had reigned with such -supreme power. Atimir sighed, in spite of himself, at the -recital of the happiness of the Prince of the Peaceful Island. -He even accused Hebe of being inconstant, forgetting how -much reason he had given her for becoming so.</p> - -<p>The ambassadors of the Prince of the Peaceful Island -returned to their sovereign laden with honours and presents. -They related to the Princess how much delight the King and -Queen had manifested at the tidings of her happy marriage. -But, oh! too faithful chroniclers, they informed her at the -same time that the Princess Ilerie and Atimir were at the -Court. These names, so dangerous to her peace, renewed her - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_99">[Pg 99]</a></span> -anxiety. She was happy; but can mortals command uninterrupted -felicity?</p> - -<p>She could not resist her impatience to return to the Court -of the King, her father. It was only, she said, to see once -more him and her mother. She believed this herself; and how -often, when we are in love, do we mistake our own feelings!</p> - -<p>Notwithstanding the threats uttered by the Fairy, in order -to prevent her from revisiting the spot where she might again -behold Atimir, she proposed this voyage to the Prince of the -Peaceful Island. At first he refused. Anguillette had forbidden -him to let Hebe go out of his dominions. She -continued to press him. He adored her, and was ignorant of -the passion she had formerly entertained for Atimir. Is it -possible to refuse anything to those we love?</p> - -<p>He hoped to please Hebe by his blind obedience. He gave -orders for their departure, and never was there seen such -magnificence as was displayed in his equipage and on board -his vessels.</p> - -<p>The sage Anguillette, indignant at the little respect paid -by Hebe and the Prince of the Peaceful Island to her instructions, -abandoned them to their destiny, and did not make her -appearance to renew the prudent advice by which they had so -little profited.</p> - -<p>The Prince and Princess embarked, and after a very -prosperous voyage, arrived at the Court of Hebe's father. -The King and Queen were extremely delighted to behold -once more that dear Princess. They were charmed with the -Prince of the Peaceful Island: they celebrated the arrival of -the royal pair by a thousand entertainments throughout the -kingdom. Ilerie trembled on hearing of the return of Hebe. -It was decided that they should meet, and that no reference -whatever should be made to past events.</p> - -<p>Atimir requested to be allowed to see Hebe. It appeared -to Ilerie, indeed, that he preferred his request with a little -too much eagerness.</p> - -<p>The Princess Hebe blushed when he entered her apartment, -and they both felt an embarrassment out of which -all their presence of mind could not extricate them.</p> - -<p>The King, who was present, remarked it. He joined in -their conversation; and to render the visit shorter, proposed -to the Princess to descend into the Palace Gardens.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_100">[Pg 100]</a></span></p> - -<p>Atimir dared not offer his hand to Hebe. He bowed to her -respectfully, and retired.</p> - -<p>But what thoughts and what feelings did he not carry -away with him in his heart! All the deep and tender passion -he had formerly felt for Hebe was rekindled in a moment. -He hated Ilerie; he hated himself. Never was infidelity followed -by so much repentance, nor by so much suffering.</p> - -<p>In the evening he went to the Queen's apartments. The -Princess Hebe was there. He had no eyes but for her. He -sought assiduously for an opportunity of speaking to her. -She continued to avoid him; but her glances were too clearly -comprehended by him for his peace. He persisted for some -time in compelling her to observe that her eyes had regained -their former empire over him.</p> - -<p>Hebe's heart was alarmed by it. Atimir appeared to her -still too charming. She determined to shun him as carefully -as he sought her. She never spoke to him but in presence -of the Queen, and then only when she could not possibly avoid -it. She resolved also to advise the Prince of the Peaceful -Island to return speedily to his own kingdom. But with what -difficulty do we endeavour to fly from those we love!</p> - -<p>One evening that she was reflecting on this subject, she -shut herself up in her cabinet, in order to indulge in her -musings without interruption. She found in her pocket a -note, which had been slipped into it unperceived by her, and -the handwriting of Atimir, which she recognised, threw her -into an agitation which cannot be described. She considered -she ought not to read it; but her heart triumphed over her -reason, and opening it she found these lines:—</p> - -<div class="block1"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">No more my love can to your heart appeal—</span> -<span class="i0 font09">For me indifference alone you feel.</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Your heart, fair Hebe, faithless is in turn,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">So soon my fatal falsehood could it learn.</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Alas, why can you not, with equal speed,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Back to its early faith the truant lead?</span> -</div><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">The happy time is past when Hebe fair,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Love's pains and pleasures deigned with me to share.</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Both have their fetters broken, it is true,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">But I my bondage hasten to renew.</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Alas! for my sad fault must I atone,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">By languishing in this sweet chain alone?</span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p>"Ah, cruel one!" exclaimed the Princess. "What have I -done to you that you seek to rekindle in my soul a passion - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_101">[Pg 101]</a></span> -which has cost me so much agony?" The tears of Hebe -interrupted her utterance.</p> - -<p>In the meanwhile Ilerie was tortured by a jealousy which -was but too well founded. Atimir, carried away by his passion, -lost all control over himself. The Prince of the Peaceful -Island began to perceive his attachment to Hebe; but he was -desirous of examining more narrowly the conduct of Atimir -before he spoke to the Princess on the subject. He adored -her with unabating constancy, and feared by his remarks to -draw her attention to the passion of his rival.</p> - -<p>A few days after Hebe had received Atimir's note, a tournament -was proclaimed. The Princes, and all the young noblemen -of the Court, were invited to break a lance in honour of -the ladies.</p> - -<p>The King and Queen honoured the tournament with their -presence. The fair Hebe and the Princess Ilerie were to confer -the prizes with their own hands. One was a sword, the -hilt and sheath of which were entirely covered with jewels of -extraordinary beauty. The other, a bracelet of brilliants of -the finest water.</p> - -<p>All the knights entered for the lists made their appearance -with marvellous magnificence, and mounted on the finest -horses in the world. Each wore the colours of his mistress, -and on their shields were pictured gallant devices, expressive -of the sentiments of their hearts.</p> - -<p>The Prince of the Peaceful Island was superbly attired, and -rode a dun-coloured horse with black mane and tail of incomparable -beauty. In all his appointments rose colour was predominant. -It was the favourite colour of Hebe. An ample -plume of the same hue floated above his light helmet. He -drew down the applause of all the spectators, and looked so -handsome in his brilliant armour, that Hebe mentally reproached -herself a thousand times for entertaining such feelings -as the unhappiness of another had inspired her with.</p> - -<p>The retinue of the Prince of the Peaceful Island was numerous. -They were all attired according to the fashion of their -country. Everything around him was elegant and costly. -An esquire bore his shield, and all were eager to examine the -device.</p> - -<p>It was a heart pierced with an arrow; a little Cupid was -depicted shooting many others at it to inflict fresh wounds, - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_102">[Pg 102]</a></span> -but all except the first appeared to have been shot in vain. -Beneath were these words:—</p> - -<p class="center font09">"I fear no others."</p> - -<p>The colour and the device of the Prince of the Peaceful -Island, rendered it obvious that it was as the champion of the -fair Hebe he had chosen to enter the lists.</p> - -<p>The spectators were still admiring his magnificent array, -when Atimir appeared, mounted on a proud and fiery steed, -entirely black. The prevailing colour of the dress he had -assumed for that day was what is usually termed "dead-leaf," -unadorned with gold, silver, or jewels; but on his helmet -he wore a tuft of rose-coloured feathers, and although he -affected great negligence in his attire, he was so handsome, -and bore himself so proudly, that from the moment he entered -the lists no one looked at anything else. On his shield, which -he carried himself, was painted a Cupid trampling upon some -chains, while at the same time he was loading himself with -others that were heavier. Around the figure were these -words:—</p> - -<p class="center font09">"These alone are worthy of me."</p> - -<p>The train of Atimir were attired in dead-leaf and silver, -and on them he had showered jewels. It was composed of -the principal noblemen of his Court, and although they were -all fine-looking men, it was easy to see by the air of Atimir -that he was born to command them. It is impossible to -describe the various emotions which the sight of Atimir -awakened in the hearts of Hebe and Ilerie, and the poignant -jealousy which the Prince of the Peaceful Island felt when he -saw floating over the helmet of Atimir, a plume of the same -colour as his own.</p> - -<p>The motto of his device kindled his anger into a fury, -which he controlled for the moment, only to choose a better -time to vent it on his rival.</p> - -<p>The King and Queen saw clearly enough the audacity and -imprudence of Atimir, and were exceedingly angry with him; -but it was not the time to show it.</p> - -<p>The tilting was commenced amidst a flourish of trumpets -which rent the air. It was exceedingly good. All the young -knights made proof of their skill. The Prince of the Peaceful - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_103">[Pg 103]</a></span> -Island, although a prey to his jealousy, signalized himself -particularly, and remained conqueror.</p> - -<p>Atimir, who was aware that the prize for the first encounter -would be given by Ilerie, did not present himself to dispute -the victory with the Prince of the Peaceful Island. The -judges of the field declared the latter victor; and, amidst -the acclamation and applause of all the spectators, he advanced -with the greatest possible grace to the spot where the -Royal Family were seated, to receive the diamond bracelet.</p> - -<p>The Princess Ilerie presented it to him. He received it -with due respect, and having saluted the King, Queen, and -Princesses, returned to his place in the lists.</p> - -<p>The mournful Ilerie had too clearly observed the contempt -with which the fickle Atimir had treated the prize destined to -be accorded by her hand. She sighed sadly, while the fair -Hebe felt a secret joy which reason vainly endeavoured to -stifle in her heart. Other courses were run with results -similar to those which had preceded them. The Prince of -the Peaceful Island, animated by the presence of Hebe, -performed wonders, and was a second time conqueror; but -Atimir, weary of beholding the glory of his rival, and flattered -by the idea of receiving the prize from the hand of Hebe, -presented himself at the opposite end of the lists.</p> - -<p>The rivals gazed at each other fiercely, and the impending -encounter between two such great Princes was distinguished -by the fresh agitation which it excited in the two Princesses. -The Princes ran their course with equal advantage. Each -broke his lance fairly without swerving in his saddle. The -acclamations were redoubled, and the Princes, without giving -their horses time to breathe, returned to their places, received -fresh lances, and ran a second course with the same address as -the first. The King, who feared to see Fortune give the -victory to either of these rivals, and in order to spare the -feelings of both, sent in all haste to them to say that they -ought to be satisfied with the glory they had acquired, and -to request them to let the tilting terminate for that day with -the course they had just run.</p> - -<p>The King's messenger having approached them, they -listened with impatience to the royal request, particularly -Atimir, who, seizing the first opportunity to reply, said, "Go, -tell the King that I should be unworthy the honour he does - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_104">[Pg 104]</a></span> -me in taking an interest in my glory, if I could remain satisfied -without conquest."</p> - -<p>"Let us see," rejoined the Prince of the Peaceful Island, -clapping spurs to his horse, "who best deserves the esteem of -the King and the favours of Fortune!"</p> - -<p>The King's messenger had not retraced his steps to the -royal balcony before the two rivals, animated by stronger -feelings than the mere desire to carry off the prize of the joust, -had met in full career.</p> - -<p>Fortune favoured the audacious Atimir: he was the conqueror. -The horse of the Prince of the Peaceful Island, -fatigued with the many severe courses he had run, fell, and -rolled his master in the dust.</p> - -<p>What joy for Atimir! and what fury for the unfortunate -Prince of the Peaceful Island! Leaping to his feet again -instantly, and advancing to his rival before any one could -reach to part them,—"Thou hast conquered me in these -games, Atimir," said he, with an air which sufficiently expressed -his wrath, "but it is with the sword that our quarrel -must be decided." "Willingly," replied the haughty Atimir. -"I will await thee to-morrow at sunrise in the wood that -borders the palace gardens." The Judges of the Field joined -them as these last words were uttered, and the Princes -mutually affected unconcern, for fear the King should suspect -and frustrate their intentions. The Prince of the Peaceful -Island remounted his horse, and rode with all the speed -he could urge it to, from the fatal spot where he had been -defeated by Atimir. In the meanwhile that Prince proceeded -to receive the prize of the joust from the hand of Hebe, who -presented it to him with a confusion sufficiently betraying the -conflicting emotions in her bosom; while Atimir, in receiving -it, displayed all the extravagancies of a passionate lover.</p> - -<p>The King and Queen, who kept their eyes upon him, could -not fail to observe this, and returned to the Palace much discontented -with the termination of the day. Atimir, occupied -only by his passion, left the lists, forbidding any of his train -to accompany him; and Ilerie, smarting with grief and -jealousy, retired to her apartments.</p> - -<p>What then were the feelings of Hebe! "I must depart," -she said to herself. "What other remedy is there for the -evil I anticipate?"</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_105">[Pg 105]</a></span></p> - -<p>In the meanwhile, the King and the Queen determined to -request Atimir would return to his own dominions, to avoid the -painful consequences which his love might entail upon them. -They resolved also to make the same proposition to the Prince -of the Peaceful Island, in order not to show any preference for -either; but ah! too tardy prudence! whilst they were deliberating -how best to secure the departure of the two Princes, -the rivals were preparing to meet in mortal combat.</p> - -<p>Hebe, on returning from the lists, immediately inquired for -the Prince of the Peaceful Island. She was answered that he -was in the palace gardens; that he had desired he might not -be followed, and that he appeared very melancholy. The fair -Hebe thought it was her duty to seek and console him for the -slight mischances which had happened to him, and therefore, -without staying a moment in her own apartment, descended -into the gardens, followed only by a few of her women.</p> - -<p>In the course of her search for the Prince of the Peaceful -Island, she entered a shady alley, and came suddenly on the -enamoured Atimir, who, transported by his passion, and listening -only to its promptings, threw himself on his knees at a -short distance from the Princess, and drawing the sword -which he had that day received from her hand, exclaimed, -"Hear me, beautiful Hebe! or see me die at your feet!"</p> - -<p>Hebe's attendants, terrified by the actions of the Prince, -rushed upon him, and endeavoured to force from his grasp -the sword, the point of which he had directed towards himself -with desperate resolution. Hebe, the unhappy Hebe, would -have flown from the spot; but how many reasons concurred -to detain her near him she loved!</p> - -<p>The desire to suppress the scandal this adventure might -create; the intention to implore Atimir to endeavour to stifle -a passion which was so perilous to them; the pity naturally -awakened by so affecting an object,—everything, in short, -conspired to arrest her flight. She approached the Prince. -Her presence suspended his fury. He let fall his sword at -the feet of the Princess. Never was so much agitation, so -much love, so much anguish, displayed in an interview that -lasted but a few minutes. No words can express the feelings -of those wretched lovers during that brief period. Hebe, -alarmed at finding herself in the company of Atimir, almost, -perhaps, in sight of the Prince of the Peaceful Island, made a - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_106">[Pg 106]</a></span> -great effort to depart, and left him with a command never to -see her more. What an order for Atimir! But for the recollection -of the combat to which he had been challenged by the -Prince of the Peaceful Island, he would have turned his sword -an hundred times against his own breast; but he trusted to -perish in revenging himself on his rival.</p> - -<p>In the meanwhile, the fair Hebe shut herself up in her own -chamber, to avoid more surely the sight of Atimir. "Relentless -Fairy," she cried, "thou didst only predict my death as -the consequence of my again beholding this unhappy Prince; -but the tortures I suffer are a much more dreadful penalty." -Hebe sent her attendants to seek for the Prince of the Peaceful -Island in the gardens, and throughout the Palace; but he -was nowhere to be found, and she became extremely anxious -on his account. They hunted for him all night long, but in -vain, for he had concealed himself in a little rustic building -in the middle of the wood, to be more certain that no one -could prevent his proceeding to the spot fixed on for the -combat. He was on the ground at sunrise, and Atimir -arrived a few minutes afterwards. The two rivals, impatient -for revenge and victory, drew their swords. It was the first -time the Prince of the Peaceful Island had wielded his in -earnest, for war was unknown in his island.</p> - -<p>He proved, however, not a less redoubtable antagonist on -that account to Atimir. He had little skill, but much bravery, -and great love. He fought like a man who set no value on -his life, and Atimir worthily sustained in this combat the high -reputation he had previously acquired. The Princes were -animated by too many vindictive feelings for their encounter -not to terminate fatally. After having fought with equal -advantage for a considerable period, they dealt each other at -the same instant so furious a blow, that both fell to the earth -which was speedily red with their blood.</p> - -<p>The Prince of the Peaceful Island fainted with the loss of -his; and Atimir, mortally wounded, uttered but the name of -Hebe as he expired for her sake.</p> - -<p>One of the parties in search of the Prince of the Peaceful -Island arrived on the spot, and were horror-struck at the sight -of this cruel spectacle.</p> - -<p>The Princess Hebe, urged by her anxiety, had descended -into the gardens. She hastened towards the place from - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_107">[Pg 107]</a></span> -whence she heard the exclamations of her people, who uttered -in confusion the names of the two Princes, and beheld these -fatal and affecting objects. She believed the Prince of the -Peaceful Island was dead as well as Atimir, and at that moment -there was little difference to be distinguished between them. -"Precious lives," exclaimed Hebe, despairingly, after gazing -for an instant on the unfortunate Princes,—"precious lives, -which have been sacrificed for me; I hasten to avenge you -by the termination of my own!" With these words she flung -herself upon the fatal sword Atimir had received from her -hands, and buried the point in her bosom before her people, -astonished at this dreadful scene, had power to prevent her.</p> - -<p>She expired, and the Fairy Anguillette, moved by so much -misery despite of all the obstacles her science had enabled her -to raise, appeared on the spot which had witnessed the destruction -of these beautiful beings. The Fairy upbraided Fate, and -could not restrain her tears. Then hastening to succour the -Prince of the Peaceful Island, who she knew was still breathing, -she healed his wound, and transported him in an instant to -his own island, where, by the miraculous power she had conferred -on it, the Prince consoled himself for his loss, and forgot -his passion for Hebe.</p> - -<p>The King and Queen, who had not the advantage of such -assistance, gave themselves up entirely to their sorrow; and -time only brought them consolation. As to Ilerie, nothing -could exceed her despair. She remained constant to her grief, -and to the memory of the ungrateful Atimir.</p> - -<p class="pmb3">Meanwhile, Anguillette, having transported the Prince of -the Peaceful Island to his dominions, touched with her wand -the sad remains of the charming Atimir and the lovely Hebe. -At the same instant they were transformed into two trees of -the most perfect beauty. The Fairy gave them the name of -<i>Charmes</i>,<a id="FNanchor_9_9"></a><a href="#Footnote_9_9" class="fnanchor">[9]</a> to preserve for ever the remembrance of the charms -which had been so brilliantly displayed in the persons of these -unfortunate lovers.</p> - - -<p class="break" /> -<div class="footnotes"><b>FOOTNOTES:</b> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_8_8"></a><a href="#FNanchor_8_8"><span class="label">[8]</span></a> This compliment, so deservedly paid to the Countess d'Aulnoy, proves -that this story was written after the production of that lady's popular fairy -tale entitled "La Princesse Carpillon."</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_9_9"></a><a href="#FNanchor_9_9"><span class="label">[9]</span></a> <i>Charmes</i> is the French name for that species of elm called the yok -elm.</p></div></div> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_108">[Pg 108]</a></span></p> - - -<h3 class="no-break" id="YOUNG_AND_HANDSOME">YOUNG AND HANDSOME.</h3> - - -<p>Once on a time there was a potent Fairy, who endeavoured -to resist the power of Love; but the little god was more potent -than the Fairy. He touched her heart without even employing -all his power. A handsome Knight arrived at the Court -of the Fairy in search of adventures. He was amiable, the -son of a king, and had acquired renown by a thousand noble -achievements. His worth was known to the Fairy. Fame -had wafted the report of it even into her dominions.</p> - -<p>The person of the young Prince corresponded so entirely -with his high reputation, that the Fairy, moved by so many -charms, accepted in a very short time the proposals which the -handsome Knight made to her. The Fairy was beautiful, -and he was sincerely in love with her. She married him, and -by that marriage made him the richest and most powerful -King in the world. They lived a long time most happily -together after their union.</p> - -<p>The Fairy grew old, and the King, her husband, although -he kept pace with her in years, ceased to love her as soon as -her beauty had departed. He attached himself to some young -beauties of his Court, and the Fairy was tormented by a -jealousy which proved fatal to several of her rivals. She had -had but one daughter by her marriage with the handsome -Knight. She was the object of all her tenderness, and was -worthy of the affection lavished on her.</p> - -<p>The Fairies, who were her relations, had endowed her from -her birth with the finest intelligence, the sweetest beauty, -and with graces still more charming than beauty. Her -dancing surpassed anything that had ever been seen, and her -voice subdued all hearts.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_109">[Pg 109]</a></span></p> - -<p>Her form was perfect symmetry. Without being too tall, -her appearance was noble. Her hair was of the most beautiful -black in the world. Her mouth small and exquisitely formed, -her teeth of surprising whiteness. Her lovely eyes were -black, sparkling, and expressive, and never did glances so -piercing and yet so tender awaken love in the bosoms of all -beholders.</p> - -<p>The Fairy had named her Young and Handsome. She had -not as yet endowed her herself. She had postponed that -favour in order to judge the better in process of time by what -sort of benefit she could ensure the happiness of a child that -was so dear to her.</p> - -<p>The King's inconstancies were an eternal source of affliction -to the Fairy. The misfortune of ceasing to be loved induced -her to believe that the most desirable of blessings was to be -always lovely. And this, after a thousand reflections, was -the gift she bestowed on Young and Handsome. She was then -just sixteen: and the Fairy employed all her science in the -formation of a spell which should enable the Princess to -remain for ever exactly as she appeared at that moment. -What greater benefit could she bestow on Young and Handsome -than the happiness of never ceasing to be like herself? -The Fairy lost the King, her husband, and although he had been -long unfaithful to her, his death caused her such deep sorrow, -that she resolved to abandon her empire, and to retire to a -castle which she had built in a country quite a desert, and -surrounded by so vast a forest that the Fairy alone could find -her way through it.</p> - -<p>This resolution sadly afflicted Young and Handsome. She -wished not to quit her mother; but the Fairy peremptorily -commanded her to remain; and before she returned to her -wilderness, she assembled in the most beautiful palace in the -world all the pleasures and sports she had long banished, and -composed from them a Court for Young and Handsome, who -in this agreeable company gradually consoled herself for the -absence of the Fairy.</p> - -<p>All the Kings and Princes who considered themselves -worthy of her (and in those days people flattered themselves -much less than they do now) came in crowds to the Court of -Young and Handsome, and endeavoured by their attentions -and their professions to win the heart of so lovely a Princess.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_110">[Pg 110]</a></span></p> - -<p>Never had anything equalled the magnificence and amusements -of the palace of Young and Handsome. Each day -was distinguished by some new entertainment. Everybody -composing it was happy, except her lovers, who adored her -without hope. She looked with favour upon none; but they -saw her daily, and her most indifferent glances were sufficiently -attractive to detain them there for ever.</p> - -<p>One day Young and Handsome, content with the prosperity -and popularity of her reign, wandered into a pleasant wood, -followed only by some of her nymphs, the better to enjoy the -charm of solitude. Absorbed by agreeable reflections, (what -could she think of that would not be agreeable?) she emerged -from the wood unconsciously, and walked towards a charming -meadow enamelled with thousands of flowers.</p> - -<p>Her beautiful eyes were occupied in contemplating a hundred -various and pleasing objects, when they lighted in turn -on a flock of sheep which was quietly feeding in the meadow -on the bank of a little brook that murmured sweetly as it -rippled over the pebbles in its path. It was overshadowed by -a tuft of trees. A young shepherd, stretched on the grass -beside the rivulet, was calmly sleeping; his crook was leaning -against a tree, and a pretty dog, which appeared to be more a -favourite of its master than the guardian of his flock, lay -close to the shepherd.</p> - -<p>Young and Handsome approached the brook, and cast her -eyes upon the youth. What a beautiful vision! Cupid -himself sleeping in the arms of Psyche did not display such -charms.</p> - -<p>The young Fairy stood gazing, and could not restrain some -gestures of admiration, which were quickly succeeded by more -tender emotions. The handsome shepherd appeared to be -about eighteen, of a commanding form; his brown hair, -naturally curling, fell in wavy locks upon his shoulders, and -was in perfect harmony with the most charming face in the -world. His eyes, closed in slumber, concealed from the Fairy, -beneath their lids, new fires reserved by Love to redouble her -passion for the shepherd.</p> - -<p>Young and Handsome felt her heart agitated by an emotion -to which it had hitherto been a stranger, and it was no longer -in her power to stir from the spot.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_111">[Pg 111]</a></span></p> - -<p>Fairies possess the same privilege as goddesses. They love -a shepherd when he is loveable, just as if he were the greatest -monarch in the universe. For all classes of mortals are equally -beneath them.</p> - -<p>Young and Handsome found too much pleasure in her new -sensations to endeavour to combat them. She loved fondly, -and from that moment only indulged in the happy idea of -being loved in return. She did not dare to wake the handsome -shepherd, for fear he should remark her agitation; and -pleasing herself with the notion of discovering her love for -him in a gallant and agreeable manner. She rendered herself -invisible to enjoy the astonishment she was about to cause -him.</p> - -<p>Immediately arose a strain of enchanting music. What an -exquisite symphony! It went straight to the heart. The -delicious sound awoke Alidor (such was the name of the -handsome shepherd), who for some moments imagined he was -in an agreeable dream; but what was his surprise when, on -rising from the grass on which he had been lying, he found -himself attired in the most tasteful and magnificent fashion. -The colours of his dress were yellow and grey, laced with -silver. His wallet was embroidered all over with the initials -of Young and Handsome, and suspended by a band of flowers. -His crook was of the most marvellous workmanship, ornamented -with precious stones of different colours set in elegant -devices. His hat was composed entirely of jonquils and blue -hyacinths most ingeniously woven together.</p> - -<p>Delighted and astonished at his new attire, he gazed at -himself reflected in the neighbouring stream. Young and -Handsome, meanwhile, feared an hundred times for him the -fate of the beautiful Narcissus.</p> - -<p>The wonder of Alidor was still further increased at seeing -his sheep covered with silk whiter than snow, in lieu of their -ordinary fleeces, and adorned with a thousand knots of -ribbons of various colours.</p> - -<p>His favourite ewe was more decorated than any of the -others. She came skipping over the grass to him, appearing -proud of her ornaments.</p> - -<p>The shepherd's pretty dog had a golden collar, on which -bands of small emeralds formed these four lines:—</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_112">[Pg 112]</a></span></p> - -<div class="block1"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">Alas! how many fears and doubts alarm</span> -<span class="i0 font09">The maiden who on love her hopes would rest;</span> -<span class="i0 font09">A look, a word, her youthful heart may charm,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">But constancy alone can make it blest.</span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p>The handsome shepherd judged by these verses that he -was indebted to Love for his agreeable adventure. The sun, -by this time, had set. Alidor, absorbed in a delightful reverie, -bent his steps towards his cottage. He did not observe -any change in its exterior, but he had scarcely crossed the -threshold when a delicious fragrance announced to him some -agreeable novelty. He found the walls of his little hut hung -with a tissue of jasmine and orange flowers. The curtains of -his bed were of the same materials, looped up by garlands of -pinks and roses. An agreeable atmosphere kept all these -flowers perfectly fresh and beautiful.</p> - -<p>The floor was of porcelain, on which were represented the -stories of all the goddesses who had been in love with -shepherds. Alidor observed this;—he was very intelligent. -The shepherds of that country were not ordinary shepherds. -Some of them were descended from Kings or great Princes, -and Alidor could trace his pedigree up to a Sovereign who -had long sat on the throne of those realms before they -became a portion of the dominions of the Fairies.</p> - -<p>Up to this period the handsome shepherd had been insensible -to the charms of Love; but he now began to feel, even -without having as yet distinguished the particular object, -that his young heart burned to surrender itself a prisoner. -He was dying with impatience to become acquainted with -the Goddess or Fairy who had bestowed upon him such -tasteful and beautiful proofs of her affection. He paced his -chamber with a sweet anxiety which he had never before -experienced. As night fell, an agreeable illumination appeared -to shed a new daylight throughout the cottage. The -musings of Alidor were interrupted by the sight of a rich -and delicate banquet, which was served up to him by invisible -hands. "What!" exclaimed the shepherd, smiling; "still -new pleasures, and no one to partake them with me?" His -little dog attempted to play with him, but he was too much -pre-occupied to encourage his gambols.</p> - -<p>Alidor seated himself at the table. A little Cupid appeared -and presented him with wine in a cup made of one entire - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_113">[Pg 113]</a></span> -diamond. The shepherd made a tolerable supper for the -hero of such adventures. He endeavoured to question the -little Cupid; but, instead of answering, the boy shot arrows -at him, which, the moment they struck, became drops of -exquisitely scented water. Alidor comprehended clearly by -this sport that the little Cupid was forbidden to explain the -mystery. The table disappeared as soon as Alidor had ceased -eating, and the little Cupid flew away.</p> - -<p>A charming symphony stole upon the ear, awaking a -thousand tender sensations in the heart of the young shepherd. -His impatience to learn to whom he was indebted for all these -pleasures increased every instant, and it was with great joy he -heard a voice sing the following words:—</p> - -<div class="block1"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">Under what form, Love, wilt thou cast thy dart</span> -<span class="i0 font09">At the young shepherd who enthrals my heart?</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Once should he know he is the master there,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Will he my form and face account less fair?</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Of my affection he will be too sure,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">But that may not his love for me secure.</span> -<span class="i0 font09">With greater power to charm, my smiles endue,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">I need no aid to make me fond or true.</span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p>"Appear, thou charming being!" exclaimed the shepherd; -"and by your presence crown my happiness. I believe you to -be too beautiful to fear that I should ever be faithless."</p> - -<p>No answer was returned to this adjuration. The music -ceased shortly afterwards; a profound silence reigned in the -cottage and invited the shepherd to sweet repose. He threw -himself on his bed, but it was some time before he could sleep, -agitated as he was by his curiosity and his new-born passion.</p> - -<p>The song of the birds awoke him at daybreak. He quitted -his cottage and led his pretty flock to the same spot where -the preceding day his good fortune had commenced. Scarcely -had he seated himself beside the brook, when a canopy, composed -of a most brilliant stuff of flame-colour and gold was -attached to the branches of the nearest trees to shelter Alidor -from the rays of the sun. Some young shepherds and pretty -shepherdesses of the neighbourhood arrived at the spot. They -were in search of Alidor. His canopy, his flock, and his dress -excited in them great astonishment.</p> - -<p>They advanced hastily, and eagerly asked him the origin -of all these marvels. Alidor smiled at their surprise, and -recounted to them what had occurred to him. More than - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_114">[Pg 114]</a></span> -one shepherd felt jealous, and more than one shepherdess -reddened with mortification. There were few of the latter in -those parts who had not had designs upon the heart of the -handsome shepherd, and a goddess or a fairy appeared to -them by far too dangerous a rival.</p> - -<p>Young and Handsome, who rarely lost sight of her shepherd, -endured with considerable impatience the conversation -of the shepherdesses. Some amongst them were very -charming, and one so lovely that she might be a formidable -rival even to a goddess.</p> - -<p>The indifference with which Alidor treated them all re-assured -the young Fairy. The shepherdesses quitted Alidor -reluctantly, and led their flocks further into the meadow.</p> - -<p>Shortly after they had departed, leaving only a few shepherds -with Alidor, a delicious banquet appeared, set out upon -a marble table. Seats of green turf arose around it, and -Alidor invited his friends, the shepherds who had come to -join him, to share his repast. On seating themselves at the -table, they discovered that they were all attired in handsome -dresses, though less magnificent than that of Alidor, which at -the same moment became dazzling with jewels.</p> - -<p>The neighbouring echoes were suddenly awakened by rustic, -but graceful, music, and a voice was heard singing the following -words:—</p> - -<div class="block1"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">Of Alidor, envy the pleasure supreme,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">He only could love to this bosom impart;</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Ye shepherds, who beauty and worth can esteem,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Do honour to him as the choice of my heart.</span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p>The astonishment of the shepherds increased every moment. -A troop of young shepherdesses approached the banks of the -rivulet. The melody of the music was not so much the -attraction which led them to this spot, as the desire to see -Alidor. They began to dance beneath the trees, forming an -agreeable little <i>bal-champêtre</i>.</p> - -<p>The young Fairy, who was present all the time, but invisible, -assumed in an instant, with six of her nymphs, the prettiest -shepherdesses' dresses that had ever been seen. Their only -ornaments were garlands of flowers. Their crooks were -adorned with them, and Young and Handsome, with a simple -wreath of jonquils, which produced a charming effect in her - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_115">[Pg 115]</a></span> -beautiful black hair, appeared the most enchanting person in -the world. The arrival of these fair shepherdesses surprised -the whole company. All the beauties of the district felt mortified. -There was not a shepherd who did not eagerly exert -himself to do the honours of the <i>fête</i> to the new-comers.</p> - -<p>Young and Handsome, though unknown to them as a -Fairy, did not receive less respect or attract less attention. -The sincerest homage is always paid to beauty. Young and -Handsome felt flattered by the effect of her charms unaided -by the knowledge of her dignity.</p> - -<p>As to Alidor, the instant she appeared amongst them, forgetting -that the love which a goddess or a fairy bore to him -bound him to avoid anything that might be displeasing to -her, he flew towards Young and Handsome, and accosting her -with the most graceful air in the world:—"Come, beautiful -shepherdess," said he, "come and occupy a place more worthy -of you. So exquisite a person is too superior to all other -beauties to remain mingled with them." He offered his hand, -and Young and Handsome, delighted with the sentiments -which the sight of her had begun to awaken in the breast of -her shepherd, allowed herself to be led by Alidor beneath the -canopy which had been attached to the trees as soon as he -had arrived at the spot that morning. A troop of young -shepherds brought, by his orders, bundles of flowers and -branches, and constructed with them a little throne, on which -they seated Young and Handsome. Alidor laid himself at -her feet. Her nymphs seated themselves near her, and the -rest of the party formed a large circle, in which everybody -took their places according to their inclinations.</p> - -<p>This spot, adorned with so much beauty, presented the -most agreeable spectacle in the world. The murmur of the -brook mingled with the music, and it seemed as if all the -birds in the neighbourhood had assembled there to take their -parts in the concert. A great number of shepherds advanced, -in separate groups, to pay their court to Young and Handsome. -One amongst them, named Iphis, approaching the -young Fairy, said to her, "However distinguished may be -the place Alidor has induced you to accept, it is one, perhaps, -very dangerous to occupy." "I believe so," answered the -Fairy, with a smile that had power to captivate all hearts. -"The shepherdesses of this village will find it difficult to - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_116">[Pg 116]</a></span> -forgive me the preference which Alidor appears to have -accorded to me amongst so many beauties more deserving of -it." "No," rejoined Iphis; "our shepherdesses will be more -just; but Alidor is beloved by a goddess." And thereupon -Iphis related to Young and Handsome the adventure which -had befallen the beautiful shepherd. When he had finished -his story, the young Fairy, turning towards Alidor with a -gracious air, said to him, "I do not desire to provoke so terrible -an enemy as the goddess by whom you are beloved. Evidently -she did not intend me to occupy this position, and -therefore I resign it to her."</p> - -<p>She rose as she said these words, but Alidor, gazing fondly -upon her, exclaimed, "Stay, lovely shepherdess; there is no -goddess whose love I would not sacrifice for the delight of -adoring you; and she of whom Iphis speaks is not over wise, -at least in matters of the heart, since she has permitted me -to behold you!" Young and Handsome could not make any -reply to Alidor. The shepherds at that moment came to -request her to dance, and never was more grace displayed -than on this occasion. Alidor was her partner, who surpassed -himself. Never had the most magnificent <i>fêtes</i> at the Court -of Young and Handsome afforded her so much pleasure as -this rural entertainment. Love embellishes every spot in -which we behold the object of our affections. Alidor felt his -passion increasing every instant, and made a thousand vows -to sacrifice all the goddesses and fairies in the world to the -ardent love with which his shepherdess had inspired him. -Young and Handsome was delighted with the evident attachment -of the beautiful shepherd; but she wished to make a -momentary trial of his affection. Iphis was amiable, and, if -Alidor had not been present, would no doubt have been much -admired. The young Fairy spoke to him twice or thrice very -graciously, and danced several times with him.</p> - -<p>Alidor burned with a jealousy as intense as his love. Young -and Handsome observed it, and feeling more sure of her -shepherd's heart, she ceased paining it, spoke no more to -Iphis during the rest of the day, and bestowed on Alidor her -most encouraging glances. Heavens! what glances! they -would have filled the most insensible hearts with love.</p> - -<p>Evening having arrived, the lovely company separated with -regret. A thousand sighs followed Young and Handsome, - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_117">[Pg 117]</a></span> -who forbade any of the shepherds to accompany her; but she -promised Alidor, in a few brief words, that he should see her -again in the meadows the next morning. She departed, -followed by her nymphs and watched by the shepherds, who -were in hopes that, by following her at a distance, they might -discover, without her perceiving them, the village to which -these divine beings belonged; but the moment that Young -and Handsome had entered a little wood which concealed her -from the sight of the shepherds, she rendered herself and her -nymphs invisible, and they amused themselves for some time -in seeing the shepherds vainly endeavouring to trace the road -they had taken. Young and Handsome observed with pleasure -that Alidor was amongst the most eager of the party.</p> - -<p>Iphis was in despair that he had not followed them closely -enough, and several of the shepherds, who had been captivated -by the nymphs, passed half of the night in hunting -the woods and the neighbourhood. Some authors have asserted -that the nymphs, following the example of the young Fairy, -thought some of these shepherds more charming than all the -kings they had ever seen in their lives.</p> - -<p>Young and Handsome returned to her palace, and, although -a Fairy, always occupied by a thousand different affairs, might -absent herself without causing much surprise, she found all -her lovers exceedingly uneasy at not having seen her the -whole day, but not one of them ventured to reproach her for -it. It was necessary to be a very submissive and respectful -suitor in the palace of Young and Handsome, or she would -speedily issue an order for him to quit her Court. Her -admirers did not even dare to speak to her of their passion. -It was only by their attentions, their respect, and their -constancy, that they could hope eventually to touch her -heart.</p> - -<p>Young and Handsome appeared little interested in what -was passing around. She ate scarcely any supper, fell into -frequent fits of musing, and the princes, her lovers, attentive -to all her actions, imagined that they heard her sigh several -times. She dismissed all the Court very early, and retired to -her apartments.</p> - -<p>When one is looking forward to a meeting with those we -love, everything that presents itself in the interim appears -very poor and very troublesome.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_118">[Pg 118]</a></span></p> - -<p>The young Fairy, with the nymphs who had followed her -all the day, concealed in a cloud, were transported in an -instant to the hut of the handsome shepherd. He had -returned to it, very much vexed at not being able to ascertain -the road his divine shepherdess had taken. Everything in -his cottage was as charming as when he had left it; but as -in musing he cast his eyes upon the floor of his little chamber, -he perceived a change in it. In lieu of paintings from the -stories of goddesses who had been in love with shepherds, he -perceived the subjects were composed of terrible examples of -unfortunate lovers who had proved unworthy of the affection of -those divinities.</p> - -<p>"You are right," exclaimed the handsome shepherd, on -observing these little pictures; "you are right, Goddess. I -deserve your anger; but wherefore did you permit so lovely a -shepherdess to present herself to my sight? Alas! what -divinity could defend a heart from the effects of such charms!" -Young and Handsome had arrived in the cottage when Alidor -uttered these words. She felt all the tenderness of them, and -her affection was redoubled by them.</p> - -<p>As on the previous day, a magnificent repast appeared, but -Alidor did not enjoy it as he did the first. He was in love, -and even a little jealous; for it often recurred to him that -his shepherdess had spoken with some interest to Iphis. -The promise, however, that she had made him, that he should -see her the next day in the meadow, soothed a little his -vexation.</p> - -<p>The little Cupid waited on him during his repast, but -Alidor, occupied by his new anxiety, spoke not a word to him. -The table disappeared, and the child, approaching Alidor, -presented him with two magnificent miniature cases, and -then flew away.</p> - -<p>The handsome shepherd opened one of the cases hastily. -It contained the portrait of a young female of such perfect -beauty, that imagination can scarcely conceive it. Under -this marvellous miniature was written, in letters of gold—</p> - -<p class="center font09">"Thy happiness depends on her affection."</p> - -<p>"One must have seen my shepherdess," said Alidor, gazing -on this beautiful portrait, "not to be enchanted by so lovely - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_119">[Pg 119]</a></span> -a person." He closed the case, and flung it carelessly on a -table.</p> - -<p>He then opened the other case which the little Cupid had -given to him; but what was his astonishment at the sight of -the portrait of his shepherdess, resplendent with all the charms -that had made so lively an impression on his heart!</p> - -<p>She was painted as he had seen her that very day—her -hair dressed with flowers, and the little that appeared of her -dress was that of a shepherdess. The handsome shepherd -was so transported with his love, that he gazed on it for a -long time without perceiving that the following words were -written beneath the portrait:—</p> - -<p class="center font09">"Forget her attractions, or thy love will be fatal to thee."</p> - -<p>"Alas!" exclaimed Alidor, "without her could there be -any happiness?" This ecstasy delighted Young and Handsome. -The beautiful face he had contemplated unmoved was -only a fancy portrait. The young Fairy was desirous of -ascertaining whether her shepherd would prefer her to so -beautiful a person, and who appeared to be a goddess or a -fairy.</p> - -<p>Convinced of the love of Alidor, she returned to her palace, -after having assembled her nymphs by a signal that had -been agreed upon. It was the illumination of the sky by -some harmless lightning, and since that time such is often to -be seen on a summer evening, unaccompanied by thunder. -The nymphs rejoined her: they had also desired to hear -something more of their lovers. Some of them were sufficiently -pleased. They had found their swains occupied with -recollections of them, and speaking of them with ardour, but -others were less satisfied with the effect of their beauty. -They found their shepherds fast asleep. A man may sometimes -appear very much in love during the day, who is not -sufficiently so for his passion to keep him awake all night.</p> - -<p>The young Fairy retired to rest as soon as she arrived at -her palace, charmed with the sincere affection of her shepherd. -She had no other anxiety than the agreeable one arising from -her impatience to see him again. As to Alidor, he slept a -little, and without alarming himself at the warnings which -he had read beneath the two miniatures. He thought only - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_120">[Pg 120]</a></span> -of returning to the meadow: he hoped to see his shepherdess -there during the day. It seemed to him that he could not -get there soon enough.</p> - -<p>He led his charming flock to the fortunate spot where he -had seen Young and Handsome; his pretty dog took good -care of it. The comely shepherd could think of nothing but -his shepherdess.</p> - -<p>Young and Handsome was, much against her will, occupied -that morning receiving the ambassadors of several neighbouring -monarchs. Never were audiences so short; yet, notwithstanding, -a considerable portion of the day passed in the -performance of these tiresome ceremonies. The young Fairy -suffered as much as her shepherd, whose keen impatience -caused him a thousand torments.</p> - -<p>The sun had set. Alidor had no longer any hope of seeing -his shepherdess that day. How great was his grief!</p> - -<p>He deplored his fate. He sighed incessantly. He made -verses on her absence, and with the ferrule of his crook engraved -them on the trunk of a young elm.</p> - -<div class="block1"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">You on whom Venus looks with envious eyes,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">While round your steps her truant Graces play,—</span> -<span class="i0 font09">You on whose glances Cupid so relies</span> -<span class="i0 font09">That he has thrown all other darts away;</span> -<span class="i0 font09">How wretched in your absence must I be</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Who prize you ev'ry earthly bliss above!—</span> -<span class="i0 font09">And yet my sorrow has a charm for me,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Its gloom is but the shadow of my love.</span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p>As he finished carving these lines, Young and Handsome -appeared in the meadow at a distance, with her nymphs all -still attired as shepherdesses. Alidor recognised her a long -way off. He ran—he flew towards Young and Handsome, -who received him with a smile so charming, that it would -have increased the felicity of the gods themselves.</p> - -<p>He told his love to her with an ardour capable of persuading -a heart less tenderly inclined towards him than that of the -young Fairy. She desired to see what he had carved on the -tree, and was charmed with the talent and affection of her -shepherd. He related to her all that happened to him the -preceding evening, and offered a thousand times to follow -her to the end of the world to fly from the love which a goddess -or a fairy had unfortunately conceived for him. "My -loss would be too great should you fly from that fairy," - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_121">[Pg 121]</a></span> -replied Young and Handsome, in her sweetest manner. "It -is no longer necessary for me to disguise my sentiments from -you, as I am convinced of the sincerity of yours. It is I, -Alidor!" continued the charming Fairy—"It is I who have -given you these proofs of an affection which, if you continue -faithful to me, will ensure your happiness and mine for ever!"</p> - -<p>The handsome shepherd, transported with love and joy, -flung himself at her feet, his silence appeared more eloquent -to the young Fairy than the most finished oration. She bade -him rise, and he found himself superbly attired. The Fairy -then touching the ground with her crook, there appeared a -magnificent car, drawn by twelve white horses of surpassing -beauty. They were harnessed four abreast. Young and Handsome -stepped into the car, and caused the comely shepherd -to take his seat beside her. Her nymphs found room in it -also, and as soon as they had all taken their places, the beautiful -horses, who had no occasion for a driver to intimate to -them the intentions of their mistress, swiftly conveyed the -whole party to a favourite château belonging to the young -Fairy. She had adorned it with everything that her art -could furnish her with in the way of wonders. It was called -the Castle of Flowers, and was the most charming residence -in the world.</p> - -<p>The young Fairy and her happy lover arrived with the -attendant nymphs in a spacious court-yard, the walls of which -were formed out of thick hedges of jasmines and lemon-trees. -They were only breast-high. Beneath them ran a lovely -river, which encompassed the court-yard; beyond it a charming -grove, and then fields stretching as far as the eye could -see, through which the said river made a thousand windings, -as unwilling to quit so beautiful a home.</p> - -<p>The castle was more to be admired for its architecture -than for its size. It contained twelve apartments, each of -which had its peculiar beauty. They were very spacious; but -there was not room enough in them for the residence of -Young and Handsome, and all her Court, which was the most -numerous and magnificent in the universe. The young Fairy -used this castle but as a place of retreat. She was accompanied -thither generally by only her most favourite nymphs and the -officers of her household.</p> - -<p>She led the shepherd into the Myrtle Room. All the furniture - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_122">[Pg 122]</a></span> -was made of myrtles in continual blossom, interlaced with an -art that displayed the power and good taste of the young Fairy, -even in the most simple things. All the rooms in the castle -were furnished in the same manner, with flowers only. The -air breathed in them was always fragrant and pure.</p> - -<p>Young and Handsome, by her power, had banished for -ever from the spot the rigours of winter, and if the heats of -summer were ever permitted to penetrate these agreeable -bowers, it was only to render more enjoyable the beautiful -baths attached to the building, which were delicious.</p> - -<p>The apartment was of white and blue porphyry, exquisitely -sculptured; the baths being of the most curious and agreeable -forms. That in which Young and Handsome bathed, was -made out of a single topaz, and placed on a platform in an -alcove of porcelain. Four columns, composed of amethysts of -the most perfect beauty, supported a canopy of magnificent -yellow and silver brocade, embroidered with pearls. Alidor, -absorbed by the happiness of beholding the charming Fairy, -and remarking her affection for him, scarcely noticed all these -marvels.</p> - -<p>A delightful and tender conversation detained these happy -lovers for a long time in the Myrtle Room. A splendid -supper was served in the Jonquil Saloon. An elegant entertainment -followed. The nymphs acted to music the loves -of Diana and Endymion.</p> - -<p>Young and Handsome forgot to return to her palace, and -passed the night in the Narcissus Chamber. Alidor, entranced -with love, was long before he tasted the sweets of slumber in -the Myrtle Room, to which he was conducted by the nymphs, -on the termination of the entertainment. Young and Handsome, -who forbore to use her power to calm such agreeable -emotions, also laid awake till nearly daybreak.</p> - -<p>Alidor, impatient to behold again the charming Fairy, -awaited the happy moment for some time in the Jonquil -Saloon. He had neglected nothing in his attire which could -add a grace to his natural attractions. Young and Handsome -appeared a thousand times more lovely than Venus. She -passed a part of the day with Alidor and the nymphs in the -garden of the castle, the beauties of which surpassed the -most marvellous description. There was an agreeable little -<i>fête champêtre</i> in a delicious grove, wherein Alidor, during a - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_123">[Pg 123]</a></span> -favourable opportunity, had the sweet pleasure of professing -his ardent love to Young and Handsome.</p> - -<p>She desired, that same evening, to return to her palace; -but promised Alidor to come back to him the next day. -Never has an absence of a few hours been honoured by so -many regrets. The handsome shepherd passionately desired -to follow the young Fairy, but she commanded him to remain -in the Castle of Flowers. She wished to hide her attachment -from the eyes of all her Court. No one entered this castle -without her order, and she had no fear that her nymphs would -disclose her secret. The secrets of a Fairy are always safe. -They are never divulged; the punishment would follow the -offence too swiftly.</p> - -<p>Young and Handsome asked Alidor for the pretty dog -which had always followed him, that she might take it -with her. Everything is dear to us that pleases those we -love.</p> - -<p>After the departure of the young Fairy, the shepherd, to -indulge in his anxiety, rather than to dissipate it, plunged -deeper into the woods to muse on his adorable mistress. In -a little meadow, enamelled with flowers, and watered by an -agreeable spring, which arose near the middle of the wood, he -perceived his flock gambolling in the grass. It was watched -by six young female slaves, with handsome features, dressed -in blue and gold, with golden chains and collars. His -favourite sheep recognised her master and ran to him. Alidor -caressed her, and was deeply touched by the attentions of -Young and Handsome to everything which concerned him.</p> - -<p>The young slaves showed Alidor their hut. It was not far -from the spot, at the end of a beautiful and very shady alley. -This little dwelling was built of cedar. The initials of Young -and Handsome and Alidor entwined together, appeared in -every part of it, formed with the rarest woods. The following -inscription was written in letters of gold upon a large turquoise:—</p> - -<div class="block2"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">Let the flock of him I love</span> -<span class="i0 font09">In these meads for ever rove.</span> -<span class="i0 font09">By that Shepherd loved, the lot</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Of the Gods I envy not.</span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p>The handsome shepherd returned to the Castle of Flowers, -enchanted by the kindness of the young Fairy. He declined - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_124">[Pg 124]</a></span> -any entertainment that evening. When absent from those -we love, what care we for amusements!</p> - -<p>Young and Handsome returned the next day, as she had -promised, to her happy lover. What joy was theirs to behold -each other again! All the power of the young Fairy had -never procured for her so much felicity.</p> - -<p>She passed nearly all her time at the Castle of Flowers, -and rarely now appeared at Court. In vain did the princes, -her suitors, grieve almost to death at her absence, everything -was sacrificed to the fortunate Alidor.</p> - -<p>But could so sweet a happiness last long untroubled? -Another Fairy, besides Young and Handsome, had seen the -beautiful shepherd, and felt her heart also touched by his -charms.</p> - -<p>One evening that Young and Handsome had gone to show -herself for a few moments to her Court, Alidor, engrossed by -his passion, sat deeply musing in the Jonquil Saloon, when -his attention was awakened by a slight noise at one of the -windows, and on looking towards it he perceived a brilliant -light, and the next moment he saw on a table, near which he -was seated, a little creature about half a yard high, very old, -with hair whiter than snow, a standing collar, and an old-fashioned -farthingale. "I am the Fairy Mordicante," said -she to the handsome shepherd; "and I come to announce to -thee a much greater happiness than that of being beloved by -Young and Handsome." "What can that be?" inquired -Alidor, with a contemptuous air. "The gods have none -more perfect for themselves!" "It is that of pleasing me," -replied the old Fairy, haughtily. "I love thee, and my power -is far greater than that of Young and Handsome, and almost -equals that of the Gods. Abandon that young Fairy for me. -I will revenge thee on thine enemies, and on all whom thou -wouldst injure."</p> - -<p>"Thy favours are useless to me," answered the young -shepherd, with a smile; "I have no enemies, and I would -injure no one; I am too well satisfied with my own lot; and -if the charming Fairy I adore were but a simple shepherdess, -I could be as happy with her in a cottage as I am now in the -loveliest palace in the world." At these words the wicked -Fairy became suddenly as tall and as large as she had hitherto -been diminutive, and disappeared making a horrible noise.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_125">[Pg 125]</a></span></p> - -<p>The next morning, Young and Handsome returned to the -Castle of Flowers. Alidor related his adventure. They both -knew the Fairy Mordicante. She was very aged, had always -been ugly, and exceedingly susceptible. Young and Handsome -and her happy lover made a thousand jokes upon her -passion, and never for a moment felt the least uneasiness as to -the consequences of her fury.</p> - -<p>Can one be a happy lover and think of future misfortunes?</p> - -<p>A week afterwards, Young and Handsome and the lovely -shepherd took an excursion in a fine barge, gilt all over, -on the beautiful river which encircled the Castle of Flowers, -followed by all their little Court in the prettiest boats in the -world. The barge of Young and Handsome was shaded by a -canopy formed of a light blue and silver tissue. The dresses -of the rowers were of the same material. Other small boats, -filled with excellent musicians, accompanied the happy lovers, -and performed some agreeable airs. Alidor, more enamoured -than ever, could gaze on nothing but Young and Handsome, -whose beauty appeared that day more charming than can be -described.</p> - -<p>In the midst of their enjoyment they saw twelve Syrens -rise out of the water, and a moment afterwards twelve Tritons -appeared, and joining the Syrens, encircled with them the -little barque of Young and Handsome. The Tritons played -some extraordinary airs on their shells, and the Syrens sang -some graceful melodies, which for a while entertained the -young Fairy and the beautiful shepherd. Young and Handsome, -who was accustomed to wonders, imagined that it was -some pageant which had been prepared by those whose duty -it was to contribute to her pleasure by inventing new entertainments; -but all on a sudden these perfidious Tritons and -Syrens, laying hold of the young Fairy's boat, dragged it -under water.</p> - -<p>The only danger which Alidor feared was that which -threatened the young Fairy. He attempted to swim to her, -but the Tritons carried him off despite his resistance, and -Young and Handsome, borne away by the Syrens in the -meanwhile, was transported into her palace.</p> - -<p>One Fairy having no power over another, the jealous Mordicante -was compelled to limit her vengeance to the making -Young and Handsome endure all the misery so cruel a bereavement - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_126">[Pg 126]</a></span> -would necessarily occasion. In the meanwhile Alidor -was conveyed by the Tritons to a terrible castle guarded by -winged dragons. It was there that Mordicante had determined -to make herself beloved by the beautiful shepherd, or -to be revenged on him for his disdain. He was placed in a -very dark chamber. Mordicante, blazing with the most -beautiful jewels in the world, appeared to him, and professed -her affection for him. The shepherd, exasperated at being -torn from Young and Handsome, treated the wicked Fairy -with all the contempt she deserved. What could equal the -rage of Mordicante? But her love was still too violent to -permit her to destroy the object of it. After detaining Alidor -several days in this frightful prison, she resolved to endeavour -to conquer the faithful shepherd by new artifices. She transported -him suddenly to a magnificent palace. He was served -with a sumptuousness which had not been exceeded in the -Castle of Flowers. Endeavours were made to dissipate his -grief by a thousand agreeable entertainments, and the most -beautiful nymphs in the universe, who composed his Court, -appeared to dispute with each other the honour of pleasing -him. Not a word more was said to him respecting the -passion of the wicked Fairy; but the faithful shepherd languished -in the midst of luxury, and was in no less despair at -his separation from Young and Handsome, when witnessing -the gayest entertainments, than he had been whilst immured -in his dreadful prison.</p> - -<p>Mordicante trusted, however, that the absence of Young -and Handsome, the continual round of pleasures provided for -Alidor's amusement, and the presence of so many charming -women, would at length overcome the fidelity of the shepherd; -and her object in surrounding him with so many -beautiful nymphs, was but to take herself the figure of the -one which might most attract his attention. With this view, -she mingled amongst them in disguise, sometimes appearing -as the most charming brunette, and at others as the fairest -beauty in the universe.</p> - -<p>Love, who is all-powerful in human hearts, had subdued for -a time her natural cruelty; but desperation at being unable to -shake the constancy of Alidor re-awakened her fury so powerfully, -that she determined to destroy the charming shepherd, -and make him the victim of the faithful love he cherished for - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_127">[Pg 127]</a></span> -Young and Handsome. One day, without being seen, she -was watching him in a beautiful gallery, the windows of which -opened upon the sea; Alidor, leaning over a balustrade, mused -in silence for a considerable time. But, at length, after a -heavy sigh, he uttered such tender and touching lamentations, -depicting so vividly his passion for the young Fairy, that -Mordicante, transported with fury, appeared to him in her -natural shape; and, after having loaded him with reproaches, -caused him to be carried back to his prison, and announced to -him that in three days he should be sacrificed to her hatred, -and that the most cruel tortures should avenge her slighted -affection.</p> - -<p>Alidor regretted not the loss of a life which had become -insupportable to him, deprived of Young and Handsome; and -satisfied that he had nothing to fear on her account from the -wrath of Mordicante, the power of the young Fairy being -equal to hers, he calmly awaited the death he had been -doomed to.</p> - -<p>In the meanwhile, Young and Handsome, as faithful as her -shepherd, mourned over his loss. The Syrens who had wafted -her back to her palace had disappeared as soon as their task -was accomplished, and the young Fairy was convinced that -it was the cruel Mordicante who had bereft her of Alidor. -The excess of her grief proclaimed at the same time to all her -Court, her love for the young shepherd, and her loss of him.</p> - -<p>How many monarchs were envious of the misery even into -which the wicked Fairy had precipitated Alidor? What -vexation for these enamoured princes to learn that they had -a beloved rival, and to behold Young and Handsome occupied -only in weeping for this fortunate mortal! His loss, however, -revived their hopes. They had discovered at last that Young -and Handsome could feel as well as inspire affection. They -redoubled their attentions. Each flattered himself with the -sweet hope to occupy some day the place of that fortunate -lover; but Young and Handsome, inconsolable for the absence -of Alidor, and worried by the advances of his rivals, abandoned -her Court, and retired to the Castle of Flowers. The sight -of those charming scenes, where everything recalled to her -heart the recollection of the lovely shepherd, increased her -melancholy and her affection.</p> - -<p>One day, as she was walking in her beautiful gardens, and - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_128">[Pg 128]</a></span> -gazing on the various objects with which they were adorned, -she exclaimed aloud, "Alas! ye were formerly my delight; -but I am now too much absorbed by my sorrow to take any -further interest in your embellishment." As she ceased -speaking, she heard the murmur of a gentle breeze that, -agitating the flowers of this beautiful garden, arranged them -instantaneously in various forms. First, they represented the -initials of Young and Handsome; then those of another -name, which she was not acquainted with; and a moment -afterwards, they formed distinctly entire words, and Young -and Handsome, astonished at this novelty, read these verses, -written in so singular a fashion:—</p> - -<div class="block2"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">Bid fond Zephyr tend thy bowers,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">At his breath awake the flowers.</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Thus for Flora, every morn,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Doth he mead and grove adorn.</span> -<span class="i0 font09">How much more his pride 'twould be,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Fairer Nymph, to sigh for thee!</span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p>Young and Handsome was pondering on these verses, when -she saw the Deity named in them appear in the air, and hasten -to declare his passion to her. He was in a little car of roses, -drawn by a hundred white canary birds, harnessed ten and -ten, with strings of pearl. The car approached the earth, and -Zephyr descended from it close to the young Fairy. He -addressed her with all the eloquence of a very charming and -very gallant Divinity; but the young Fairy, in lieu of feeling -flattered by so brilliant a conquest, replied to him like a faithful -lover. Zephyr was not disheartened by the coldness of Young -and Handsome. He hoped to soften her by his attentions. -He paid his court to her most assiduously, and neglected -nothing that he thought could please her.</p> - -<p>The glory of Alidor was now complete. He had a God for -his rival, and was preferred to him by Young and Handsome.</p> - -<p class="pmb1">Nevertheless, this fortunate mortal was on the point of -being destroyed by the fury of Mordicante. A year had nearly -elapsed since the young Fairy and the beautiful shepherd -had been torn from each other, when Zephyr, who had given -up all hopes of shaking the constancy of Young and Handsome, -and was moved by the tears which he saw her unceasingly -shed for the loss of Alidor, exclaimed one day, on finding -her more depressed than usual, "Since it is no longer possible -for me to flatter myself, charming Fairy, that I shall ever -have the good fortune to gain your affections, I am desirous -of contributing at least to your felicity. What can I do to -make you happy?"</p> - -<div class="figcenter"> - <img src="images/i003.jpg" alt="" /> - <p class="center font08">Young and Handsome.—P. 128.</p> -</div> -<p class="pmb2" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_129">[Pg 129]</a></span></p> - -<p>"To make me happy," replied Young -and Handsome, with a look so full of tenderness that it was -enough to revive all the love of Zephyr, "you must restore to -me my Alidor. I am powerless against another Fairy, -but you, Zephyr, you are a God, and can destroy all the spells -of my cruel rival!" "I will endeavour," rejoined Zephyr, -"to subdue the tender sentiments you have inspired me with -sufficiently to enable me to render you an agreeable service." -So saying, he flew away, leaving Young and Handsome to -indulge in a sweet hope. Zephyr did not deceive her. He -was not in the habit of loving for any length of time, without -the certainty of eventual success; and it was evident to him -that the young Fairy was too constant for him to hope that -he could ever make her forget Alidor; he therefore flew to -the horrible prison where the beautiful shepherd awaited -nothing less than death. An impetuous wind, swelled by -six northern breezes, that had accompanied Zephyr, blew open -in an instant the gates of the dungeon, and the beautiful -shepherd, enveloped in a very brilliant cloud, was wafted to -the Castle of Flowers.</p> - -<p>Zephyr, after he had seen Alidor, was less surprised at the -constancy of Young and Handsome; but he did not make -himself visible to the shepherd until he had restored him to -the charming Fairy.</p> - -<p>Who could describe the perfect joy of Alidor and Young -and Handsome at seeing each other once more? How lovely -each appeared, and how fondly was each beloved! What -thanks did not these fortunate lovers render to the Deity who -had secured their happiness. He left them shortly afterwards -to return to Flora.</p> - -<p>Young and Handsome was anxious that all her Court -should share in her felicity. They celebrated it by a thousand -festivities throughout her empire, despite the vexation of the -princes, her less fortunate lovers, who were the spectators of -the triumphs of the beautiful shepherd.</p> - -<p class="pmb3">In order to have nothing more to fear for Alidor from the -wrath of Mordicante, Young and Handsome taught him the -Fairy Art, and presented him with the gift of continual - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_130">[Pg 130]</a></span> -youth. Having thus provided for his happiness, she next -considered his glory. She gave him the Castle of Flowers, and -caused him to be acknowledged king of that beautiful country, -over which his ancestors had formerly reigned. Alidor became -the greatest monarch in the universe, on the same spot where -he had been the most charming shepherd. He loaded all -his old friends with favours; and, retaining for ever his charms, -as well as Young and Handsome, we are assured that they -loved each other eternally, and that Hymen would not -disturb a passion which formed the happiness of their -existence.</p> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_131">[Pg 131]</a></span></p> - - -<h3 class="no-break" id="THE_PALACE_OF_REVENGE">THE PALACE OF REVENGE.</h3> - - -<p>Once on a time there was a King and Queen of Iceland, -who, after twenty years of married life, had a daughter. -Her birth gave them the greatest pleasure, as they had so -long despaired of having children to succeed to their throne. -The young Princess was named Imis; her dawning charms -promised from her infancy all the wonderful beauty which -shone with so much brilliancy when she arrived at a maturer -age.</p> - -<p>No one in the universe would have been worthy of her had -not Cupid, who thought it a point of honour to subject to his -empire, some day, so marvellous a person, taken care to cause -a Prince to be born in the same Court equally charming with -that lovely Princess. He was called Philax, and was the son -of a brother of the King of Iceland. He was two years older -than the Princess, and they were brought up together with -all the freedom natural to childhood and near relationship. -The first sensations of their hearts were mutual admiration -and affection. They could see nothing so beautiful as themselves, -consequently they found no attraction in the world -that could interfere with the passion each felt for the other, -even without yet knowing its name.</p> - -<p>The King and Queen saw this dawning affection with -pleasure. They loved young Philax. He was a Prince of -their blood, and no child had ever awakened fairer hopes. -Everything seemed to favour the designs of Cupid to render -Prince Philax some day the happiest of men. The Princess -was about twelve years old when the Queen, who was exceedingly -fond of her, desired to have her daughter's fortune told - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_132">[Pg 132]</a></span> -by a Fairy, whose extraordinary science was at that time -making a great sensation.</p> - -<p>She set out in search of her, taking with her Imis, who, in -her distress at parting with Philax, wondered a thousand and -a thousand times how anybody could trouble themselves about -the future when the present was so agreeable. Philax remained -with the King, and all the pleasures of the Court could not -console him for the absence of the Princess.</p> - -<p>The Queen arrived at the Fairy's castle. She was magnificently -received; but the Fairy was not at home. Her usual -residence was on the summit of a mountain at some distance -from the castle, where she lived all alone and absorbed in -that profound study which had rendered her famous throughout -the world.</p> - -<p>As soon as she heard of the Queen's arrival, she returned -to the castle. The Queen presented the Princess to her, told -her her name and the hour of her birth, which the Fairy -knew as well as she did, though she had not been present at -it. The Fairy of the Mountain knew everything. She promised -the Queen an answer in two days, and then returned to -the summit of the mountain. On the morning of the third -day she came back to the castle, bade the Queen descend -into the garden, and gave her some tablets of palm leaves -closely shut, which she was ordered not to open except in the -presence of the King.</p> - -<p>The Queen, to satisfy her curiosity in some degree, asked -her several questions respecting the fate of her daughter. -"Great Queen," replied the Fairy of the Mountain, "I cannot -precisely tell you what sort of misfortune threatens the -Princess. I perceive only that love will have a large share -in the events of her life, and that no beauty ever inspired -such violent passions as that of Imis will do." It was not -necessary to be a fairy to foresee that the Princess would -have admirers. Her eyes already seemed to demand from all -hearts the love which the Fairy assured the Queen would be -entertained for her. In the meanwhile Imis, much less uneasy -about her future destiny than at being separated from Philax, -amused herself by gathering flowers; but thinking only of his -love, and in her impatience to depart, she forgot the bouquet -she had begun to compose, and unconsciously flung away -the flowers she had amassed at first with delight. She - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_133">[Pg 133]</a></span> -hastened to rejoin the Queen, who was taking her leave of -the Fairy of the Mountain. The Fairy embraced Imis, and -gazing on her with the admiration she deserved—"Since it is -impossible for me," she exclaimed, after a short silence, which -had something mysterious in it—"since it is impossible for -me, beautiful Princess, to alter in your favour the decrees of -destiny, I will at least endeavour to enable you to escape the -misfortunes it prepares for you." So saying, she gathered -with her own hands a bunch of lilies of the valley, and addressing -the youthful Imis—"Wear always these flowers -which I give to you," said she; "they will never fade, and as -long as you have them about your person, they will protect -you from all the ills with which you are threatened by Fate." -She then fastened the bouquet on the head-dress of Imis, and -the flowers, obedient to the wishes of the Fairy, were no -sooner placed in the hair of the Princess, than they adjusted -themselves, and formed a sort of aigrette, the whiteness of -which seemed only to prove that nothing could eclipse that -of the complexion of the fair Imis.</p> - -<p>The Queen took her departure, after having thanked the -Fairy a thousand times, and went back to Iceland, where all -the Court impatiently awaited the return of the Princess. -Never did delight sparkle with more brilliancy and beauty -than in the eyes of Imis and of her lover. The mystery -involved in the plume of lilies of the valley was revealed to -the King alone. It had so agreeable an effect in the beautiful -brown hair of the Princess, that everybody took it simply -for an ornament which she had herself culled in the gardens -of the Fairy.</p> - -<p>The Princess said much more to Philax about the grief she -felt at her separation from him than about the misfortunes -which the Fates had in store for her. Philax was, nevertheless, -alarmed at them; but the happiness of being together -was present, the evils, as yet, uncertain. They forgot them, -and abandoned themselves to the delight of seeing each other -again.</p> - -<p>In the meanwhile, the Queen recounted to the King the -events of her journey, and gave him the Fairy's tablets. The -King opened and found in them the following words, written -in letters of gold:—</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_134">[Pg 134]</a></span></p> - -<div class="block2"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">Fate for Imis hides despair</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Under hopes that seem most fair;</span> -<span class="i0 font09">She will miserable be,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Through too much felicity.</span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p>The King and Queen were much distressed at this oracle, -and vainly sought its explanation. They said nothing about -it to the Princess, in order to spare her an unnecessary sorrow. -One day that Philax was gone hunting, a pleasure he -indulged in frequently, Imis was walking by herself in a -labyrinth of myrtles. She was very melancholy because -Philax was so long absent, and reproached herself for giving -way to an impatience which he did not partake. She was -absorbed in her thoughts, when she heard a voice, which said -to her, "Why do you distress yourself, beautiful Princess? -If Philax is not sensible of the happiness of being beloved by -you, I come to offer you a heart a thousand times more grateful—a -heart deeply smitten by your charms, and a fortune -sufficiently brilliant to be desired by any one except yourself, -to whom the whole world is subject." The Princess was -much surprised at hearing this voice. She had imagined -herself alone in the labyrinth, and, as she had not uttered a -word, she was still more astonished that this voice had replied -to her thoughts. She looked about her, and saw a little man -appear in the air, seated upon a cockchafer. "Fear not, -fair Imis," said he to her; "you have no lover more submissive -than I am; and although this is the first time that I have -appeared to you, I have long loved you, and daily gazed upon -you." "You astonish me!" replied the Princess. "What! -You have daily beheld me, and you know my thoughts? If -so, you must be aware that it is useless to love me. Philax, -to whom I have given my heart, is too charming ever to cease -being its master, and although I am displeased with him, I -never loved him so much as I do at this moment. But tell -me who you are, and where you first saw me." "I am Pagan -the Enchanter," replied he, "and have power over everybody -but you. I saw you first in the gardens of the Fairy of the -Mountain. I was hidden in one of the tulips you gathered. -I took for a happy omen the chance which had induced you -to choose the flower I was concealed in. I flattered myself -that you would carry me away with you; but you were too -much occupied with the pleasure of thinking of Philax. You - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_135">[Pg 135]</a></span> -threw away the flowers as soon as you had gathered them, -and left me in the garden the most enamoured of beings. -From that moment I have felt that nothing could make me -happy but the hope of being loved by you. Think favourably -of me, fair Imis, if it be possible, and permit me occasionally -to remind you of my affection." With these words -he disappeared, and the Princess returned to the palace, -where the sight of Philax dissipated the alarm she had felt -at this adventure. She was so eager to hear him excuse himself -for the length of time he had been hunting, that she had -nearly forgotten to inform him of what had occurred to her; -but at last she told him what she had seen in the labyrinth -of myrtles.</p> - -<p>The young Prince, notwithstanding his courage, was alarmed -at the idea of a winged rival, with whom he could not dispute -the hand of the Princess upon equal terms. But the plume -of lilies of the valley guaranteed him against the effect of -enchantments, and the affection Imis entertained for him -would not permit him to fear any change in her heart.</p> - -<p>The day after the adventure in the labyrinth, the Princess, -on awaking, saw fly into her chamber twelve tiny nymphs, -seated on honey-bees, and bearing in their hands little golden -baskets. They approached the bed of Imis, saluted her, and -then went and placed their baskets on a table of white marble, -which appeared in the centre of the apartment. As soon -as the baskets were set upon it, they enlarged to an ordinary -size. The nymphs having quitted them, again saluted Imis, -and one of them, approaching the bed nearer than the rest, -let something fall upon it, and then they all flew away.</p> - -<p>The Princess, despite the astonishment which so strange a -sight occasioned, took up what the nymph had dropped beside -her. It was an emerald of marvellous beauty. It opened the -moment the Princess touched it, and she found it contained -a rose leaf, on which she read these verses.</p> - -<div class="block2"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">Let the world learn, to its surprise,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">The wondrous power of thine eyes.</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Such is the love I bear to thee,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">It makes e'en torture dear to me.</span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p>The Princess could not recover from her astonishment. -At length she called to her attendants, who were as much - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_136">[Pg 136]</a></span> -surprised as Imis at the sight of the table and the baskets. -The King, the Queen, and Philax hastened to the spot on the -news of this extraordinary event. The Princess, in her relation -of it, suppressed nothing except the letter of her lover. -She considered she was not bound to reveal that to any one -but Philax. The baskets were carefully examined, and were -found to be filled with jewels of extraordinary beauty, and of so -great a value as to double the astonishment of the spectators.</p> - -<p>The Princess would not touch one of them, and having -found an instant when nobody was listening, she drew near to -Philax and gave him the emerald and the rose leaf. He read -his rival's letter with much disquietude. Imis, to console -him, tore the rose leaf to pieces before his face; but ah! how -dearly did they pay for that act!</p> - -<p>Some days elapsed without the Princess hearing anything -of Pagan. She fancied that her contempt for him would -extinguish his passion, and Philax flattered himself by indulging -in a like belief. That Prince returned to the chase as -usual. He halted alone by the side of a fountain, to refresh -himself. He had about him the emerald which the Princess -had given him, and recollecting with pleasure the little value -she set on it, he drew it from his pocket to look at it. But -scarcely had he held it a moment in his hand when it slipped -through his fingers, and, as soon as it touched the ground, -changed into a chariot. Two winged monsters issued from -the fountain and harnessed themselves to it. Philax gazed -on them without alarm, for he was incapable of fear, but he -could not avoid feeling some emotion when he found himself -transported into the chariot by an irresistible power, and at -the same moment raised into the air, through which the -winged monsters caused the chariot to fly with a prodigious -rapidity. In the meanwhile night came, and the huntsmen, -after searching throughout the wood in vain for Philax, -repaired to the Palace, whither they imagined he might have -returned alone; but he was not to be found there, nor had -any one seen him since he had set out with them for the chase.</p> - -<p>The King commanded them to go back and renew their -search for the Prince. All the Court shared in his Majesty's -anxiety. They returned to the wood, they ran in every direction -around it, and did not retrace their steps to the Palace -before daybreak, but without having obtained the least intelligence - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_137">[Pg 137]</a></span> -of the Prince. Imis had passed the night in despair -at her lover's absence, of which she could not comprehend -the cause. She had ascended a terrace of the Palace to watch -for the return of the party that had gone in search of Philax, -and flattered herself she should see him arrive in their company; -but no words can express the excess of her affliction -when no Philax appeared, and she was informed that it had -been impossible to ascertain what had become of him. She -fainted; they carried her into the Palace, and one of her women, -in her haste to undress and put her to bed, took out of the -hair of the Princess the plume of lilies of the valley which -preserved her from the power of enchantments. The instant -it was removed a dark cloud filled the apartment, and Imis -disappeared. The King and Queen were distracted at this -loss, and nothing could ever console them.</p> - -<p>The Princess, on recovering from her swoon, found herself -in a chamber of various-coloured coral, floored with mother-of-pearl, -and surrounded by nymphs, who waited upon her with -the most profound respect. They were very beautiful, and -magnificently and tastefully attired. Imis first asked them -where she was. "You are in a place where you are adored," -said one of the nymphs to her. "Fear nothing, fair Princess, -you will find in it everything you can desire." "Philax is -here, then!" exclaimed the Princess, her eyes sparkling with -joy. "I desire only the happiness of seeing him again." -"You cherish too long the recollection of an ungrateful lover," -said Pagan, at the same moment rendering himself visible to -the Princess, "and as that Prince has deserted you, he is no -more worthy your affection. Let resentment and respect for -your own pride combine with the passion I entertain for you. -Reign for ever in these regions, lovely Princess; you will find -in them immense treasures, and all imaginable delights will -attend your steps." Imis replied to Pagan's address with -tears alone. He left her, fearing to embitter her grief. The -nymphs remained with her, and used all their endeavours to -console her. A magnificent repast was served up to her. She -refused to eat; but at length, on the following morning, her -desire to behold Philax once more made her resolve to live. -She took some food, and the nymphs, to dissipate her sorrow, -conducted her through various portions of the Palace. It was -built entirely of shining shells, mixed with precious stones of - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_138">[Pg 138]</a></span> -different colours, which produced the finest effect in the world; -all the furniture was of gold, and of such wonderful workmanship -that you might easily see it could only have come from -the hands of Fairies.</p> - -<p>After they had shown Imis the Palace, the nymphs -led her into the gardens, which were of a beauty not to -be described. She found in them a very brilliant car, -drawn by six stags, who were driven by a dwarf. She was -requested to enter the car. Imis complied; the nymphs -seated themselves at her feet. They were driven to the seaside, -where a nymph informed the Princess that Pagan, who -reigned in this island, had made it by the power of his art -the most beautiful in the universe. The sound of instruments -interrupted the narration of the nymph. The sea appeared -to be entirely covered with little boats, built of flame-coloured -coral, and filled with everything that could be required to -compose a brilliant aquatic entertainment. In the midst of -the small craft, there was a barque of much larger size, on -which the initials of Imis were seen in every part, formed -with pearls. It was drawn by two dolphins. It approached -the shore. The Princess entered it, accompanied by her -nymphs. As soon as she was on board, a superb collation -appeared before her, and her ears were regaled at the same -time by exquisite music which proceeded from the boats -around her. Songs were sung, of which her praise alone was -the theme. But Imis paid no attention to anything. She -remounted her car, and returned to the Palace overwhelmed -with sadness. In the evening Pagan again presented himself. -He found her more insensible to his love than ever; but he -was not discouraged, and trusted to the effect of his constancy. -He had yet to learn that in love the most faithful are not -always the most happy.</p> - -<p>Every day he offered the Princess entertainments worthy -of exciting the admiration of all the world, but which were -lost upon her for whom they were invented. Imis thought of -nothing but the absence of her lover.</p> - -<p>That unhappy Prince had been transported in the meanwhile, -by the winged monsters, into a forest which belonged -to Pagan. It was called the Dismal Forest. As soon as Philax -had arrived in it, the emerald chariot and the monsters disappeared. - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_139">[Pg 139]</a></span> -The Prince, surprised by this adventure, summoned -up all his courage to his assistance, and it was the -only aid on which he could reckon in that place. He first -explored several of the roads through the forest. They were -dreadful, and the sun never penetrated their gloom. No -human being was to be found in them; not an animal even -of any description; it seemed as though the beasts themselves -had a horror of this dreary dwelling.</p> - -<p>Philax lived upon the wild fruit he found in it. He passed -his days in the deepest sorrow. The loss of the Princess -distracted him, and sometimes, with his sword, which he had -retained, he occupied himself with carving the name of Imis -on the trunks of the trees, which were not adapted for so -tender a practice; but when we are truly in love we frequently -make things serviceable to our passion which appear -to be least favourable for the purpose.</p> - -<p>The Prince continued daily to travel through the forest, -and he had been nearly a year on his journey, when one night -he heard some plaintive voices, but could not distinguish any -words. Alarming as these wailing sounds were at such an -hour and in a place where the Prince had never yet met with -mortal soul, the desire to be no longer alone, and to find at -least some one as wretched as himself with whom he could -weep over the misfortunes that had befallen them, made him -wait with impatience for morning, when he might seek out -the persons whose voices he had heard. He walked towards -that part of the forest whence he fancied the sounds had -proceeded, but hunted all day in vain; at length, however, -towards evening, he discovered, in a spot which was clear of -trees, the ruins of a castle which appeared to have been of -great size and magnificence. He entered a court-yard, the -walls of which were of green marble, and seemed still tolerably -perfect. He found in it nothing but trees of prodigious height, -standing irregularly in various parts of the enclosure. He -advanced towards a spot where he perceived something elevated -upon a pedestal of black marble. It proved to be a -confused pile of armour and weapons, heaped one upon the -other: helmets, shields, and swords of an ancient form, which -composed a sort of ill-arranged trophy. He looked for some -inscription which might inform him to whom these arms had - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_140">[Pg 140]</a></span> -formerly appertained. He found one engraved on the pedestal. -Time had nearly effaced the characters, and it was with -much difficulty that he deciphered these words:—</p> - -<p class="center font09"> -<span class="smcap">To the Immortal Recollection of the Glory of the Fairy Ceora.</span><br /> -<br /> -<span class="smcap">It was here<br /> -That on the same day<br /> -She triumphed over Cupid<br /> -And punished her faithless lovers.</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>This inscription did not afford Philax all the information -he desired; he therefore would have continued his search -through the forest if night had not overtaken him. He -seated himself at the foot of a cypress, and scarcely had been -there a moment, before he heard the same voices which had -attracted his attention the previous evening. He was not so -much surprised at this as at perceiving that it was the trees -themselves which uttered these complaints, just as if they -had been human beings. The Prince arose, drew his sword, -and struck with it the cypress which was nearest to him. -He was about to repeat the blow, when the tree exclaimed, -"Hold! hold! Assault not an unhappy Prince who is no -longer in a state to defend himself!" Philax stayed his hand, -and becoming accustomed to this supernatural circumstance, -inquired of the cypress by what miracle it was thus a man -and a tree at the same time. "I am willing to inform you," -replied the cypress; "and as, during two thousand years, -this is the first opportunity Fate has afforded me of relating -my misfortunes, I will not lose it. All the trees you behold -in this court-yard were princes, renowned in their time for -the rank they held in the world, and for their valour. The -Fairy Ceora reigned in this country. She was beautiful, but -her science rendered her more famous than her beauty. She -therefore made use of other charms to subject us to her sway. -She had become enamoured of the young Oriza, a prince, -whose admirable qualities rendered him worthy of a better -fate. I should premise to you," added the cypress, "it is -the oak which you see beside me." Philax looked at the -oak, and heard it breathe a heavy sigh, drawn from it, no -doubt, by the recollection of its misfortune. "To attract -this prince to her Court," continued the cypress, "the Fairy -caused a tournament to be proclaimed. We all hastened to - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_141">[Pg 141]</a></span> -seize this opportunity of acquiring glory. Oriza was one of -the princes who disputed the prize. It consisted of fairy -armour which would render the wearer invulnerable. Unfortunately, -I was the conqueror. Ceora, irritated that Fate -had not favoured her inclinations, resolved to avenge herself -upon us. She enchanted the looking-glasses, with which a -gallery of her castle was entirely lined. Those who saw her -reflected but once in these fatal mirrors, could not resist -feeling for her the most violent passion. It was in this gallery -she received us the day after the tournament. We all saw -her in these mirrors, and she appeared to us so beautiful, that -those amongst us who had hitherto been indifferent to love, -ceased to be so from that instant; and those who were in -love with others became as suddenly faithless. We no longer -thought of leaving the Fairy's palace: our only anxiety was -to please her. In vain did state affairs demand our presence -in our own dominions; nothing seemed of consequence to us -save the hope of being beloved by Ceora. Oriza was the only -one she favoured, and the passion of the other princes but gave -the Fairy opportunities of sacrificing them to this lover who -was so dear to her, and caused the fame of her beauty to be -spread throughout the world. Love appeared for some time -to have softened the cruel nature of Ceora; but at the end of -four or five years she displayed her former ferocity. She -revenged herself on the kings, her neighbours, for the smallest -slight by the most horrible murders, and abusing the power -which her enchantments gave her over us, she made us the -ministers of her cruelties. Oriza strove in vain to prevent -her injustice. She loved him; but she would not obey him. -Having returned one day from fighting and subduing a giant -whom I had challenged by her orders, I caused the arms of -the vanquished to be brought into her presence. She was -alone in the Gallery of Looking-glasses. I laid the giant's -spoils at her feet, and pleaded my passion to her with inconceivable -ardour, augmented, no doubt, by the power of the -enchantment by which I was surrounded. But far from -evincing the least gratitude for the success of my combat, or -for the love I felt for her, Ceora treated me with the utmost -contempt; and, retiring into a boudoir, left me alone in the -gallery, in an indescribable state of despair and rage. I -remained there some time, not knowing what resolution to - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_142">[Pg 142]</a></span> -take; for the enchantments of the Fairy did not permit us to -fight with Oriza. Careful of the life of her lover, the cruel -Ceora excited our jealousy, but took from us the natural -desire to revenge ourselves on a fortunate rival. At length, -after having paced the gallery for some time, I remembered -that it was in this place I had first fallen in love with the -Fairy, and exclaimed, 'It is here that I first felt that fatal -passion which now fills me with despair; and you, wretched -mirrors, who have so often represented the unjust Ceora to -me, with a beauty which has enslaved my heart and reason, -I will punish you for the crime of offering her to my view -with too great attraction.' At these words, snatching up the -giant's club, which I had brought to present to the Fairy, I -dashed the mirrors to pieces. No sooner were they broken -than I felt even greater hatred for Ceora than I had formerly -felt love for her. The princes, my rivals, felt at the same -moment their charms broken, and Oriza himself was ashamed -of the love which the Fairy had for him. Ceora in vain -attempted to retain her lover by her tears; he was insensible -to her grief, and in spite of her cries, we set out all together, -determined to fly from the terrible place, but in passing -through the court-yard, the sky appeared to be on fire; a -frightful clap of thunder was heard, and we found it was -impossible for us to move. The Fairy appeared in the air, -riding on a great serpent, and addressing us in a tone of voice -which betrayed her rage,—'Inconstant princes,' said she, 'I -am about to punish you, by a torture which will never end, -for the crime you have committed in breaking my chains, -which were too great an honour for you to bear; and as for -you, ungrateful Oriza, I triumph after all in the love you have -felt for me. Content with this victory, I shall visit you with -the same misfortune as your rivals; and I command,' added -she, 'in memory of this adventure, that when the use of -mirrors shall be known to all the world, the breaking of these -fatal glasses shall always be a certain sign of the infidelity of -a lover.' The Fairy disappeared in the air after having pronounced -these words. We were changed into trees; but the -cruel Ceora, no doubt with the idea of increasing our suffering, -left us our reason. Time has destroyed the superb castle, -which was the victim of our misfortune; and you are the only - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_143">[Pg 143]</a></span> -visitor we have seen during the two thousand years that we -have been in this frightful forest."</p> - -<p>Philax was about to reply to this speech of the cypress -tree, when he was suddenly transported into a beautiful -garden; he there found a lovely nymph, who approached -him with a gracious air, saying, "If you wish it, Philax, I -will allow you in three days to see the Princess Imis."</p> - -<p>The Prince, transported with joy at so unexpected a proposition, -threw himself at her feet to express his gratitude. -At that same moment Pagan was in the air, concealed in a -cloud with the Princess Imis: he had told her a thousand -times that Philax was unfaithful, but she had always refused, -on the word of a jealous lover, to believe it. He now conducted -her to this spot, he said, to convince her of the fickleness -of the Prince she so unjustly preferred to him. The -Princess saw Philax throw himself, with an air of extreme -delight, at the feet of the nymph; and was in despair that -she could no longer deceive herself on a point which she -feared to believe more than anything in the world. Pagan -had placed her at a distance from the earth, which prevented -her hearing what Philax and the nymph said; and it was by -his orders that the latter had presented herself to him.</p> - -<p>Pagan led Imis back to his island, where after having -convinced her of the infidelity of Philax, he found he had -only redoubled the grief of that beautiful Princess without -rendering her at all more favourable to himself.</p> - -<p>In despair at finding this pretended infidelity, from which -he had expected so much success, was useless to him, he -resolved to be revenged on the constancy of the lovers: he -was not cruel, like the Fairy Ceora, his ancestress, so he -bethought him of a different punishment to that with which -she had visited her unfortunate lovers. He did not wish to -destroy either the Princess, whom he had so tenderly loved, -nor even Philax, whom he had already made suffer so much; -so, confining his revenge to the destruction of a passion which -had so opposed his own, he erected in his island a Crystal -Palace, and took care to put into it everything that would -render life agreeable but the means of leaving it; he shut up -in it nymphs and dwarfs to wait on Imis and her lover; and, -when everything was prepared for their reception, he transported - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_144">[Pg 144]</a></span> -them both there. They at first thought themselves -on the summit of happiness, and blessed Pagan a thousand -times for the mildness of his anger. As for Pagan, although -at first he could not bear to see them together, he expected -that this spectacle would one day be less painful to him. -But in the meanwhile, he departed from the Crystal Palace, -after having, with a stroke of his wand, engraved on it this -inscription:—</p> - -<div class="block2"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">Absence, danger, pleasure, pain,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Were all employ'd, and all in vain,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Imis' and Philax' hearts to sever.</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Pagan, whose power they dared defy,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Condemned them, for their constancy,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">To dwell together here for ever!</span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p>They say that at the end of some years, Pagan was as much -avenged as he desired to be; and that the beautiful Imis -and Philax fulfilled the prediction of the Fairy of the -Mountain, by wishing as fervently to recover the aigrette of -lilies in order to destroy the agreeable enchantment, as they -had formerly desired to preserve it as a safeguard against the -evils which had been foretold would befal them.</p> - -<div class="block1"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">Until that moment a fond pair, so blest,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Had cherished in their hearts Love's constant fire:</span> -<span class="i0 font09">But Pagan taught them by that fatal test,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">That e'en of bliss the human heart could tire.</span> -</div></div> -</div> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_145">[Pg 145]</a></span></p> - - -<h3 class="no-break" id="THE_PRINCE_OF_LEAVES">THE PRINCE OF LEAVES.</h3> - - -<p>In one of those parts of the world, commonly called Fairyland, -on which poets alone have the right to bestow names, there -formerly reigned a King so renowned for his rare qualities, that -he attracted the esteem and admiration of all the Princes of -his time. He had, many years past, lost his wife, the Queen, -who had never brought him a son; but he had ceased to -desire one since the birth of a daughter of such marvellous -beauty, that from the moment she was born he lavished all -his affection and tenderness upon her. She was named -Ravissante, by a Fairy, a near relative of the Queen, who -predicted that the wit and the charms of the young Princess -would surpass all that had ever before been known or even could -be expected from her present beauty; but she added to this -agreeable prediction, that the perfect felicity of the Princess -would depend entirely on her heart remaining faithful to its -first love. In such a case, who can feel assured of a happy -destiny? The King, who desired nothing so much as the -happiness of Ravissante, heartily wished that it had been -attached to any other condition,—but we cannot command -our own fates. He begged the Fairy, a thousand times, -to bestow on the young Ravissante the gift of constancy, as -he had seen her give to others the gifts of intelligence and -of beauty. But the Fairy, who was sufficiently wise not to -deceive him respecting the extent of her power, frankly -informed the King that it did not extend to the qualities of -the heart. She, however, promised to use her utmost endeavour -to impress the young Princess with the sentiments that would -be likely to ensure her happiness. Upon the faith of this - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_146">[Pg 146]</a></span> -promise, the King confided Ravissante to her care from the -time she attained her fifth year, preferring to deprive himself -of the pleasure of seeing her rather than run any risk of -marring her fortune. The Fairy therefore carried off the -little Princess, who was very soon consoled for leaving the -Court of her father, by the delight and novelty of passing -through the air in a brilliant little car.</p> - -<p>On the fourth day after her departure the flying car stopped -in the middle of the sea, upon a rock of a prodigious size—it -was one entire shining stone, the colour of which was exactly -that of the sky. The Fairy remarked with pleasure that -the young Ravissante was enchanted with this colour, and -she drew from it a happy omen for the future, as it was the -colour which signifies fidelity. Shortly after they had landed -on it, the Fairy touched the rock with a golden wand which she -held in her hand. The rock immediately opened, and Ravissante -found herself with the Fairy, in the most beautiful -palace in the world; the walls were of the same material as -the rock, and the same colour prevailed in all the paintings -and furniture, but it was so ingeniously mixed with gold and -precious stones, that far from wearying the eye, it equally -pleased in all. The young Ravissante dwelt in this agreeable -palace, with several beautiful maidens, whom the Fairy had -transported from various countries to attend on and amuse -the Princess, and she passed her infancy in the enjoyment of -every pleasure suited to her age. When she had attained her -fourteenth year the Fairy again consulted the stars, in order -to learn precisely when the heart of Ravissante would be -touched with a passion which pleases even more than it -alarms, however formidable it may appear to some; and she -read distinctly in the stars that the fatal time approached -when the destiny of the young Princess would be fulfilled. -The Fairy had a nephew who was indescribably dear to her: -he was of the same age as Ravissante, born on the same day -and at the same hour. She had found, in consulting the stars -also for him, that they promised him the same fate as the -Princess—that is to say, perfect happiness, provided he possessed -fidelity which nothing could vanquish. In order to -make him both loving and faithful she had only to let him -behold Ravissante. No one could resist her eyes, and the - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_147">[Pg 147]</a></span> -Fairy hoped that the attentions of the young Prince would -one day touch her heart. He was the son of a King, -brother of the Fairy; he was amiable; and the young Princess -not only had never had a lover, she had not even seen a man -since she had lived on the rock. The Fairy consequently flattered -herself that the novelty of the pleasure of being tenderly -beloved would perhaps inspire the Princess with a feeling of -love in return. She therefore transported the Prince, who -was named Ariston, to the same rock which served both as -palace and prison for the beautiful Ravissante. He there -found her amusing herself with the young maidens of her -Court, by weaving garlands of flowers in a forest of blue -hyacinths, where they were then walking, for the Fairy, in -bestowing on the rock the power of producing plants and -trees, had limited the colour of them to that of the rock itself. -She had already, some time since, apprised the Princess that -Prince Ariston would soon visit the island, and she had added, -in speaking of the Prince, everything that she thought likely -to prejudice her in his favour; but she deceived herself this -time; and on the arrival of Ariston, she observed nothing of -that emotion or surprise which is the usual presage of a tender -passion. As for the Prince, his sentiments were in perfect -accordance with the wishes of the Fairy: he became passionately -in love from the moment he first set eyes on Ravissante; -and it was not possible to see her without adoring her, -for never were grace and beauty so perfectly united as in the -person of this amiable princess. She had the most exquisite -complexion, and her dark brown hair added to its dazzling -whiteness; her mouth had infinite charms, her teeth were -more purely white than pearls; her eyes, the most beautiful in -the world, were deep blue, and they were so brilliant, and at -the same time so touching in their expression, that it was -hardly possible to sustain their glances without yielding the -heart at once to the fatal power which love had bestowed on -them. She was not very tall, but perfectly beautiful, and all -her movements were peculiarly graceful. Everything she did -and said pleased invariably, and often a smile or a single -word sufficed to prove that the charms of her mind equalled -those of her person.</p> - -<p>Such, and a thousand times more amiable than I can paint - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_148">[Pg 148]</a></span> -her, it had indeed been difficult for Ariston not to have become -distractedly in love; but the Princess received his attentions -with indifference, and did not appear in the least touched by -them. The Fairy remarked it, and felt a grief which was -only surpassed by that of the Prince. She had remarked in -the stars that he who was destined to possess Ravissante -would extend his power not only over the earth, but even over -the sea. Therefore her ambition made her wish that her -nephew should touch the heart of the Princess as much as he -desired the same effect from his love. She thought, however, -that if the Prince were as learned as she was in the magic -art, he might perhaps find some mode of rendering himself -more attractive in the eyes of Ravissante; but the Fairy, who -had never loved, was ignorant that the art of pleasing is not -always to be discovered, although sought for with the utmost -ardour and eagerness. She taught the Prince, therefore, in a -short time, all those sciences which are known only to the -fairies. He had no pleasure in learning them, nor had he any -idea of employing them but with regard to his passion for -Ravissante. He began to make use of them by giving every -day a new fête to the Princess. She admired the wonders -produced, she deigned even sometimes to praise what appeared -the most gallant in these efforts of the Prince to please her; -but after all, she received his devotion and his attentions as -the just homage due to her beauty, and she considered them -amply repaid by her condescending to receive them without -anger.</p> - -<p>Ariston began to despair of the success of his passion, -but he was too speedily obliged to confess that this very time, -which he complained of so justly, and in which he felt so -keenly the hopelessness of his love, had, notwithstanding, -been the most happy period of his life. A year after his -arrival on the island he celebrated the return of that memorable -day on which he had first beheld Ravissante. In the -evening he gave her a fête in the forest of hyacinths. Marvellous -music was heard in every part of the forest without -any one being able to discover from whence the sounds proceeded. -All that was sung by these invisible musicians -tenderly expressed the love of Ariston for the Princess; they -concluded their admirable concert by these words, which were -repeated several times:—</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_149">[Pg 149]</a></span></p> - -<div class="block1"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">Nor reason nor relentless Fate</span> -<span class="i0 font09">My sufferings can terminate!</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Without one ray of hope to cheer,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">I feel my heart consuming here.</span> -<span class="i0 font09">How great his power Love never knew</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Till from those eyes his arrows flew.</span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p>After the music, there appeared suddenly an elegant collation -under a tent of silver gauze, elegantly looped up with -ropes of pearls; it was open on the side towards the sea, -which bounded the forest in that direction; and was illuminated -by a great number of chandeliers formed of brilliants, -which emitted an effulgence nearly equal to that of the sun. -It was by this light that the nymphs of the court of -Ravissante pointed out to her an inscription at the entrance -of the pavilion, written in letters of gold upon a ruby of -immense magnitude, supported by twelve little cupids, who -flew away as soon as the Princess had heard this inscription -read, which consisted of these lines:—</p> - -<div class="block1"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">Where'er throughout the world those lovely eyes</span> -<span class="i0 font09">May the devoted hearts of men enchain,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">For one as true as in this desert sighs</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Those lovely eyes may search, sweet maid, in vain.</span> -<span class="i0 font09">But through that world your glory to proclaim,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">And every mortal to your altar bring,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Princess, we haste to bid the trump of Fame</span> -<span class="i0 font09">With praise of beauty so divine to ring.</span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p>The fête continued, and Prince Ariston had at least the -pleasure of engrossing the leisure of the Princess, if he could -not occupy her heart. But he was deprived even of this -gratification by a surprising spectacle which appeared far out -at sea, and attracted the curiosity and attention of Ravissante -and of all the court. The object approached, and they distinguished -that it was an arbour formed of interlaced myrtle -and laurel branches, closed on all sides, and propelled with -great rapidity by an infinite number of winged fish. This -sight was the more novel to Ravissante as she had never -before seen anything of the colour of this arbour. The Fairy -having foreseen that it would cause some misfortune to her -nephew, had absolutely banished it from her island. The -Princess watched for the approach of the strange object with -an impatience which appeared to Ariston a bad omen for his -love. She had not long to wait, for the winged fish brought -the arbour in a few moments to the foot of the rock, and the - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_150">[Pg 150]</a></span> -attention of the young Princess and of all the Court was -redoubled.</p> - -<p>The arbour opened, and out of it came a young man of marvellous -beauty, who appeared about sixteen or seventeen years -of age. He was clothed in branches of myrtle, curiously -interlaced, with a scarf composed of various-coloured roses. -This handsome stranger experienced as much astonishment as -he occasioned. The beauty of Ravissante did not leave him at -liberty to amuse himself by observing the rest of the splendid -scene, the brilliancy of which had attracted him from a distance. -He approached the Princess with a grace which she -had never observed but in herself. "I am so surprised," -said he to her, "at all I find on these shores, that I have lost -the power of expressing my astonishment. Is it possible," -continued he, "that such a goddess (for a goddess you surely -must be) has not temples throughout the universe?" "I am -not a goddess," said Ravissante, colouring; "I am an unfortunate -princess banished from the states of the King, my -father, to avoid I know not what misfortune, which they -assure me has been predicted from the moment of my birth." -"You appear to me much more formidable," replied the -handsome stranger, "than those stars which may have -some evil influence on your fate, and over what misfortune -could not such perfect beauty triumph! I feel that it can -vanquish everything," he added, sighing, "since it has conquered -in a moment a heart which I had always flattered -myself should remain insensible; but, Madam," continued he, -without giving her time to reply, "I must, against my will, -withdraw from this charming place, where I see you only, -and where I have lost my peace of mind; I will return soon, -if Cupid prove favourable to me." After these words, he -re-entered the arbour, and in a few moments he was lost to -sight.</p> - -<p>Prince Ariston was so astounded and distressed by this -adventure, that he had not at first the strength to speak; a -rival had appeared in a manner as wonderful as unexpected; -this rival had seemed to him only too charming, and he -thought he had observed in the beautiful eyes of the Princess, -whilst the stranger addressed her, a languor which he had -often desired to see, but which till then he had never detected. -Agonized by a despair which he dared not betray, he conducted - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_151">[Pg 151]</a></span> -Ravissante to the Palace, where she passed part of the -night, occupied by the recollection of her agreeable adventure, -and made her nymphs relate each circumstance over and over -again, as though she had not been herself present. As for -Prince Ariston, he went to consult the Fairy, who, he hoped, -might possess some charm to allay the violent grief under -which he laboured; but she had no antidote for jealousy, and -they do say none has ever been discovered to this day. The -Prince and the Fairy, however, redoubled their enchantments -to defend the entrance to the rock from this formidable -stranger, whom they took for a magician. They surrounded -the island with frightful monsters, who occupied a great space -on the sea, and who, excited by their own natural ferocity, -and by the power of the spell, seemed to assure Ariston and -the Fairy that it would be an impossibility to take from -them the beautiful Princess whom they so jealously guarded. -Ravissante seemed to feel more vividly the power of the -charms of the handsome stranger by the grief which she -experienced at the obstacles opposed to his return to the -island; and she resolved, at all events, to be revenged on -Prince Ariston. She began to hate him, and that alone -was ample vengeance. Ariston was inconsolable at finding -he had provoked the hatred of Ravissante by a passion which -it appeared to him should have produced just the contrary -effect. The Princess mourned in secret the forgetfulness of -the stranger: it appeared to her that love should have ere -this made him keep his promise to return. Sometimes, also, -she ceased to desire it, when she remembered the dangers with -which Ariston and the Fairy had surrounded the approach to -the island. One day that she was occupied in these various -reflections whilst walking alone on the sea-shore—for Ariston -dared not, as formerly, follow her, and the Princess refused -even to attend the fêtes with which he was accustomed to -entertain her,—she arrived at the same spot which the adventure -with the unknown visitor had rendered so remarkable, and -was struck by the appearance of a tree of extraordinary beauty -floating towards the rock. The colour, which was the same as -that of the myrtle arbour of the stranger, gave her a sensation -of joy. The tree approached the rock, and the monsters -attempted to defend the entrance, but a little breeze agitated -the leaves of the tree, and having blown off a few, and driven - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_152">[Pg 152]</a></span> -them against the monsters, they yielded to these light and -harmless weapons, and even ranged themselves with a show -of respect in a circle around the tree, which approached the rock -without further impediment, and opened, disclosing to view the -stranger seated on a throne of verdure; he rose precipitately at -the sight of Ravissante, and spoke to her with so much eloquence -and so much love, that after she had in a few words acquainted -him with her history, she could not conceal from him -that she was touched by his devotion, and rejoiced at his return. -"But," said she, "is it fair that you should know the sentiments -with which you have inspired me before I am informed -of the name even of him who has called them forth?"</p> - -<p class="pmb1">"I had no intention of concealing it from you," replied the -charming unknown; "but when near you, one can speak of nothing -but you; however, as you wish to know, I obey you, and -beg to acquaint you that I am called the Prince of Leaves: -I am the son of Spring and of a sea nymph, a relation of -Amphitrite, which is the cause of my power extending over -the sea: my empire comprises all parts of the earth which -recognise the influence of Spring; but I chiefly inhabit a -happy island where the gentle season which my father -bestows reigns perpetually. There the air is always pure, -the fields ever covered with flowers; the sun never scorches, -but only approaches sufficiently near to illuminate it; night -is banished, and it is therefore called the Island of Day. It -is inhabited by a people as amiable as the climate is agreeable. -It is in this place that I offer you an empire, sweet -and calm, and where my heart above all things will acknowledge -your sovereignty. You must, however, beautiful -Princess, consent to be carried off from this rock, where -you are retained in veritable bondage: notwithstanding the -honours they pay you with a view to disguise the real state -of the case." Ravissante could not, however, make up her -mind to follow the Prince of Leaves into his empire, in spite -of the fear which she had of the power of the Fairy, and the -suggestions of her love; she hoped that her perseverance in -rejecting the vows of Ariston, would at length cause him to -resolve to conquer his passion, and that the Fairy would -then restore her to her father, from whom the Prince of -Leaves might demand her hand.</p> - -<div class="figcenter"> - <img src="images/i004.jpg" alt="" /> - <p class="center font08">The Prince of Leaves.—P. 152.</p> -</div> -<p class="pmb2" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_153">[Pg 153]</a></span></p> - -<p>"But I should at least wish," said she to him, "to be able -to send you word of what happens in this island, and I know -not how that is possible, as everything I do is suspected and -watched." "I will leave with you here," said the Prince, -"the subjects of a friend of mine, who is also a prince. They -will constantly attend on you, and by them you can often send -me intelligence; but remember, beautiful Princess, with what -impatience I shall wait for it!" After these words, he -approached the tree which had conveyed him, and having -touched some of the leaves, two butterflies appeared, the one -white and flame-colour, the other yellow and light-grey—the -most beautiful in the world. As Ravissante gazed on them, -the Prince of Leaves said, smiling, "I see you are surprised at -the appearance of the confidants I give you; but these butterflies -are not merely what they appear to be; it is a mystery -which they will explain if you will permit them to talk to -you." As he spoke, Ravissante perceived in the distance -some of her nymphs, who came to seek her in her solitude, -and she begged the Prince of Leaves to re-embark; he -obeyed, notwithstanding the infinite regret he felt at quitting -her, but he did not depart quickly enough to avoid observation; -they informed Ariston and the Fairy of his return to -the island, and from that moment, in order to take away from -the beautiful Ravissante the means, and even the hope of -seeing him again, they erected a tower on the summit of the -rock formed of the same stone; and in order to render it more -entirely secure, as the guard of living monsters had proved -insufficient, they caused the tower and rock to be invisible to -all those who should come to seek her, not daring again to -trust to ordinary enchantments. Ravissante was in despair -at being immured in so cruel and impregnable a prison. -Prince Ariston had not concealed from her that he had rendered -it invisible; he had even attempted to make her accept -this care for her safety as a proof of his tender devotion; but -Ravissante felt her hatred and contempt for him increase -daily, and he dared no longer enter her presence. The butterflies, -however, had not quitted her, and she often regarded -them with pleasure as having come from the Prince of -Leaves. One day that she was still more sad than usual, and -musing, on a terrace at the top of the tower, the flame-coloured -butterfly flew on to one of the vases filled with -flowers, which ornamented the balustrade. "Why," said he, - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_154">[Pg 154]</a></span> -all of a sudden to the Princess, "do you not send me to the -Prince of Leaves, he will undoubtedly come to your relief?" -Ravissante was at first so astonished at hearing the butterfly -speak, although her lover had prepared her for the novelty, -that she was for some minutes unable to answer; however, -the name of the Prince of Leaves assisting to dissipate her -surprise, "I was so astonished," said she at length, "to hear -a butterfly speak like ourselves, that I could not sooner -reply to you. I can well believe that you could go to -apprise the Prince of Leaves of my misfortune, but what can -he do?—only distress himself uselessly. He cannot find me -in a place which the cruelty of my enemies has taken care -to render invisible."</p> - -<p>"It is less so than you think," replied the yellow butterfly, -flying round the Princess in order to join in the conversation: -"a little while ago, I surveyed your prison, I flew and even swam -round it; it disappears when one is on the water, but when -one is elevated in the air it ceases to be invisible. No doubt -the Fairy did not consider that road so easy as to require the -same defence as that by the sea. I was about to give you -this hint," continued the butterfly, "when my brother broke -the silence which we have hitherto preserved." This agreeable -piece of news restored hope to the Princess. "Is it possible," -said she, "that Ariston can have neglected any precaution -which could gratify his cruelty and his love? No -doubt his power, like that of the Fairy, which is unbounded -over earth and sea, does not extend to the air." This was -precisely the reason which had prevented the Prince and -the Fairy from rendering the tower and the rock invisible -from the sky. "But," added Ravissante, after some minutes' -reflection, "can the Prince of Leaves have any power in the -air?" "No, Madam," replied the flame-coloured butterfly, -"he can do nothing, and your prison would be invisible -to him though he be a demi-god, as it would be to a mortal; -but—" "The Prince will then be as miserable as myself," -interrupted the sorrowful Ravissante, bursting into a flood of -tears, which added to her beauty, and which affected extremely -the two butterflies; "and I feel I shall be more distressed at -his sorrows than at my own! What ought I, then, to do?" -continued she, sighing. "Send me off at once," replied the -flame-coloured butterfly, briskly; "I will go and apprise the - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_155">[Pg 155]</a></span> -Prince of Leaves of your misfortunes, and he will come to -the rescue: although his power does not extend to the air, he -has a prince amongst his friends who can do anything in it, -and of whom he can dispose as of himself—but my brother -can inform you of all this during my absence. Adieu, beautiful -Princess," continued the butterfly, flying over the -balustrade; "cease to weep, and count on my diligence, I -will fly as rapidly as your wishes." After these words, -the butterfly was lost in the air; and the Princess felt that -charming and lively sensation of joy which the hope of soon -beholding a beloved one inspires. She returned to her -apartment, and the yellow butterfly followed her; she was -extremely impatient to know from what prince her lover hoped -for assistance; to end her doubts, she begged the yellow butterfly -to tell her all that could contribute to augment or flatter -her hopes. She placed him on a little basket of flowers, -which she carried to a table near her, and the butterfly, -who considered it an honour to please her, commenced his -recital.</p> - -<p>"Near the Island of Day, where the Prince of Leaves -reigns, there is another, smaller but equally agreeable; the -ground there is always covered with flowers, and they affirm -that it is a boon granted to our country by Flora, to immortalize -the memory of the happy days when she came there to find -Zephyr: for they contend that it was on our island that they -used to meet, when their love was still new and secret. It -is called the "Island of Butterflies." The inhabitants are -not of the form that you see me under. They are little -winged men, very pretty, very gallant, very amorous, and so -volatile that they hardly love the same thing for even one -day. Whilst the golden age reigned on the earth, Cupid, -who at that time flattered himself that the hearts of all -mankind would be ever fond and faithful, feared that by the -facility with which we flew about the world, we might teach -mortals the agreeable art of changing in love, which this god -called an error capable of utterly destroying the happiness of -his empire. In order to interdict all communication between -us and the rest of the universe, he came to our island, touched -the ground with one of his arrows, and rising again upon a -brilliant cloud which had borne him thither, 'If again,' said -he, to the inhabitants of the island, 'you wish to traverse the - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_156">[Pg 156]</a></span> -air, like the gods, I have taken sure means of vengeance; you -can no longer, by your dangerous society, trouble the happiness -of my empire.' After these words he disappeared. The -threats of Cupid did not, however, take from the Butterflies -the desire for change, nor even for flying, if it was only for -the pleasure of occasionally quitting the earth. Some of -them mounted into the air, and found that they had the -same facility as they possessed before Cupid had forbidden -them to do so; but as soon as they passed the limits of the -Island they were changed into little insects, such as you now -behold me, all of different colours, avenging Cupid having -intended to mark by this variety how much they were given -to inconstancy. Surprised at their metamorphosis, they -returned to our island, and as soon as they touched the -ground they were restored to their original form. Since -that fatal time the vengeance of Cupid has always continued -amongst us; when we quit the earth, nothing of our nature, -as men, remains, except our mind and the liberty of speaking -like them; but we have never made use of it out of our -island, not choosing to make this act of vengeance celebrated -by publishing it ourselves to the universe, or to alarm those -who, like us, are inclined to inconstancy. We have, however, -the pleasure of seeing, in our travels through the -world, that fate has revenged us on Cupid without our assistance; -for Inconstancy reigns with equal power to his own in -the whole extent of his empire. Some centuries after this -change took place in the realm of the butterflies, the Sun, -that seemed to take pleasure in making it bring forth flowers, -was so enchanted with his handiwork, that he fell in love -with a rose of extraordinary beauty; he was tenderly beloved -by her, and she sacrificed to him all the care bestowed on her -by the zephyrs. At the end of some time the rose became of -a different form to the rest; the Sun immediately caused -others to blow, resembling her, in order that she might be -less remarked in this quantity of flowers, which then appeared -a new kind of plant. It has since been called 'the rose of a -hundred leaves.' At length, from the Sun and this rose -sprung a demi-god, whom the Sun destined to reign for ever in -our island. Until then we had had no sovereign, but the son -of a god who favoured so constantly our earth was received -as our ruler with extreme joy; they called him the Prince of - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_157">[Pg 157]</a></span> -the Butterflies. It is this Prince, beautiful Princess, who -can assist you in the air, and whom the adventure I am about -to relate has rendered such a fast friend of the Prince of -Leaves.</p> - -<p>"In a country far removed from that of the butterflies -there reigns a Fairy, who dwells in a very dark cavern: they -call her the Fairy of the Grotto. She is of an immense size; -her complexion is a mixture of blue, green, and yellow. Her -face is almost as formidable as her power, and she is so -dreaded by mortals that there is not one bold enough to -approach the country which she inhabits. One day the -Prince of the Butterflies, travelling for his pleasure in the -neighbourhood of his empire, perceived the Fairy, and surprised -at this rencontre he followed her for some time to see -what would become of so fearful a monster. She did not -remark that she was observed, for the Prince, although the -offspring of the Sun, had not been able to obtain from fate -the liberty of travelling under any other form than that -which we all took on leaving the kingdom, because he was -born since the time when Cupid had made us feel his vengeance. -However, he was not inconstant, like all his subjects, -and Cupid, by way of showing him a little favour on that -account, had permitted him, when he changed his form, to -be of one colour only, and that colour should be the one -which signifies Fidelity. Under this form he followed the -Fairy as far as he pleased, and he saw her enter her dismal -abode. Impelled by curiosity, he flew in after her; but -what a sight awaited him at the bottom of this cavern! -He there saw a young lady, more beautiful and more brilliant -than the day, reclining on a bed of turf, and who appeared -in extreme grief. From time to time she dried the tears -which fell from her lovely eyes; her distress and the languor -of her appearance added to her charms. The Prince of the -Butterflies remained so entranced by this spectacle, that he -forgot the form under which he appeared, and only remembered -that he was desperately in love, and that he was burning -to say so. He was roused from this sweet reverie by the -awful voice of the Fairy, who spoke to the young lady with -frightful severity. This filled his heart with sorrow and anger, -as well as with despair, at not daring to express either one or the -other. The Fairy, who by a natural restlessness could not - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_158">[Pg 158]</a></span> -remain long in the same place, went out of the cavern; the -Prince then approached the young person with whom he -was so charmed; he flew round her, and wishing to enjoy -the only liberty which his form permitted, he alighted on -her hair, which was the fairest in the world, and at length -upon her cheek. He was dying to tell her how much -he was touched with her beauty and her grief, but by what -means could he convince her that he was son of the Sun, -without being able to appear before her in his own form; and -how could he inform her of the vengeance of Cupid, and the -inconstancy so natural to the inhabitants of the island, at -the very time that he wished to persuade her that he would -never cease to love her? He remained several days in the -cavern, or in the forest with which it was surrounded; he -could not resolve to quit this beauty that he so adored, and -although he dared not speak to her, he saw her, and that was -enough to make him prefer this hideous abode to the agreeable -scenes where he had the pleasure of reigning, and of being -acknowledged the most beautiful Prince in the world.</p> - -<p>"During the time he remained with this young creature he -always saw the Fairy treat her with incredible inhumanity, and -he learnt from their conversation that this beautiful person was -the Princess of the Linnets, whom the Fairy, being a relative, -had carried off at a tender age, in order more easily to usurp -her kingdom, which was a little island situated near to that -of the Butterflies. He had heard of the Princess having been -carried away, and that no one knew what had become of her. -This country was called the Land of the Linnets, on account -of the great quantity of those little birds that was found -there. The Prince of the Butterflies pitied sincerely this -unfortunate Princess, and, in the hope of being able to deliver -her, he determined at length to tear himself away from her. -He flew to the Island of Day without resting for a moment; he -there found the Prince of Leaves, with whom he was united -in the most tender bond of friendship, and who was about to -pass a part of the year in the Island of Butterflies. He related -his adventure to the Prince, and after discussing every means -by which it would be possible to set the young Princess at -liberty, the Prince of Leaves resolved to go himself into the -forest of the Fairy, to inform the Princess of the Linnets of -the violent love which the Prince of the Butterflies felt for - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_159">[Pg 159]</a></span> -her, and the reason which would always prevent that unfortunate -sovereign from appearing before her under his proper -form, unless she consented to be transported to the Island of -Butterflies. But the Prince of Leaves appeared to his friend -too formidable a rival to be entrusted with the commission; -for he feared, with reason, that the Princess might be more -touched by the charms of so perfect a prince than by the -recital of the love entertained for her by another prince -whom she had never seen nor even heard speak. He deplored -the cruelty of his destiny, and sought some other mode of -declaring his love to the Princess, but without success.</p> - -<p>"None but a demi-god could approach the dwelling of the -Fairy without feeling immediately the direful effect of her -fury. He embarked, therefore, with the Prince of Leaves, -agitated by a jealous fear. It appeared to him that this -Prince could not preserve for a single moment, on beholding -the beautiful Princess, the insensibility on which he had always -piqued himself.</p> - -<p>"Cupid, touched at the sad state to which he was reduced, -wished at least to re-assure him on this point, and at the -same time triumph over the insensible heart of the Prince of -Leaves. It was by you, beautiful Princess," continued the -Butterfly, "that the God expected to gain this victory, and -you alone are worthy of it.</p> - -<p>"It was on the same day that the two princes embarked -that they saw from afar, upon this rock, an illumination so -brilliant, that the Prince of Leaves, impelled by his destiny -more than by curiosity, ordered the winged fish which conducted -the arbour of myrtle in which he travelled, to approach -the spot from which the bright light emanated. You know -the remainder of this adventure. The Prince of Leaves found -you in the forest of hyacinths, and left at your feet the -liberty which he had held so dear, and which, till that -moment, he had always preserved. Hurried away by the -impatience of the Prince of the Butterflies, who had suffered -nothing but regret at the delay, he tore himself, with infinite -pain, from a spot where his heart and his wishes would have -made him desire to remain for ever. They continued their -voyage, and the Prince of the Butterflies was so delighted to -see that the Prince of Leaves was so deeply in love, and so -far from being likely to become his rival, that he did not - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_160">[Pg 160]</a></span> -doubt of its being a happy omen, and that he might count -on a successful issue to his enterprise.</p> - -<p>"They arrived in the forest of the Fairy of the Grotto; they -entered her dreary abode, and Cupid, who had resolved to -favour them, caused them to find the Princess of the Linnets -alone and asleep. There was no time to be lost—the Prince -of Leaves carried her off in the myrtle arbour, whilst the -Prince of the Butterflies followed.</p> - -<p>"The Fairy returned at this moment; she uttered the most -horrible shrieks at the sight of this abduction; she thought -she could prevent it by her art, and revenge herself on those -who had thus dared to rescue the Princess of the Linnets. -But her enchantments were powerless over the Prince of -Leaves, who soon was far away from the dismal shore. In -the meanwhile the Princess awoke, and was agreeably surprised -at finding herself where she was, and at the presence -of the Prince of Leaves. But it was an agreeable surprise, -which increased when that Prince conversed with her, and -informed her of the effect of her beauty, and that she would -henceforth, being delivered from the tyranny of the Fairy, -reign in her own empire, and in one also even finer than -her own. The Prince of the Butterflies then spoke of his love -with so much vivacity and tenderness, that the Princess felt -excessive curiosity to see him in his true form, of which she -confessed to have formed a very exalted idea from the time -she heard his voice. They continued to float on, and after -some days arrived at the Island of Butterflies, when the Prince -hastened to land, in order to appear at length in his own -person to the Princess. The Princess of Linnets then sent -to inform her subjects in her own island of her adventures: -they flocked to see her, and it was in their presence that -she accepted the heart and empire of the happy Prince of the -Butterflies. The Prince of Leaves, however, left her immediately -that he had safely conducted her to that island, in -order to return hither, beautiful Princess, where his anxiety -and his ardent love made him impatient to be."</p> - -<p>Ravissante listened with extreme attention to the Butterfly, -when she saw Prince Ariston enter her chamber with such -fury in his countenance, that she dreaded its effects. "Fate -threatens me," he cried, on entering; "and as it is with -some great misfortune, it must, no doubt, be that of losing - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_161">[Pg 161]</a></span> -you; none other would affect my heart, or be worthy of being -so predicted. See, Madam," he continued, addressing Ravissante, -"the colour which the walls of this tower are assuming—it -is a certain sign of approaching misfortune!"</p> - -<p>As the misfortunes of Ariston were a happiness to Ravissante, -she looked without distress at that which he pointed -out to her notice, and perceived, indeed, that the blue stones -were losing their original colour, and beginning to turn green. -She was delighted to see this, as she augured from it the -certain approach of the Prince of Leaves. The joy which -the unhappy Ariston remarked in her eyes redoubled his -despair. What did he not then say to Ravissante? And -rendered sincere by the excess of his grief, he told her that -his love was so great as not to allow of his ceasing to adore -her, although he was sure of being miserable all his life. -"I cannot doubt it," said he to the Princess, "for the Fates -foretold to me as to you—that I should always be miserable -if I were not always faithful to the first impressions love -made on my heart. And by what means could I ever obey -this cruel mandate? After one has seen you, however he -may have loved before, he must forget everything—even the -preservation of his own happiness in loving and seeking to -please you. A young princess of the Court of the King, my -father, once appeared to me worthy of my regard. I thought -fully that I should be sighing to return to her after remaining -here for a short time; but the first sight of you subverted -all my previous plans. My reason and my heart were equally -inclined for the change, and I thought nothing impossible to -the tender love with which you inspired me. I flattered myself -even that it might overcome fate; but your austerity, -which never relaxed, has taught me that I was deceived, and -that there remains for me no other hope but that of dying -speedily for your sake."</p> - -<p>The Prince Ariston finished speaking these words, which -made Ravissante even think him worthy of some pity, when -they saw in the air a throne of foliage, supported by an -immense number of butterflies. One amongst them, which -was entirely blue, and by whose colour Ravissante recognised -the son of the Sun, flew to her, and said, "Come, beautiful -Princess, to-day you shall resume your liberty, and make the -most amiable Prince in the world happy."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_162">[Pg 162]</a></span></p> - -<p>The butterflies placed the throne near Ravissante; she -seated herself on it, and they bore her away. Ariston, -distracted at the loss of the Princess, in a paroxysm of -despair, flung himself into the sea. The Fairy immediately -abandoned the rock which this suicide had rendered so fatal -and melancholy; and to mark her fury, she shivered both it -and the tower into a thousand pieces by a clap of thunder, and -the fragments were carried by the wind and waves to different -sea-coasts. It is of this species of stone that they now -make rings, which they call turquoise. Those which are still -called "de la Vieille Roche" are made of the remains of this -shattered rock, and the others are only stones which resemble -them. The remembrance of the misfortune predicted to -Prince Ariston by the change of colour in the walls of the -tower has descended to our time. They say still that these -rings become green when any misfortune is about to happen -to the wearers, and that these misfortunes are generally connected -with love affairs.</p> - -<p>Whilst the Fairy gave vent to her grief by the destruction -of the island, the Prince of the Butterflies, satisfied at having -rendered to the Prince of Leaves a similar service to that -he had received from him, conducted the beautiful Ravissante, -flying before her, to a boat of rushes, ornamented -with garlands of flowers, in which the Prince of Leaves -awaited her with all the impatience which the violence -of his love inspired. It is impossible to convey an idea -of the pleasure he felt at the arrival of the Princess; -never were joy and love so apparent as in the heart and -language of this Prince. He sailed immediately to the Island -of Day. The Prince of the Butterflies flew off to rejoin the -amiable Princess of Linnets as speedily as possible. Ravissante -sent two butterflies to the King, her father, to inform him of -her good fortune; the good King thanked the Fates, and set -out as soon as he could for the Island of Day, where the Prince -of Leaves and Ravissante reigned with all imaginable felicity, -and were always happy, because they never ceased to be fond -and faithful.</p> - -<div class="block1"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">The lot of Ravissante with envy view—</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Born to be blest could she prove only true.</span> -<span class="i0 font09">How many hapless lovers had succeeded,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Had constancy been all their idols needed!</span> -</div></div> -</div> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_163">[Pg 163]</a></span></p> - - -<h3 class="no-break" id="THE_FORTUNATE_PUNISHMENT">THE FORTUNATE PUNISHMENT.</h3> - - -<p>There was once upon a time a King, who fell desperately in -love with a Princess of his Court. As soon as he loved her -he told her so. Kings are more privileged than common -lovers. The Princess was not offended at a love which -might place her on the throne, and the King found her as -virtuous as she was charming. He married her: the wedding -was incredibly magnificent; and what was even more remarkable, -he became a husband without ceasing to be a lover. -The felicity of this love-match was only disturbed by the fact -of their having no children to succeed to their happiness and -to their kingdom. The King, in order to obtain at least the -comfort of hope on this point, resolved to consult a fairy, -whom he believed to be particularly friendly. She was called -Formidable, although she had not always been so to the King. -It is said even that in the old collections of the time in that -country are to be found ballads which tell a great deal about -them. So bold have poets been in all ages! For the Fairy -was very much respected, and appeared so stern that it was -almost impossible to imagine she could ever have felt the -power of love; but where are the hearts that escape? The -King, who had always been very gallant, and who had a great -deal of discernment, was well aware that appearances are often -very deceptive. He had first met with Formidable in a wood -where he had been hunting; she appeared to his eyes under -a form so graceful, and with so charming an air, that the -King did not doubt for a moment her desire to please: it is -seldom such charms are displayed without that intention. The -King fell in love with her; the Fairy felt more pleasure in being - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_164">[Pg 164]</a></span> -loved than in always inspiring terror. This affection lasted -several years; but one day when she reckoned on the heart of -her lover as on a property it was impossible for her to lose, -she let the King see her in her real form: she was no longer -young or handsome. She repented immediately when she perceived -by the altered expression of the King's face that she -had been too confident of her power, and discovered that, -however tender hearts may be, they cannot excite or retain -love if they are not united with an agreeable person. The -King was ashamed at finding he had been in love with only an -imaginary beauty; he ceased to love the Fairy, and thenceforth -only treated her with attention and respect. Formidable, -with a pride that was natural to her, assumed so well the -appearance of being contented with the esteem of the King, -that she persuaded him she was one of his best friends. -She even went to his wedding, in company with all the other -fairies of the country, who were invited, in order not to give -any one reason to fancy from her refusal that she had any -dislike to the marriage.</p> - -<p>The King, therefore, counting on the friendship of his old -mistress, went to visit her in her residence, which was a -palace of flame-coloured marble in the midst of a vast -forest. The approach to it was by an avenue of immense -length, bordered on both sides by a hundred flame-coloured -lions. Formidable liked only this colour, and she had therefore -by her magic art caused all the animals born in the forest -to be of the same hue. At the end of the avenue was a large -square, wherein a troop of Moors, clothed in flame-colour and -gold, magnificently armed, kept perpetual guard.</p> - -<p>The King traversed the forest alone; he knew the way -perfectly well; he even passed through the avenue of lions -without danger, for he threw them, as he entered, some -ranunculuses, which the Fairy had formerly given him to use -when passing those terrible beasts. As soon as the King had -thrown them those beautiful flowers, they became gentle and -quiet. He at length reached the Moorish guard, who at first -bent their bows at him, but the King threw them some -pomegranate blossoms, which he had received from the Fairy -with the ranunculuses, and the Moors shot their arrows -into the air, and drew themselves up in line to allow him to -pass. He entered the palace of Formidable: she was in a - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_165">[Pg 165]</a></span> -saloon, seated on a throne of rubies, in the midst of twelve -Moorish women, clothed in flame-coloured gauze and gold. -The Fairy's dress was of the same fashion and colour, but so -covered with precious stones that it shone like the sun; yet -it did not make her appear any the more beautiful. The -King looked and listened for a few minutes before he entered -the saloon. Near the Fairy was a quantity of books on a -table of red marble: he saw that she took one and began to -instruct the slaves in those secrets which render fairies so -powerful; but Formidable taught them none but such as -would be inimical to the happiness and comfort of mankind; -she took good care to prevent their learning anything that -would contribute to human felicity. The King felt he hated -the Fairy; and entering the apartment, interrupted the fatal -lesson, and surprised Formidable by his appearance; but -recovering herself immediately, she dismissed her Moors, and -regarding the King with an air of pride and anger,—"What -seek you here, inconstant Prince?" she exclaimed. "Wherefore -do you come to disturb by your odious presence the -repose I endeavour to obtain in this seclusion?" The King -was quite surprised by so unexpected a mode of address; -and the Fairy, opening one of the books, continued: "I see -clearly what you want. Yes, you shall have a daughter by -this Princess whom you have so unjustly preferred to me, but -do not hope to be happy: it is time for me to be avenged. -The daughter that shall be born to you ere long shall be as -much hated by all the world as I formerly loved you!" The -King did everything in his power to soften the anger of the -Fairy; but it was useless; hatred had succeeded to love, and -nothing but love could soften the Fairy's heart; for pity and -generosity were sentiments quite unknown to her. She -haughtily commanded the King to leave the palace, and -opening a cage, a flame-coloured parrot flew out. "Follow -this bird," said she to the King, "and bless my clemency for -not delivering you to the fury of my lions and guards."</p> - -<p>The bird flew off, and the King followed, and was conducted -by a road hitherto unknown to him, and much shorter than the -one he had come by, into his own kingdom. The Queen, who on -his return remarked his extreme sadness, begged to know the -reason so importunately, that the King at length told her of -the cruel prediction of the Fairy, but without informing her of - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_166">[Pg 166]</a></span> -all that had occurred between them in former times, in order -not to add to the troubles of his beautiful wife. This young -Princess knew that one fairy could not positively prevent -anything predicted by another of her own class, but that she -might mitigate the punishment which that other had inflicted.</p> - -<p>"I shall go," said the Queen, "in search of Lumineuse, -Sovereign of the Happy Empire; she is a celebrated fairy -who delights in protecting the unfortunate. She is a relation -of mine; she has ever favoured me, and she even predicted -the good fortune to which love would lead me." The King -quite approved of the expedition of the Queen, and hoped -much from it. Her equipage being ready, she set off to seek -Lumineuse. The Fairy bore this name because her beauty -was so dazzling that it was hardly possible to endure the -brilliancy of it, and the grandeur of her soul quite equalled -her extreme loveliness. The Queen arrived in a vast plain, -and perceived, at a great distance, a large tower; but although -it was in sight, it was very long before she could approach it, -owing to the many windings in the road. It was built of white -marble, and had no doors, but arched windows of crystal; a -beautiful river, of which the waves appeared of liquid silver, -bathed the foot of the tower, and wound nine times around it. -The Queen, with all her Court, arrived on the bank of the -river, at the point where it began its first circle round the -dwelling of the Fairy. The Queen crossed it on a bridge of -white poppies, which the power of Lumineuse had rendered -as safe and as durable as if it had been built of brass. But -although it was only made of flowers, it was nevertheless to -be feared, for it had the power of putting people to sleep for -seven years who attempted to pass it contrary to the wish of -the Fairy. The Queen perceived on the other side of the -bridge, six young men, magnificently attired, sleeping on beds -of moss, under tents of foliage. These were princes enamoured -of the Fairy: and as she never would hear love spoken of, she -had not allowed them to pass any farther. The Queen, after -having crossed the bridge, found herself in the first spot which -the river left free; it was occupied by a charming labyrinth of -laurestinus and jasmine; there were none but white, for that -was the colour Lumineuse preferred. After having admired this -lovely maze, and easily threaded its paths, which were only difficult -for those the Fairy did not wish should enter her agreeable - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_167">[Pg 167]</a></span> -dwelling, the Queen again crossed the river by a bridge of white -anemones; it took at this place its second turn, and the space -which it left before it made its third circle was occupied by -a forest of acacias always in full bloom; the roads through it -were charming, and so overshadowed that the rays of the -sun never penetrated; a number of white doves whose plumage -might have put the snow to shame were seen in all -directions, and the trees were covered with countless white -canary-birds, that made a delicious concert. Lumineuse, with -a touch of her wand, had taught them the most beautiful and -charming songs in the world. They left this lovely forest by -a bridge of tube-roses, and they then entered a fair plain, -wooded with trees laden with such fine and delicious fruit, -that the least of them would have put to shame the famous -gardens of the Hesperides. Every evening the Queen found -the most beautiful tents in the world prepared for her, and -a magnificent repast was served as soon as she arrived, without -her seeing any of the skilful and active officers who -prepared it. The Fairy, who had learnt by her books of -the arrival of the Queen, took care that her journey should -not be in the least degree fatiguing to her. The Queen, -leaving this marvellous spot, passed the river again, by a -bridge of white pinks, and entered the park of the Fairy. It -was as beautiful as all the rest. The Fairy sometimes came -to hunt there; it was filled with an infinite number of white -stags and does, with other animals of the same colour; a pack -of white greyhounds were scattered over the park, and lying -on the turf with the deer and white rabbits, and other animals -usually wild, but they were not so in this place, the art of the -Fairy had tamed them; and when the dogs chased some beast -for the amusement of Lumineuse, it appeared as if they understood -it was only in play, for while they hunted it in the best -style, they never did the animal any harm. In this place, -the river made its fifth circuit round the dwelling of the -Fairy. The Queen, in quitting the park, crossed the water -on a bridge of white jasmine, and found herself in a charming -hamlet. All the little cottages were built of alabaster. -The inhabitants of this pleasant place were subjects of -the Fairy, and tended her flocks; their garments were of -silver gauze; they were crowned with chaplets of flowers; and -their crooks were brilliantly studded with precious stones. - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_168">[Pg 168]</a></span> -All the sheep were of surprising whiteness; all the shepherdesses -were young and handsome; and Lumineuse loved -the colour of white too well to have forgotten to bestow on -them a complexion so beautiful that even the sun itself -seemed to have only helped to render it more dazzling. All -the shepherds were amiable, and the sole fault that could be -found with this agreeable country was that there was not a -single brunette to be seen there. The shepherdesses came to -receive the Queen, and presented her with porcelain vases, filled -with the most beautiful flowers in the world. The Queen and -all her Court were charmed with their agreeable journey, and -drew from it a happy presage of obtaining what she desired -of the Fairy.</p> - -<p>As she was about to leave the hamlet, a young shepherdess -advanced towards the Queen, and presented her with a little -white greyhound on a cushion of white velvet, embroidered -with silver and pearls: it was hardly possible to distinguish -the dog from the cushion, the colour was so exactly the same. -"The Fairy Lumineuse, Sovereign of the Happy Empire," said -the young shepherdess to the Queen, "has commanded me to -present you, in her name, with 'Blanc-blanc,' which is the name -of this little greyhound; she has the honour of being beloved -by Lumineuse, whose art has made a marvel of her, and who has -commanded her to conduct you to the tower. You will have -nothing to do, Princess, but to let her go, and follow."</p> - -<p>The Queen received the little dog with much pleasure, and -was charmed at the attentions shown her by the Fairy. She -caressed Blanc-blanc, who, after having returned her endearments -with much intelligence and grace, jumped lightly to -the ground, and began to frisk before the Queen, who followed -her with all her Court. They arrived at the bank of the -river, which there made its sixth turn, and were surprised to -find no bridge by which to cross it. The Fairy did not wish -to be troubled by the shepherds in her retreat, so there was -never a bridge at that point, except when she desired herself -to pass or to receive any of her friends. The Queen was pondering -on this adventure, when she heard Blanc-blanc bark -three times; immediately a light breeze agitated the trees -on the banks of the river, and shook from them such a -great quantity of orange-flowers into the water, that they -formed a bridge of themselves, and the Queen crossed the - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_169">[Pg 169]</a></span> -river by it. She rewarded Blanc-blanc by caresses, and found -herself in an avenue of myrtles and orange-trees, which -having traversed without any feeling of fatigue, although it -was an immense length, she found herself again on the bank -of the river, which made its seventh turn at that spot. -She saw no bridge, but the adventure of the morning re-assured -her. Blanc-blanc struck the ground three times -with her little paw, and in a moment there appeared a bridge -of white hyacinths. The Queen crossed it, and entered a -meadow enamelled with flowers. Her beautiful tents were -already pitched in it. She rested a short time, and then -resumed her journey, till she again found herself on the bank -of the river. There was again no means of crossing it; but -Blanc-blanc advanced and drank a little of the beautiful -stream, whereupon a bridge of white roses appeared, and the -Queen was thereby enabled to enter the garden of the Fairy. -It was so filled with wonderful flowers, extraordinary fountains, -and statues of superior beauty, that it is impossible to give -an exact description of it. If the Queen had not felt the -utmost impatience to avert the evils with which the cruel -Formidable menaced her, she would have lingered some time -in this charming place. All the Court left it with regret; -but they were obliged to follow Blanc-blanc, who conducted -the Queen to the spot where the river made its last circuit -round the dwelling of Lumineuse. The Queen then saw the -Palace of the Fairy quite near to her. Nothing but the river -divided her from it. She gazed on it with pleasure as the -goal of her journey, and read this inscription, written on the -tower in letters of gold:—</p> - -<div class="block1"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">Of perfect bliss behold the charming seat,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">By Lumineuse to pleasure dedicated.</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Love only may not enter this retreat,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Although 'twould seem for Love alone created.</span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p>This inscription had been composed in honour of Lumineuse -by the most celebrated fairies of her time. They had -wished to leave to posterity the expression of their friendship -and esteem for her. Whilst the Queen thus amused herself -on the banks of the river, Blanc-blanc swam across the stream, -and diving brought up a shell of mother-of-pearl, which she -again let fall into the water. At this signal six beautiful - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_170">[Pg 170]</a></span> -nymphs, in brilliant attire, opened a large crystal window, and -a staircase of pearls issued from it and slowly approached the -Queen. Blanc-blanc ran up it quickly, till the arrival at the -window of the Fairy, and entered the tower: the Queen followed, -but as she ascended, the steps of the pretty staircase -which she had mounted disappeared behind her, and prevented -any one else from following her. She entered the -beautiful tower of Lumineuse, and the window was immediately -closed.</p> - -<p>All the suite of the Queen were in despair when they lost -sight of her, and found they were unable to follow, for they -loved her most sincerely; their lamentations were heard even -in the place where Lumineuse conversed with the Queen, and -in order to re-assure these unfortunates, the Fairy sent one of -her nymphs to conduct them to the hamlet, where they could -await the return of the Queen. The staircase of pearls -re-appeared and revived their hopes; the nymph descended, -and the Queen from the window commanded them to follow -and obey the messenger. The Queen remained with the -Fairy, who entertained her with prodigious magnificence, -and with a charm of manner which won all hearts. The -Queen stayed with her for three days, which were not sufficient, -however, for the inspection of all the marvels of the -tower of Lumineuse; it would have taken centuries to see -and admire everything which the Fairy had to show. The -fourth day Lumineuse, after having laden the Queen with -presents as elegant as they were magnificent, said to her, -"Beautiful Princess, I am sorry not to be able to repair the -misfortune with which Formidable threatens you; but that -is the fault of destiny, which allows us to bestow good gifts -on those whom we favour, but forbids us to undo or avert -the evils inflicted by other fairies. However, to console -you for the misfortune that has been predicted for you, I -promise that before a year be over, you shall have a daughter -so beautiful that all those who behold her shall be enchanted -with her, and I will take care," added the Fairy, "to cause a -Prince to be born who shall be worthy of her hand."</p> - -<p>So favourable a prophecy made the Queen forget for a time -the hatred of Formidable, and the misfortune she had -threatened her with. Lumineuse did not tell the Queen the -reason of Formidable being her enemy. Fairies, even when - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_171">[Pg 171]</a></span> -they quarrel amongst themselves, keep jealously secret everything -which would render them contemptible in the eyes of -mortals, and 'tis said they are the only women who have the -generosity not to speak ill of one another. After a thousand -thanks on the part of the Queen, Lumineuse ordered twelve -of her nymphs to take charge of the presents, and to conduct -the Queen to the hamlet, she herself accompanying her as far -as the staircase of pearls, which appeared as soon as they -opened the window. When the Queen and nymphs were at -the foot of the stairs they saw a silver car drawn by six -white hinds: their harness was covered with diamonds; a -young child, lovely as the day, drove the car, and the nymphs -followed on white horses which might have vied in beauty -with those of the sun. In this elegant equipage the Queen -arrived at the hamlet; she there found all her Court, who -were rejoiced to see her again; the nymphs then took leave -of the Queen, and presented her with the twelve beautiful -animals enchanted by the Fairy, so that they were never -tired, informing her that Lumineuse begged she would offer -them in her name to the King. The Queen, overwhelmed -by the kindness of the Fairy, returned to her kingdom; the -King met and received her at the frontier; he was so charmed -at her return, and the agreeable news which she announced -on the part of Lumineuse, that he ordered public rejoicings, -the renown of which reached the ear of Formidable, and -thereby redoubled her hate and anger against the King.</p> - -<p>Soon after the return of the Queen she found she was about -to become a mother, and felt assured that the beautiful -Princess who was to charm all hearts would be ere long presented -to the King by her, for Lumineuse had promised her -birth should take place before the end of the year, and -Formidable had not prescribed the time when her vengeance -should be accomplished; but she had no idea of postponing -it long. The Queen gave birth to two princesses, and did not -doubt for a moment which was the daughter promised to her -by Lumineuse, from the eagerness she felt to embrace the one -which first saw the light. She found her quite worthy of -the praises of the Fairy; nothing in the world could be so -beautiful; the King and all who were present hastened to -admire the first-born little Princess, and they entirely forgot -the other; but the Queen, judging by the general neglect, - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_172">[Pg 172]</a></span> -that the prediction of Formidable was also accomplished, gave -orders several times that the same care should be taken of -her as of the eldest.</p> - -<p>The waiting-women obeyed with a repugnance which they -could not overcome, and for which the King and Queen dared -scarcely blame them, as they felt the same themselves. Lumineuse -arrived with all speed, upon a cloud, and named the -beautiful Princess Aimée, significant of the destiny which -she had promised her. The King paid Lumineuse all the -respect she deserved. She promised the Queen always to -protect Aimée, but she bestowed on her no gift, for she had -already given her all in her power. As for the other Princess, -it was in vain that the King gave her the name of one of -his provinces; insensibly every one accustomed themselves -to call her Naimée, in cruel contradistinction to her sister -Aimée. When the two Princesses had attained the age of -twelve years, Formidable desired them to be sent away from -the Court, in order, as she said, to diminish the love and the -hate which they inspired. Lumineuse let Formidable have -her way; she was sure that nothing would prevent the beautiful -Aimée from reigning in the kingdom of her father, and -in the hearts of his subjects. She had endowed her with -such charms that no one could see her and have any doubt -about it. The King, in the hope of appeasing the hatred of -Formidable, which extended to all his family, resolved to -obey her. He therefore sent the two young Princesses, -with a youthful and agreeable Court, to a marvellous castle -which he possessed in a remote part of his empire: it was -called the Castle of Portraits, and was a place worthy of -the learned fairy who had built it four thousand years before. -The gardens and all the promenades surrounding it were -lovely, but the most remarkable thing was the gallery, of -immense length, which contained portraits of all the princes -and princesses of the blood royal of that and all the neighbouring -countries. As soon as they attained their fifteenth -year their portraits were placed here, painted with an art -which could be but feebly imitated by any but a fairy. This -custom was to be observed until the time when the most -beautiful princess in all the world should enter the castle.</p> - -<p>This gallery was divided into two vast and magnificent -apartments: the two Princesses occupied them; they had - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_173">[Pg 173]</a></span> -the same masters, the same education; they taught nothing -to the charming Aimée which was not also taught to her -sister; but Formidable came and instilled lessons into the -latter which spoilt all the rest, while Lumineuse, on her side, -rendered Aimée, by her instructions, worthy of the admiration -of the whole universe. After the Princesses had been -in this castle, excluded from the Court for three years, they -heard one day a strange noise, which was followed by the -sound of charming music; they looked about everywhere to -find from whence the noise and the concert proceeded, when -they perceived three portraits occupying three places which -a moment before had been vacant. The first represented a -lady being crowned by two Cupids with flowers, one of whom -regarded the beautiful portrait with all the attention it -merited, and seemed to have forgotten to let fly an arrow at -it which was fixed in his bent bow; the other held a little -streamer, on which were these verses:—</p> - -<div class="block1"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">Aimée received from Nature at her birth</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Those beauties which immortal are, alone.</span> -<span class="i0 font09">The Graces added loveliness to worth,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">And Venus yielded up to her her zone.</span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p>It was not necessary to announce this as the portrait of the -beautiful Aimée; one saw in it all her features depicted with -that charming grace which attracted every heart; she had an -exquisitely fair complexion, the most beautiful colour in the -world, a round face, lovely light hair, blue eyes, which shone -with so much brightness that those who had the pleasure of -seeing them thought it useless that Lumineuse should have -bestowed on Aimée a gift which she was sure of possessing -from her own personal beauty: her mouth was charming, her -teeth as white as her skin, and Venus seemed to have given -her the power of smiling like herself. It was this divine -portrait which occupied the end of the gallery. The second -was that of Naimée: she was fair, and did not want beauty; -but notwithstanding, like the original, the portrait failed to -please. These words were inscribed beneath it in letters of -gold:—</p> - -<div class="block1"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">Naimée, of more than common charms possest,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Can in no mortal heart a dwelling find.</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Learn that in vain we are with beauty blest,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Wanting the rarer graces of the mind.</span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_174">[Pg 174]</a></span></p> - -<p>These two portraits occupied all the attention of the two -Princesses and of their juvenile Court, when Aimée, who was -not proud of her own personal charms, and leaving to the -others the task of admiring them, turned her eyes towards -the third portrait, which had appeared at the same time -with her own. She found it well worth looking at. It -was that of a young Prince, a thousand times handsomer -than Cupid himself; he had more the air of a god than a -mortal; his black hair fell in large curls on his shoulders, -and his eyes bespoke as much intelligence as his person -displayed manly beauty. These words were written underneath -the portrait:—"This is the Prince of the Pleasant -Island." Its beauty surprised everybody, but it affected the -lovely Aimée particularly—her young heart experienced an -unknown emotion; and Naimée even, at the sight of this -handsome portrait, found she was not exempt from a passion -which she could not herself inspire. The adventure itself did -not so much astonish any one, for they were accustomed to -see wonderful things in that country. The King and Queen -came to the Castle to visit the Princesses, and had a great -many copies made of their portraits, which they sent to all -the neighbouring kingdoms. But Aimée, as soon as she was -alone, carried away by an involuntary impulse, returned to -the gallery of portraits, where that of the Prince of the -Pleasant Island engrossed all her attention, and was every -way worthy of it.</p> - -<p>Naimée, who had nothing in common with her sister, save -an equal admiration of the portrait of the Prince, also passed -nearly all her time in the gallery. This growing passion so -increased the hatred of Naimée for her sister, that not being -able herself to injure her, she incessantly implored the fairy -Formidable to punish her for possessing superior charms. The -cruel Fairy never neglected an opportunity of doing harm; so, -following her own inclination, while yielding to the solicitations -of Naimée, she went in search of the amiable Princess, -who was walking on the bank of the river which flowed at -the foot of the Castle of Portraits: "Go!" said Formidable -to her, touching her with an ebony wand which she carried -in her hand,—"Go! Follow continually the winding of this -river, until the day when thou shalt meet a person who hates - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_175">[Pg 175]</a></span> -thee more than I do, and until that hour thou shalt not stop -to rest in any place in the world!" The Princess, at this -terrible order, began to weep. Such tears! In all the -universe no heart but that of Formidable could be found -incapable of being softened by them. Lumineuse hastened -to the assistance of the beautiful and unhappy Aimée. "Be -comforted," said she; "the journey to which Formidable has -condemned thee shall terminate in a delightful adventure, -and during it thou shalt have nothing but pleasure." Aimée, -after this favourable prediction, departed with one single -regret, which was that she should see no more the beautiful -portrait of the Prince of the Pleasant Island; but she dared -not express her sorrow to the Fairy. She therefore set out on -her journey, and everything appeared sensible of her charms. -None but the gentlest airs breathed in the places through -which she passed. Everywhere she found nymphs ready to -wait on her with the utmost respect; the meadows were covered -with flowers at her approach; and when the sun became too -powerful, the trees increased their foliage to protect her from -its beams.</p> - -<p>While the beautiful Princess made so pleasant a journey, -Lumineuse did not merely limit her exertions to neutralizing -the evil designs of Formidable; she sought Naimée, and striking -her with an ivory wand—"Begone!" said she. "Follow -in thy turn the banks of the river, and never shalt thou rest -until thou shalt find a person who loves thee as much as -thou deservest to be hated!" Naimée departed, and no one -regretted her absence.</p> - -<p>Even Formidable, who was always well pleased when she -caused pain, thought no more of Naimée, and did not condescend -to protect her any longer. The two Princesses thus -continued their journey, Naimée with all the fatigue possible, -the most beautiful flowers changing into thorns in her path; -and the lovely Princess, with all the pleasures which Lumineuse -had led her to hope for,—indeed, she found them still -greater than she had expected.</p> - -<p>At the close of a beautiful day, at the hour when the sun -sank to rest in the arms of Thetis, Aimée seated herself on -the bank of the river. Immediately an infinite number of -flowers, springing up around her, formed a sort of couch, the - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_176">[Pg 176]</a></span> -charms of which she would have admired for a much longer -time had she not perceived an object on the river which prevented -her from thinking of anything else; it was a little -boat made of amethyst, ornamented with a thousand streamers -of the same colour, inscribed with cyphers and gallant devices. -Twelve young men, clothed in light garments of grey and -silver, crowned with garlands of amaranths, rowed with so -much diligence, that the boat was very soon sufficiently close -to the shore to allow Aimée to remark its various beauties. -It was with a feeling of agreeable surprise that she perceived -in every part of it her name and her initials. A moment after, -the Princess recognised her portrait upon a little altar of topaz, -raised in the centre of the boat; and beneath the portrait she -read these words.</p> - -<p class="center font09">"If this be not love, what is it?"</p> - -<p>After the first emotion of surprise and admiration, she feared -to see the stranger land who appeared to be so very gallant. -"Everything informs me of the love of an unknown admirer," -said Aimée to herself; "but I feel that the Prince of the -Pleasant Island is alone worthy to inspire me with that sentiment -which I too plainly perceive is entertained for me by -another. Fatal portrait!" she exclaimed; "why did destiny -present it to my view at a time when, so far from defending -myself from its influence, I was even ignorant that it was -possible to love anything more tenderly than flowers."</p> - -<p>This reflection was followed by many sighs, and she would -have remained longer buried in her sweet reverie, if the -agreeable sound of divers instruments had not roused her -from it. She looked towards the boat from whence these -pleasing sounds proceeded. A man, whose face she could not -see, clothed in a robe of that same magnificent colour which -was displayed in his entire equipage, appeared to be entirely -occupied in the contemplation of her portrait, whilst six -beautiful nymphs formed a charming concert, and accompanied -these words, which were sung by him who did not take his -eyes off the picture of the Princess. The air was Duboulai's:—<a id="FNanchor_10_10"></a><a href="#Footnote_10_10" class="fnanchor">[10]</a></p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_177">[Pg 177]</a></span></p> - -<div class="block1"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">Let all things witness to my passion bear,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">And vaunt the beauties of my matchless fair!</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Aimée more charms than Venus' self displays!</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Ye Nymphs in turn your tuneful voices raise.</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Let all things witness to my passion bear,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">And vaunt the beauties of my matchless fair!</span> -</div><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">The Graces gladly quit the Queen of Love</span> -<span class="i0 font09">To follow one whose smile far more they prize.</span> -<span class="i0 font09">To see and serve her is a bliss above</span> -<span class="i0 font09">All that the gods can offer in the skies.</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Aimée more charms, &c.</span> -</div><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">One glance from her sweet eyes my heart subdued.</span> -<span class="i0 font09">All yield to her! all to her empire bow!</span> -<span class="i0 font09">And till the moment man her beauty viewed</span> -<span class="i0 font09">None could have loved as all the world must now!</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Aimée more charms, &c.</span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p>The sweetness of the music detained the beautiful Aimée -on the bank of the river. When it was finished, the stranger -turned his face towards her, and enabled her to recognise, -with as much confusion as pleasure, the agreeable features of -the Prince of the Pleasant Island. What a surprise, what -joy to see this charming Prince, and to find he thought of -nothing but her! One must know how to love as they did -in the days of the Fairies, to understand all that the young -Princess felt.</p> - -<p>The Prince of the Pleasant Island was equally astonished. -He hastened to land on the fortunate shore which presented -to his view the divine Aimée. She had not the heart to fly -from so perfect a prince, though she upbraided fate a thousand -times for her own weakness. On such occasions fate generally -bears the blame.</p> - -<p>It is impossible to express what the young lovers said to -each other. Often, indeed, they understood each other without -speaking. Lumineuse, who had conducted to this place -both the pretty boat and the steps of Aimée, appeared all at -once to re-assure the timid Princess, who had at length made -up her mind to avoid so charming and dangerous a Prince. -She told them that they were destined to love each other, -and to be for ever united. "But," added the Fairy, "before -this happy time arrives, you must finish the journey commanded -by Formidable."</p> - -<p>It is impossible to disobey the Fairies; so the beautiful -Aimée and the Prince were satisfied with the pleasure of - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_178">[Pg 178]</a></span> -being together, and felt that anything which did not separate -them was only too delightful. They continued, therefore, -their route, sometimes in the pretty boat, sometimes wandering -on foot through a vast, but beautiful wilderness, which -the river fertilized with its waters. It was in this tranquil -seclusion that the Prince of the Pleasant Island completely lost -his peace of mind. He informed the beautiful Princess of all -he had felt for her since the happy day when her divine -portrait had been brought to his Court, and that one morning -as he was walking on the banks of the river, and dreaming of -her, Lumineuse had appeared, and, showing him the amethyst -boat, commanded him to embark in it, promising him success -in his voyage and a favourable issue to his love. Whilst the -Prince and the beautiful Aimée obeyed the orders of Formidable, -their affection increased each day. They became so -happy, that they dreaded arriving at the end of their journey, -for fear of being occupied with anything else but their love. -Naimée, meanwhile, also continued her painful progress.</p> - -<p>The course of the river which the two Princesses followed -conducted them insensibly to the Pleasant Island, and they -arrived there exactly at the same moment. Lumineuse did -not fail to be present also. She informed Aimée that the -revenge of Formidable was accomplished, because, in meeting -her sister, she had found the only person in the world who -could hate her. "And the journey of Naimée is also finished, -then," said the beautiful Princess, "for nothing has been -able to diminish my regard for her." She then begged the -Fairy to mitigate, if possible, the sad fate of her sister; but -this favour was useless to Naimée. The moment she saw -the Prince of the Pleasant Island, whom she recognised -easily as the original of the exquisite portrait which had -touched her heart, and heard him tell Lumineuse that the -time of his marriage with Aimée approached, she threw -herself into that river, the course of which she had followed -for twelve months with so much pain, yet without having -resorted to self-destruction; but the woes of love affect us -more deeply than any other misfortunes.</p> - -<p>Lumineuse, who saw the Princess plunge into the water, -changed her into a little animal, which evinces still, by its -manner of walking, the contrariness of the unhappy Naimée. -Her fate followed her even after death, for she was not - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_179">[Pg 179]</a></span> -regretted. It cost Aimée, however, a few tears; but what -troubles could not be consoled by the Prince of the Pleasant -Island? She was so engrossed by his affection, that she -cared but little for the fêtes which they gave to celebrate her -arrival in the kingdom, and the Prince himself took but a -trifling share in them. When one is really in love, there is -no true pleasure but that of being loved in return.</p> - -<p>The King and Queen, apprised by Lumineuse of what had -occurred, hastened to rejoin their amiable daughter; and in -their presence the generous Fairy declared that the lovely -Aimée had had the honour of putting an end to the adventure -of the Castle of Portraits, because nothing had ever appeared -so beautiful as herself in all the world.</p> - -<p>The love of the Prince of the Pleasant Island was too -violent to endure delay, so he begged the King and Queen to -consent to the fulfilment of his happiness. Lumineuse herself -honoured with her presence a day so fair and so much -desired. The nuptials were celebrated with all the magnificence -which might be expected from fairies and kings; but -happy as was the day, I will not attempt a description of it, -for, however agreeable to the lovers themselves, a wedding is -almost always a dull affair to the general company.</p> - -<div class="block1"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">While Love in turn upon the tender strings</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Of human hearts with hope and fear can play,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Lovers and poets have a thousand things,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">More or less sweet and eloquent, to say.</span> -<span class="i0 font09">But soon as entered Hymen's happy state</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Apollo and the Muses all seem dumb.</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Of author and of husband 'tis the fate</span> -<span class="i0 font09">To fail in an Epithalamium!</span> -</div></div> -</div> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - -<p class="break" /> -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_180"></a></span></p> - - -<div class="footnotes"><b>FOOTNOTES:</b> - -<div class="footnote"> - -<p><a id="Footnote_10_10"></a><a href="#FNanchor_10_10"><span class="label">[10]</span></a> A Michel Duboulay, or Duboulai, was the author of two operas, entitled, -<i>Zephyr et Flore</i> and <i>Orphée</i>; but the music of these is said to have been composed -by Lulli.</p></div></div> -<p class="pmb2" /> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_181">[Pg 181]</a></span></p> - - -<h2 class="no-break" id="Mademoiselle_de_la_Force_1"> MADEMOISELLE DE LA FORCE.</h2> - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_182">[Pg 182]</a></span></p> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_183">[Pg 183]</a></span></p> - - -<h3 class="no-break" id="FAIRER_THAN_A_FAIRY">FAIRER THAN A FAIRY.</h3> - - -<p>There was once upon a time, in Europe, a King, who having -already several children by a princess whom he had married, -took it into his head to travel from one end of his kingdom -to the other. He passed his time in visiting one province -after another very pleasantly; but while he was staying in a -beautiful castle at the extremity of his dominions, the Queen, -his wife, was brought to bed there of a daughter, who appeared -so exceedingly lovely at the moment of her birth, that the -courtiers, either on account of the child's beauty, or to ingratiate -themselves with the parents, named her "Fairer than a -Fairy;" and it will be seen how well she merited so illustrious -a title. The Queen had scarcely recovered, when she was -obliged to follow the King, her husband, who had departed -in haste to defend a distant province which his enemies had -invaded.</p> - -<p>Little Fairer than a Fairy was left behind with her -governess and the ladies who attended on her; they brought -her up with the utmost care, and as her father was involved -in a long and cruel war, she had plenty of time during his -absence to increase in stature and beauty. That beauty rendered -her famous in all the surrounding countries; nothing -else was spoken of, and at twelve years old she might more -easily be taken for a divinity than for a mortal. One of her -brothers came to see her during a truce, and conceived the -most perfect affection for her.</p> - -<p>Meanwhile, however, the fame of her beauty and the name -she bore so irritated the fairies against her, that there was -nothing they did not think of to revenge themselves on her, - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_184">[Pg 184]</a></span> -for the presumption implied by such a title, and to destroy a -beauty of which they were so jealous.</p> - -<p>The Queen of the Fairies was not one of those good fairies -who are the protectors of virtue, and who have no pleasure -but in doing good. Many centuries having elapsed since she -had attained royalty by her profound learning and art, her -great age had caused her to dwindle in stature, and she was -now only called by the nickname of Nabote. Nabote -accordingly summoned a council, and made known to them -her resolution to avenge, not only the beauties of her own -court, but those of the entire world; that she had determined -to go and see for herself, and carry off this paragon whose reputation -was so injurious to their charms. It was no sooner -said than done. She set out, and, clothed in a very plain garb, -transported herself to the castle which contained this marvellous -creature. She soon made herself at home in it, and -induced by her cunning the ladies of the Princess to receive -her amongst them. But Nabote was struck with astonishment -when, after having carefully examined the castle, she -discovered by means of her art that it had been constructed -by a great magician, and that he had endowed it with a -virtue by the power of which no one could leave its walls or -the surrounding pleasure-grounds but of their own free will, -and that it was not possible to use any sort of enchantment -against those persons who inhabited it. This secret was -not unknown to the governess of Fairer than a Fairy, who, -well aware of the invaluable treasure committed to her charge, -still felt no alarm on her account, knowing that no one in the -world could take from her this young princess, so long as she -should not go outside the castle or the gardens. She had -expressly forbidden her to do so, and Fairer, who had already -a large share of discretion, had never failed in taking this -precaution. A thousand lovers had made fruitless efforts to -carry her off; but knowing herself secure within those limits, -she did not fear their violence.</p> - -<p>Nabote did not require much time to insinuate herself into -her good graces; she taught her to do beautiful kinds of work, -and rendered her lessons agreeable by recounting pleasant -stories. She neglected nothing which could divert her, and -naturally pleased her so much, that at length one was never -seen without the other.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_185">[Pg 185]</a></span></p> - -<p>Amidst all her attentions, however, Nabote was not less -occupied with her schemes of revenge; she sought for an -opportunity of inducing Fairer than a Fairy, by some cunning -pretence, only to put her foot over the threshold of one of -the castle gates. She was always prepared to pounce on and -fly away with her. One day that she had led her into the -garden, and the young maidens of her Court, having gathered -some flowers, had crowned with them the beautiful head of -Fairer than a Fairy, Nabote opened a little door which led -into the fields, and passing out at it, played an hundred antics, -which caused the Princess and the young folks who surrounded -her to laugh heartily. All at once the wicked Nabote pretended -to be taken ill, and the next minute she fell down, as -if swooning away. Some of the young maidens ran to assist -her, and Fairer flew also to her side. But hardly had the -unhappy child passed the fatal gate than Nabote sprang up, -seized her with a powerful arm, and making a circle with her -wand, a thick black fog arose, which dispersing again almost -immediately, the ground was seen to open and two moles -emerged, with wings formed of rose-leaves, drawing an ebony -car, and Nabote placing herself in it with Fairer than a Fairy, -it ascended into the air, and cleaving it with incredible velocity, -disappeared entirely from the sight of the young maidens, who -by their cries and tears soon announced to all the castle the -loss they had sustained.</p> - -<p>Fairer than a Fairy only recovered from her first astonishment -to fall into another still more fearful; the rapidity with -which the car passed through the air had so bewildered her -that she almost lost consciousness; at length, reviving a little, -she cast down her eyes. What was her alarm to find nothing -beneath her but the vast extent of the shoreless ocean. She -uttered a piercing cry, turned round, and seeing near her her -dear Nabote, she embraced her tenderly and held her close in -her arms as one naturally would to re-assure oneself. But the -Fairy repulsed her rudely:—"Off! audacious child," said she. -"Behold in me your mortal foe. I am the Queen of the -Fairies, and you are about to pay to me the penalty of your -insolence in assuming the proud name which you bear."</p> - -<p>Fairer, trembling at these words more than if a thunderbolt -had fallen at her feet, felt greater alarm at them than at -the dreadful road she was travelling. At length, however, the - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_186">[Pg 186]</a></span> -car alighted in the midst of the magnificent court-yard of -the most superb palace that ever was seen. The sight of so -beautiful a palace somewhat re-assured the timid Princess, -especially when she descended from the car, and she saw an -hundred young beauties, who came with much deference to -pay their respects to the Fairy. So charming a residence did -not appear to announce misfortune to her. She had also one -consolation which does not fail to flatter one in similar situations: -she remarked that all those beautiful persons were -struck with admiration on beholding her, and she heard a -confused murmur of praise and envy which gratified her marvellously.</p> - -<p>But how speedily was this little feeling of vanity extinguished! -Nabote imperiously commanded them to strip -Fairer of her beautiful clothes, thinking thereby to take from -her a portion of her charms. They pulled them off, accordingly, -but only to increase the fury of Nabote, for what -beauties were then disclosed to view, and to what shame did -they put all the fairies in the world! They re-clothed her in -old shabby garments. But in this state, one would have -said her natural and simple loveliness was determined to -show how independent it was of the assistance of the most -costly ornaments; never did she appear more charming! -Nabote then ordered them to conduct her to the place which -she had prepared for her, and to set her her task. Two fairies -took her and made her pass through the most beautiful and -sumptuous apartments that could possibly be seen. Fairer -noticed them, in spite of her misery, and said to herself, "Whatever -torments they may prepare for me, my heart tells me I -shall not always be miserable in this beautiful palace."</p> - -<p>They made her descend a large staircase of black marble, -which had more than a thousand steps: she thought she was -going into the bowels of the earth, or rather, that they were -conducting her into the infernal regions. At length they -entered a small cabinet, wainscoted with ebony, where they -told her she would have to sleep on a little straw, and that -there was an ounce of bread with a cup of water for her supper. -From thence they made her pass into a great gallery, the -walls of which were entirely composed of black marble, and -which had no light but that afforded by five lamps of jet, -which threw a sombre glare over the place, more alarming - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_187">[Pg 187]</a></span> -than cheering. These gloomy walls were hung with cobwebs -from top to bottom, and such was their peculiarity, that the -more they were swept away the more they multiplied. The -two fairies told the Princess that this gallery must be swept -clean by break of day, or that she would be made to suffer -the most frightful torments, and after placing a ladder, and -giving her a broom of rushes, they bade her set to work, and -left her.</p> - -<p>Fairer than a Fairy sighed, and not knowing the peculiarity -of those cobwebs, courageously resolved, notwithstanding -the great length of the gallery, to execute the task -imposed on her. She took her broom, and mounted the -ladder nimbly, but, O Heavens! what was her surprise when, -as she endeavoured to sweep the marble and clear off the -cobwebs, she found they increased in proportion to her exertions! -She fatigued herself by persevering for some time, -but perceiving sorrowfully, at length, that it was all in vain, -she threw down her broom, descended the ladder, and seating -herself on the last step of it, began to weep bitterly, and to -foresee the extent of her misfortune. Her sobs came at -length so fast that she could no longer support herself, when, -raising her head a little, her eyes were dazzled by a brilliant -light. The gallery was in an instant illuminated from end -to end, and she saw kneeling before her a youth so beautiful -and charming, that at the first glance she took him for Cupid, -but she remembered that Love is always painted naked, and -this handsome youth was dressed in a suit of clothes covered -with jewels. She was not sure, also, that all the light she -perceived did not proceed from his eyes, so beautiful and -brilliant did they appear to her. This young man continued -to gaze upon her, still kneeling. She felt inclined to kneel -too. "Who art thou?" she exclaimed, in amazement. "Art -thou a God? Art thou Love?" "I am not a God," he -replied, "but I have more love in me than is to be found in -heaven or earth beside. I am Phratis, son of the Queen of -the Fairies, who loves you and will aid you." Then, taking -up the broom which she had thrown down, he touched all -the cobwebs, which immediately turned to cloth-of-gold of -marvellous workmanship, the lamps becoming bright and -shining; Phratis then, giving a golden key to the Princess, -said, "In the principal panel of your cell you will find a lock; - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_188">[Pg 188]</a></span> -open it gently. Adieu, I must retire for fear of being suspected: -go to rest; you will find all that is necessary for your -repose." Then placing one knee on the ground, he respectfully -kissed her hand and disappeared.</p> - -<p>Fairer, more surprised at this adventure than at anything -else which had happened to her during the day, re-entered -her little apartment, and looked about for the lock of -which he had spoken, when, on approaching the wainscot, -she heard the most gentle voice in the world apparently deploring -some misfortune, and she imagined it must proceed -from some wretched being persecuted as she was. She listened -attentively. "Alas! what shall I do?" said the voice. -"They bid me change this bushel of acorns into oriental -pearls!" Fairer than a Fairy, less astonished than she would -have been two hours before, struck two or three times on the -panel, and said pretty loudly, "If they impose hard tasks in -this place, miracles are at the same time performed here—therefore, -hope! But tell me, I pray, who you are, and I -will tell you who I am." "It is more agreeable to me to -satisfy your curiosity than to continue my employment," -replied the other person. "I am the daughter of a King; -they say I was born charming, but the fairies did not assist -at my birth, and you know they are cruel to those whom -they have not taken under their protection directly they -come into the world." "Ah! I know it too well," replied -Fairer; "I am handsome, like yourself, the daughter of a -King, and unfortunate, because I am agreeable without the -assistance of their gifts." "We are, then, companions in misfortune," -returned the other. "But are you in love?" "Not -far from it," said Fairer, in a low voice; "but continue your -story," said she aloud, "and do not question me more." "I -was considered," continued the other, "the most charming -creature that had ever existed, and everybody loved me and -wished to possess me: they called me Désirs; my will was -law, and I was treasured in all hearts. A young prince, the -most enthusiastic of my adorers, abandoned everything for -me. My encouragement of his hopes transported him with -delight. We were about to be united for ever, when the -fairies, jealous at beholding me the object of universal admiration, -and detesting the sight of attractions which they had -not bestowed, carried me off one day in the midst of my - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_189">[Pg 189]</a></span> -triumphs, and consigned me to this horrid place. They have -threatened that they will strangle me to-morrow morning if -I have not performed a preposterous task which they have -imposed upon me. Now, tell me quickly, who are you?" -"I have told you all," replied Fairer, "but my name. They -call me Fairer than a Fairy." "You must, then, be very -beautiful," replied the Princess Désirs; "I should like excessively -to see you." "I am quite as anxious to see you," -replied Fairer. "Is there a door hereabouts, for I have a -little key which perhaps may be of use to you." Looking -narrowly round, she discovered one which she was able to -open, and pushing it, the two Princesses met face to face, and -were equally surprised at the marvellous beauty of each other.</p> - -<p>After embracing affectionately, and saying many civil -things to one another, Fairer began to laugh at seeing the -Princess Désirs continually rubbing her acorns with a little -white stone, as she had been ordered to do. She told her of -the task which they had imposed upon her, and how miraculously -she had been assisted by a charming unknown being! -"But who can it be?" said the Princess Désirs. "I think it -is a man," replied Fairer. "A man!" cried Désirs. "You -blush—you love him!" "No, not yet," replied Fairer; "but -he has told me he loves me; and if he loves me as he says, he -shall assist you." Hardly had she uttered these words, when -the bushel measure began to shake, and agitating the acorns, -as the oak on which they had grown might have done, they -were instantly changed into the most beautiful pear-shaped -pearls of the first water. It was one of these which Cleopatra -dissolved in wine at the costly banquet she made for Mark -Antony.</p> - -<p>The two Princesses were delighted at the exchange, -and Fairer than a Fairy, who began to be accustomed to -wonders, leading Désirs by the hand, returned into her own -chamber, and finding the panel containing the lock of which -the stranger had spoken, she opened it with her golden key, -and entered an apartment, the magnificence of which both -surprised and affected her, as she saw in everything it contained -the attention of her lover. It was strewn with the -most beautiful flowers, and exhaled a divine perfume. At one -end of this charming room there was a table covered with all -that could gratify the most refined taste, and two fountains - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_190">[Pg 190]</a></span> -of liqueurs which flowed into basins of porphyry. The young -Princesses seated themselves in two ivory chairs, enriched -with emeralds; they ate with a good appetite, and when they -had supped, the table disappeared, and in its place arose a -delicious bath, into which they stepped together. At a few -paces from them they observed a superb toilet-table, and large -baskets of gold wire full of linen of such exquisite purity that -it made them long to make use of it. A bed of singular -form and extraordinary richness, occupied the further end of -this marvellous chamber, which was lined with orange-trees -in golden boxes studded with rubies, while rows of cornelian -columns sustained the sumptuous roof, divided only by immense -crystal mirrors which reached from the ground to the ceiling. -Several consoles, of rare materials, supported vases of precious -stones, filled with all sorts of flowers.</p> - -<p>The Princess Désirs admired the good fortune of her companion, -and, turning to her, observed, "Your lover is indeed -gallant; he can do much, and he will do everything for you; -your happiness is extraordinary." A clock striking midnight -repeated at each stroke the name of Phratis. Fairer than a -Fairy coloured, and threw herself on the couch. She trusted -to repose, but her sleep was troubled by the image of Phratis.</p> - -<p>The next morning there was great astonishment in the -Court of the Fairies at seeing the gallery so richly decorated, -and the bushel-measure full of beautiful pearls. They had -hoped to punish the young Princesses: their cruelty was disappointed. -They found each alone in her little chamber. -After consulting together again, in order to devise some tasks -which could not possibly be accomplished, they told Désirs to -go to the sea-shore and write on the sand, with express orders -to take care that what she wrote there could never be effaced. -And they commanded Fairer to go to the foot of Mount -Adventurous, to fly to the top, and bring them a vase full of -the water of immortality. For this purpose they gave her a -quantity of feathers and wax, in hopes that, by making wings -for herself, she might perish like another Icarus. Désirs and -Fairer looked at each other on hearing these dreadful commands, -and, embracing tenderly, they separated, as if taking an -eternal farewell. The fairies conducted one to the sea-shore -and the other to the foot of Mount Adventurous.</p> - -<p>When Fairer was left by herself she took the feathers and - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_191">[Pg 191]</a></span> -wax, and made some vain attempts to form wings with them. -After having worked for some time most ineffectually, her -thoughts reverted to Phratis. "If you loved me," said she, -"you would come to my assistance." Hardly had she finished -the last word when she saw him stand before her, looking a -thousand times more beautiful than on the preceding night. -The full light of day was an advantage to him. "Do you -doubt my affection?" said he. "Is anything difficult to him -who loves you?" He then requested her to take off some -portion of her dress, and having kissed her hand as a recompense, -he transformed himself suddenly to an eagle. She was -rather sorry to see so charming a person thus metamorphosed, -but, placing himself at her feet, he extended his wings, and -made her easily comprehend his design. Reclining upon him, -she encircled his proud neck with her beautiful arms, and he -rose with her gently into the air. It would be difficult to say -which was the most gratified—she, at escaping death in the -execution of the order given her, or he, at being permitted to -bear such a precious burden.</p> - -<p>He carried her gently to the summit of the mountain, -where she heard an harmonious concert warbled by a thousand -birds that came to render homage to the divine bird which -bore her. The top of this mountain was a flowery plain, -surrounded by fine cedars, in the midst of which was a little -stream, whose silvery waves rolled over golden sands strewn -with brilliant diamonds. Fairer than a Fairy knelt down, -and first of all took some of this precious water in her hand, -and drank it. After this she filled her vase, and, turning -towards her eagle, said, "Ah, how I wish that Désirs had -some of this water!" Scarcely had she spoken these words -than the Eagle flew down, took one of the slippers of Fairer, -and returning with it, filled it with water, and carried it to -the sea-shore, where the Princess Désirs was occupied in fruitless -attempts to write indelibly on the sand.</p> - -<p>The Eagle returned to Fairer, and resumed his beautiful -burden. "Alas!" said she, "what is Désirs doing? -Take me to her." He obeyed. They found her still writing, -and as fast as she wrote, a wave came and effaced what she -had written. "What cruelty," said the Princess to Fairer, -"to command what it is impossible to accomplish! I imagine, -from the strange mode of your conveyance, that you have - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_192">[Pg 192]</a></span> -succeeded." Fairer alighted, and, moved by the misfortune -of her companion, she turned towards her lover, and thus -addressed him, "Give me proof of your omnipotence." "Or -rather of my love," interrupted the Prince, resuming his -proper form. Désirs, observing the beauty and grace of his -person, cast on him a look of surprise and delight. Fairer -coloured, and by a movement over which she had no control, -placed herself before him so as to hide him from her companion. -"Do as you are told," continued she, with a charming -air of uneasiness. Phratis knew his happiness, and -wishing to terminate as speedily as possible her trouble, -"Read," said he, and disappeared swifter than a flash of -lightning.</p> - -<p>At the same instant a wave broke at the feet of Fairer, -and in retiring left behind a brazen tablet, as firmly fixed in -the sand as if it had been there from all eternity, and would -remain immovable to the end of the world. As she looked -at it, she perceived letters forming on it, deeply engraved, -which composed these lines:—</p> - -<div class="block1"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">The vows of common love in sand are traced,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">And, even 'graved in brass, may be effaced;</span> -<span class="i0 font09">But those which are inspired by your bright eyes,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">In starry words are written in the skies.</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Nought can destroy those characters divine,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Eternal as the heavens in which they shine.</span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p>"I understand," cried Désirs: "he who loves you, must -always love! How well your charming swain expresses his -feelings." She then embraced Fairer than a Fairy, who soon, -in her arms, recovered from the confusion occasioned by the -little feeling of jealousy she had experienced, and confessed it -to her friend, who accused her of it; and both, confirmed in -their friendship, abandoned themselves to the pleasure of an -agreeable and affectionate conversation.</p> - -<p>Queen Nabote sent messengers to the foot of the mountain -to find what was become of Fairer than a Fairy. They found -the scattered feathers, and a part of her clothes, and consequently -believed she had been dashed to pieces, as they -desired.</p> - -<p>Full of this idea, the fairies ran to the sea-shore; they exclaimed -at the sight of the brazen tablet, and were overwhelmed -at perceiving the two Princesses calmly seated in - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_193">[Pg 193]</a></span> -conversation on a jutting piece of rock. They called to them. -Fairer presented her vase full of the water of immortality, -and laughed in secret with Désirs at the fury of the fairies.</p> - -<p>The Queen was not to be jested with. She knew that a -power as great as her own must have assisted them, and her -rage increased to such a pitch, that without hesitating an -instant, she determined on effecting their ruin by a final and -most cruel trial.</p> - -<p>Désirs was condemned to go on the morrow to the Fair of -Time, to fetch the Rouge of Youth, and Fairer than a Fairy -to proceed to the Wood of Wonders, and capture the Hind -with Silver Feet.</p> - -<p>The Princess Désirs was conducted to a vast plain, at the -end of which was an immense building, divided into galleries -full of shops so superb that no comparison could be found for -them but in the recollections of the magnificent entertainments -at Marly.<a id="FNanchor_11_11"></a><a href="#Footnote_11_11" class="fnanchor">[11]</a> These shops were kept by young and agreeable -fairies, assisted by their favoured lovers.</p> - -<p>As soon as Désirs appeared, her charms fascinated everybody. -She took possession of all hearts. In the first shops -she entered she excited much commiseration by asking for -the Rouge of Youth. None would tell her where to find it, -because, when it was not a fairy who came in search of it, it -was a sure sign of torment to the person who was charged -with this dangerous commission. The good fairies told -Désirs to return, and to inquire no further for what she -sought. She was so beautiful that they ran before her -wherever she went, in order to gaze at her. Her ill-luck, -however, led her to the shop of a wicked fairy. Hardly had -she asked for the Rouge of Youth, on the part of the Queen -of the Fairies, than, darting a terrible glance at her, she told -her that she had it, and that she would give it her the -next morning, and ordered her to enter a room and wait -till it was prepared for her. They led her into a dark and -pestilential place, where she could not see her hand before -her. She was overcome with terror. "Ah!" she exclaimed, -"charming lover of Fairer than a Fairy, haste to my rescue, -or I am lost!"</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_194">[Pg 194]</a></span></p> - -<p>But he was deaf to her appeal, or unable to act as he had -done in other places. Désirs tormented herself half the -night and slept the remainder, when she was awakened by a -good-looking girl, who brought her a little food, telling her -that it was sent her by the favourite of the Fairy, her mistress, -who was resolved to assist her, and that it would be fortunate -for her if such were the case, because the Fairy had sent for -an evil spirit, who, by breathing on her face, would make her -hideous, and in that frightful state she would be ignominiously -sent back to the Queen of the Fairies, who, with all her Court, -would triumph in her misfortunes.</p> - -<p>The Princess Désirs felt frightened to death at this threat -of losing in a moment all her beauty, and wished rather to die -outright. Her agony was horrible; she groped about her dark -prison in vain hope of discovering some mode of escape, when -some one took her by the arm, and she felt in her heart a sensation -of pleasure. She was gently led towards a spot where she -began to perceive a little light, and when her eyes became accustomed -to it, she was struck by the appearance of what was to -her the most charming object in the world, for she recognised -that dear Prince who loved her so truly, and from whom they -had separated her on the eve of her wedding. Her transport, -her delight, was extreme. "Is it you?" she exclaimed a hundred -times. At length, when fully persuaded of the fact, and -forgetting all her own troubles—"But are you the favourite -of this wretched Fairy?" she continued. "Is it with this fine -title that I again behold you." "Undoubtedly," replied he; -"and we shall owe to it the end of our troubles, and the certainty -of our happiness."</p> - -<p>He then recounted to her how, in despair at her being -carried off, he had gone to seek a wise old man, who had -informed him where she was, and assured him that he -would never recover her but in the Kingdom of the Fairies; -that he had furnished him with the means of finding it, -but that he had been arrested in his pursuit of her by this -cruel Fairy, who had fallen in love with him; that, following -the advice of the sage, he had dissembled, and by -his docility had obtained such an influence over her, that he -had the care of all her treasure, and was the minister of all -her power; that she had just departed on a journey of six -thousand leagues; that she would not return for twelve days; -and that, therefore, they should lose no time in escaping; - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_195">[Pg 195]</a></span> -that he was going into his cabinet to fetch a part of the -gem of the ring of Gyges<a id="FNanchor_12_12"></a><a href="#Footnote_12_12" class="fnanchor">[12]</a>; that she should put it on, and -thereby becoming invisible, she could pass anywhere: as for -himself, he could show himself as he pleased. "Do not -forget," said she, "the Rouge of Youth; I wish to put some -on, and to give some to one of my companions."</p> - -<p>The Prince smiled. "Whither shall we go?" continued -she. "To the Queen of the Fairies," he replied. "No, that -will never do," she exclaimed; "we shall perish there!" -"The sage who counselled me," pursued he, "told me to lead -you back to the place from whence you came last, if I wished -to be assured of happiness: he has never yet deceived me in -anything whatever." "Well, then, so be it," said Désirs; -"we will go there."</p> - -<p>The Prince brought her a valuable box, in which was the -Rouge of Youth; and with the hope of making herself appear -more beautiful still in the eyes of her lover, she rubbed some -hastily all over her face, forgetting that she was invisible by -means of the gem which he had given her. She took him by -the arm. They traversed in this manner the whole of the -Fair, and were soon close to the palace of the Queen. There -the Prince resumed the gem of Gyges. The beautiful Désirs -became visible, and he became invisible, to the great regret -of the Princess, whom he took by the arm in his turn, and -presented her before Nabote and her Court. All the -fairies looked at each other in excessive astonishment at -seeing Désirs return with the Rouge of Youth, and the Queen, -frowning awfully, desired them to guard her strictly. "Our -arts are vain," said she. "We must put her to death, without -trying any more experiments."</p> - -<p>The sentence was pronounced. Désirs trembled with fear; -her lover re-assured her as much as he could.</p> - -<p>But we must return to Fairer than a Fairy. They had -conducted her to the Wood of Wonders, and here is the -reason why they had condemned her to chase the Silver-footed -Hind:—</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_196">[Pg 196]</a></span></p> - -<p>Once upon a time there had been a Queen of the Fairies -who had succeeded in due course to that grand title; she was -beautiful, good, and wise. She had had several lovers, whose -affections and attentions had, however, been lost upon her. -Entirely occupied in protecting virtue, she found no amusement -in listening to the sighs of her adorers. There was one -whom her coldness rendered the most unhappy, because he -loved her better than any of the others.</p> - -<p>One day, seeing that he could not move her to pity him, he -protested, in his despair, that he would kill himself. She was -not affected even at this threat, considering it merely as one -of those extravagances in which lovers sometimes indulge, -but which never have any serious result. However, some -time after, he really did throw himself into the sea.</p> - -<p>A sage, who had brought up this young man, complained -to the supreme authorities, and the insensible Fairy was condemned -to do penance for her severity in the form of a hind, -for the term of one hundred years, unless an accomplished -beauty could be found, who, by venturing to hunt her for ten -days in the Wood of Wonders, could take her and restore her -to her original shape. Forty years had already elapsed since -she had been first transformed.</p> - -<p>At the commencement of her penance several beauties had -risked the trial of this fine adventure, from which so much -honour was to be derived. Each hoped to be the fortunate -huntress; but as they lost themselves in the pursuit, and at -the end of ten days were no more heard of, this ardour began -to cool, and for some time past no beauty had voluntarily -offered herself; those who had recently undertaken the task -being condemned to it by the Fairies, in order to ensure their -destruction. It was, thus, to get rid of Fairer that they led -her to the Wood of Wonders. They gave her a small portion -of food, for form's sake, and placed in her hand a silken cord, -with a running noose to catch the deer. That was all her -outfit for the chase. She deposited what they gave her at -the foot of a tree, and when she found herself alone she cast -a look round this vast forest, in the profound silence and -solitude of which she saw nothing but despair.</p> - -<p>She was anxious to remain at the skirt of the forest, and -not to enter it too far, so in order to know the spot again, -she placed a mark at the point from which she started. But, -alas! how did she deceive herself! Every one lost themselves - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_197">[Pg 197]</a></span> -in this forest, without being able to issue from it. In one of -the paths she caught sight of the Silver-footed Hind walking -slowly. She approached it, with her silken cord in her hand, -thinking to take it; but the deer, feeling itself pursued, -started off at full speed, stopping from time to time, and -turning its head towards Fairer. They were in sight of each -other all day without being any nearer. At last night separated -them.</p> - -<p>The poor huntress was very tired and very hungry, but she -no longer knew where to find the little provision she had had -given her, and there was nothing but the hard ground for her -to repose upon. She lay down, therefore, very sadly, under a -tree; she could not sleep for a long time—she was frightened; -the least thing alarmed her: a leaf shaken by the wind made -her tremble. In this miserable state she turned her thoughts -on her lover, and called him several times; but finding him fail -her in her great distress, she exclaimed, with tears in her -eyes, "Phratis! Phratis! you have abandoned me!" She -was just dropping asleep, when she felt a movement beneath -her, and it seemed to her as though she was in the best bed -in the world. She slept soundly for a considerable time, -without any interruption. She was awoke in the morning by -the song of a thousand nightingales, and, turning her beautiful -eyes around, she found she was raised two feet from the earth, -the turf having sprung up under her lovely form, and thus -made a delicious couch. A large orange-tree threw its branches -over her like a tent, and she was covered with flowers. By -her side were two turtle-doves, who announced to her, by their -love for each other, what she might hope for with Phratis. -The ground was entirely covered with strawberries and all -sorts of excellent fruits; she ate of them, and found herself as -well satisfied and as much strengthened by them as though -they had been the richest and best kind of meats. A stream -which flowed close by served to allay her thirst. "Oh, ye -tender cares of my lover," cried she, when she had refreshed -herself, "how much I needed you! I murmur no longer. -Give me less, dearest, and let me see you!"</p> - -<p>She would have continued in this strain had she not perceived, -stretched close to her, the Silver-footed Hind, quietly -gazing at her. She thought this time she must catch it: -with one hand she held out to it a bunch of grass, and with - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_198">[Pg 198]</a></span> -the other grasped the cord; but the deer bounded lightly -away, and when it had gone a short distance, it stopped, and -looked back at her. It kept up this game all day. Another -night came, and passed like the one before it. She awoke -under similar circumstances, and four days and nights elapsed -in the like manner. At length, on the fifth morning, Fairer -than a Fairy, on opening her eyes, thought she saw a light -more brilliant than that of day, when she perceived, in those -of her lover, seated near her, all the affection with which she -had inspired him. He fervently kissed one of her feet; his -presence and this respectful action gratified her greatly. -"You are there, then," said she. "If I have not beheld you -all these days, I have, at all events, received the proofs of your -goodness." "Say of my love, Fairer than a Fairy," replied -he. "My mother suspects that it is I who assist you: she -has placed me in confinement. I have escaped a moment, by -means of a fairy of my acquaintance. Adieu! I came only -to encourage you. You shall see me this evening, and if -fortune smiles, to-morrow we shall be happy." He departed, -and she hunted again all day. When night came, she perceived -near her a little light, which sufficed to show her her -lover. "Here is my illuminated wand," said he: "place it -before you, and go without fear wherever it will lead you. -Where it stops you will perceive a great heap of dry leaves; -set fire to it, enter the place; you will see and you will find -the skin of a beast; burn it. The stars, our friends, will do -the rest. Adieu!"</p> - -<p>Fairer than a Fairy would have desired far more ample -instructions; but seeing there was no remedy, she placed the -wand before her, which showed her the way. She followed it -nearly two hours, very much vexed at doing nothing else. It -stopped at last, and there, truly enough, she perceived a large -heap of dried leaves, to which she did not fail to set fire. -The light was soon so great that she could see a very high -mountain, in which she observed an opening half hid by -brambles. She separated them with her wand, and entered a -dark hole; but soon after she found herself in a vast saloon, -of admirable architecture, and lighted with numberless lamps. -But what struck her with the greatest astonishment was the -sight of the skins of several wild and terrible beasts, hung on -golden hooks, which at first she mistook for the beasts themselves. - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_199">[Pg 199]</a></span> -She turned away her eyes with horror, and they were -arrested in the centre of the saloon by the sight of a beautiful -palm-tree, upon one of the branches of which was suspended -the skin of the Hind with the silver feet. Fairer than a Fairy -was enchanted at seeing it, and taking it down with the aid -of her wand, she carried it quickly to the fire which she had -lighted at the entrance of the cavern. It was consumed in a -moment, and re-entering joyfully the saloon, she penetrated -into several magnificent apartments. She stopped in one, -where she saw several small couches placed upon Persian -carpets, and one more beautiful than the rest under a canopy -of cloth-of-gold. But she had not much time to contemplate -arrangements which appeared to her singular, for she heard -hearty peals of laughter and several persons in loud conversation. -Fairer than a Fairy turned her steps in the direction -from which the sounds proceeded, and entered a wonderful -place, where she found fifteen young ladies of celestial -beauty.</p> - -<p>She did not surprise them less than she was surprised herself: -the extreme loveliness of her appearance took away their -breath, and a deep silence succeeded to cries of admiration. -But one of these beautiful persons, more beautiful than all -the rest, advanced, with a smiling air, towards our charming -Princess. "You are my deliverer," said she, addressing her; -"I cannot doubt it; no one can enter here who is not clothed -in the skin of one of the beasts which you saw at the entrance -of the cavern; that has been the fate of all these beautiful persons -whom you see with me. After ten days of useless pursuit -of me, they were changed into so many animals during the day; -but at night we resume our human forms: and you, charming -Princess, if you had not delivered me, would have been -changed into a white rabbit." "A white rabbit!" exclaimed -Fairer. "Ah, Madam, it is indeed better that I should -preserve my ordinary form, and that so wonderful a person as -you should be no longer a deer." "You have restored us all -to liberty," replied the Fairy; "let us now pass the rest of -the night as joyously as may be, and to-morrow we will go -to the Palace, and fill all the Court with astonishment."</p> - -<p>It is impossible to express the joy which resounded in this -charming spot, and the delight which all these young persons -felt at the sweet sensation of finding themselves once more in - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_200">[Pg 200]</a></span> -the land of the living, so to speak—they were all still of the -same age as when they commenced their unfortunate chase in -the Wood of Wonders, and the eldest was not yet twenty.</p> - -<p>The Fairy desired to take three or four hours' repose. She -made Fairer lie down beside her, and relate her adventures. -She did so with so touching a voice, her discourse was so -unaffected and so full of truth, that she engaged the Fairy -without reserve to assist her love and render her happy. She -did not forget to speak to her of Désirs, and the Fairy was -immediately interested in her favour.</p> - -<p>They went to sleep, after a long conversation, which they -had agreeably interrupted, from time to time, by the interchange -of affectionate caresses.</p> - -<p>The next day they all set out for the Palace, wishing -pleasantly to surprise the fairies. They quitted, without -regret, the Wood of Wonders, and quickly arrived at the -Palace. As they approached the inner court, they heard a -thousand melodious sounds, which composed an excellent -concert. "Here is a fête going on," said the Fairy; "we -have arrived <i>à propos</i>;" and advancing, they found the court -filled with an incredible number of people. The Fairy caused -the gate to be opened, and entered with her train. The first -persons who recognised her, uttered the loudest exclamations -of delight, and the cause of this great joy was quickly made -known to the multitude. But on advancing, the Fairy was -struck by a strange spectacle. She saw a young girl more -lovely than the Graces, and with the form of Venus, bound to a -stake near a pile of wood, where apparently she was about to -be burnt to death.</p> - -<p>Fairer than a Fairy uttered a loud cry, as she recognised -Désirs; but she was much astonished when, at the same -moment, she lost sight of her, and a young man appeared -in her place, so handsome and so well made that one might -never be tired of looking at him. At this sight Fairer uttered -a still louder cry, and running towards him, without any regard -to appearances, she flung herself on his neck, exclaiming a -thousand times, "It is my brother! it is my brother." It was -her brother, who was also the fortunate lover of Princess Désirs, -and who, fearing they would put her to death, had given her -the Gem of Gyges to rescue her from the cruelty of Queen -Nabote, and by so doing, became himself visible.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_201">[Pg 201]</a></span></p> - -<p>The brother and sister lavished a hundred caresses on each -other; the invisible Désirs added hers, and her voice was -heard, although she was not to be seen, whilst the fairies, in -unparalleled astonishment, expressed in every variety of -manner their rapture at again beholding their virtuous Queen. -The good fairies came and threw themselves at her feet, kissing -her hand and her garments. Some wept, some were unable -to speak; each testified her joy according to her peculiar character. -The bad fairies, the partisans of Nabote, also pretended -to be delighted, and policy gave an air of sincerity to -their hypocritical demonstrations. Nabote herself, in despair -at this return, controlled herself with an art of which she -alone was capable. She offered at once to resign her power -to the rightful sovereign, who, with a grave and majestic air, -demanded of her why the young girl whom she had seen -bound to the stake merited such a punishment, and since -when they had been accustomed to celebrate a cruel execution -by fêtes and sports. Nabote excused herself very lamely, and -the Queen listened impatiently when the lover of Désirs spoke -thus: "They punish this Princess," said he, "because she is -too amiable; they torment for the same reason the Princess -my sister. They were both born as handsome as you now -behold them." He then begged his lady-love to cover up the -Gem of Gyges, and she immediately appeared again. Désirs -charmed all who saw her. "They are beautiful," pursued he; -"they possess a thousand virtues which they do not derive -from the fairies; that is why they are roused up to persecute -them. What injustice, to tyrannize over all those whose -charms do not emanate from yourselves." The Prince paused: -the Queen turned towards the assembly with an agreeable -air. "I demand," said she, "that these three persons shall -be given up to me; they shall enjoy the most happy fate that -can fall to the lot of mortals. I owe much to Fairer than a -Fairy, and she shall be rewarded for the service she has done -me by uninterrupted felicity. You shall continue to reign, -Madam," added she, turning to Nabote: "this empire is sufficiently -large for you and me. Go to the Beautiful Islands, -which belong to you. Leave me your son; I will share my -power with him, and I will marry him to Fairer than a Fairy; -this union will reconcile us to one another."</p> - -<p>Nabote was enraged at all these decisions of the Queen, - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_202">[Pg 202]</a></span> -but it was of no use to complain, she was not the strongest. -She had but to obey. She was about to do so with a bad -grace, when the beautiful Phratis arrived, followed by a -gallant train of youths who composed his Court; he came to -pay his homage to the Queen, and manifest his joy at her -return. But in passing, he cast a look at Fairer than a -Fairy, and made her comprehend by his passionate glances -that she was the first object of his devotion.</p> - -<p>The Queen embraced him, and presented him to Fairer, -begging him to accept her at her hands. There is no need to -say he obeyed joyfully, exclaiming with transport,</p> - -<div class="block1"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">"Oh Love! for all my tender care and aid,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">By this rich guerdon I am overpaid!"</span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p>The two marriages were celebrated on the same day. Both -couples were so happy, that 'tis said they are the only pairs -who have ever really gained the golden Vine,<a id="FNanchor_13_13"></a><a href="#Footnote_13_13" class="fnanchor">[13]</a> and that those -who have been since named as having done so are purely -fabulous personages.</p> - -<p class="pmb3">Thus innocence triumphs over the misfortunes with which -it is assailed. Envy and jealousy only serve to increase its -lustre; and often the justice of Heaven renders its possessors -happier for the trials they have undergone. There is a Providence -which watches over the conduct of mortals, and -delights in rewarding the worthy, even in this world.</p> - - -<p class="break" /> -<div class="footnotes"><b>FOOTNOTES:</b> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_11_11"></a><a href="#FNanchor_11_11"><span class="label">[11]</span></a> A favourite palace of Louis XIV., four leagues west of Paris, and the -scene of many celebrated entertainments. It was destroyed in the Revolution -of 1789.</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_12_12"></a><a href="#FNanchor_12_12"><span class="label">[12]</span></a> A shepherd who, according to the story told by Plato, was possessed of -a ring which he took off the finger of a dead man enclosed in the body of a -brazen horse, and which rendered the wearer invisible. By means of this -ring he became King of Lydia.</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_13_13"></a><a href="#FNanchor_13_13"><span class="label">[13]</span></a> <i>La vigne d'or</i>, more commonly <i>la vigne de l'évêque</i>. "On dit d'un mari et -d'une femme qui passent la première année de leur mariage sans s'en repentir, -qu'ils auront la vigne de l'evêque."—P. J. Le Roux, <i>Dictionnaire Comique</i>. In -the only English version I have seen of this story, "the golden vine" is of -course transformed into "the flitch of bacon."</p></div></div> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_203">[Pg 203]</a></span></p> - - -<h3 class="no-break" id="THE_GOOD_WOMAN">THE GOOD WOMAN.</h3> - - -<p>There was once upon a time a Good Woman, who was kind, -candid, and courageous. She had experienced all the vicissitudes -which can agitate human existence.</p> - -<p>She had resided at Court, and had endured all the storms -to which it is so subject:—treasons, perfidies, infidelities, loss -of wealth, loss of friends. So that, disgusted with dwelling -in a place in which dissimulation and hypocrisy have established -their empire, and weary of an intercourse wherein -hearts never appear as they really are, she resolved to quit -her own country and go to a distance, where she could forget -the world, and where the world would hear no more of her.</p> - -<p>When she believed herself far enough off, she built a small -house in an extremely agreeable situation. All she could then -do was to buy a little flock of sheep, which furnished her with -food and clothing.</p> - -<p>She had hardly made trial of this mode of life before she -found herself perfectly happy. "There is, then, some state of -existence in which one may enjoy content," said she; "and -the choice I have made leaves me nothing to desire." She -passed each day in plying her distaff and tending her flock. -She would sometimes have liked a little society, but she feared -the danger of it. She was insensibly becoming accustomed to -the life she led, when one day, as she was endeavouring to -collect her little flock, it began to scatter itself over the country -and fly from her. In fact, it fled so fast that in a very short -time she could scarcely see one of her sheep. "Am I a -devouring wolf?" cried she: "what means this wonder?" -She called to a favourite ewe, but it appeared not to know her - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_204">[Pg 204]</a></span> -voice. She ran after it, exclaiming, "I will not care for -losing all the rest of the flock if thou dost but remain to -me!" But the ungrateful creature continued its flight, and -disappeared with the rest.</p> - -<p>The Good Woman was deeply distressed at the loss she -had sustained. "I have now nothing left," cried she; "maybe -I shall not find even my garden; or my little cottage will be -no longer in its place." She returned slowly, for she was very -tired with the race she had had. She lived upon fruit and -vegetables for some time after exhausting a small stock of -cheese.</p> - -<p>She began to see the end of all this. "Fortune," said she, -"thou hast in vain sought to persecute me even in this remote -spot; thou canst not prevent me from being ready to behold -the gates of death without alarm, and after so much trouble -I shall descend with tranquillity into those peaceful shades."</p> - -<p>She had nothing more to spin, she had nothing more to -eat: leaning on her distaff, she bent her steps towards a little -wood, and looking round for a place to rest in, she was astonished -at seeing run towards her three little children, more -beautiful than the fairest day. She was delighted to see such -charming company. They loaded her with a hundred caresses, -and as she seated herself on the ground, in order to receive -them more conveniently, one threw its little arms round her -neck, the other encircled her waist from behind, and the third -called her "mother." She waited a long time, to see if some -one would not come to fetch them, believing that those who -had led them thither would not fail to return for them. All -the day passed without her seeing any one.</p> - -<p>She resolved to take them to her own home, and thought -Heaven had sent her this little flock instead of the one she -had lost. It was composed of two girls, who were only two -or three years old, and a little boy of five. Each had a little -ribbon round its neck, to which was attached a small jewel. -One was a golden cherry enamelled with crimson, and engraved -with the name of "Lirette." She thought that this -must be the name of the little girl who wore it, and she -resolved to call her by it. The other was a medlar, on which -was written "Mirtis;" and the little boy had an almond of -green enamel, around which was written "Finfin." The -Good Woman felt perfectly satisfied that these were their names.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_205">[Pg 205]</a></span></p> - -<p>The little girls had some jewels in their head-dresses, and -more than enough to put the Good Woman in easy circumstances. -She had very soon bought another flock, and surrounded -herself with everything necessary for the maintenance -of her interesting family. She made their winter clothing -of the bark of trees, and in the summer they had white cotton -dresses of the finest bleaching.</p> - -<p>Young as they were, they tended their flock. And this -time the flock was faithful, and was more docile and obedient -to them than towards the large dogs which guarded them; -and these dogs were also gentle, and attached to the children. -They grew visibly, and passed their days most innocently; -they loved the Good Woman, and were all three excessively -fond of each other. They occupied themselves in tending -their sheep, fishing with a line, spreading nets to catch birds, -working in a little garden of their own, and employed their -delicate hands in cultivating flowers.</p> - -<p>There was one rose-tree, which the young Lirette was -especially fond of; she watered it often, and took the greatest -care of it; she thought nothing so beautiful as a rose, and -loved it above all other flowers. She had a fancy one day to -open a bud, and try to find its heart, when in so doing she -pricked her finger with a thorn. The pain was sharp, and -she began to cry; the beautiful Finfin, who very seldom -left her, approached, and began to cry too, at seeing her suffer. -He took her little finger, pressed it, and squeezed the blood -gently from it.</p> - -<p>The Good Woman, who saw their alarm at this accident, -approached, and learning the cause of it, "Why so inquisitive" -said she; "why destroy the flower you loved so much?" -"I wanted its heart," replied Lirette. "Such desires are -always fatal," replied the Good Woman. "But, mother," -pursued Lirette, "why has this flower, which is so beautiful, -and which pleases me so much, thorns?" "To show you," -said the Good Woman, "that we must distrust the greater -part of those things which please our eyes, and that the -most agreeable objects hide snares which may be to us most -deadly." "How?" replied Lirette. "Must one not then love -everything which is pleasant?" "No, certainly," said the -Good Woman, "and you must take good care not to do so." -"But I love my brother with all my heart," replied she; "he - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_206">[Pg 206]</a></span> -is so handsome and so charming." "You may love your -brother," replied her mother; "but if he were not your -brother you ought not to love him."</p> - -<p>Lirette shook her head, and thought this rule very hard. -Finfin meanwhile was still occupied with her finger; he -squeezed on the wound the juice of the rose-leaves, and -wrapped it in them. The Good Woman asked him why he -did that? "Because I think," said he, "that the remedy -may be found in the same thing which has caused the evil." -The Good Woman smiled at this reason. "My dear child," -replied she, "not in this case." "I thought it was in all -cases," said he; "for sometimes, when Lirette looks at me, -she troubles me greatly; I feel quite agitated; and the -moment after those same looks cause me a pleasure which I -cannot express to you. When she scolds me sometimes, I am -very wretched; but let her speak at length one gentle word to -me, I am all joy again."</p> - -<p>The Good Woman wondered what these children would -think of next; she did not know their relation to each other, and -she dreaded their loving each other too much. She would have -given anything to learn if they were brother and sister; her -ignorance on this point caused her great anxiety, but their -extreme youth re-assured her. Finfin was already full of -attention to the little Lirette; he loved her much better than -Mirtis. He had at one time given her some young partridges, -the prettiest in the world, which he had caught. She reared -one, which became a fine bird, with very beautiful plumage; -Lirette loved it excessively, and gave it to Finfin. It followed -him everywhere, and he taught it a thousand diverting tricks. -He had one day taken it with him when going to tend his -flock; on returning home he could not find his partridge; he -sought for it everywhere, and distressed himself greatly at -its loss. Mirtis tried to console him, but without success. -"Sister," he replied, "I am in despair. Lirette will be angry; -all you say to me does not diminish my grief." "Well, -brother," said she, "we will get up very early to-morrow and -go in search of another; I cannot bear to see you so miserable." -Lirette arrived as she said this, and having learnt the cause -of Finfin's sorrow, she began to smile. "My dear brother," -said she to him, "we will find another partridge; it is nothing -but the state in which I see you that gives me pain." These - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_207">[Pg 207]</a></span> -words sufficed to restore serenity and calm to the heart and -countenance of Finfin.</p> - -<p>"Why," said he to himself, "could Mirtis not restore my -spirits, with all her kindness, while Lirette has done it with -a single little word? Two is one too many—Lirette is enough -for me." On the other hand, Mirtis saw plainly that her -brother made a difference between her and Lirette. "We -are not enough here, being three," said she. "I ought to -have another brother, who would love me as much as Finfin -does my sister."</p> - -<p>Lirette was now twelve years old, Mirtis thirteen, and -Finfin fifteen, when one evening, after supper, they were all -seated in front of the cottage with the Good Woman, who -instructed them in a hundred agreeable things. The youthful -Finfin, seeing Lirette playing with the jewel on her neck, -asked his dear mamma what it was for? She replied that -she had found one on each of them when they fell into her -hands. Lirette then said, "If mine would but do as I tell it, -I should be glad." "And what would you have it do?" -asked Finfin. "You will see," said she; and then taking the -end of the ribbon, "Little cherry," she continued, "I should -like to have a beautiful house of roses."</p> - -<p>At the same moment they heard a slight noise behind -them. Mirtis turned round first, and uttered a loud cry; -she had cause; for instead of the cottage of the Good Woman, -there appeared one of the most charming that could possibly -be seen. It was not lofty, but the roof was formed of roses that -would bloom in winter as well as in summer. They entered -it, and found the most agreeable apartments, furnished magnificently. -In the midst of each room was a rose-tree -in full flower, in a precious vase; and in the first which -they entered, they found the partridge Finfin had lost, -which flew on to his shoulder and gave him an hundred -caresses.</p> - -<p>"Is it only to wish?" said Mirtis; and taking the ribbon -of her jewel in her hand, "Little medlar," she continued, -"give us a garden more beautiful than our own." Hardly -had she finished speaking, when a garden was presented to -their view of extraordinary beauty, and in which everything -that could be imagined to delight the senses appeared in the -highest perfection.</p> - -<p>The young folks began immediately to run through the - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_208">[Pg 208]</a></span> -beautiful alleys, amongst the flower-beds and round about the -fountains.</p> - -<p>"Do you wish something, brother," said Lirette. "But -I have nothing to wish for," said he; "except to be loved -by you as much as you are loved by me." "Oh," replied -she, "my heart can satisfy you on that point. That does -not depend on your almond." "Well, then," said Finfin, -"almond, little almond, I wish that a great forest should -rise near here, in which the King's son shall come to hunt, -and that he shall fall in love with Mirtis."</p> - -<p>"What have I done to you," replied the beautiful girl. -"I do not wish to leave the innocent life which we lead." -"You are right, my child," said the Good Woman, "and I -admire the wisdom of your sentiments; besides which, they -say that this King is a cruel usurper, who has put to death -the rightful sovereign and all his family: perhaps the son -may be no better than his father."</p> - -<p>The Good Woman, however, was quite astonished at the -strange wishes of these wonderful children, and knew not what -to think of them. When night was come, she retired into the -house of roses, and in the morning she found that there was a -large forest close to the house. It formed a fine hunting -ground for our young shepherds. Finfin often hunted down -in it deer, harts, and roebucks.</p> - -<p>He gave a fawn whiter than snow to the lovely Lirette; it -followed her as the partridge followed Finfin; and when they -were separated for a short period, they wrote to each other, -and sent their notes by these messengers. It was the prettiest -thing in the world.</p> - -<p>The little family lived thus tranquilly, occupied with different -employments, according to the seasons. They always -attended to their flocks, but in the summer their occupations -were most pleasant. They hunted much in the winter; they -had bows and arrows, and sometimes went such long distances -that they returned, with slow steps and almost frozen, -to the house of roses.</p> - -<p>The Good Woman would receive them by a large fire; she did -not know which to begin to warm first. "Lirette, my daughter -Lirette," she would say, "place your little feet here." And -taking Mirtis in her arms,—"Mirtis, my child," continued -she, "give me your beautiful hands to warm; and you my - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_209">[Pg 209]</a></span> -son, Finfin, come nearer." Then, placing them all three on a -sofa, she would pay them every attention in the most charming -and gentle manner.</p> - -<p>Thus they passed their days in peace and happiness. The -Good Woman wondered at the sympathy between Finfin and -Lirette, for Mirtis was as beautiful, and had no less amiable -qualities; but certainly Finfin did not love her as fervently -as the other. "If they are brother and sister, as I believe," -said the Good Woman, "by their matchless beauty, what -shall I do? They are so similar in everything, that they must -assuredly be of the same blood. If it be so, this affection is -very dangerous; if not, I might render it legitimate by letting -them marry; and they both love me so much, that their union -would ensure joy and peace to my declining days."</p> - -<p>In her uncertainty, she had forbidden Lirette, who was fast -advancing to womanhood, to be ever alone with Finfin, and for -better security she had ordered Mirtis to be always with them. -Lirette obeyed her with perfect submission, and Mirtis did -also as she had commanded her. The Good Woman had heard -speak of a clever fairy, and resolved to go in search of her, -and endeavour to enlighten herself respecting the fate of these -children.</p> - -<p>One day, when Lirette was slightly indisposed, and Mirtis -and Finfin were out hunting, the Good Woman thought it -a convenient opportunity to go in search of Madam Tu-tu, -for such was the name of the fairy. She left Lirette, therefore, -at the House of Roses; but she had not got far on her -way before she met Lirette's fawn, which was going towards -the forest, and at the same time she saw Finfin's partridge -coming from it. They joined each other close to her. It -was not without astonishment that she saw round the neck -of each a little ribbon, with a paper attached. She called the -partridge, which flew to her, and taking the paper from it, she -read these lines:—</p> - -<div class="block2"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">To Lirette, dear bird, repair—</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Absent from her sight I languish,—</span> -<span class="i0 font09">All my love to her declare—</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Secret joy and silent anguish.</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Much too cold her heart, I fear,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Such a passion e'er to know</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Were I to her but half as dear,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">No greater bliss I'd crave below.</span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_210">[Pg 210]</a></span></p> - -<p>"What words!" cried the Good Woman,—"what phrases! -Simple friendship does not express itself with so much warmth." -Then stopping the fawn, which came to lick her hand, she -unfastened the paper from its neck, opened it, and found in it -these words:—</p> - -<div class="block1"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">The sun is setting,—you are absent yet,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Although you left me by its earliest light!</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Return, dear Finfin; surely you forget—</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Without you, day to me is endless night!</span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p>"Just as they did when I was in the world," continued the -Good Woman; "who could have taught Lirette so much in -this desert? What can I do to cut betimes the root of so -pernicious an evil?" "Eh, Madam, what are you so anxious -about?" said the partridge; "let them alone—those who -conduct them know better than you."</p> - -<p>The Good Woman remained speechless: she knew well that -the partridge spoke by means of supernatural art. The notes -fell from her hands in her fright; the fawn and the partridge -picked them up: the one ran and the other flew; and the -partridge called so often "Tu-tu," that the Good Woman -thought it must be that powerful fairy who had caused it to -speak. She recovered herself a little after this reflection, but -not feeling equal to the journey she had undertaken, she -retraced her steps to the House of Roses.</p> - -<p>Meanwhile Finfin and Mirtis had hunted the livelong day, -and, being tired, they had placed their game on the ground, -and sat down to rest under a tree, where they fell asleep.</p> - -<p>The King's son also hunted that day in the forest. He missed -his suite, and came to the place where our young shepherd and -shepherdess were reposing. He contemplated them for some -time with wonder. Finfin had made a pillow of his game-bag, -and the head of Mirtis reclined on the breast of Finfin.</p> - -<p class="pmb1">The Prince thought Mirtis so beautiful, that he precipitately -dismounted from his horse to examine her features -with more attention. He judged, by their scrips and the -simplicity of their apparel, that they were only some -shepherd's children. He sighed from grief, having already -sighed from love, and this love, even, was followed in an -instant by jealousy. The position in which he found these -young people made him believe that such familiarity could -only result from the affection which united them.</p> - -<div class="figcenter"> - <img src="images/i005.jpg" alt="" /> - <p class="center font08">The Good Woman.—P. 210.</p> -</div> -<p class="pmb2" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_211">[Pg 211]</a></span></p> - -<p>In this uneasy state of mind, not being able to tolerate -their prolonged repose, he touched the handsome Finfin with -his spear. He started up, and, seeing a man before him, he -passed his hand over the face of Mirtis, and awoke her, calling -her "sister," a name which dissipated in a moment the alarm -of the young Prince.</p> - -<p>Mirtis rose up, quite astonished; she had never seen any -one but Finfin. The young Prince was the same age as -herself. He was superbly attired, and had a face full of -charming expression.</p> - -<p>He began saying many sweet things to her. She listened -to him with a pleasure which she had never before experienced, -and she responded to them in a simple manner, full -of grace. Finfin saw that it was getting late, and the fawn -having arrived with Lirette's letter, he told his sister it was -time to go home. "Come, brother," said she to the young -Prince, giving him her hand, "come with us into the House -of Roses." For as she believed Finfin to be her brother, she -thought that every one who was handsome, like him, must be -her brother also.</p> - -<p>The young Prince did not require much pressing to follow -her. Finfin threw on the back of his fawn the game he -had shot, and the handsome Prince carried the bow and the -game-bag of Mirtis.</p> - -<p>In this order they arrived at the House of Roses. -Lirette came out to meet them. She gave the Prince a -smiling reception, and turning towards Mirtis, "I am delighted," -said she, "that you have had such good sport."</p> - -<p>They went all together to seek the Good Woman, to -whom the Prince made known his high birth. She paid -due attention to so illustrious a guest, and gave him a -handsome apartment. He remained two or three days -with her, and this was long enough to complete his -conquest by Mirtis, according to Finfin's request to his -little almond.</p> - -<p>Meanwhile, the suite of the Prince had been much surprised -at his absence. They had found his horse, and they -believed that some frightful accident had befallen him. They -sought him everywhere, and the wicked King, who was his -father, was in a great fury at their not being able to find him. -The Queen, his mother, who was very amiable, and sister of - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_212">[Pg 212]</a></span> -the King whom her husband had cruelly murdered, was in an -inconceivable state of grief at the loss of her son.</p> - -<p>In her extreme distress, she sent secretly in search of -Madam Tu-tu, who was an old friend of hers, but whom she -had not seen for some time, because the King hated her, -and had done her much injury with a person she dearly -loved. Madam Tu-tu arrived, without being perceived, in -the cabinet of the Queen. After they had embraced each -other affectionately—for there is not much difference between -a Queen and a Fairy, they having almost equal power,—the -Fairy Tu-tu told her that she would very soon see her son. -She begged her not to make herself uneasy, and not to be at -all distressed at anything that might happen—that either she -was very much deceived, or she could promise her a delight -which was quite unexpected by her, and that she would be -one day the happiest of creatures.</p> - -<p>The King's people made so many inquiries for the Prince, -and sought him with so much care, that at length they found -him at the House of Roses.</p> - -<p>They led him back to the King, who scolded him brutally, -as though he were not the most beautiful youth in the -world. He remained very sad at the Court of his father, -and thinking of his beautiful Mirtis. At length his grief -was so visible on his countenance, that he was obliged to take -his mother into his confidence, who consoled him extremely. -"If you will mount your beautiful palfrey," said he, "and -come to the House of Roses, you will be charmed with what -you will see." The Queen consented willingly, and took her -son with her, who was enchanted at seeing his dear mistress -again.</p> - -<p>The Queen was astonished at the great beauty of Mirtis, -and also at that of Lirette and Finfin. She embraced them -with as much tenderness as if they had been all her own children, -and conceived an immense friendship from that moment -for the Good Woman. She admired the house, the garden, -and all the curiosities she saw there. When she returned, -the King desired her to give an account of her journey; she -did so naturally, and he took a great fancy to go also and see -the wonders which she described. His son asked permission -to accompany him; he consented with a sullen air, for he -never did anything with a good grace. As soon as he saw - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_213">[Pg 213]</a></span> -the House of Roses he coveted it; he paid not the least attention -to the charming inhabitants of this beautiful place, and, -by way of commencing to take possession of their property, -he said that he would sleep there that evening.</p> - -<p>The Good Woman was very much vexed at such a resolution. -She heard an uproar, and saw a disorder in her -household, which frightened her. "What has become," -cried she, "of the happy tranquillity which I once enjoyed -here! The least breath of fortune destroys all the calm of -life!"</p> - -<p>She gave the King an excellent bed, and withdrew into a -corner of the dwelling with her little family. The wicked -King went to bed, but found it impossible to go to sleep, and -opening his eyes, he saw at the foot of his couch a little old -woman, who was not half a yard high, and about as broad; -she had great spectacles, which covered all her face, and she -made frightful grimaces at him. The base are generally -cowards. He was in a terrible fright, and felt at the same -time a thousand points of needles pricking him all over. In -this tormenting state of body and mind, he was kept awake -the entire night, and made a great noise about it. The King -stormed and swore in language which was not at all consistent -with his dignity. "Sleep, sleep, sire," said the partridge, "or -let us sleep: if the condition of royalty is so full of anxiety, -I prefer being a partridge to being king." The King was -more than ever alarmed at these words; he commanded them -to seize the partridge, which roosted in a porcelain vase; but -she flew away at this order, beating his face with her wings. -He still saw the same vision, and felt the same prickings; he -was dreadfully frightened, and his anger became more furious. -"Ah!" said he, "it is a spell of this sorceress, whom they -call the Good Woman. I will rid myself of her and all her -race by putting them to death!"</p> - -<p>He got up, not being able to rest in bed; and as soon as -day broke, he commanded his guards to seize all the innocent -little family, and fling them into dungeons. He had them -dragged before him, that he might witness their despair. -Those charming faces, bedewed with tears, touched him not; -on the contrary, he felt a malignant joy at the sight. His -son, whose tender heart was rent by so sad a spectacle, could -not turn his eyes upon Mirtis without an agony which - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_214">[Pg 214]</a></span> -nothing could exceed. A true lover, on such occasions, suffers -more than the person beloved.</p> - -<p>They seized these poor innocents, and were leading them -away, when the young Finfin, who had no arms with which -to oppose these barbarians, took the ribbon on a sudden from -his neck. "Little almond," cried he, "I wish that we were -out of the power of the King!" "And with his greatest -enemies, my dear cherry!" continued Lirette. "And that we -might take away with us the handsome Prince, my medlar!" -added Mirtis. They had hardly uttered these words when -they found themselves with the Prince, the partridge, and the -fawn, all together in a car, which rising with them in the -air, they soon lost sight of the King and the House of Roses.</p> - -<p>Mirtis had no sooner expressed her wish than she repented -of it. She knew well that she had inconsiderately allowed herself -to be carried away by an impulse of which she was not the -mistress; therefore, during all the journey, she kept her eyes -cast down, and felt much abashed. The Good Woman gave -her a severe glance. "My daughter," said she, "you have -not done well to separate the Prince from his father; however -unjust he may be, he ought not to leave him." "Ah, Madam," -replied the Prince, "do not complain that I have the happiness -of following you. I respect the King, my father; but -I should have left him a hundred times had it not been for -the virtue, the kindness, and tenderness of the Queen, my -mother, which have always detained me."</p> - -<p>As he finished these words, they found themselves in front -of a beautiful palace, where they alighted and were received -by Madam Tu-tu. She was the most lovely person in the -world—young, lively, and gay. She paid them a hundred -compliments, and confessed to them that it was she who had -given them all the pleasures which they had enjoyed in their -lives, and had also bestowed on them the cherry, the almond, -and the medlar, the virtues of which were at an end, as they -had now arrived in her dominions. Then, addressing the -Prince in private, she told him that she had heard speak a -thousand times of the annoyance he had met with from his -father; but, in order that he should not attribute to her any -evil that might hereafter befal the King, she frankly admitted -she had played him some tricks, but that was the full extent -of her vengeance.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_215">[Pg 215]</a></span></p> - -<p>After that, she assured them that they would be all very -happy with her; that they should have flocks to keep, crooks, -bows, arrows, and fishing-rods, in order that they might -amuse themselves in a hundred different ways. She gave -them shepherds' dresses of the most elegant description, -including the Prince with the others,—their names and -devices being on their crooks; and that very evening the young -Prince exchanged crooks with the charming Mirtis.</p> - -<p>The next day Madame Tu-tu led them to the most delightful -promenade in the world, and showed them the best pasturage -for their sheep, and a fine country for the chase.</p> - -<p>"You can go," said she, "on this side as far as that -beautiful river, but never to the opposite shore; and you -may hunt in this wood; but beware," said she, "of passing a -great oak, which is in the midst of the forest; it is very -remarkable, for it has roots and trunk of iron. If you go -beyond it, misfortunes may happen to you, from which I -cannot protect you; and, besides that, I should not perhaps -be in a position to assist you promptly, for a fairy has plenty -of occupation."</p> - -<p>The young shepherds assured her that they would do -exactly as she prescribed; and all four, leading their flocks -into the meadows, left Madam Tu-tu alone with the Good -Woman. She remarked some anxiety in her manner. "What -is the matter, madam?" said the Fairy; "what cloud has come -over your mind?" "I will not deny," said the Good Woman, -"that I am uneasy at leaving them all thus together. I -have for some time perceived with sorrow that Finfin and -Lirette love each other more than is desirable, and here, to -add to my trouble, another attachment springs up: the -Prince and Mirtis do not dislike each other, and I fear to -leave their youth exposed to the wandering of their hearts."</p> - -<p>"You have brought up these two young girls so well," -replied Madam Tu-tu, "that you need fear nothing: I will -answer for their discretion; I will enlighten you as to their -destiny."</p> - -<p>She then informed her that Finfin was the son of the -wicked King, and brother of the young Prince; that Mirtis -and Lirette were sisters, and daughters of the deceased King, -who had been murdered, and who was the brother of the -Queen, whom the cruel usurper had married,—so that these - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_216">[Pg 216]</a></span> -four young persons were near relations; that the wicked -King had ascended the throne after having committed a -hundred atrocities, which he wished to crown by the murder -of the two Princesses; that the Queen did all she could to -prevent him, and not being able to succeed, she had called -her (the Fairy) to her assistance; that she then told the -Queen she would save them, but that she could only do so by -taking with them her eldest son; that she undertook to -promise she should see them again some day in happiness; -that on those conditions, the Queen had consented to a separation, -which appeared at first very hard; that she had carried -them all three off, and that she had confided them to the care -of the Good Woman as the person most worthy of such an office.</p> - -<p>After this the Fairy begged her to be at ease, assuring her -that the union of these young Princes would restore peace to -the kingdom, wherein Finfin would reign with Lirette. The -Good Woman listened to this discourse with great interest; -but not without letting fall some tears. Madam Tu-tu was -surprised at this emotion, and asked the cause. "Alas!" -said she, "I fear they will lose their innocence by this grandeur -to which they will be elevated, and that so brilliant a fortune -will corrupt their virtue."</p> - -<p>"No," replied the Fairy, "do not fear so great a misfortune; -the principles you have instilled into them are too excellent. -It is possible to be a king and yet an honest man. You know -that there is one in the universe who is the model of perfect -monarchs.<a id="FNanchor_14_14"></a><a href="#Footnote_14_14" class="fnanchor">[14]</a> Therefore set your mind at rest; I shall be with -you as much as possible, and I hope you will not be melancholy -here."</p> - -<p>The Good Woman believed her, and after a short time -felt perfectly satisfied. The young shepherds were so happy -also that they desired nothing but the continuance of their -agreeable mode of life. Their pleasures, although tranquil, -were not without interest: they saw each other every day, -and the days only appeared to them too short.</p> - -<p>The bad King learnt that they were with Madam Tu-tu, -but all his power could not take them away from her. He -knew by what magic spells she protected them; he saw clearly -that he could only get the better of them by stratagem; he -had not been able to inhabit the House of Roses in consequence -of the continual tricks played on him by Madam Tu-tu; he -hated her more than ever, as well as the Good Woman; and -his hatred now extended also to his son.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_217">[Pg 217]</a></span></p> - -<p>He employed all kinds of artifice in order to get into his -power some one of the four young shepherds, but his art did -not extend to the dominions of Madam Tu-tu. One unlucky -day (there are some which we cannot avoid), these amiable -shepherds had bent their steps in the direction of the fatal -oak, when the beautiful Lirette perceived upon a tree, about -twenty paces distant, a bird of such rare plumage, that she -let fly an arrow at it on the impulse of the moment, and -seeing the bird fall dead, ran to pick it up. All this was done -instantaneously, and without reflection; but the poor Lirette -found, to her cost, that she was caught herself. It was impossible -for her to return; she desired, but had no power to -do so. She discovered her error, and all she could do was -to extend her arms for pity to her brothers and sisters. -Mirtis began to cry, and Finfin, without hesitation, ran to -her. "I will perish with you," he cried, and in a moment -had joined her.</p> - -<p>Mirtis wished to follow them, but the young Prince detained -her. "Let us go and apprise Madame Tu-tu of this," said he; -"that is the best assistance we can render them." At the -same moment they saw the people of the wicked King seize -them, and all they could do was to cry adieu to each other.</p> - -<p>The King had caused this beautiful bird to be placed there -by his hunters, to serve as a snare for the shepherds: he fully -expected what had come to pass. They led Lirette and -Finfin before the cruel monarch, who abused them terribly, -and had them confined in a dark and strong prison: it was -then they began to lament that their little cherry and almond -had lost their virtue. The fawn and the partridge sought -for them, but the fawn not being able to see them, shed -some tears of grief, and finding the King had given orders -that she should be taken and burnt alive, she saved herself -by running fast to Mirtis. The partridge was more fortunate, -for she saw them every day through the grating of their -prison: happily for them, the King had not thought of -separating them. When one loves, it is a pleasure to suffer -together.</p> - -<p>The partridge flew back every day, and came to tell the - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_218">[Pg 218]</a></span> -news to Madame Tu-tu, the Good Woman, and Mirtis. -Mirtis was very unhappy, and without the handsome Prince -she would have been inconsolable. She resolved to write to -these poor captives by the faithful partridge, and hung a -little bottle of ink to her neck, with some paper, and put a -pen in her beak. The good partridge, thus loaded, presented -herself at the bars of the prison, and it was a great delight -to our young shepherds to see her again. Finfin put out his -hand and took from her all she brought him, after which -they began to read as follows:<a id="FNanchor_15_15"></a><a href="#Footnote_15_15" class="fnanchor">[15]</a></p> - -<div class="block1"> - -<p class="center"> -<i>Mirtis and the Prince to Lirette and Finfin.</i> -</p> - -<p>"Know you how we languish during this cruel separation; -that we sigh incessantly, and that perhaps it may kill us. -We should already have died, had we not been sustained by -hope. That hope has supported us ever since Madam Tu-tu -has assured us that you still lived. Believe us, dear Lirette -and Finfin, we shall meet again, despite of malice, and be -happy."</p> -</div> - -<p>This letter had a powerful effect on the minds of Lirette -and Finfin. They were filled with joy, and wrote immediately -this reply:—</p> - -<div class="block1"> - -<p class="center"> -<i>Lirette and Finfin to Mirtis and the Prince.</i> -</p> - -<p>"We have received your letter with extreme pleasure. It -has rejoiced us more than we could have anticipated. In -these regions of horror our torments would be insupportable, -but for the sweet consolation we derive from each other's -presence. Near the object of our affections, we are insensible -to pain, and love renders everything delightful. Adieu, -dear Prince, adieu, Mirtis. Encourage your mutual passion. -Be always inspired by a tender fidelity. You hold out a hope -to us in which we participate. The greatest blessing which -can occur to us will be accompanied by your presence."</p> -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_219">[Pg 219]</a></span></p> - -<p>Finfin having attached this note to the neck of the partridge, -she flew away with it very quickly. The young shepherds -received great consolation from it, but the Good Woman -could not be comforted from the moment she had been separated -from those so dear to her, and whom she knew to be -in so much peril. "How quickly my happiness has vanished," -said she to Madame Tu-tu; "I seem to have been born only -to be continually agitated. I thought I had taken the only -means for ensuring my repose; how purblind are mortals!" -"And do you not know," replied the Fairy, "that there is -no state of existence in this world in which one can live -always happily." "I do," replied the Good Woman, mournfully; -"and if one cannot find happiness in one's self, it is -seldom found elsewhere. But, Madam, consider the fate of -my children, I beg of you!" "They have not remembered -the orders I gave them," replied Madame Tu-tu; "but let us -think of a remedy."</p> - -<p>Madame Tu-tu entered her library with the Good Woman. -She read nearly all the night, and having at length taken -down and opened a large book, which she had frequently -passed over, although its sides were covered with plates of -gold, she appeared plunged, on a sudden, into a state of -excessive sadness. After some time, and just as day was -breaking, the Good Woman observing a few tears fall on the -leaves of the book, took the liberty to ask the cause of the -Fairy's sorrow. "I grieve," said she, "at the irrevocable -decree of Fate, which I have learned from these pages, and -which I shudder and tremble to acquaint you with." "Are -they dead?" cried the Good Woman. "No," pursued -Madame Tu-tu; "but nothing can save them, unless you or -I go and present ourselves to the King, and satisfy his vengeance. -I confess the truth to you, Madam," continued the -Fairy, "that I do not feel sufficient affection for them, nor -enough courage, to go thus and expose myself to his fury, -and I question, also, if any one could be found capable of -such a sacrifice." "Pardon me, Madam," replied the Good -Woman, with great firmness; "I will go seek this King; no -sacrifice is too great for me that will save my children. I -will pour out for them, with all my heart, every drop of -blood which I have in my veins."</p> - -<p>Madam Tu-tu could not sufficiently admire so grand a -resolution; she promised to assist her in every way in her -power; but that she found herself limited in this instance, in -consequence of the fault which they had committed. The -Good Woman took leave of her, and would not acquaint Mirtis - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_220">[Pg 220]</a></span> -or the Prince with her design, for fear of affecting them and -weakening her own determination. She set out with the -partridge flying by her side; and as they passed the iron oak, -the partridge snatched with her beak a little moss from -its trunk, and placed it in the hands of the Good Woman. -"When you are in the greatest peril which can befall you," -said she to her, "throw this moss at the feet of the King." -The Good Woman treasured up these words, and hardly had -she advanced some steps when she was seized by some of -the wicked King's soldiers, whom he always kept in readiness -on the outskirts of the domain of Madam Tu-tu. They led -her before him. "I have thee at last, wicked creature!" said -he; "I will put thee to death by the most cruel torture!" -"I came but for that purpose," replied she, "and thou mayst -exercise thy cruelty as thou wilt on me, only spare my children, -who are so young and incapable of having offended thee. -I offer thee my life for theirs." All who heard these words -were filled with pity at her magnanimity; the King alone was -unmoved. The Queen, who was present, shed a torrent of -tears. The King was so indignant with her that he would -have killed her, if her attendants had not placed themselves -between them. She fled, uttering piercing cries.</p> - -<p>The barbarous King caused the Good Woman to be shut -up, ordering them to feed her well, in order to render approaching -death more frightful to her. He commanded them to fill -a pit with snakes, vipers, and serpents, promising himself the -pleasure of precipitating the Good Woman into it. What a horrible -mode of execution! It makes one shudder to think of it!</p> - -<p>The officers of this unjust Prince obeyed him with regret; -and when they had fulfilled this frightful order, the King -came to the spot. They were about to bind the Good Woman, -when she begged them not to do so, assuring them that she -had sufficient courage to meet death with her hands free; and, -feeling she had no time to lose, she approached the King, and -threw the moss at his feet. He was at that moment close to -the frightful gulf, and stepping forward to inspect it again -with pleasure, his feet slipped on the moss, and he fell in. -Hardly had he reached the bottom of the pit, when the -sanguinary reptiles darted upon him, and stung him to death, -and the Good Woman, at the same instant, found herself in -company with her dear partridge in the House of Roses.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_221">[Pg 221]</a></span></p> - -<p>Whilst these things were happening, Finfin and Lirette -were almost dead with misery in their fearful prison; their -innocent affection alone kept them alive. They were saying -very sad and very affecting things to each other, when they -perceived on a sudden the doors of their dungeon open and -admit Mirtis, the handsome Prince, and Madam Tu-tu, who -threw themselves on their necks, and who, though speaking -all at once, failed not, in the midst of this joyful confusion, -to announce the death of the King. "He was your father, -Finfin, as well as that of the Prince," said Madam Tu-tu; -"but he was unnatural and tyrannical, and would a hundred -times have put the Queen, your dear mother, to death. Let -us go to seek her." They did so. Her amiable nature made -her feel some regret at the death of the King, her husband. -Finfin and the Prince also paid all decent respect to his -memory. Finfin was acknowledged King, and Mirtis and -Lirette Princesses. They went all together to the House of -Roses, to see the generous Good Woman, who thought she -should die of joy in embracing them. They all acknowledged -that they owed their lives to her, and more than their lives, -as they were indebted to her for their happiness also.</p> - -<p>From that moment they considered themselves perfectly -happy. The marriages were celebrated with great pomp. -King Finfin espoused the Princess Lirette, and Mirtis the -Prince. When these splendid nuptials were over, the Good -Woman asked permission to retire to the House of Roses. -They were very unwilling to consent to this, but yielded to -her sincere wish. The widowed Queen also desired to pass -the rest of her life with the Good Woman, and the partridge -and the fawn did likewise. They were quite disgusted with -the world, and found tranquillity in that charming retreat. -Madam Tu-tu often went to visit them, as did the King and -Queen, the Prince and Princess.</p> - -<p class="pmb3">Happy those who can imitate the actions of the Good -Woman. Such grandeur of soul must ever meet due reward. -Little do they fear being wrecked on the shoals of Fortune, -who can give up all with so much courage. Discretion, Sense, -Virtue—what may not mortals owe to you, their truest friends -in need.</p> - - -<p class="break" /> -<div class="footnotes"><b>FOOTNOTES:</b> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_14_14"></a><a href="#FNanchor_14_14"><span class="label">[14]</span></a> Louis XIV., "Le Grande Monarque."</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_15_15"></a><a href="#FNanchor_15_15"><span class="label">[15]</span></a> I have not thought it necessary to run into rhyme the exceedingly -prosaic effusions of the two pairs of lovers.</p></div></div> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_222">[Pg 222]</a></span></p> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - -<h3 class="no-break" id="MADAME_DE_VILLENEUVE">MADAME DE VILLENEUVE.</h3> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_223"></a></span></p> -<p class="pmb2" /> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_224"></a></span></p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_225">[Pg 225]</a></span></p> - - -<h3 class="no-break" id="THE_STORY">THE STORY<br /> - -OF<br /> - -THE BEAUTY AND THE BEAST.</h3> - - -<p>In a country very far from this is to be seen a great city -wherein trade flourishes abundantly. It numbered amongst -its citizens a merchant, who succeeded in all his speculations, -and upon whom Fortune, responding to his wishes, had always -showered her fairest favours. But if he had immense wealth, -he had also a great many children, his family consisting of -six boys and six girls. None of them were settled in life: -the boys were too young to think of it; the girls, too proud -of their fortunes, upon which they had every reason to count, -could not easily determine upon the choice they should make. -Their vanity was flattered by the attentions of the handsomest -young gentlemen. But a reverse of fortune which -they did not at all expect, came to trouble their felicity. -Their house took fire; the splendid furniture with which it -was filled, the account books, the notes, gold, silver, and all -the valuable stores which formed the merchant's principal -wealth, were enveloped in this fatal conflagration, which was -so violent that very few of the things could be saved. This -first misfortune was but the forerunner of others. The father, -with whom hitherto everything had prospered, lost at the -same time, either by shipwreck or by pirates, all the ships he -had at sea; his correspondents made him a bankrupt, his foreign -agents were treacherous; in short, from the greatest opulence, -he suddenly fell into the most abject poverty. He had -nothing left but a small country house, situated in a lonely -place, more than a hundred leagues from the city in which he -usually resided. Impelled to seek a place of refuge from - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_226">[Pg 226]</a></span> -noise and tumult, he took his family to this retired spot, who -were in despair at such a revolution. The daughters of this -unfortunate merchant were especially horrified at the prospect -of the life they should have to lead in this dull solitude. For -some time they flattered themselves that, when their father's -intention became known, their lovers, who had hitherto sued -in vain, would be only too happy to find they were inclined -to listen to them. They imagined that the many admirers -of each would be all striving to obtain the preference. They -thought if they wished only for a husband they would -obtain one; but they did not remain very long in such a -delightful illusion. They had lost their greatest attractions -when, like a flash of lightning, their father's splendid fortune -had disappeared, and their time for choosing had departed -with it. Their crowd of admirers vanished at the moment of -their downfall; their beauty was not sufficiently powerful to -retain one of them. Their friends were not more generous -than their lovers. From the hour they became poor, every -one, without exception, ceased to know them. Some were -even cruel enough to impute their misfortunes to their own -acts. Those whom the father had most obliged were his -most vehement calumniators: they reported that all his -calamities were brought on by his own bad conduct, his prodigality, -and the foolish extravagance of himself and his -children.</p> - -<p>This wretched family, therefore, could not do better than -depart from a city wherein everybody took a pleasure in -insulting them in their misfortunes. Having no resource -whatever, they shut themselves up in their country house, -situated in the middle of an almost impenetrable forest, -and which might well be considered the saddest abode in the -world. What misery they had to endure in this frightful -solitude! They were forced to do the hardest work. Not -being able to have any one to wait upon them, this unfortunate -merchant's sons were compelled to divide the servant's -duties amongst them, as well as to exert themselves in every -way that people must do who have to earn their livelihood -in the country. The daughters, on their part, had sufficient -employment. Like the poor peasant girls, they found themselves -obliged to employ their delicate hands in all the labours -of a rural life. Wearing nothing but woollen dresses, having - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_227">[Pg 227]</a></span> -nothing to gratify their vanity, existing upon what the land -could give them, limited to common necessaries, but still -retaining a refined and dainty taste, these girls incessantly -regretted the city and its attractions. The recollection even -of their younger days passed so rapidly in a round of mirth -and pleasure was their greatest torment. The youngest -girl, however, displayed greater perseverance and firmness in -their common misfortune. She bore her lot cheerfully, and -with a strength of mind much beyond her years: not but -what, at first, she was truly melancholy. Alas! who would -not have felt such misfortunes. But, after deploring her -father's ruin, could she do better than resume her former -gaiety, make up her mind to the position she was placed in, -and forget a world which she and her family had found so -ungrateful, and the friendship of which she was so fully persuaded -was not to be relied upon in the time of adversity?</p> - -<p>Anxious to console herself and her brothers, by her amiable -disposition and sprightliness, there was nothing she did not -do to amuse them. The merchant had spared no cost in her -education, nor in that of her sisters. At this sad period she -derived all the advantage from it she desired. As she could play -exceedingly well upon various instruments, and sing to them -charmingly, she asked her sisters to follow her example, but -her cheerfulness and patience only made them more miserable. -These girls, who were so inconsolable in their ill fortune, -thought their youngest sister showed a poor and mean spirit, -and even silliness, to be so merry in the state it had pleased -Providence to reduce them to. "How happy she is," said -the eldest; "she was intended for such coarse occupations. -With such low notions, what would she have done in the -world?" Such remarks were unjust. This young person -was much more fitted to shine in society than either of them. -She was a perfectly beautiful young creature, her good temper -rendered her adorable. A generous and tender heart was -visible in all her words and actions. Quite as much alive to -the reverses that had just overwhelmed her family as either of -her sisters, by a strength of mind which is not common in -her sex, she concealed her sorrow, and rose superior to her -misfortunes. So much firmness was considered to be insensibility. -But one can easily appeal from a judgment pronounced -by jealousy.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_228">[Pg 228]</a></span></p> - -<p>Every intelligent person, who saw her in her true light, -was eager to give her the preference over her sisters. In the -midst of her greatest splendour, although distinguished by -her merit, she was so handsome that she was called "The -Beauty." Known by this name only, what more was required -to increase the jealousy and hatred of her sisters? Her charms, -and the general esteem in which she was held, might have -induced her to hope for a much more advantageous establishment -than her sisters; but feeling only for her father's misfortunes, -far from retarding his departure from a city in -which she had enjoyed so much pleasure, she did all she could -to expedite it. This young girl was as contented in their -solitude as she had been in the midst of the world. To -amuse herself in her hours of relaxation, she would dress her -hair with flowers, and, like the shepherdesses of former times, -forgetting in a rural life all that had most gratified her in -the height of opulence, every day brought to her some new -innocent pleasure.</p> - -<p>Two years had already passed, and the family began to -be accustomed to a country life, when a hope of returning -prosperity arrived to discompose their tranquillity. The -father received news that one of his vessels, that he thought -was lost, had safely arrived in port, richly laden. His informants -added, they feared the factors would take advantage -of his absence, and sell the cargo at a low price, and -by this fraud make a great profit at his expense. He -imparted these tidings to his children, who did not doubt -for an instant but that they should soon be enabled to return -from exile. The girls, much more impatient than the boys, -thinking it was unnecessary to wait for more certain proof, -were anxious to set out instantly, and to leave everything -behind them. But the father, who was more prudent, begged -them to moderate their delight. However important he was -to his family at a time when the labours of the field could -not be interrupted without great loss, he determined to leave -his sons to get in the harvest, and that he would set out upon -this long journey. His daughters, with the exception of the -youngest, expected they would soon be restored to their -former opulence. They fancied that, even if their father's -property would not be considerable enough to settle them in -the great metropolis, their native place, he would at least - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_229">[Pg 229]</a></span> -have sufficient for them to live in a less expensive city. They -trusted they should find good society there, attract admirers, -and profit by the first offer that might be made to them. -Scarcely remembering the troubles they had undergone for -the last two years, believing themselves to be already, as by -a miracle, removed from poverty into the lap of plenty, they -ventured (for retirement had not cured them of the taste for -luxury and display) to overwhelm their father with foolish -commissions. They requested him to make purchases of -jewelry, attire, and head-dresses. Each endeavoured to -outvie the other in her demands, so that the sum total of -their father's supposed fortune would not have been sufficient -to satisfy them.</p> - -<p>Beauty, who was not the slave of ambition, and who -always acted with prudence, saw directly that if he executed -her sisters' commissions, it would be useless for her to ask -for anything. But the father, astonished at her silence, -said, interrupting his insatiable daughters, "Well, Beauty, -dost thou not desire anything? What shall I bring thee? -what dost thou wish for? Speak freely." "My dear papa," -replied the amiable girl, embracing him affectionately, "I -wish for one thing more precious than all the ornaments my -sisters have asked you for; I have limited my desires to it, -and shall be only too happy if they can be fulfilled. It is the -gratification of seeing you return in perfect health." This -answer was so unmistakeably disinterested, that it covered -the others with shame and confusion. They were so angry, -that one of them, answering for the rest, said with bitterness, -"This child gives herself great airs, and fancies that she will -distinguish herself by these affected heroics. Surely nothing -can be more ridiculous." But the father, touched by her -expressions, could not help showing his delight at them; -appreciating, too, the feeling which induced her to ask nothing -for herself, he begged she would choose something; and to -allay the ill-will that his other daughters had towards her, -he observed to her that such indifference to dress was not -natural at her age—that there was a time for everything. -"Very well, my dear father," said she, "since you desire me -to make some request, I beg you will bring me a rose; I love -that flower passionately, and since I have lived in this desert -I have not had the pleasure of seeing one." This was to - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_230">[Pg 230]</a></span> -obey her father, and at the same time to avoid putting him -to any expense for her.</p> - -<p>At length the day arrived, that this good old man was -compelled to leave his family. He travelled as fast as he -could to the great city to which the prospect of a new -fortune recalled him. But he did not meet with the benefits -he had hoped for. His vessel had certainly arrived; but his -partners, believing him to be dead, had taken possession -of it, and all the cargo had been disposed of. Thus, instead -of entering into the full and peaceable possession of that -which belonged to him, he was compelled to encounter all -sorts of chicanery in the pursuit of his rights. He overcame -them, but after more than six months of trouble and expense, -he was not any richer than he was before. His debtors had -become insolvent, and he could hardly defray his own costs. -Thus terminated this dream of riches.</p> - -<p>To add to his disagreeables, he was obliged, on the score of -economy, to start on his homeward journey at the most inconvenient -time, and in the most frightful weather. Exposed -on the road to the piercing blasts, he thought he should die -with fatigue; but when he found himself within a few miles -of his house (which he did not reckon upon leaving for such -false hopes, and which Beauty had shown her sense in mistrusting) -his strength returned to him. It would be some -hours before he could cross the forest; it was late, but he -wished to continue his journey. He was benighted, suffering -from intense cold, buried, one might say, in the snow, with -his horse; not knowing which way to bend his steps, he -thought his last hour had come: no hut in his road, -although the forest was filled with them. A tree, hollowed -by age, was the best shelter he could find, and only too happy -was he to hide himself in it. This tree protecting him from -the cold, was the means of saving his life; and the horse, a -little distance from his master, perceiving another hollow tree, -was led by instinct to take shelter in that.</p> - -<p>The night, in such a situation, appeared to him to be never-ending; -furthermore, he was famished, frightened at the roaring -of the wild beasts, that were constantly passing by him. -Could he be at peace for an instant? His trouble and anxiety -did not end with the night. He had no sooner the pleasure -of seeing daylight than his distress was greater. The ground - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_231">[Pg 231]</a></span> -appeared so extraordinarily covered with snow, no road could -he find—no track was to be seen. It was only after great -fatigue and frequent falls, that he succeeded in discovering -something like a path upon which he could keep his footing.</p> - -<p>Proceeding without knowing in which direction, chance led -him into the avenue of a beautiful castle, which the snow -seemed to have respected. It consisted of four rows of orange-trees, -laden with flowers and fruit. Statues were seen here -and there, regardless of order or symmetry—some were in -the middle of the road, others among the trees—all after the -strangest fashion; they were of the size of life, and had the -colour of human beings, in different attitudes, and in various -dresses, the greatest number representing warriors. Arriving -at the first court-yard, he perceived a great many more -statues. He was suffering so much from cold that he could -not stop to examine them. An agate staircase, with balusters -of chased gold, first presented itself to his sight: he -passed through several magnificently furnished rooms; a -gentle warmth which he breathed in them renovated him. -He needed food; but to whom could he apply? This large -and magnificent edifice appeared to be inhabited only by -statues. A profound silence reigned throughout it; nevertheless -it had not the air of an old palace that had been deserted. -The halls, the rooms, the galleries were all open; no living -thing appeared to be in this charming place.</p> - -<p>Weary of wandering over this vast dwelling, he stopped in a -saloon, wherein was a large fire. Presuming that it was prepared -for some one, who would not be long in appearing, he drew -near the fireplace to warm himself; but no one came. Seated -on a sofa near the fire, a sweet sleep closed his eyelids, and -left him no longer in a condition to observe the entrance of -any one. Fatigue induced him to sleep; hunger awoke him; -he had been suffering from it for the last twenty-four hours. -The exercise that he had taken ever since he had been in this -palace increased his appetite. When he awoke and opened -his eyes, he was astonished to see a table elegantly laid. A -light repast would not have satisfied him; but the viands, -magnificently dressed, invited him to eat of everything.</p> - -<p>His first care was to utter in a loud voice his thanks to those -from whom he had received so much kindness, and he then -resolved to wait quietly till it pleased his host to make himself - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_232">[Pg 232]</a></span> -known to him. As fatigue caused him to sleep before his -repast, so did the food produce the same effect, and his repose -was longer and more powerful; in fact, this second time he -slept for at least four hours. Upon awaking, in the place of -the first table he saw another of porphyry, upon which some -kind hand had set out a collation consisting of cakes, preserved -fruits, and liqueurs. This was likewise for his use. Profiting, -therefore, by the kindness shown him, he partook of everything -that suited his appetite, his taste, and his fancy.</p> - -<p>Finding at length no one to speak to, or to inform him -whether this palace was inhabited by a man or by a God, -fear began to take possession of him, for he was naturally -timid. He resolved, therefore, to repass through all the -apartments, and overwhelm with thanks the Genius to whom -he was indebted for so much kindness, and in the most respectful -manner solicit him to appear. All his attentions were useless: -no appearance of servants, no result by which he could -ascertain that the palace was inhabited. Thinking seriously -of what he should do, he began to fancy, for what reason he -could not imagine, that some good spirit had made this -mansion a present to him, with all the riches that it contained. -This idea seemed like inspiration, and without -further delay, making a new inspection of it, he took possession -of all the treasures he could find. More than this, he -settled in his own mind what share of it he should allow to -each of his children, and selected the apartments which would -particularly suit them, enjoying the delight beforehand which -his journey would afford them. He entered the garden, where, -in spite of the severity of the winter, the rarest flowers were -exhaling the most delicious perfume in the mildest and purest -air. Birds of all kinds blending their songs with the confused -noise of the waters, made an agreeable harmony.</p> - -<p>The old man, in ecstasies at such wonders, said to himself, -"My daughters will not, I think, find it very difficult to -accustom themselves to this delicious abode. I cannot believe -that they will regret, or that they will prefer the city to this -mansion. Let me set out directly," cried he, in a transport -of joy rather uncommon for him; "I shall increase my -happiness in witnessing theirs: I will take possession at -once."</p> - -<p>Upon entering this charming castle he had taken care, - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_233">[Pg 233]</a></span> -notwithstanding he was nearly perished, to unbridle his horse -and let him wend his way to a stable which he had observed -in the fore-court. An alley, ornamented by palisades, formed -by rose-bushes in full bloom, led to it. He had never seen -such lovely roses. Their perfume reminded him that he had -promised to give Beauty a rose. He picked one, and was -about to gather enough to make half-a-dozen bouquets, when -a most frightful noise made him turn round. He was terribly -alarmed upon perceiving at his side a horrible beast, -which, with an air of fury, laid upon his neck a kind of trunk, -resembling an elephant's, and said, with a terrific voice, "Who -gave thee permission to gather my roses? Is it not enough -that I kindly allowed thee to remain in my palace. Instead -of feeling grateful, rash man, I find thee stealing my flowers! -Thy insolence shall not remain unpunished." The good man, -already too much overpowered by the unexpected appearance -of this monster, thought he should die of fright at these -words, and quickly throwing away the fatal rose. "Ah! my -Lord," said he, prostrating himself before him, "have mercy -on me! I am not ungrateful! Penetrated by all your kindness, -I did not imagine that so slight a liberty could possibly -have offended you." The monster very angrily replied, -"Hold thy tongue, thou foolish talker. I care not for thy -flattery, nor for the titles thou bestowest on me. I am not -'my Lord;' I am The Beast; and thou shalt not escape the -death thou deservest."</p> - -<p>The merchant, dismayed at so cruel a sentence, and thinking -that submission was the only means to preserve his life, -said, in a truly affecting manner, that the rose he had dared -to take was for one of his daughters, called Beauty. Then, -whether he hoped to escape from death, or to induce his -enemy to feel for him, he related to him all his misfortunes; -he told him the object of his journey, and did not omit to -dwell on the little present he was bound to give Beauty; -adding, that was the only thing she had asked for, while the -riches of a king would hardly have sufficed to satisfy the -wishes of his other daughters; and so came to the opportunity -which had offered itself to satisfy the modest desire of Beauty, -and his belief that he could have done so without any unpleasant -consequences; asking pardon, moreover, for his involuntary -fault. The Beast considered for a moment, then, - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_234">[Pg 234]</a></span> -speaking in a milder tone, he said to him, "I will pardon -thee, but upon condition that thou wilt give me one of thy -daughters—I require some one to repair this fault." "Just -Heaven!" replied the merchant; "how can I keep my word? -Could I be so inhuman as to save my own life at the expense -of one of my children's; under what pretext could I bring -her here?" "There must be no pretext," interrupted the -Beast. "I expect that whichever daughter you bring here -she will come willingly, or I will not have either of them. -Go; see if there be not one amongst them sufficiently courageous, -and loving thee enough, to sacrifice herself to save thy -life. Thou appearest to be an honest man. Give me thy -word of honour to return in a month. If thou canst decide -to bring one of them back with thee, she will remain here -and thou wilt return home. If thou canst not do so, promise -me to return hither alone, after bidding them farewell -for ever, for thou wilt belong to me. Do not fancy," continued -the Monster, grinding his teeth, "that by merely -agreeing to my proposition thou wilt be saved. I warn thee, -if thou thinkest so to escape me, I will seek for thee, and -destroy thee and thy race, although a hundred thousand men -appear to defend thee."</p> - -<p>The good man, although quite convinced that he should not -vainly put to the proof the devotion of his daughters, -accepted, nevertheless, the Monster's proposition. He promised -to return to him at the time named, and give himself -up to his sad fate, without rendering it necessary for the -Beast to seek for him. After this assurance he thought -himself at liberty to retire and take leave of the Beast, whose -presence was most distressing to him. The respite was but -brief, yet he feared he might revoke it. He expressed his -anxiety to depart; but the Beast told him he should not do -so till the following day. "Thou wilt find," said he, "a horse -ready at break of day. He will carry thee home quickly. -Adieu—go to supper, and await my orders."</p> - -<p>The poor man, more dead than alive, returned to the saloon -in which he had feasted so heartily. Before a large fire his -supper, already laid, invited him to sit and enjoy it. The -delicacy and richness of the dishes had no longer, however, -any temptation for him. Overwhelmed by his grief, he would -not have seated himself at the table, but that he feared that - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_235">[Pg 235]</a></span> -the Beast was concealed somewhere, and observing him, -and that he would excite his anger by any slight of his -bounty. To avoid further disaster, he made a momentary -truce with his grief, and, as well as his afflicted heart would -permit, he tasted, in turn, the various dishes. At the end -of the repast a great noise was heard in the adjoining apartment, -and he did not doubt that it was his formidable host. -As he could not manage to avoid his presence, he tried to -recover from the alarm which this sudden noise had caused -him. At the same moment, the Beast, who appeared, asked -him abruptly if he had made a good supper. The good man -replied, in a modest and timid tone, that he had, thanks to -his attention, eaten heartily. "Promise me," replied the -Monster, "to remember your word to me, and to keep it as a -man of honour, in bringing me one of your daughters."</p> - -<p>The old man, who was not much entertained with this -conversation, swore to him that he would fulfil what he had -promised, and return in a month alone or with one of his -daughters, if he should find one who loved him sufficiently -to follow him on the conditions he must propose to her. -"I warn thee again," said the Beast, "to take care not to -deceive her as to the sacrifice which thou must exact from -her, or the danger she will incur. Paint to her my face such -as it is. Let her know what she is about to do: above all, let -her be firm in her resolution. There will be no time for -reflection when thou shalt have brought her hither. There -must be no drawing back: thou wilt be equally lost, without -obtaining for her the liberty to return." The merchant, who -was overcome at this discourse, reiterated his promise to conform -to all that was prescribed to him. The Monster, satisfied -with his answer, ordered him to retire to rest, and not to -rise till he should see the sun, and hear a golden bell.</p> - -<p>"Thou wilt breakfast before setting out," said he again; -"and thou mayest take a rose with thee for Beauty. The -horse which shall bear thee will be ready in the court-yard. -I reckon on seeing thee again in a month, if thou art an -honest man. If thou failest in thy word, I shall pay thee a -visit." The good man, for fear of prolonging a conversation -already too painful to him, made a profound reverence to the -Beast, who told him again not to be anxious respecting the -road by which he should return; as at the time appointed the - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_236">[Pg 236]</a></span> -same horse which he would mount the next morning would -be found at his gate, and would suffice for his daughter and -himself.</p> - -<p>However little disposition the old man felt for sleep, he -dared not disobey the orders he had received. Obliged to lie -down, he did not rise till the sun began to illumine the -chamber. His breakfast was soon despatched, and he then -descended into the garden to gather the rose which the Beast -had ordered him to take to Beauty. How many tears this -flower caused him to shed. But the fear of drawing on -himself new disasters made him constrain his feelings, and -he went, without further delay, in search of the horse which -had been promised him. He found on the saddle a light but -warm cloak. As soon as the horse felt him on his back, he -set off with incredible speed. The merchant, who in a -moment lost sight of this fatal palace, experienced as great a -sensation of joy as he had on the previous evening felt in -perceiving it, with this difference, that the delight of leaving -it was embittered by the cruel necessity of returning to it.</p> - -<p class="pmb1">"To what have I pledged myself?" said he, whilst his -courser carried him with a velocity and a lightness which is -only known in fairy land. "Would it not be better that I -should become at once the victim of this monster who thirsts -for the blood of my family? By a promise I have made, as -unnatural as it is indiscreet, I have prolonged my life. Is it -possible that I could think of extending my days at the -expense of those of my daughters? Can I have the barbarity -to lead one to him, to see him, no doubt, devour her -before my eyes?" But all at once, interrupting himself, he -cried, "Miserable wretch that I am, what have I to fear? -If I could find it in my heart to silence the voice of nature, -would it depend on me to commit this cowardly act? She -must know her fate and consent to it. I see no chance that -she will be inclined to sacrifice herself for an inhuman father, -and I ought not to make such a proposition to her. It is -unjust. But even if the affection which they all entertain -for me should induce one to devote herself, would not a single -glance at the Beast destroy her constancy, and I could not -complain. Ah! too imperious Beast," exclaimed he, "thou hast -done this expressly! By putting an impossible condition to -the means thou offerest me to escape thy fury, and obtain the -pardon of a trifling fault, thou hast added insult to injury! -But," continued he, "I cannot bear to think of it. I hesitate -no longer; and I would rather expose myself without turning -away from thy rage, than attempt a useless mode of escape, -which my paternal love trembles to employ. Let me retrace," -said he, "the road to this frightful palace, and without deigning -to purchase so dearly the remnant of a life which can -never be but miserable—without waiting for the month which -is accorded me to expire,—return and terminate this day my -miserable existence!"</p> - -<div class="figcenter"> - <img src="images/i006.jpg" alt="" /> - <p class="center font08">Beauty and the Beast.—P. 236.</p> -</div> -<p class="pmb2" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_237">[Pg 237]</a></span></p> - -<p>At these words he endeavoured to retrace his steps, but he -found it impossible to turn the bridle of his horse. Allowing -himself, therefore, against his will, to be carried forward, he -resolved at least to propose nothing to his daughters. Already -he saw his house in the distance, and strengthening himself -more and more in his resolution, "I will not speak to them," -he said, "of the danger which threatens me: I shall have -the pleasure of embracing them once more; I shall give them -my last advice; I will beg them to live on good terms with -their brothers, whom I shall also implore not to abandon -them."</p> - -<p>In the midst of this reverie, he reached his door. His -own horse, which had found its way home the previous evening, -had alarmed his family. His sons, dispersed in the forest, -had sought him in every direction; and his daughters, in their -impatience to hear some tidings of him, were at the door, in -order to obtain the earliest intelligence. As he was mounted -on a magnificent steed, and wrapt in a rich cloak, they could -not recognise him, but took him at first for a messenger sent -by him, and the rose which they perceived attached to the -pummel of the saddle made them perfectly easy on his -account.</p> - -<p>When this afflicted father, however, approached nearer, -they recognised him, and thought only of evincing their satisfaction -at seeing him return in good health. But the sadness -depicted in his face, and his eyes filled with tears, which he -vainly endeavoured to restrain, changed their joy into anxiety. -All hastened to inquire the cause of his trouble. He made -no reply but by saying to Beauty, as he presented her with -the rose, "There is what thou hast demanded of me, but -thou wilt pay dearly for it, as well as the others." "I was - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_238">[Pg 238]</a></span> -certain," exclaimed the eldest, "and I was saying, this very -moment, that she would be the only one whose commission -you would execute. At this time of the year, a rose must -have cost more than you would have had to pay for us all -five together; and, judging from appearances, the rose will -be faded before the day is ended: never mind, however, you -were determined to gratify the fortunate Beauty at any price." -"It is true," replied the father, mournfully, "that this rose -has cost me dear, and more dear than all the ornaments which -you wished for would have done. It is not in money, however; -and would to Heaven that I might have purchased it -with all I am yet worth in the world."</p> - -<p>These words excited the curiosity of his children, and dispelled -the resolution which he had taken not to reveal his -adventure. He informed them of the ill-success of his journey, -the trouble which he had undergone in running after a chimerical -fortune, and all that had taken place in the palace of -the Monster. After this explanation, despair took the place of -hope and of joy.</p> - -<p>The daughters seeing all their projects annihilated by this -thunderbolt, uttered fearful cries; the brothers, more courageous, -said resolutely that they would not suffer their father -to return to this frightful castle; that they were bold enough -to deliver the earth from this horrible Beast, even supposing -he should have the temerity to come in search of him. The -good man, although moved at their affliction, forbad them to -commit violence, telling them, that as he had given his word, -he would kill himself rather than fail to keep it.</p> - -<p>Notwithstanding this, they sought for expedients to save -his life; the young men, full of courage and filial affection, -proposed that one of them should go and offer himself as a -victim to the wrath of the Beast; but the monster had said -positively and explicitly that he would have one of the -daughters, and not one of the sons. The brave brothers -grieved that their good intentions could not be acted upon, -then did what they could to inspire their sisters with the -same sentiments. But their jealousy of Beauty was sufficient -to raise an invincible obstacle to such heroic action.</p> - -<p>"It is not just," said they, "that we should perish in so -frightful a manner for a fault of which we are not guilty. It -would be to render us victims to Beauty, to whom they - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_239">[Pg 239]</a></span> -would be very glad to sacrifice us; but duty does not require -such a sacrifice. Here is the fruit of the moderation and -perpetual preaching of this unhappy girl! Why did she not -ask, like us, for a good stock of clothes and jewels. If we -have not had them, it has at all events cost nothing for -asking, and we have no cause to reproach ourselves for having -exposed the life of our father by indiscreet demands. If, by -an affected disinterestedness, she had not sought to distinguish -herself, as she is in all things more favoured than we, he -would have, no doubt, found enough money to content her. -But she must needs, by her singular caprice, bring on us all -this misfortune. It is she who has caused it, and they wish -us to pay the penalty. We will not be her dupe. She has -brought it on herself, and she must find the remedy."</p> - -<p>Beauty, whose grief had almost deprived her of consciousness, -suppressing her sobs and sighs, said to her sisters, "I -am the cause of this misfortune; it is I alone who must -repair it. I confess it would be unjust to allow you to suffer -for my fault. Alas! it was, notwithstanding, an innocent wish. -Could I foresee that the desire to have a rose when we were in -the middle of summer would be punished so cruelly? The fault -is committed, however; whether I am innocent or guilty, it is -just that I should expiate it. It cannot be imputed to any -one else. I will risk my life," pursued she, in a firm tone, "to -release my father from his fatal engagement. I will go to -find the Beast; too happy in being able to die in order to -preserve the life of him from whom I received mine, and to -silence your murmurs. Do not fear that anything can turn -me from my purpose; but I pray you during this month to -do me the favour to spare me your reproaches."</p> - -<p>So much firmness in a girl of her age surprised them all -much; and the brothers, who loved her tenderly, were moved -at her resolution. They paid her infinite attention, and felt the -loss they were about to sustain. But it was requisite to save -the life of a father; this pious motive closed their mouths; -and well persuaded that it was a thing decided on, far from -thinking of combating so generous a purpose, they contented -themselves by shedding tears, and giving their sister all the -praise which her noble resolution merited, all the more from -her being only sixteen years of age, and having the right to -regret a life which she was about to sacrifice in so cruel a - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_240">[Pg 240]</a></span> -manner. The father alone would not consent to the design -of his youngest daughter; but the others reproached him -insolently with the charge that Beauty alone was cared for -by him, in spite of the misfortune which she had caused, and -that he was sorry that it was not one of the elders who should -pay for her imprudence.</p> - -<p>This unjust language forced him to desist; besides, Beauty -assured him that if he would not accept the exchange, she -would make it in spite of him, for she would go alone to seek -the Beast, and so perish without saving him. "How do we -know," said she, forcing herself to assume more tranquillity -than she really felt; "perhaps the dreadful fate which appears -to await me conceals another as happy as this seems -terrible?"</p> - -<p>Her sisters, hearing her speak thus, smiled maliciously at -the wild idea; they were enchanted at the delusion in which -they believed her to be indulging. But the old man, conquered -by all her reasons, and remembering an ancient prediction, -by which he had learnt that this daughter should -save his life, and that she should be a source of happiness to -all her family, ceased to oppose the will of Beauty. Insensibly -they began to speak of their departure as a thing almost -indifferent. It was she who gave the tone to the conversation, -and in their presence she appeared to consider it as a -happy event; it was only, however, to console her father -and brothers, and not to alarm them more than necessary. -Although discontented with the conduct of her sisters towards -her, who appeared even impatient to see her depart, and -thought the month passed too slowly, she had the generosity -to divide all her little property and the jewels which she had -at her own disposal amongst them.</p> - -<p>They received with pleasure this new proof of her generosity, -but without abating their hatred of her. An extreme joy took -possession of their hearts when they heard the horse neigh -which was sent to carry away a sister whose amiability their -jealous natures would not allow them to perceive. The father -and the sons alone were so afflicted that they could not contain -themselves at this fatal moment. They proposed to -strangle the horse. Beauty, however, preserving all her tranquillity, -showed them again on this occasion the absurdity of -such a design, and the impossibility of executing it. After - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_241">[Pg 241]</a></span> -having taken leave of her brothers, she embraced her hard-hearted -sisters, taking such a tender farewell of them that she -drew from them some tears, and they believed, for the space -of a few minutes, that they were almost as much afflicted as -their brothers.</p> - -<p>During these brief, yet lingering leave-takings, the good -man, hurried by his daughter, had mounted his horse. She -placed herself behind him with as much alacrity as though -she were going to make an agreeable journey. The animal -rather flew than walked. But this extreme speed did not -inconvenience her in the least; the paces of this singular horse -were so gentle that Beauty felt no more shaken by him than -she would have been by the breath of a zephyr.</p> - -<p>In vain, during the journey, did her father offer a hundred -times to allow her to dismount, and to go himself alone to find -the Beast. "Consider, my dear child," said he; "there is still -time. This Monster is more terrible than thou canst imagine. -However firm thy resolution may be, I cannot but fear it will -fail on beholding him; then it will be too late; thou wilt be -lost, and we shall both perish together."</p> - -<p>"If I went," replied Beauty, "to seek this terrible Beast -with the hope of being happy, it is not impossible that that -hope would fail me at the sight of him; but as I reckon on -a speedy death, and believe it to be unavoidable, what does -it signify whether he who shall destroy me be agreeable or -hideous."</p> - -<p>Conversing thus, night closed around them, but the horse -went quite as fast in the darkness. It was, however, suddenly -dissipated by a most unexpected spectacle. This was caused -by the discharge of all kinds of beautiful fireworks—flowerpots, -catherine-wheels, suns, bouquets,—which dazzled the -eyes of our travellers. This agreeable and unlooked-for illumination -lighted up the entire forest, and diffused a gentle heat -through the air, which was become desirable, for the cold in -this country was more keenly felt in the night than by day.</p> - -<p>By this charming light the father and daughter found -themselves in an avenue of orange-trees. At the moment that -they entered it the fireworks ceased. The illumination was, -however, continued by all the statues having in their hands -lighted torches. Besides these, lamps without number covered -the front of the palace, symmetrically arranged in forms of - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_242">[Pg 242]</a></span> -true-lover's knots and crowned cyphers, consisting of double -LL's and double BB's.<a id="FNanchor_16_16"></a><a href="#Footnote_16_16" class="fnanchor">[16]</a> On entering the court they were -received by a salute of artillery, which, added to the sound of -a thousand instruments of various kinds, some soft, some warlike, -had a fine effect.</p> - -<p>"The Beast must be very hungry indeed," said Beauty, -half-jestingly, "to make such grand rejoicings at the arrival -of his prey." However, in spite of her agitation at the -approach of an event which, according to all appearance, -was about to be fatal to her, she could not avoid paying -attention to the magnificent objects which succeeded each -other, and presented to her view the most beautiful spectacle -she had ever seen, nor help saying to her father that the preparations -for her death were more brilliant than the bridal -pomp of the greatest king in the world.</p> - -<p>The horse stopped at the foot of the flight of steps. She -alighted quickly, and her father, as soon as he had put foot -to the ground, conducted her by a vestibule to the saloon -in which he had been so well entertained. They found there -a large fire, lighted candles which emitted an exquisite perfume, -and, above all, a table splendidly served. The good -man, accustomed to the manner in which the Beast regaled -his guests, told his daughter that this repast was intended for -them, and that they were at liberty to avail themselves of it. -Beauty made no difficulty, well-persuaded that it would not -hasten her death. On the contrary, she imagined that it -would make known to the Beast the little repugnance she -had felt in coming to see him. She hoped that her frankness -might be capable of softening him, and even that her adventure -might be less sad than she had at first apprehended. -The formidable Monster with which she had been menaced did -not show himself, and the whole palace spoke of joy and -magnificence. It appeared that her arrival had caused these -demonstrations, and it did not seem probable that they could -have been designed for a funeral ceremony.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_243">[Pg 243]</a></span></p> - -<p>Her hope did not last long, however. The Monster made -himself heard. A frightful noise, caused by the enormous -weight of his body, by the terrible clank of his scales, and an -awful roaring, announced his arrival. Terror took possession -of Beauty. The old man, embracing his daughter, uttered -piercing cries. But recovering herself in a moment, she suppressed -her agitation. Seeing the Beast approach, whom she -could not behold without a shudder, she advanced with a firm -step, and with a modest air saluted him very respectfully. -This behaviour pleased the Monster. After having contemplated -her, he said to the old man, in a tone which, without -being one of anger, might, however, fill with terror the boldest -heart, "Good evening, my good friend;" and turning to -Beauty, he said also to her, "Good evening, Beauty." The -old man, fearing every instant that something awful would -happen to his daughter, had not the strength to reply. But -Beauty, without agitation and in a sweet and firm voice, said, -"Good evening, Beast." "Do you come here voluntarily?" -inquired the Beast; "and will you consent to let your -father depart without following him?" Beauty replied that -she had no other intention. "Ah! and what do you think -will become of you after his departure?" "What it may -please you," said she; "my life is at your disposal, and I -submit blindly to the fate which you may doom me to."</p> - -<p>"I am satisfied with your submission," replied the Beast; -"and as it appears that they have not brought you here by force, -you shall remain with me. As for thee, good man," said he -to the merchant, "thou shalt depart to-morrow, at daybreak; -the bell will warn you; delay not after thy breakfast; the -same horse will reconduct thee. But," added he, "when -thou shalt be in the midst of thy family, dream not of revisiting -my palace, and remember it is forbidden thee for -ever. You, Beauty," continued the Monster, addressing her, -"conduct your father into the adjoining wardrobe, and choose -anything which both of you think will give pleasure to your -brothers and sisters. You will find two trunks; fill them. -It is right that you should send them something of sufficient -value to oblige them to remember you."</p> - -<p>In spite of the liberality of the Monster, the approaching -departure of her father sensibly affected Beauty, and caused -her extreme grief; however, she determined to obey the -Beast, who quitted them, after having said, as he had done -on entering, "Good-night, Beauty; good-night, good man." -When they were alone, the good man, embracing his daughter, -wept without ceasing. The idea of leaving her with - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_244">[Pg 244]</a></span> -the Monster was a most cruel trial to him. He repented -having brought her into that place. The gates were open; -he wished to lead her away again, but Beauty impressed -upon him the danger and consequences of such a proceeding.</p> - -<p>They entered the wardrobe which had been indicated to -them; they were surprised at the treasures it contained. It -was filled with apparel so superb that a Queen could not wish -for anything more beautiful, or in better taste. Never was a -warehouse better filled.</p> - -<p>When Beauty had chosen the dresses she thought the most -suitable, not to the present situation of the family, but proportioned -to the riches and liberality of the Beast, who was -the donor, she opened a press, the door of which was of rock -crystal, mounted in gold. Although such a magnificent -exterior prepared her to find it contain some rare and precious -treasures, she saw such a mass of jewels of all kinds, that her -eyes could hardly support the brilliancy of them. Beauty, -from a feeling of obedience, took without hesitation, a prodigious -quantity, which she divided as well as she could -amongst the lots she had already made.</p> - -<p>On opening the last cabinet, which was no less than a -cabinet filled with pieces of gold, she changed her mind. "I -think," said she to her father, "that it will be better to -empty these trunks, and to fill them with coin, which you -can give to your children according to your pleasure. By -this means you will not be obliged to confide your secret to -any one, and your riches will be possessed by you without -danger. The advantage that you would derive from the -possession of these jewels, although their value might be -more considerable, would be attended by inconvenience. In -order to profit by them you would be forced to sell them, -and to trust them to persons who would only look on you -with envious eyes. Your confidence in them might even -prove fatal to you, whilst gold pieces of current coin will -place you," continued she, "beyond the reach of any misfortune, -by giving you the means of acquiring land and -houses, and purchasing rich furniture, ornaments, and precious -stones."</p> - -<p>The father approved her forethought. But wishing to -take for his daughters some dresses and ornaments, in order -to make room for them as well as the gold, he took out of - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_245">[Pg 245]</a></span> -the trunks what he had selected for his own use. The great -quantity of coin which he put in did not fill them, however. -They were composed of folds which stretched at pleasure. -He found room for the jewels which he had displaced, and, in -fact, these trunks contained more than he could even wish -for. "So much money," said he to his daughter, "will place -me in a position to sell my jewels at my own convenience. -Following thy counsel, I will hide my wealth from the world, -and even from my children. If they knew me to be as rich -as I shall be, they would torment me to abandon my country -life, which, however, is the sole one wherein I have found -happiness, and not experienced the perfidy of false friends, -with whom the world is filled." But the trunks were so -immensely heavy, that an elephant would have sunk under -their weight, and the hope which he had begun to cherish -appeared to him a dream, and nothing more. "The Beast -mocks us," said he, "and feigns to give me wealth, which he -makes it impossible for me to carry away."</p> - -<p>"Suspend your judgment," replied Beauty; "you have not -provoked his liberality by any indiscreet request nor by any -greedy or interested looks. Raillery would be without point. -I think, as the Monster has bestowed it on you, that he will -certainly find the means of allowing you to enjoy it. We -have only to close the trunks, and leave them here. No -doubt he knows by what coach to send them."</p> - -<p>Nothing could be more prudent than this advice. The -good man, conformably to it, re-entered the saloon with his -daughter. Seated together on the sofa, they saw the breakfast -instantly served. The father ate with more appetite -than he had done the preceding night. That which had -come to pass had diminished his despair and revived his confidence. -He would have departed without concern if the -Beast had not had the cruelty to make him understand that -he must not dream of seeing his palace again, and that he -must wish his daughter an eternal farewell. There is no evil -but death without remedy. The good man was not completely -stunned by this order. He flattered himself that it -would not be irrevocable, and this hope prepared him to quit -his host with tolerable satisfaction. Beauty was not so well -satisfied. Little persuaded that a happy future was prepared -for her, she feared that the rich presents with which the - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_246">[Pg 246]</a></span> -Monster loaded her family was but the price of her life, and -that he would devour her immediately that he should be -alone with her, or at least that a perpetual prison would be -her fate, and that her only companion would be this frightful -Monster.</p> - -<p>This reflection plunged her into a profound reverie, but a -second stroke of the bell warned them that it was time to -separate. They descended into the court, where the father -found two horses, the one loaded with the two trunks, and -the other destined for himself. The latter, covered with a -good cloak, and the saddle having two bags attached to it -full of refreshments, was the same which he had ridden before. -So much attention on the part of the Beast again supplied -them with subject of conversation; but the horses, neighing -and stamping with their hoofs, made known to them that it -was time to part.</p> - -<p>The merchant, afraid of irritating the Beast by his delay, -bade his daughter an eternal farewell. The two horses set -off faster than the wind, and Beauty instantly lost sight of -them. She mounted in tears to the chamber which was -appropriated to her, where for some time she was lost in sad -reflections.</p> - -<p>At length, being overcome with sleep, she felt a wish to -seek repose, which, during a month past, she had not enjoyed. -Having nothing better to do, she was about to go to bed, -when she perceived on the table a service of chocolate prepared. -She took it, half asleep, and her eyes almost immediately -closed. She fell into a quiet slumber, which since -the moment she had received the fatal rose had been unknown -to her.</p> - -<p>During her sleep, she dreamt that she was on the bank of -a canal, a long way off, the two sides of which were ornamented -with two rows of orange trees and flowering myrtles -of immense size, where, engrossed with her sad situation, she -lamented the misfortune which condemned her to pass her -days in this place without hope of ever leaving it.</p> - -<p>A young man, beautiful as Cupid is painted, in a voice -which touched her heart, then said—"Do not, Beauty, believe -thou wilt be as unhappy as it now appears to thee. It is in -this place that thou wilt receive the recompence which they -have elsewhere unjustly denied thee. Let thy penetration - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_247">[Pg 247]</a></span> -assist thee to extricate me from the appearance which disguises -me. Judge in seeing me if my company is contemptible, -and ought not to be preferred to a family unworthy -of thee. Wish, and all thy desires shall be fulfilled. I love -thee tenderly; thou alone canst bestow happiness on me by -being happy thyself. Never deny me this. Excelling all other -women as far in the qualities of thy mind as thou excellest -them in beauty, we shall be perfectly happy together."</p> - -<p>This charming apparition then kneeling at her feet, made -her the most flattering promises in the most tender language. -He pressed her in the warmest terms to consent to his happiness, -and assured her that she should be entirely her own -mistress.</p> - -<p>"What can I do?" said she to him with eagerness.</p> - -<p>"Follow the first impulse of gratitude," said he. "Judge -not by thine eyes, and, above all, abandon me not, but release -me from the terrible torment which I endure."</p> - -<p>After this first dream, she fancied she was in a magnificent -cabinet with a lady, whose majestic mien and surprising beauty -created in her heart a feeling of profound respect. This lady -said to her in an affectionate tone—"Charming Beauty, regret -not that thou hast left; a more illustrious fate awaits -thee; but if thou wouldst deserve it, beware of allowing thyself -to be prejudiced by appearances." Her sleep lasted more -than five hours, during which time she saw the young man -in a hundred different places, and under a hundred different -circumstances.</p> - -<p>Sometimes he offered her a fine entertainment; sometimes -he made the most tender protestations to her. How -pleasant her sleep was! She would have wished to prolong -it, but her eyes, open to the light, could not be induced to -close again, and Beauty believed she had only had an agreeable -dream.</p> - -<p>A clock struck twelve, repeating twelve times her own -name, which obliged her to rise. She then saw a toilet-table -covered with everything necessary for a lady. After having -dressed herself with a feeling of pleasure of which she did -not imagine the cause, she passed into the saloon, where her -dinner was served.</p> - -<p>When one eats alone, a repast is very soon over. On returning -to her chamber, she threw herself on the sofa; the - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_248">[Pg 248]</a></span> -young man of whom she had dreamt again presented himself -to her thoughts. "'I can make thy happiness,' were his -words. Probably this horrible Beast, who appears to command -all here, keeps him in prison. How can he be extricated? -They repeated to me that I was not to be deceived by -appearances. I understand nothing; but how foolish I am! -I amuse myself by seeking for reasons to explain an illusion -formed by sleep, and which my waking has destroyed. I -ought not to pay attention to it. I must only occupy myself -with my present fate, and seek such amusements as will prevent -my being overcome by melancholy."</p> - -<p>Shortly afterwards she began to wander through the numerous -apartments of the palace. She was enchanted with -them, having never seen anything so beautiful. The first that -she entered was a large cabinet of mirrors. She saw herself -reflected on all sides. At length a bracelet, suspended to a -girandole, caught her sight. She found on it the portrait of -the handsome Cavalier, just as she had seen him in her sleep. -How was it she recognised him immediately? His features -were already too deeply impressed on her mind, and, perhaps, -in her heart. With joyful haste she placed the bracelet on -her arm, without reflecting whether this action was correct. -From this cabinet, having passed into a gallery full of pictures, -she there found the same portrait the size of life, which appeared -to regard her with such tender attention, that she -coloured, as if this picture had been the person himself; or -that she had had witnesses of her thoughts.</p> - -<p>Continuing her walk, she found herself in a saloon filled -with different kinds of instruments. Knowing how to play -on almost all, she tried several, preferring the harpsichord to -the others, because it was a better accompaniment for the -voice. From this saloon, she entered another gallery, corresponding -to that in which were the paintings. It contained -an immense library. She liked reading, and since her sojourn -in the country she had been deprived of this pleasure. Her -father, by the confusion of his affairs, had found himself -obliged to sell his books. Her great taste for study could -easily be satisfied in this place, and would guarantee her -against the dulness consequent on solitude. The day passed -before she could see everything. At the approach of night, - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_249">[Pg 249]</a></span> -all the apartments were illuminated by perfumed wax-lights, -placed in lustres either transparent or of different colours, and -not of crystal, but made of diamonds and rubies.</p> - -<p>At the usual hour, Beauty found her supper served, with -the same delicacy and neatness as before. No human figure -presented itself to her view; her father had told her she would -be alone. This solitude began no longer to trouble her, when -the Beast made himself heard. Never having yet found herself -alone with him, ignorant how this interview would pass -off, fearing even that he only came to devour her, is it any -wonder that she trembled? But on the arrival of the Beast, -whose approach was by no means furious, her fears were dissipated. -This monstrous giant said, roughly, "Good evening, -Beauty." She returned his salutation in the same terms, -with a calm air, but a little tremulously. Amongst the different -questions which the monster put to her, he asked how -she amused herself? Beauty replied, "I have passed the day -in inspecting your palace, but it is so vast that I have not -had time to see all the apartments, and the beauties which it -contains." The Beast asked her, "Do you think you can -get accustomed to living here?" The girl replied, politely, -that she could live without trouble in so beautiful an abode. -After an hour's conversation, Beauty discovered that the -terrible tone of his voice was attributable only to the nature -of the organ; and that the Beast was more inclined to stupidity -than to ferocity. At length he asked her bluntly if she -would marry him. At this unexpected demand, her fears were -renewed, and uttering a terrible shriek, she could not help exclaiming, -"O! Heavens, I am lost!"</p> - -<p>"Not at all," replied the Beast, quietly; "but without -frightening yourself, reply properly. Say precisely 'yes' or -'no.'" Beauty replied, trembling, "No, Beast." "Well, as -you object, I will leave you," replied the docile Monster. -"Good evening, Beauty." "Good evening, Beast," said the -frightened girl, with much satisfaction. Extremely relieved -by finding that she had no violence to fear, she lay quietly -down and went to sleep. Immediately her dear unknown -returned to her mind. He appeared to say to her, tenderly, -"How overjoyed I am to see you once more, dear Beauty, -but what pain has your severity caused me? I know that I - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_250">[Pg 250]</a></span> -must expect to be unhappy for a long time." Her ideas -again changed, the young man appeared to offer her a crown, -and sleep presented him to her in a hundred different manners. -Sometimes he seemed to be at her feet, sometimes abandoning -himself to the most excessive delight, at others shedding a -torrent of tears, which touched the depths of her soul. This -mixture of joy and sadness lasted all the night. On waking, -having her imagination full of this dear object, she sought -for his portrait, to compare it once more with her recollections, -and to see if she were not deceived. She ran to the picture -gallery, where she recognised him still more perfectly. How -long she was admiring him! but feeling ashamed of her -weakness, she contented herself at length by looking at the -miniature on her arm.</p> - -<p>At length, to put an end to these tender reflections, she -descended into the garden, the fine weather seeming to invite -her to a stroll. Her eyes were enchanted; they had never -seen anything in nature so beautiful. The groves were ornamented -with admirable statues and numberless fountains, -which cooled the air, and shot up to such a height that the -eye could scarcely follow them.</p> - -<p>What surprised her most was, that she recognised the -places wherein she had dreamt she had seen the unknown. -Especially at the sight of the grand canal, bordered with -orange and myrtle trees, she could not but think of her -vision, which appeared no longer a fiction. She thought to -explain the mystery by imagining that the Beast kept some -one shut up in his palace. She resolved to be enlightened on -the subject that same evening, and to question the Monster, -from whom she expected a visit at the usual hour. She -walked for the rest of the day, as long as her strength permitted, -without being able to see all.</p> - -<p>The apartments which she had not been able to inspect the -evening before, were no less worthy of her admiration than -the others. Besides the instruments and curiosities with -which she was surrounded, she found in another cabinet plenty -to occupy her. It was filled with purses, and shuttles for -knotting, scissors for cutting out, and fitted up for all sorts -of ladies' work; in fact, everything was to be found there.</p> - -<p>In this gallery care had been taken to place a cage filled with -rare birds, all of which, on the arrival of Beauty, formed an - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_251">[Pg 251]</a></span> -admirable concert. They came also and perched on her -shoulders, and these loving little creatures vied with each -other as to which should nestle closest to her. "Amiable -prisoners," said she, "I think you charming, and I am vexed -that you should be so far from my apartment, I should often -like the pleasure of hearing you sing."</p> - -<p>What was her surprise, when as she said these words, she -opened a door and found herself in her own chamber, which -she believed was very distant from this gallery, having only -arrived in it after turning and threading a labyrinth of -apartments which composed this pavilion. A panel which -had concealed from her the neighbourhood of the birds, -opened into the gallery, and was very convenient, as it completely -shut out the noise of them when quiet was desirable.</p> - -<p>Beauty, continuing her route, perceived another feathered -group; these were parrots of all kinds and of all colours. -All at her approach began to chatter. One said, "Good day" -to her; the other asked her for some breakfast; one more -gallant begged a kiss; several sang opera airs, others declaimed -verses composed by the best authors; and all exerted -themselves to entertain her. They were as gentle and as -affectionate as the inhabitants of the aviary. Their presence -was a real pleasure to her. She was delighted to find something -she could talk with, for silence was not agreeable to -her. She put several questions to some of them, who answered -her like very intelligent creatures. She selected one from -amongst them as the most amusing. The others, jealous of -this preference, complained sadly. She consoled them by -some caresses, and the permission to pay her a visit whenever -they pleased. Not far from this spot she saw a numerous -troop of monkeys of all sizes, great and small, sapajous,<a id="FNanchor_17_17"></a><a href="#Footnote_17_17" class="fnanchor">[17]</a> -some with human faces, others with beards, blue, green, -black, and crimson. They advanced to meet her at the door -of their apartment, which she had by chance arrived at. -They made her low bows, accompanied by countless capers, -and testified, by action, how highly sensible they were of the -honour she had done them.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_252">[Pg 252]</a></span></p> - -<p>To celebrate her visit, they -danced upon the tight-rope, and bounded about with a skill -and an agility beyond example. Beauty was much pleased -with the monkeys, but she was disappointed at not finding -anything which could enlighten her respecting the handsome -unknown. Losing all hope of doing so, and looking upon -her dream as altogether an illusion, she did her best to drive -the recollection of it from her mind; but her efforts were vain. -She praised the monkeys, and, caressing them, said she should -like some of them to follow her and keep her company. -Instantly two tall young apes, in court dresses, who appeared -to have been only waiting for her orders, advanced and placed -themselves with great gravity beside her. Two sprightly -little monkeys took up her train as her pages. A facetious -baboon, dressed as a Spanish gentleman of the chamber, presented -his paw to her, very neatly gloved, and accompanied -by this singular cortège, Beauty proceeded to the supper -table. During her meal the smaller birds whistled, in perfect -tune, an accompaniment to the voices of the parrots, who -sang the finest and most fashionable airs.</p> - -<p>During the concert, the monkeys, who had taken upon -themselves the right of attending upon Beauty, having in an -instant settled their several ranks and duties, commenced -their service, and waited on her in full state, with all the -attention and respect that officers of a royal household are -accustomed to pay to queens.</p> - -<p>On rising from table, another troop proceeded to entertain -her with a novel spectacle. They were a sort of company of -actors, who played a tragedy in the most extraordinary fashion. -These Signor Monkeys and Signora Apes, in stage dresses -covered with embroidery, pearls, and diamonds, executed all -the actions suitable to the words of their parts, which were -spoken with great distinctness and proper emphasis by the -parrots; so cleverly, indeed, that it was necessary to be assured -that these birds were concealed in the wig of one actor or -under the mantle of another, not to believe that these new-fashioned -tragedians were speaking themselves. The drama -appeared to have been written expressly for the actors, and -Beauty was enchanted. At the end of the tragedy, one of -the performers advanced and paid Beauty a very well-turned -compliment, and thanked her for the indulgence with which -she had listened to them. All then departed, except the - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_253">[Pg 253]</a></span> -monkeys of her household, and those selected to keep her -company.</p> - -<p>After supper, the Beast paid her his usual visit, and after -the same questions and the same answers, the conversation -ended with a "Good night, Beauty." The Lady-Apes of -the bed-chamber undressed their mistress, put her to bed, and -took care to open the window of the aviary, that the birds, -by a warbling much softer than their songs by day, might -induce slumber, and afford her the pleasure of again beholding -her lover. Several days passed without her experiencing -any feeling of dulness. Every moment brought with it fresh -pleasures. The monkeys, in three or four lessons, succeeded -each one in teaching a parrot, who, acting as an interpreter, -replied to Beauty's questions with as much promptitude and -accuracy as the monkeys themselves had done by gestures. -In fine, Beauty found nothing to complain of but the obligation -of enduring every evening the presence of the Beast; -but his visits were short, and it was undoubtedly to him -that she was indebted for the enjoyment of all imaginable -amusements.</p> - -<p>The gentleness of the monster occasionally inspired Beauty -with the idea of asking some explanation respecting the -person she saw in her dreams; but sufficiently aware that he -was in love with her, and fearing by such questioning to -awaken his jealousy, she had the prudence to remain silent, -and did not venture to satisfy her curiosity.</p> - -<p>By degrees she had visited every apartment in this enchanted -palace: but one willingly returns to the inspection of things -which are rare, singular, and costly. Beauty turned her steps -towards a great saloon, which she had only seen once before. -This room had four windows in it on each side. Two only -were open, and admitted a glimmering light. Beauty wished -for more light, but in lieu of obtaining any by opening -another window, she found it only looked into some enclosed -space, which, although large, was obscure, and her eyes could -distinguish nothing but a distant gleam, which appeared to -reach them through the medium of a very thick crape. -Whilst pondering for what purpose this place could have -been designed, she was suddenly dazzled by a brilliant illumination. -The curtain rose and discovered to Beauty a -theatre, exceedingly well lighted. On the benches and in - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_254">[Pg 254]</a></span> -the boxes she beheld all that was most handsome and well -made of either sex.<a id="FNanchor_18_18"></a><a href="#Footnote_18_18" class="fnanchor">[18]</a> A sweet symphony, which instantly -commenced, terminated only to permit other actors than -monkey and parrot performers to represent a very fine tragedy, -which was followed by a little piece, quite equal in its -own style to that which had preceded it. Beauty was fond -of plays. It was the only pleasure she had regretted when -she left the city. Desiring to ascertain what sort of material -the hangings of the box next to her were made of, she found -herself prevented doing so by a glass which separated them, -and thereby discovered that what she had seen were not the -actual objects, but a reflection of them by means of this -crystal mirror, which thus conveyed to her sight all that -was passing on the stage of the finest city in the world. It -is a master-stroke in optics to be able to reflect from such a -distance. She remained in her box some time after the play -was over, in order to see the fine company go out. The -darkness that gradually ensued compelled her to think of -other matters. Satisfied with this discovery, of which she -promised to avail herself often, she descended into the gardens. -Prodigies were becoming familiar to her. She rejoiced -to find they were all performed for her advantage and -amusement.</p> - -<p>After supper, the Beast came, as usual, to ask her what she -had been doing during the day. Beauty gave him an exact -account of all her amusements, and told him she had been to -the play. "Do you like it?" inquired the dull creature. -"Wish for whatever you please, you shall have it. You are -very handsome." Beauty smiled to herself at the coarse -manner in which he paid her compliments; but what she did -not smile at was the usual question, and the words, "Will you -marry me?" put an end to her good humour. She had only -to answer "No;" but, nevertheless, his docility during this -last interview did not re-assure her. Beauty was alarmed at -it. "What is to be the end of all this?" she said to herself. -"The question he puts to me every time, 'Will I marry him?' -proves that he persists in loving me: his bounty to me confirms -it. - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_255">[Pg 255]</a></span> -But though he does not insist on my compliance, -nor show any signs of resentment at my refusal, who will be -answerable to me that he do not eventually lose his patience, -and that my death will not be the consequence?" These -reflections rendered her so thoughtful that it was almost daylight -before she went to bed. The unknown, who but awaited -that moment to appear, reproached her tenderly for her delay. -He found her melancholy, lost in thought, and inquired what -could have displeased her in such a place. She answered that -nothing displeased her, except the Monster whom she saw -every evening. She should have become accustomed to him, -but he was in love with her, and this love made her apprehensive -of some violence. "By the foolish compliments he -pays me," said Beauty to her lover, "I find he desires to -marry me. Would you advise me to consent? Alas! were -he as charming as he is frightful, you have rendered my heart -inaccessible to him and to all others; and I do not blush to -own that I can love no one but you." So sweet a confession -could but flatter the unknown, yet he replied to her only by -saying, "Love him who loves you. Do not be misled by appearances, -and release me from prison." These words, continually -repeated without any explanation, caused Beauty -infinite distress. "What would you that I should do?" said -she to him. "I would restore you to liberty at any price; -but my desire is vain while you abstain from furnishing me -with the means to put it in practice." The unknown made -her some answer, but of so confused a nature that she could -not comprehend it. A thousand extravagant fancies passed -before her eyes. She saw the Monster on a throne all blazing -with jewels; he called to her and invited her to sit beside him. -A moment afterwards, the unknown compelled him precipitately -to descend, and seated himself in his place. The Beast -regaining the advantage, the unknown disappeared in his turn. -He spoke to her from behind a black veil, which changed his -voice, and rendered it horrible.</p> - -<p>All her sleep passed in this manner, and yet, notwithstanding -the agitation it caused her, she felt it was too soon over, -as her awakening deprived her of the sight of the object of her -affections. After she had finished dressing, various sorts of -work, books, and animals occupied her attention until the hour -when the play began. She arrived just in time, but she was not - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_256">[Pg 256]</a></span> -at the same theatre. It was the opera,<a id="FNanchor_19_19"></a><a href="#Footnote_19_19" class="fnanchor">[19]</a> and the performance -commenced as soon as she was seated. The spectacle was -magnificent, and the spectators were not less so. The mirrors -represented to her distinctly the most minute details of the -dresses even of the people in the pit. Delighted to behold -human forms and faces, many of which she recognised as those -of persons she knew, it would have been a still greater pleasure -to her could she have spoken to them, so that they could have -heard her.</p> - -<p>More gratified with this day's entertainment than with that -of the preceding, the rest of it passed in the same way that -each had done since she had been in that palace. The Beast -came in the evening, and after his visit she retired, as usual. -The night resembled former nights,—that is, it was passed in -agreeable dreams. When she awoke, she found the same -number of domestics to wait upon her; but after dinner her -occupations were different. The day before, on opening -another of the windows, she had found herself at the opera. -To diversify her amusements, she now opened a third window, -which displayed to her all the pleasures of the Fair of St. -Germain,<a id="FNanchor_20_20"></a><a href="#Footnote_20_20" class="fnanchor">[20]</a> much more brilliant then than it is at the present -day. But as the hour had not quite arrived when the best -company resorted to it, she had leisure to observe and examine -everything. She saw the rarest curiosities, the most extraordinary -productions of nature and works of art. The minutest -trifles were visible to her. The puppet-show was not unworthy -of her attention,<a id="FNanchor_21_21"></a><a href="#Footnote_21_21" class="fnanchor">[21]</a> whilst waiting for more refined entertainments. -The comic opera was in its splendour.<a id="FNanchor_22_22"></a><a href="#Footnote_22_22" class="fnanchor">[22]</a> Beauty -was very much delighted. At the termination of the performances, -she saw all the well-dressed people visiting the -tradesmen's shops. She recognised amongst the crowd several -professional gamesters, who flocked to this place as their -workshop.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_257">[Pg 257]</a></span></p> - -<p>She observed persons who, having lost their money -by the cleverness of those they played with, went out with -less joyous countenances than they exhibited as they entered. -The prudent gamblers, who did not stake their whole fortunes -on the hazard of a card, and who played to profit by their -skill, could not conceal from Beauty their sleight of hand. -She longed to warn the victims of the tricks they were plundered -by; but at a distance from them of more than a thousand -leagues it was not in her power to do so. She heard and saw -everything distinctly, without its being possible for her to -make herself heard or seen by others. The reflections and -echoes which conveyed to her all these sights and sounds had -no returning power. Placed above the air and wind, everything -came to her like a thought. The consideration of this fact -deterred her from making vain attempts.</p> - -<p>It was past midnight before she thought it was time to -retire. The need of some refreshment might have hinted to -her the lateness of the hour; but she had found in her box -liqueurs and baskets filled with everything requisite for a -collation. Her supper was light and of short duration; she -was in a hurry to go to bed. The Beast observed her impatience, -and came merely to say good-night, that she might -have more time to sleep and the Unknown liberty to reappear. -The following days resembled each other. She found in her -windows an inexhaustible source of fresh entertainments. The -first of the other three afforded her the pleasure of witnessing -Italian comedy;<a id="FNanchor_23_23"></a><a href="#Footnote_23_23" class="fnanchor">[23]</a> the second, a sight of the Tuileries, the -resort of all the most distinguished and handsome of both -sexes. The last window was very far from being the least agreeable. -It enabled her to see everything of consequence that -was going on in the world. The scene was amusing and -interesting in all sorts of ways. Sometimes it was the reception -of a grand embassy, at others the marriage of some -illustrious personages, and occasionally some exciting revolutions. -She was at this window during the last revolt of the -Janizaries, and witnessed the whole of it to the very end.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_258">[Pg 258]</a></span></p> - -<p>At all times she was certain to find something here to -entertain her. The weariness she had felt at first in listening -to the Beast had entirely departed. Her eyes had become -accustomed to his ugliness. She was prepared for his foolish -questions, and if their conversations had lasted longer, perchance -she would have not been displeased; but four or five -sentences, always the same, uttered in a coarse manner, and -productive only of a "Yes" or "No," were not much to her -taste.</p> - -<p>As the slightest desires of Beauty appeared to be anticipated, -she bestowed more care upon her toilet, although -certain that no one could see her. But she owed this attention -to herself, and it was a pleasure to her to dress herself in -the habits of all the various nations on the face of the earth. -She could do this the more easily, as her wardrobe furnished -her with everything she chose, and presented her every day -with some novelty. Contemplating her mirror in these -various dresses, it revealed to her that she was to be admired -in all lands; and her attendant animals, each according to -their talent, repeated to her unceasingly the same fact—the -monkeys by their actions, the parrots by their language, and -the other birds by their songs.</p> - -<p>So delightful a life ought to have perfectly contented her, -but we weary of everything. The greatest happiness fades -when it is continual, derived always from the same source, -and we find ourselves exempted from fear and from hope. -Beauty had experienced this. The remembrance of her -family arose to trouble her in the midst of her prosperity. -Her happiness could not be perfect as long as she was denied -the pleasure of informing her relations of it.</p> - -<p>As she had become more familiar with the Beast, either -from the habit of seeing him or from the gentleness which -she had discovered in his nature, she thought she might -venture to ask him a question. She did not take this liberty, -however, until she had obtained from him a promise that he - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_259">[Pg 259]</a></span> -would not be angry. The question she put to him was, "Were -they the only two persons in that castle?" "Yes, I protest to -you," replied the Beast, in a rather excited tone; "and I -assure you that you and I, the monkeys, and the other -animals, are the only breathing creatures in this place." -The Beast said no more, and departed more abruptly than -usual.</p> - -<p>Beauty had asked this question only with a view of ascertaining -whether her lover was not confined in the palace. -She would have wished to see and speak with him. It was a -happiness she would have purchased at the price of her own -liberty and of all the pleasures by which she was surrounded. -That charming youth existing only in her imagination, she -now looked upon this palace as a prison which would be one -day her tomb.</p> - -<p>These melancholy ideas crowded also upon her mind at night. -She dreamed she was on the banks of a great canal; she was -weeping, when her dear Unknown, alarmed at her sad state, said -to her, pressing her hand tenderly between his own, "What is -the matter, my beloved Beauty? Who can have offended -you, and what can possibly have disturbed your tranquillity? -By the love I bear you, I conjure you to explain the cause of -your distress. Nothing shall be refused to you. You are -sole sovereign here—everything is at your command. Whence -arises the sorrow that overpowers you? Is it the sight of -the Beast that afflicts you? You must be relieved from it!" -At these words Beauty imagined she saw the Unknown -draw a dagger, and prepare to plunge it in the throat of the -Monster, who made no attempt to defend himself, but, on the -contrary, offered his neck to the blow with a submission and -a calmness which caused the beautiful dreamer to fear the -Unknown would accomplish his purpose before she could -endeavour to prevent him, notwithstanding she had instantly -risen to protect the Beast. The instant she saw her efforts -likely to be anticipated, she exclaimed, with all her might, -"Hold, barbarian! Harm not my benefactor, or else kill -me!" The Unknown, who continued striking at the Beast, -notwithstanding the shrieks of Beauty, said to her, angrily, -"You love me, then, no longer, since you take the part of this -Monster, who is an obstacle to my happiness!" "You are -ungrateful," she replied, still struggling with him; "I love - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_260">[Pg 260]</a></span> -you more than my life, and I would lose it sooner than cease -to love you. You are all the world to me, and I would not -do you the injustice to compare you with any other treasure -it possesses. I would, without a sigh, abandon all it could -offer me, to follow you into the wildest desert. But this -tender affection does not stifle my gratitude. I owe everything -to the Beast. He anticipates all my wishes: it is to -him I am indebted for the joy of knowing you, and I would -die sooner than endure seeing you do him the slightest -injury."</p> - -<p>After several similar struggles the objects vanished, and -Beauty fancied she saw the lady who had appeared to her -some nights before, and who said to her, "Courage, Beauty; -be a model of female generosity; show thyself to be as wise -as thou art charming; do not hesitate to sacrifice thy inclination -to thy duty. Thou takest the true path to happiness. -Thou wilt be blest, provided thou art not misled by deceitful -appearances."</p> - -<p>When Beauty awoke she pondered on this mysterious -vision, but it still remained an enigma to her. Her desire to -see her father superseded, during the day, the anxiety caused -by these dreams of the Monster and the Unknown. Thus, -neither tranquil at night nor contented by day, although -surrounded by the greatest luxuries, the only distraction she -could find was in the theatre. She went to the Italians, but -after the first scene she quitted that performance for the -Opera, which she left almost as quickly. Her melancholy -followed her everywhere. She frequently opened each of the -six windows as many times without finding one minute's -respite from her cares. Days and nights of equal and unceasing -agitation began seriously to affect her appearance and -her health.</p> - -<p>She took great pains to conceal from the Beast the sorrow -which preyed upon her; and the Monster, who had frequently -surprised her with the tears in her eyes, upon hearing her -say that she was only suffering from a headache, pressed his -inquiries no further. One evening, however, her sobs having -betrayed her, and feeling it impossible longer to dissimulate, -she acknowledged to the Beast, who begged to know what -had caused her afflictions, that she was yearning to see her -family. At this declaration the Beast sank down without - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_261">[Pg 261]</a></span> -power to sustain himself, and heaving a deep sigh, or rather -uttering a howl that might have frightened any one to death, -he replied, "How, Beauty! would you, then, abandon an -unfortunate Beast? Could I have imagined you possessed -so little gratitude? What have I left undone to make you -happy? Should not the attentions I have paid you preserve -me from your hatred? Unjust as you are, you prefer the -house of your father and the jealousy of your sisters to my -palace and my affections. You would rather tend the flocks -with them than enjoy with me all the pleasures of existence. -It is not love for your family, but antipathy to me, that makes -you anxious to depart."</p> - -<p>"No, Beast," replied Beauty, timidly and soothingly; "I -do not hate you, and should regret to lose the hope of seeing -you again; but I cannot overcome the desire I feel to embrace -my relations. Permit me to go away for two months, and I -promise you that I will return with pleasure to pass the rest -of my days with you, and never ask you another favour."</p> - -<p>While she spoke the Beast stretched on the ground, his -head thrown back, only evinced that he still breathed by -his sorrowful sighs. He answered her in these words: "I -can refuse you nothing; but it will perhaps cost me my life. -No matter. In the cabinet nearest to your apartment you -will find four chests. Fill them with anything you like for -yourself or for your family. If you break your word you will -repent it, and regret the death of your poor Beast when it -will be too late. Return at the end of two months, and you -will still see me alive. For your journey back to me you will -need no equipage. Merely take leave of your family the -previous night before you retire to rest, and when you are in -bed turn your ring, the stone inside your hand, and say, with -a firm voice, 'I desire to return to my palace, and behold my -Beast again.' Good-night; fear nothing; sleep in peace. -You will see your father early to-morrow morning. Adieu, -Beauty."</p> - -<p>As soon as she was alone she hastened to fill the chests -with all the treasures and beautiful things imaginable. They -only appeared to be full when she was tired of putting things -into them. After these preparations, she went to bed. The -thoughts of seeing her family so soon kept her awake great -part of the night, and sleep only stole upon her towards the - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_262">[Pg 262]</a></span> -hour when she should have been stirring. She saw in her -dreams her amiable Unknown, but not as formerly. Stretched -upon a bed of turf, he appeared a prey to the keenest sorrow. -Beauty, touched at seeing him in such a state, flattered herself -she could alleviate his profound affliction by requesting -to know the cause of it; but her lover, casting on her a look -full of despair, said, "Can you ask me such a question, -inhuman girl? Are you not aware that your departure -dooms me to death?" "Abandon not yourself to sorrow, -dear Unknown," replied she, "my absence will be brief. I -wish but to undeceive my family respecting the cruel fate -they imagine has befallen me. I return immediately afterwards -to this palace. I shall leave you no more. Ah! could -I abandon a residence in which I so delight! Besides, I -have pledged my word to the Beast, that I will return. I -cannot fail to keep it; and why must this journey separate -us? Be my escort. I will defer my departure another day, -in order to obtain the Beast's permission. I am sure he will -not refuse me. Agree to my proposal, and we shall not part. -We will return together; my family will be delighted to see -you, and I will answer for their showing you all the attention -you deserve." "I cannot accede to your wishes," replied the -Unknown, "unless you determine never to return hither. It -is the only means of enabling me to quit this spot. How -will you decide? The inhabitants of this palace have no -power to compel you to return. Nothing can happen to you -beyond the knowledge that you have grieved the Beast." -"You do not consider," rejoined Beauty, quickly, "that he -assured me he should die if I broke my word to him." -"What matters it to you?" retorted the lover; "is it to be -counted a misfortune that your happiness should cost only -the life of a monster? Of what use is he to the world? -Will any one be a loser by the destruction of a being who -appears upon earth only to be the horror of all nature?" -"Ha!" exclaimed Beauty, almost angrily, "know that I -would lay down my life to save his, and that this Monster, -who is only one in form, has a heart so humane, that he should -not be persecuted for a deformity which he refrains from -rendering more hideous by his actions. I will not repay his -kindness with such black ingratitude."</p> - -<p>The Unknown, interrupting her, inquired what she would - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_263">[Pg 263]</a></span> -do if the Monster endeavoured to kill him; and, if it were -decreed that one of them must slay the other, to which -would she afford assistance? "I love you only," she replied; -"but extreme as is my affection for you, it cannot weaken -my gratitude to the Beast, and if I found myself placed in so -fatal a position, I would escape the misery which the result -of such a combat would inflict on me, by dying by my own -hand. But why indulge in such dreadful suppositions? -However chimerical, the idea freezes my blood. Let us change -the conversation."</p> - -<p>She set him the example, by saying all that an affectionate -girl could say, most flattering to her lover. She was not -restrained by the rigid customs of society, and slumber left -her free to act naturally. She acknowledged to him her love -with a frankness which she would have shrunk from when -in full possession of her reason. Her sleep was of long duration, -and when she awoke she feared the Beast had failed in -his promise to her. She was in this uncertainty when she -heard the sound of a human voice which she recognised. -Undrawing her curtains precipitately, what was her surprise -when she found herself in a strange apartment, the furniture -of which was not near so superb as that in the Palace of the -Beast. This prodigy induced her to rise hastily, and open -the door of her chamber. The next room was equally strange -to her; but what astonished her still more, was to find in it -the four chests she had filled the previous evening. The -transport of herself and her treasures was a proof of the power -and bounty of the Beast; but where was she? She could not -imagine; when at length she heard the voice of her father, -and rushing out, she flung her arms round his neck. Her -appearance astounded her brothers and sisters. They stared -at her as at one come from the other world. All her family -embraced her with the greatest demonstrations of delight; but -her sisters, in their hearts, were vexed at beholding her. -Their jealousy was not extinguished. After many caresses -on both sides, the good man desired to speak with her privately, -to learn from her own lips all the circumstances of so extraordinary -a journey, and to inform her of the state of his own -fortune, of which he had set apart a large share for herself. He -told her that on the evening of the same day that he had left -the Palace of the Beast, he had reached his own house without - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_264">[Pg 264]</a></span> -the least fatigue. That on the road he had cogitated -how he could best manage to conceal his trunks from the -sight of his children, and wished that they could be carried -without their knowledge into a little cabinet adjoining his -bed-chamber, of which he alone had the key: that he had -looked upon this as an impossibility; but that, on dismounting -at his door, he found the horse on which his trunks had -been placed had run away, and therefore saw himself suddenly -spared the trouble of hiding his treasures. "I assure thee," -said the old man to his daughter, "that the loss of these -riches did not distress me. I had not possessed them long -enough to regret them greatly; but the adventure appeared -to me a gloomy prognostic of my fate. I did not hesitate -to believe that the perfidious Beast would act in the same -manner by thee. I feared that the favours he conferred upon -thee would not be more durable. This idea caused me great -anxiety. To conceal it, I feigned to be in need of rest,—it -was only to abandon myself without restraint to my grief. -I looked upon thy destruction as certain, but my sorrow was -soon dissipated. The sight of the trunks I thought I had -lost renewed my hopes of thy happiness. I found them placed -in my little cabinet, precisely where I had wished them to be. -The keys of them, which I had forgotten and left behind -me on the table in the saloon wherein we had passed the -night, were in the locks. This circumstance, which afforded -me a new proof of the kindness of the Beast, and his constant -attention, overwhelmed me with joy. It was then that, no -longer doubting the advantageous result of thy adventure, I -reproached myself for entertaining such unjust suspicions of -the honour of that generous Monster, and craved his pardon a -hundred times for the abuse which, in my distress, I had -mentally lavished upon him.</p> - -<p>"Without informing my children of the extent of my -wealth, I contented myself with distributing amongst them -the presents thou hadst sent them, and showing them some -jewels of moderate value. I afterwards pretended to have -sold them, and have employed the money in various ways for -the improvement of our income. I have bought this house; -I have slaves, who relieve us from the labours to which -necessity had subjected us. My children lead an easy life,—that -is all I care for. Ostentation and luxury drew upon me, - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_265">[Pg 265]</a></span> -in other days, the hatred of the envious; I should incur it -again did I live in the style of a very wealthy man. Many -offers have been made to thy sisters, Beauty; I am about to -marry them off immediately, and thy fortunate arrival decides -me. Having given to them such portions of the wealth thou -hast brought to me, as thou shalt think fit, and relieved of -all care for their establishment, we will live, my daughter, -with thy brothers, whom thy presents were not able to console -for thy loss; or, if thou prefer it, we two will live together -independently of them."</p> - -<p>Beauty, affected by the kindness of her father, and the -assurance he gave her of the love of her brothers, thanked -him tenderly for all his offers, and thought it would be wrong -to conceal from him the fact that she had not come to stay -with him. The good man, distressed to learn that he should -not have the support of his child in his declining years, did -not, however, attempt to dissuade her from the fulfilment of -a duty which he acknowledged indispensable.</p> - -<p>Beauty, in her turn, related to him all that had happened -to her since they parted. She described to him the pleasant -life she led. The good man, enraptured at the charming -account of his daughter's adventures, heaped blessings on -the head of the Beast. His delight was much greater still -when Beauty, opening the chests, displayed to him the -immense treasures they contained, and satisfied him that he -was at liberty to dispose of those which he had brought himself, -in favour of his daughters, as he would possess, in these -last proofs of the Beast's generosity, ample means to live -merrily with his sons. Discovering in this Monster too noble -a mind to be lodged in so hideous a body, he deemed it his -duty to advise his daughter to marry him, notwithstanding -his ugliness. He employed even the strongest arguments to -induce her to take that step.</p> - -<p>"Thou shouldst not take counsel from thine eyes alone," -said he to her. "Thou hast been unceasingly exhorted to -let thyself be guided by gratitude. By following her inspirations -thou art assured thou wilt be happy. It is true -these warnings are only given thee in dreams; but these -dreams are too significant and too frequent to be attributed -to chance. They promise thee great advantages, enough to -conquer thy repugnance. Therefore, the next time that the - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_266">[Pg 266]</a></span> -Beast asks thee if thou wilt marry him, I advise thee not to -refuse him. Thou hast admitted to me that he loves thee -tenderly: take the proper means to make thy union with -him indissoluble. It is much better to have an amiable -husband than one whose only recommendation is a handsome -person. How many girls are compelled to marry rich brutes, -much more brutish than the Beast, who is only one in form, -and not in his feelings or his actions."</p> - -<p>Beauty admitted the reason of all these arguments; but -to resolve to marry a monster so horrible in person and who -seemed as stupid as he was gigantic, appeared to her an impossibility. -"How can I determine," replied she to her -father, "to take a husband with whom I can have no sympathy, -and whose hideousness is not compensated for by the -charms of his conversation? no other object to distract my -attention, and relieve that wearisome companionship; not -to have the pleasure of being sometimes absent from him; -to hear nothing beyond five or six questions respecting my -health or my appetite, followed by a 'Good-night, Beauty,' a -chorus which my parrots know by heart, and repeat a hundred -times a day. It is not in my power to endure such a -union, and I would rather perish at once than be dying every -day of fright, sorrow, disgust, and weariness. There is -nothing to plead in his favour, except the consideration he -evinces in paying me very short visits, and presenting himself -before me but once in four-and-twenty hours. Is that enough -to inspire one with affection?"</p> - -<p>The father admitted that his daughter had reason on her -side, but observing so much civility in the Beast, he could -not believe him to be as stupid as she represented him. The -order, the abundance, the good taste that was discernible -through his palace, were not, according to his thinking, the -work of a fool. In fact, he found him worthy of the consideration -of his daughter, and Beauty might have felt more -inclined to listen to the Monster, had not her nocturnal lover's -appearance thrown an obstacle in the way. The comparison -she drew between these two admirers could not be favourable -to the Beast. The old man himself was fully aware of the -great distinction which must be made between them. Notwithstanding, -he tried by all manner of means to overcome - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_267">[Pg 267]</a></span> -her repugnance. He recalled to her the advice of the lady -who had warned her not to be prejudiced by appearances, and -whose language seemed to imply that this youth would only -make her miserable.</p> - -<p>It is easier to reason with love than to conquer it. Beauty -had not the power to yield to the reiterated requests of her -father. He left her without having been able to persuade -her. Night, already far advanced, invited her to repose, and -the daughter, although delighted to see her father once more, -was not sorry that he left her at liberty to retire to rest. -She was glad to be alone. Her heavy eyelids inspired her -with the hope that in slumber she would soon again behold -her beloved Unknown. She was eager to enjoy this innocent -pleasure. A quickened pulsation evinced the joy with which -her gentle heart would greet that pleasant vision; but her -excited imagination, while representing to her the scenes in -which she had usually held sweet converse with that dear -Unknown, had not sufficient power to conjure up his form to -her as she so ardently desired.</p> - -<p>She awoke several times, but on falling asleep again no -cupids fluttered round her couch. In a word, instead of a -night full of sweet thoughts and innocent pleasures, which -she had counted on passing in the arms of sleep, it was to -her one of interminable length and endless anxiety. She -had never known any like it in the Palace of the Beast, and -the day, which she at last saw break with a mingled feeling -of satisfaction and impatience, came opportunely to relieve -her from this weariness.</p> - -<p>Her father, enriched by the liberality of the Beast, had -quitted his country house, and in order to facilitate the -establishment of his daughters, resided in a very large city, -where his new fortune obtained for him new friends, or rather -new acquaintances. Amidst the circle who visited him the -tidings soon spread that his youngest daughter had returned. -Everybody evinced an equal impatience to see her, and were -each as much charmed with her intellect as with her beauty. -The peaceful days she had passed in her desert palace, the -innocent pleasures which a gentle slumber had invariably -procured her, the thousand amusements which succeeded, so -that dullness could never take possession of her spirit,—in - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_268">[Pg 268]</a></span> -brief, all the attentions of the Monster had combined to -render her still more beautiful and more charming than she -was when her father first parted from her.</p> - -<p>She was the admiration of all who saw her. The suitors -to her sisters, without condescending to excuse their infidelity -by the slightest pretext, fell in love with her, and attracted -by the power of her charms, deserted, without a blush, their -former mistresses. Insensible to the marked attentions of a -crowd of adorers, she neglected nothing that could discourage -them and induce them to return to the previous objects of -their affection; but, notwithstanding all her care, she could -not escape the jealousy of her sisters.</p> - -<p>The inconstant lovers, far from concealing their new passion, -invented every day some fresh entertainment, with the -view of paying their court to her. They entreated her even -to bestow the prize in the games which took place in her -honour; but Beauty, who could not be blind to the mortification -she was causing her sisters, and yet was unwilling to -refuse utterly the favour they implored so ardently, and in so -flattering a manner, found means to satisfy them all, by -declaring that she would, alternately with her sisters, present -the prize to the victor. What she selected was a flower, or -some equally simple guerdon. She left to her elder sisters -the honour of giving, in their turn, jewels, crowns of diamonds, -costly weapons, or superb bracelets, presents which -her liberal hand supplied them with, but for which she would -not take the slightest credit. The treasures lavished on her -by the Monster left her in want of nothing. She divided -between her sisters everything she had brought that was -most rare and elegant. Bestowing nothing but trifles herself, -and leaving them the pleasure of giving largely, she -counted on securing for them the love as well as the gratitude -of the youthful combatants. But these lovers sought -only to gain her heart, and the simplest gift from her hand -was more precious to them than all the treasures that were -prodigally heaped upon them by the others.</p> - -<p>The amusements she partook of amongst her family, though -vastly inferior to those she enjoyed in the Palace of the Beast, -entertained her sufficiently to prevent the time hanging heavily -on her hands. At the same time, neither the gratification of -seeing her father, whom she tenderly loved, nor the pleasure - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_269">[Pg 269]</a></span> -of being with her brothers, who in a hundred ways studied -to prove to her the extent of their affection, nor the delight -of conversing with her sisters, of whom she was very fond, -though they were not so of her, could prevent her regretting -her agreeable dreams. Her Unknown (greatly to her sorrow) -came not, when she slumbered under her father's roof, to -address her in the tenderest language; and the court paid to her -by those who had been the admirers of her sisters, did not -compensate for the loss of that pleasing illusion. Had she -even been of a nature to feel flattered by such conquests, she -would still have distinguished an immense difference between -their attentions, or those of the Beast, and the devotion of -her charming Unknown.</p> - -<p>Their assiduities were received by her with the greatest -indifference; but Beauty perceiving that, notwithstanding -her coolness, they were obstinately bent on rivalling each other -in the task of proving to her the intensity of their passion, -thought it her duty to make them clearly understand they -were losing their time. The first she endeavoured to undeceive -was one who had courted her eldest sister. She told him -that she had only returned for the purpose of being present -at the marriage of her sisters, particularly that of her eldest -sister, and that she was about to press her father to settle it -immediately. Beauty found that she had to deal with a man -who saw no longer any charms in her sister. He sighed alone -for her, and coldness, disdain, the threat to depart before the -expiration of the two months—nothing, in short, could discourage -him. Much vexed at having failed in her object, she -held a similar conversation with the others, whom she had the -mortification to find equally infatuated.</p> - -<p>To complete her distress, her unjust sisters, who looked -upon her as a rival, conceived a hatred to her which they -could not dissemble; and whilst Beauty was deploring the -too great power of her charms, she had the misery of learning -that her new adorers, believing each to be the cause of the -other's rejection, were bent, in the maddest way, on fighting it -out amongst themselves. All these annoyances induced her to -determine upon returning sooner than she had contemplated.</p> - -<p>Her father and brothers did all they could to detain her; -but the slave of her word, and firm in resolution, neither the -tears of the one nor the prayers of the others could prevail upon - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_270">[Pg 270]</a></span> -her. All that they could extort from her was, that she would -defer her departure as long as she could. The two months -had nearly expired, and every morning she determined to bid -adieu to her family, without having the heart when night -arrived to say farewell. In the combat between her affection -and her gratitude, she could not lean to the one without -doing injustice to the other. In the midst of her embarrassment, -it needed nothing less than a dream to decide her. -She fancied she was at the Palace of the Beast, and walking -in a retired avenue, terminated by a thicket full of brambles, -concealing the entrance to a cavern, out of which issued horrible -groans. She recognised the voice of the Beast, and ran -to his assistance. The Monster, who, in her dream, appeared -stretched upon the ground and dying, reproached her with -being the cause of his death, and having repaid his affection -with the blackest ingratitude. She then saw the lady who -had before appeared to her in her sleep, and who said to her -in a severe tone, that it would be her destruction if she hesitated -any longer to fulfil her engagements; that she had -given her word to the Beast that she would return in two -months; that the time had expired; that the delay of another -day would be fatal to the Beast; that the trouble she was -creating in her father's house, and the hatred of her sisters, -ought to increase her desire to return to the Palace of the -Beast, where everything combined to delight her. Beauty, -terrified by this dream, and fearing to be the cause of the -death of the Beast, awoke with a start, and went immediately -to inform her family that she could no longer delay her departure. -This intelligence produced various effects. Her -father's tears spoke for him; her brothers protested that they -would not allow her to leave them; and her lovers, in despair, -swore they would not suffer the house to be robbed of its -brightest ornament. Her sisters alone, far from appearing -distressed at her departure, were loud in praise of her sense -of honour; and affecting to possess the same virtue themselves, -had the audacity to assure her that if they had pledged their -words to the Beast as she had done, they should not have -suffered his ugliness to have interfered with their feelings of -duty, and that they should have long ere that time been on -their road back to the marvellous palace. It was thus they -endeavoured to disguise the cruel jealousy that rankled in - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_271">[Pg 271]</a></span> -their hearts. Beauty, however, charmed by their apparent -generosity, thought only of convincing her brothers and her -lovers of the obligation she was under to leave them; but her -brothers loved her too much to consent to her going, and her -lovers were too infatuated to listen to reason. All of them -being ignorant of the mode in which Beauty had arrived at -her father's house, and never doubting but that the horse -which first conveyed her to the Palace of the Beast would -be sent to take her back again, resolved amongst themselves -to prevent it.</p> - -<p>Her sisters, who only concealed their delight by the affectation -of a sentiment of horror, as they perceived the hour -approach for Beauty's departure, were frightened to death -lest anything should occur to delay her; but Beauty, firm in -her resolution, knowing whither duty called her, and having -no more time to lose, if she would prolong the existence of the -Beast, her benefactor, at nightfall took leave of her family, -and of all those who were interested in her destiny.</p> - -<p>She assured them that whatever steps they took to prevent -her departure, she should, nevertheless, be in the Palace of -the Beast the next morning before they were stirring; that all -their schemes would be fruitless; and that she had determined -to return to the Enchanted Palace. She did not forget, on -going to bed, to turn her ring. She slept very soundly, and -did not awake until the clock in her chamber, striking noon, -chimed her name to music. By that sound she knew that -her wishes were accomplished. As soon as she evinced a -disposition to rise, her couch was surrounded by all the -animals who had been so eager to serve her, and who unanimously -testified their gratification at her return, and expressed -the sorrow they had felt at her long absence.</p> - -<p>The day seemed to her longer than any she had previously -passed in that Palace, not so much from regret for those she -had quitted as from her impatience again to behold the Beast, -and to say everything she could to him in the way of excuse -for her conduct. She was also animated by another desire,—that -of again holding in slumber one of those sweet conversations -with her dear Unknown, a pleasure she had been deprived -of during the two months she had passed with her -family, and which she could not enjoy anywhere but in that -Palace. The Beast and the Unknown were, in short, alternately - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_272">[Pg 272]</a></span> -the subjects of her reflections. One moment she reproached -herself for not returning the affection of a lover who, -under the form of a monster, displayed so noble a mind; -the next she deplored having set her heart upon a visionary -object, who had no existence except in her dreams. She began -to doubt whether she ought to prefer the imaginary devotion -of a phantom to the real affection of the Beast. The very -dream in which the Unknown appeared to her was invariably -accompanied by warnings not to trust to sight. She feared -it was but an idle illusion, born of the vapours of the brain, -and destroyed by light of day.</p> - -<p>Thus undecided, loving the Unknown, yet not wishing to -displease the Beast, and seeking repose from her thoughts in -some entertainment, she went to the French Comedy<a id="FNanchor_24_24"></a><a href="#Footnote_24_24" class="fnanchor">[24]</a>, -which she found exceedingly poor. Shutting the window -abruptly, she hoped to be better pleased at the Opera. She -thought the music miserable. The Italians were equally -unable to amuse her. Their comedy appeared to her to want -smartness, wit and action. Weariness and distaste accompanied -her everywhere, and prevented her taking pleasure in anything.</p> - -<p class="pmb1">The gardens had no attractions for her. Her Court endeavoured -to entertain her, but the monkeys lost their labour in -frisking, and the parrots and other birds in chattering and -singing. She was impatient for the visit of the Beast, the -noise of whose approach she expected to hear every instant. -But the hour so much desired came without the appearance -of the Monster. Alarmed, and almost angry at his delay, she -tried in vain to account for his absence. Divided through -hope and fear, her mind agitated, her heart a prey to melancholy, -she descended into the gardens, determined not to re-enter -the Palace till she had found the Beast. No trace of -him could she discover anywhere. She called him. Echo -alone answered her. Having passed more than three hours -in this disagreeable exercise, overcome by fatigue, she sank -upon a garden seat. She imagined the Beast was either dead -or had abandoned the place.</p> - -<div class="figcenter"> - <img src="images/i007.jpg" alt="" /> - <p class="center font08">Beauty and the Beast.—P. 273.</p> -</div> -<p class="pmb2" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_273">[Pg 273]</a></span></p> - -<p>She saw herself alone in that -Palace, without the hope of ever leaving it. She regretted -her conversations with the Beast, unentertaining as they had -been to her, and what appeared to her extraordinary, even to -discover she had so much feeling for him. She blamed herself -for not having married him, and considering she had been -the cause of his death (for she feared her too long absence -had occasioned it), heaped upon herself the keenest and most -bitter reproaches. In the midst of her miserable reflections -she perceived that she was seated in that very avenue in -which, during the last night she had passed under her -father's roof, she had dreamed she saw the Beast expiring in -some strange cavern. Convinced that chance had not conducted -her to this spot, she rose and hurried towards the -thicket, which she found was not impenetrable. She discovered -another hollow, which appeared to be that she had -seen in her dream. As the moon gave but a feeble light, the -monkey pages immediately appeared with a sufficient number -of torches to illuminate the chasm, and to reveal to her the -Beast stretched upon the earth, as she thought, asleep. Far -from being alarmed at his sight, Beauty was delighted, and, -approaching him boldly, placed her hand upon his head, and -called to him several times; but finding him cold and motionless, -she no longer doubted he was dead, and consequently -gave utterance to the most mournful shrieks and the most -affecting exclamations.</p> - -<p>The assurance of his death, however, did not prevent her -from making every effort to recall him to life. On placing -her hand on his heart she felt, to her great joy, that it still -beat. Without further delay, Beauty ran out of the cave to -the basin of a fountain, where, taking up some water in her -joined hands, she hastened back with it, and sprinkled it upon -him; but as she could bring very little at a time, and spilt -some of it before she could return to the Beast, her assistance -had been but meagre if the monkey courtiers had not flown -to the Palace, and returned with such speed that in a moment -she was furnished with a vase for water, as well as with proper -restoratives. She caused him to smell them and swallow -them, and they produced so excellent an effect that he soon -began to move and show some kind of consciousness. She -cheered him with her voice and caressed him as he recovered. -"What anxiety have you caused me?" said she to him, - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_274">[Pg 274]</a></span> -kindly; "I knew not how much I loved you. The fear of -losing you has proved to me that I was attached to you by -stronger ties than those of gratitude. I vow to you that I -had determined to die if I had failed in restoring you to life." -At these tender words the Beast, feeling perfectly revived, -replied, in a voice which was still feeble, "It is very kind of -you, Beauty, to love so ugly a monster, but you do well. I -love you better than my life. I thought you would never -return: it would have killed me. Since you love me I will -live. Retire to rest, and assure yourself that you will be as -happy as your good heart renders you worthy to be."</p> - -<p>Beauty had never before heard so long a speech from the -Beast. It was not very eloquent, but it pleased, from its -gentleness and the sincerity observable in it. She had expected -to be scolded, or at least to have been reproached. She had -from this moment a better opinion of his disposition. No -longer thinking him so stupid, she even considered his short -answers a proof of his prudence, and, more and more prepossessed -in his favour, she retired to her apartment, her mind -occupied with the most flattering ideas. Extremely fatigued, -she found there all the refreshments she needed. Her heavy -eyelids promised her a sweet slumber. Asleep almost as soon -as her head was on her pillow, her dear Unknown failed not -to present himself immediately. What tender words did he -not utter to express the pleasure he experienced at seeing her -again? He assured her that she would be happy; that it -only remained to her to follow the impulse of her good heart. -Beauty asked him if her happiness was to arise from her -marriage with the Beast. The Unknown replied that it was -the only means of securing it. She felt somewhat annoyed -at this. She thought it even extraordinary that her lover -should advise her to make her rival happy. After this first -dream, she thought she saw the Beast dead at her feet. -An instant afterwards the Unknown re-appeared, and disappeared -again as instantly, to give place to the Beast. But -what she observed most distinctly was the Lady, who seemed -to say to her, "I am pleased with thee. Continue to follow -the dictates of reason, and trouble thyself about naught. I -undertake the task of rendering thee happy." Beauty, -although asleep, appeared to acknowledge her partiality to -the Unknown and her repugnance to the Monster, whom she - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_275">[Pg 275]</a></span> -could not consider loveable. The Lady smiled at her objections, -and advised her not to make herself uneasy about her -affection for the Unknown, for that the emotions she felt were -not incompatible with the resolution she had formed to do -her duty; that she might follow her inclinations without -resistance, and that her happiness would be perfected by -espousing the Beast.</p> - -<p>This dream, which only ended with her sleep, furnished -her with an inexhaustible source of reflection. In this vision, -as in those which had preceded it, she found more coherence -than is usually displayed in dreams, and she therefore determined -to consent to this strange union. But the image of -the Unknown rose unceasingly to trouble her. It was the -sole obstacle, but not a slight one. Still uncertain as to the -course she ought to take, she went to the Opera, but without -terminating her embarrassment. At the end of the performance -she sat down to supper. The arrival of the Beast -was alone capable of deciding her.</p> - -<p>Far from reproaching her for her long absence, the Monster, -as if the pleasure of seeing her had made him forget his past -distresses, appeared, on entering Beauty's apartment, to have -no other anxiety but that of ascertaining if she had been much -amused, if she had been well received, and if her health had -been good. She answered these questions, and added politely -that she had paid dearly for all the pleasures his care had -enabled her to enjoy, by the cruel pain she had endured on -finding him in so sad a state on her return.</p> - -<p>The Beast briefly thanked her, and then being about to -take his leave, asked her, as usual, if she would marry him. -Beauty was silent for a short time, but at last making up her -mind, she said to him, trembling, "Yes, Beast, I am willing, -if you will pledge me your faith, to give you mine." "I do," -replied the Beast, "and I promise you never to have any wife but -you." "Then," rejoined Beauty, "I accept you for my husband, -and swear to be a fond and faithful wife to you."</p> - -<p>She had scarcely uttered these words when a discharge of -artillery was heard, and that she might not doubt it being a -signal of rejoicing, she saw from her windows the sky all in a -blaze with the light of twenty thousand fireworks, which continued -rising for three hours. They formed true-lovers' knots, -while on elegant escutcheons appeared Beauty's initials, and - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_276">[Pg 276]</a></span> -beneath them, in well-defined letters, "Long live Beauty and -her Husband." After this display had terminated, the Beast -took his departure, and Beauty retired to rest. No sooner -was she asleep than her dear Unknown paid her his usual -visit. He was more richly attired than she had ever seen -him. "How deeply am I obliged to you, charming Beauty," -said he. "You have released me from the frightful prison in -which I have groaned for so long a time. Your marriage -with the Beast will restore a king to his subjects, a son to his -mother, and life to a whole kingdom. We shall all be happy."</p> - -<p>Beauty, at these words, felt bitterly annoyed, perceiving -that the Unknown, far from evincing the despair such an -engagement as she had entered into should have caused him, -gazed on her with eyes sparkling with extreme delight. She -was about to express her discontent to him, when the Lady, -in her turn, appeared in her dream.</p> - -<p>"Behold thee victorious," said she. "We owe everything -to thee, Beauty. Thou hast suffered gratitude to triumph -over every other feeling. None but thou would have had the -courage to keep their word at the expense of their inclination, -nor to have perilled their life to have saved that of their father. -In return for this, there are none who can ever hope to enjoy -such happiness as thy virtue has won for thee. Thou knowest -at present little, but the rising sun shall tell thee more." When -the Lady had disappeared, Beauty again saw the unknown -youth, but stretched on the earth as dead. All the night -passed in such dreams; but they had become familiar to her, -and did not prevent her from sleeping long and soundly. It -was broad daylight when she awoke. The sun streamed -into her apartment with more brilliancy than usual: her -monkeys had not closed the shutters. Believing the sight -that met her eyes but a continuation of her dreams, and that -she was sleeping still, her joy and surprise were extreme at -discovering that it was a reality, and that on a couch beside -her lay, in a profound slumber, her beloved Unknown, looking -a thousand times more handsome than he had done in her -vision. To assure herself of the fact, she arose hastily and -took from off her toilet-table the miniature she usually wore -on her arm; but she could not have been mistaken. She -spoke to him, in the hope of awaking him from the trance -into which he seemed to have been thrown by some wonderful -power. Not stirring at her voice, she shook him by the arm. - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_277">[Pg 277]</a></span> -This effort was equally ineffectual, and only served to convince -her that he was under the influence of enchantment, and that -she must await the end of the charm, which it was reasonable -to suppose had an appointed period.</p> - -<p>How delighted was she to find herself betrothed to him -who alone had caused her to hesitate, and to find that she -had done from duty that which she would have done from -inclination. She no longer doubted the promise of happiness -which had been made to her in her dreams. She now knew -that the Lady had truly assured her that her love for the -Unknown was not incompatible with the affection she entertained -for the Beast, seeing that they were one and the same -person. In the meanwhile, however, her husband never woke. -After a slight meal she endeavoured to pass away the time in -her usual occupations, but they appeared to her insipid. As -she could not resolve to leave her apartments, nor bear to sit -idle, she took up some music, and began to sing. Her birds -hearing her, joined their voices to hers, and made a concert, -the more charming to her as she expected every moment it -would be interrupted by the awakening of her husband, for she -flattered herself she could dissolve the spell by the harmony of -her voice. The spell was soon broken, but not by the means -she imagined. She heard the sound of a chariot rolling beneath -the windows of her apartment, and the voices of several -persons approaching. At the same moment the monkey -Captain of the Guard, by the beak of his parrot Interpreter, -announced the visit of some ladies. Beauty, from her windows, -beheld the chariot that brought them. It was of an entirely -novel description, and of matchless beauty. Four white stags, -with horns and hoofs of gold, superbly caparisoned, drew this -equipage, the singularity of which increased Beauty's desire -to know who were the owners of it.</p> - -<p>By the noise, which became louder, she was aware that the -ladies had nearly reached the ante-chamber. She considered -it right to advance and receive them. She recognised in one -of them the Lady she had been accustomed to behold in her -dreams. The other was not less beautiful. Her high and -distinguished bearing sufficiently indicated that she was an -illustrious personage. She was no longer in the bloom of -youth, but her air was so majestic that Beauty was uncertain -to which of the two strangers she ought first to address -herself. She was still under this embarrassment, when the - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_278">[Pg 278]</a></span> -one with whose features she was already familiar, and who -appeared to exercise some sort of superiority over the other, -turning to her companion, said, "Well, Queen, what think -you of this beautiful girl? You owe to her the restoration -of your son to life, for you must admit that the miserable -circumstances under which he existed could not be called -living. Without her, you would never again have beheld this -Prince. He must have remained in the horrible shape to -which he had been transformed, had he not found in the -world one only person who possessed virtue and courage equal -to her beauty. I think you will behold with pleasure the son -she has restored to you become her husband. They love each -other, and nothing is wanting to their perfect happiness but -your consent. Will you refuse to bestow it on them?" -The Queen, at these words, embracing Beauty affectionately, -exclaimed, "Far from refusing my consent, their union will -afford me the greatest felicity! Charming and virtuous child, -to whom I am under so many obligations, tell me who you -are, and the names of the sovereigns who are so happy as to -have given birth to so perfect a Princess?"</p> - -<p>"Madam," replied Beauty, modestly, "it is long since I -had a mother; my father is a merchant more distinguished -in the world for his probity and his misfortunes than for his -birth." At this frank declaration, the astonished Queen -recoiled a pace or two, and said, "What! you are only a -merchant's daughter? Ah, great Fairy!" she added, casting -a mortified look on her companion, and then remained silent; -but her manner sufficiently expressed her thoughts, and her -disappointment was legible in her eyes.</p> - -<p>"It appears to me," said the Fairy, haughtily, "that you -are discontented with my choice. You regard with contempt -the condition of this young person, and yet she was the only -being in the world who was capable of executing my project, -and who could make your son happy." "I am very grateful -to her for what she has done," replied the Queen; "but, -powerful spirit," she continued, "I cannot refrain from -pointing out to you the incongruous mixture of that noblest -blood in all the world which runs in my son's veins with that -of the obscure race from which the person has sprung to -whom you would unite him. I confess I am little gratified -by the supposed happiness of the Prince, if it must be purchased - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_279">[Pg 279]</a></span> -by an alliance so degrading to us, and so unworthy of -him. Is it impossible to find in the world a maiden whose -birth is equal to her virtue? I know many excellent princesses -by name; why am I not permitted to hope that I may see -him the possessor of one of those?"</p> - -<p>At this moment the handsome Unknown appeared. The -arrival of his mother and the Fairy had aroused him, and the -noise they had made was more effective than all the efforts of -Beauty; such being the nature of the spell. The Queen held -him a long time in her arms, without speaking a word. She -found again a son whose fine qualities rendered him worthy -of all her affection. What joy for the Prince to see himself -released from a horrible form, and a stupidity more painful -to him because it was affected and had not obscured his reason. -He had recovered the liberty to appear in his natural form by -means of the object of his love, and that reflection made it -still more precious to him.</p> - -<p>After the first transports which nature inspired him with -at the sight of his mother, the Prince hastened to pay those -thanks to the Fairy which duty and gratitude prompted. -He did so in the most respectful terms, but as briefly as possible, -in order to be at liberty to turn his attentions towards -Beauty. He had already, by tender glances, expressed to her -his feelings, and was about to confirm with his lips, in the -most touching language, what his eyes had spoken, when the -Fairy stopped him, and bade him be the judge between her -and his mother. "Your mother," said she, "condemns the -engagement you have entered into with Beauty. She considers -that her birth is too much beneath yours. For my -part, I think that her virtues make up for that inequality. -It is for you, Prince, to say with which of us your own feelings -coincide; and that you may be under no restraint in declaring -to us your real sentiments, I announce to you that you have -full liberty of choice. Although you have pledged your word -to this amiable person, you are free to withdraw it. I will -answer for her, that Beauty will release you from your promise -without the least hesitation, although, through her kindness, -you have regained your natural form; and I assure you also -that her generosity will cause her to carry disinterestedness -to the extent of leaving you at liberty to dispose of your -hand in favour of any person on whom the Queen may advise - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_280">[Pg 280]</a></span> -you to bestow it.—What say you, Beauty?" pursued the -Fairy, turning towards her; "have I been mistaken in thus -interpreting your sentiments? Would you desire a husband -who would become so with regret?" "Assuredly not, -Madam," replied Beauty. "The Prince is free. I renounce -the honour of being his wife. When I accepted him, I -believed I was taking pity on something below humanity. I -engaged myself to him only with the object of conferring on -him the most signal favour. Ambition had no place in my -thoughts. Therefore, great Fairy, I implore you to exact no -sacrifice from the Queen, whom I cannot blame for the scruples -she entertains under such circumstances." "Well, Queen, -what say you to that?" inquired the Fairy, in a disdainful -and displeased tone. "Do you consider that princesses, who -are so by the caprice of fortune, better deserve the high rank -in which it has placed them than this young maiden? For -my part, I think she should not be prejudiced by an origin -from which she has elevated herself by her conduct." The -Queen replied with some embarrassment, "Beauty is incomparable! -Her merit is infinite; nothing can surpass it; but, -madam, can we not find some other mode of rewarding her? -Is it not to be effected without sacrificing to her the hand of -my son?" Then turning to Beauty, she continued, "Yes, I -owe you more than I can pay. I put, therefore, no limit to -your desires. Ask boldly, I will grant you everything, with -that sole exception; but the difference will not be great to -you. Choose a husband from amongst the nobles of my -Court. However high in rank, he will have cause to bless -his good fortune, and for your sake I will place him so near -the throne that your position will be scarcely less enviable."</p> - -<p>"I thank you, Madam," replied Beauty; "but I ask no -reward from you. I am more than repaid by the pleasure of -having broken the spell which had deprived a great prince of his -mother and of his kingdom. My happiness would have been -perfect if I had rendered this service to my own sovereign. -All I desire is that the Fairy will deign to restore me to -my father."</p> - -<p>The Prince, who, by order of the Fairy, had been silent -throughout this conversation, was no longer master of himself, -and his respect for the commands he had received, failed to -restrain him. He flung himself at the feet of the Fairy and - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_281">[Pg 281]</a></span> -of his mother, and implored them, in the strongest terms, -not to make him more miserable than he had been, by sending -away Beauty, and depriving him of the happiness of being her -husband. At these words, Beauty, gazing on him with an air -full of tenderness, but mingled with a noble pride, said, "Prince, -I cannot conceal from you my affection. Your disenchantment -is a proof of it, and I should in vain endeavour to disguise -my feelings. I confess without a blush, that I love you -better than myself. Why should I dissimulate? We may -disavow evil impulses; but mine are perfectly innocent, and -are authorised by the generous Fairy to whom we are both so -much indebted. But if I could resolve to sacrifice my feelings -when I thought it my duty to do so for the Beast, you must -feel assured that I shall not falter on this occasion when it is -no longer the interest of the Monster that is at stake, but -your own. It is enough for me to know who you are, and -that I am to renounce the glory of being your wife. I will -even venture to say, that if, yielding to your entreaties, the -Queen should grant the consent you ask, it would not alter -the case, for in my own reason, and even in my love, you would -meet with an insurmountable obstacle. I repeat that I ask -no favour but that of being allowed to return to the bosom -of my family, where I shall for ever cherish the remembrance -of your bounty and your affection."</p> - -<p>"Generous Fairy!" exclaimed the Prince, clasping her -hands in supplication, "for mercy's sake, do not allow Beauty -to depart! Make me, rather, again the Monster that I was, -for then I shall be her husband. She pledged her word to -the Beast, and I prefer that happiness to all those she has -restored me to, if I must purchase them so dearly!"</p> - -<p>The Fairy made no answer; she but looked steadily at the -Queen, who was moved by so much true affection, but whose -pride remained unshaken. The despair of her son affected -her, yet she could not forget that Beauty was the daughter -of a merchant, and nothing more. She, notwithstanding, -feared the anger of the Fairy, whose manner and silence sufficiently -evinced her indignation. Her confusion was extreme. -Not having power to utter a word, she feared to see a fatal -termination to a conference which had offended the protecting -spirit. No one spoke for some minutes, but the Fairy at -length broke the silence, and casting an affectionate look upon - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_282">[Pg 282]</a></span> -the lovers, she said to them, "I find you worthy of each -other. It would be a crime to part two such excellent -persons. You shall not be separated, I promise you; and I -have sufficient power to fulfil my promise." The Queen -shuddered at these words, and would have made some remonstrance, -but the Fairy anticipated her by saying, "For -you, Queen, the little value you set upon virtue, unadorned -by the vain titles which alone you respect, would justify me -in heaping on you the bitterest reproaches. But I excuse -your fault, arising from pride of birth, and I will take no -other vengeance beyond doing this little violence to your -prejudices, and for which you will not be long without thanking -me." Beauty, at these words, embraced the knees of the -Fairy, and exclaimed, "Ah, do not expose me to the misery -of being told all my life that I am unworthy of the rank to -which your bounty would elevate me. Reflect that this -Prince, who now believes that his happiness consists in the -possession of my hand may very shortly perhaps be of the -same opinion as the Queen." "No, no, Beauty, fear nothing," -rejoined the Fairy. "The evils you anticipate cannot come to -pass. I know a sure way of protecting you from them, and -should the Prince be capable of despising you after marriage, -he must seek some other reason than the inequality of your -condition. Your birth is not inferior to his own. Nay, the -advantage is even considerably on your side, for the truth is," -said she, sternly, to the Queen, "that you behold your niece; -and what must render her still more worthy of your respect -is, that she is mine also, being the daughter of my sister, who -was not, like you, a slave to rank which is lustreless without -virtue.</p> - -<p>"That Fairy, knowing how to estimate true worth, did -your brother, the King of the Happy Island, the honour to -marry him. I preserved this fair fruit of their union from the -fury of a Fairy who desired to be her step-mother. From the -moment of her birth I destined her to be the wife of your -son. I desired, by concealing from you the result of my -good service, to give you an opportunity of showing your -confidence in me. I had some reason to believe that it was -greater than it appears to have been. You might have relied -upon me for watching over the destiny of the Prince. I had -given you proofs enough of the interest I took in it, and you - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_283">[Pg 283]</a></span> -needed not to have been under any apprehension that I should -expose him to anything that would be disgraceful to himself -or to you. I feel persuaded, Madam," continued she, with a -smile which had still something of bitterness in it, "that you -will not object to honour us with your alliance."</p> - -<p>The Queen, astonished and embarrassed, knew not what to -answer. The only way to atone for her fault was to confess -it frankly, and evince a sincere repentance. "I am guilty, -generous Fairy," said she. "Your bounties should have -satisfied me that you would not suffer my son to have formed -an alliance unworthy of him. But pardon, I beseech you, -the prejudices of my rank, which urged that royal blood could -not marry one of humbler birth without degradation. I -acknowledge that I deserve you should punish me by giving -to Beauty a mother-in-law more worthy of her; but you take -too kind an interest in my son to render him the victim of -my error. As to you, dear Beauty," she continued, embracing -her tenderly, "you must not resent my resistance. It was -caused by my desire to marry my son to my niece, whom the -Fairy had often assured me was living, notwithstanding all -appearances to the contrary. She had drawn so charming a -portrait of her, that without knowing you, I loved you dearly -enough to risk offending the Fairy, in order to preserve to -you the throne and the heart of my son." So saying, she -recommenced her caresses, which Beauty received with -respect.</p> - -<p>The Prince, on his part, enraptured at this agreeable -intelligence, expressed his delight in looks alone.</p> - -<p>"Behold us all satisfied," said the Fairy; "and now, to -terminate this happy adventure, we only need the consent of -the royal father of the Princess; but we shall shortly see him -here." Beauty requested her to permit the person who had -brought her up, and whom she had hitherto looked upon as -her father, to witness her felicity. "I admire such consideration," -said the Fairy; "it is worthy a noble mind, and as you -desire it, I undertake to inform him." Then taking the -Queen by the hand, she led her away, under the pretext of -showing her over the enchanted Palace. It was to give the -newly-betrothed pair the liberty of conversing with each -other for the first time without restraint or the aid of illusion. -They would have followed, but she forbade them. The - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_284">[Pg 284]</a></span> -happiness in store for them inspired each with equal delight. -They could not entertain the least doubt of their mutual -affection.</p> - -<p>Their conversation, confused and unconnected, their protestations -a hundred times repeated, were to them more -convincing proofs of love than the most eloquent language -could have afforded. After having exhausted all the expressions -that passion suggests under such circumstances to those -that are truly in love, Beauty inquired of her lover by what -misfortune he had been so cruelly transformed into a beast. -She requested him also to relate to her all the events of his -life preceding that shocking metamorphosis.</p> - -<p class="pmb2">The Prince, whose recovery of his natural form had not -lessened his anxiety to obey her, without more ado commenced -his narrative in the following words:—</p> - -<div class="block05"> -<p class="center font11 pmb1">THE STORY OF THE BEAST.</p> - -<p>The King, my father, died before I was born. The Queen -would never have been consoled for his loss if her interest for -the child she bore had not struggled with her sorrow. My -birth caused her extreme delight. The sweet task of rearing -the fruit of the affection of so dearly-beloved a husband was -destined to dissipate her affliction. The care of my education -and the fear of losing me occupied her entirely. She was -assisted in her object by a Fairy of her acquaintance, who -showed the greatest anxiety to preserve me from all kinds of -accidents. The Queen felt greatly obliged to her, but she -was not pleased when the Fairy asked her to place me entirely -in her hands. The Fairy had not the best of reputations—she -was said to be capricious in her favours. People feared -more than they loved her; and even had my mother been -perfectly convinced of the goodness of her nature, she could -not have resolved to lose sight of me.</p> - -<p>By the advice, however, of prudent persons, and for fear of -suffering from the fatal effects of the resentment of this -vindictive Fairy, she did not flatly refuse her. If voluntarily -confided to her care there was no reason to suppose she -would do me any injury. Experience had proved that she -took pleasure in hurting those only by whom she considered - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_285">[Pg 285]</a></span> -herself offended. The Queen admitted this, and was only -reluctant to forego the pleasure of gazing on me continually -with a mother's eyes, which enabled her to discover charms -in me I owed solely to her partiality.</p> - -<p>She was still irresolute as to the course she should adopt, -when a powerful neighbour imagined it would be an easy -matter for him to seize upon the dominions of an infant -governed by a woman. He invaded my kingdom with a -formidable army. The Queen hastily raised one to oppose -him, and, with a courage beyond that of her sex, placed -herself at the head of her troops, and marched to defend our -frontiers. It was then that, being compelled to leave me, -she could not avoid confiding to the Fairy the care of my -education. I was placed in her hands after she had sworn -by all she held most sacred that she would, without the least -hesitation, bring me back to the Court as soon as the war was -over, which my mother calculated would not last more than -a year at the utmost. Notwithstanding, however, all the -advantages she gained over the enemy, she found it impossible -to return to the capital so soon as she expected. To profit -by her victory, after having driven the foe out of our dominions, -she pursued him in his own.</p> - -<p>She took entire provinces, gained battle after battle, and -finally reduced the vanquished to sue for a degrading peace, -which he obtained only on the hardest conditions. After this -glorious success, the Queen returned triumphantly, and enjoyed -in anticipation the pleasure of beholding me once more; -but having learned upon her march that her base foe, in violation -of the treaty, had surprised and massacred our garrisons, -and repossessed himself of nearly all the places he had been -compelled to cede to us, she was obliged to retrace her steps. -Honour prevailed over the affection which drew her towards -me, and she resolved never to sheathe the sword till she had -put it out of her enemy's power to perpetrate more treachery. -The time employed in this second expedition was very considerable. -She had flattered herself that two or three campaigns -would suffice; but she had to contend with an adversary -as cunning as he was false. He contrived to excite -rebellion in some of our own provinces, and to corrupt entire -battalions, which forced the Queen to remain in arms for -fifteen years. She never thought of sending for me. She was - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_286">[Pg 286]</a></span> -always flattering herself that each month would be the last she -should be absent, and that she was on the point of seeing me -again.</p> - -<p>In the meanwhile, the Fairy, in accordance with her -promise, had paid every attention to my education. From -the day she had taken me out of my kingdom, she had never -left me, nor ceased to give me proof of the interest she felt in -all that concerned my health and amusement. I evinced by -my respect for her how sensible I was of her kindness. I -showed her the same deference, the same attention that I -should have shown to my mother, and gratitude inspired me -with as much affection for her.</p> - -<p>For some time she appeared satisfied with my behaviour; -but one day, without imparting to me the motive, she set out -on a journey, from which she did not return for some years, -and when she did return, struck with the effect of her care of -me, she conceived for me an affection differing from that of a -mother. She had previously permitted me to call her by that -name, but now she forbade me. I obeyed her without inquiring -what were her reasons, or suspecting what she was about -to exact from me.</p> - -<p>I saw clearly that she was dissatisfied; but could I imagine -why she continually complained of my ingratitude? I was the -more surprised at her reproaches as I did not feel I deserved -them. They were always followed or preceded by the tenderest -caresses. I was not old enough to comprehend her. She was -compelled to explain herself. She did so one day when I -evinced some sorrow, mingled with impatience, respecting the -continued absence of the Queen. She reproached me for this, -and on my assuring her that my affection for my mother in -nowise interfered with that I owed to herself, she replied -that she was not jealous, although she had done so much for -me, and had resolved to do still more; but that, to enable her -to carry out her designs in my favour with greater freedom, -it was requisite, she added, that I should marry her; that -she did not desire to be loved by me as a mother, but as an -admirer; that she had no doubt of my gratitude to her for -making this proposal, or of the great joy with which I should -accept it, and that, consequently, I had only to abandon myself -to the delight with which the certainty of becoming the husband -of a powerful fairy, who could protect me from all - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_287">[Pg 287]</a></span> -dangers, assure me an existence full of happiness, and cover -me with glory, must naturally awaken.</p> - -<p>I was sadly embarrassed by this proposition. I knew -enough of the world in my own country, to be aware that -amongst the wedded portion of the community the happiest -were those whose ages and characters assimilated, and that -many were much to be pitied who, marrying under opposite -circumstances, had found antipathies existing between them -which were the source of constant misery.</p> - -<p>The Fairy being old and of a haughty disposition, I could -not flatter myself that my lot would be so agreeable as she -predicted. I was far from entertaining for her such feelings -as one should for the woman with whom we intend to pass -our days; and besides, I was not inclined to enter into any -such engagement at so early an age. My only desire was to -see the Queen again, and to signalize myself at the head of -her forces. I sighed for liberty; that was the sole boon that -would have gratified me, and the only one the Fairy would -not grant.</p> - -<p>I had often implored her to allow me to share the perils to -which I knew the Queen exposed herself for the protection of -my interests, but my prayers had hitherto been fruitless. -Pressed to reply to the astounding declaration she had made -to me, I, in some confusion, recalled to her that she had often -told me that I had no right to dispose of my hand without -the commands of my mother, and in her absence. "That is -exactly my opinion," she replied; "I do not wish you to do -otherwise; I am satisfied that you should refer the matter to -the Queen."</p> - -<p>I have already informed you, beautiful Princess, that I had -been unable to obtain from the Fairy permission to seek the -Queen, my mother. The desire she now had to receive her -sanction, which she never doubted she should obtain, obliged -her to grant, even without my asking, that which she had -always denied me; but it was on the condition, by no means -agreeable to me, that she should accompany me. I did what -I could to dissuade her, but found it impossible, and we set -out together with a numerous escort. We arrived upon the -eve of a decisive action. The Queen had manœuvred with -such skill that the next day was certain to decide the fate of -the enemy, who would have no resource if he lost the battle. - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_288">[Pg 288]</a></span> -My presence created great pleasure in the camp, and gave -additional courage to our troops, who drew a favourable -augury from my arrival. The Queen was ready to die with -joy; but this first transport of delight was succeeded by the -greatest alarm. Whilst I exulted in the hope of acquiring -glory, the Queen trembled at the danger to which I was about -to expose myself. Too generous to endeavour to prevent me, -she implored me by all her affection, to take as much care of -myself as honour would permit, and entreated the Fairy not -to abandon me on that occasion. Her solicitations were unnecessary. -The too susceptible Fairy was as much alarmed -as the Queen, for she possessed no spell which could protect -me from the chances of war. However, by instantly inspiring -me with the art of commanding an army, and the prudence -requisite for so important an office, she achieved much. The -most experienced captains were surprised at me. I remained -master of the field. The victory was complete. I had the -happiness of saving the Queen's life, and of preventing her -from being made prisoner of war. The enemy was pursued -with such vigour that he abandoned his camp, lost his baggage, -and more than three-fourths of his army, while the loss on -our side was inconsiderable. A slight wound which I had -received was the only advantage the foe could boast of; but -the Queen, fearing that if the war continued some more serious -mischief might befal me, in opposition to the desire of the -whole army, to which my presence had imparted fresh spirit, -made peace on more advantageous terms than the vanquished -had ventured to hope for.</p> - -<p>A short time afterwards we returned to our capital, which -we entered in triumph. My occupation during the war, and -the continual presence of my ancient adorer, had prevented -me from informing the Queen of what had occurred. She was, -therefore, completely taken by surprise when the Fairy told -her, in so many words, that she had determined to marry me -immediately. This declaration was made in this very Palace, -but which was at that time not so superb as it is at present. -It had been a country residence of the late King, which a -thousand occupations had prevented his embellishing. My -mother, who cherished everything that he had loved, had -selected it in preference to any other as a place of retirement -after the fatigues of the war. At the avowal of the Fairy, - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_289">[Pg 289]</a></span> -unable to control her first feelings, and unused to dissemble, -she exclaimed, "Have you reflected, Madam, on the absurdity -of the arrangement you propose to me!" In truth it was impossible -to conceive one more ridiculous. In addition to the -almost decrepit old age of the Fairy, she was horribly ugly. -Nor was this the effect of time. If she had been handsome -in her youth, she might have preserved some portion of her -beauty by the aid of her art; but naturally hideous, her power -could only invest her with the appearance of beauty for one -day in each year, and that day ended, she returned to her -former state.</p> - -<p>The Fairy was surprised at the exclamation of the Queen. -Her self-love concealed from her all that was actually horrible -in her person, and she calculated that her power sufficiently -compensated for the loss of a few charms of her youth. -"What do you mean," said she to the Queen, "by an absurd -arrangement! Consider, that it is imprudent in you to make -me remember what I have condescended to forget. You ought -only to congratulate yourself on possessing a son so amiable -that his merit induces me to prefer him to the most powerful -Genii in all the elements; and as I have deigned to descend -to him, accept with respect the honour I am good enough to -confer on you, and do not give me time to change my -mind."</p> - -<p>The Queen, as proud as the Fairy, had never conceived that -there was a rank on earth higher than the throne. She valued -little the pretended honour which the Fairy offered her. -Having always commanded every one who approached her, -she by no means desired to have a daughter-in-law to whom -she must herself pay homage. Therefore, far from replying -to her, she remained motionless, and contented herself with -fixing her eyes upon me. I was as much astounded as she -was, and fixing my eyes on her in the same manner, it was -easy for the Fairy to perceive that our silence expressed sentiments -very opposite to the joy with which she would have -inspired us.</p> - -<p>"What is the meaning of this?" said she, sharply. "How -comes it that mother and son are both silent? Has this -agreeable surprise deprived you of the power of speech? or -are you blind and rash enough to reject my offer? Say, -Prince," said she to me, "are you so ungrateful and so imprudent - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_290">[Pg 290]</a></span> -as to despise my kindness? Do you not consent to -give me your hand this moment?"</p> - -<p>"No, Madam, I assure you," replied I, quickly. "Although -I am sincerely grateful to you for past favours, I cannot agree -to discharge my debt to you by such means; and, with the -Queen's permission, I decline to part so soon with my liberty. -Name any other mode of acknowledging your favours, and I -will not consider it impossible; but as to that you have -proposed, excuse me if you please, for——" "How! insignificant -creature!" interrupted the Fairy, furiously. "Thou -darest to resist me! And you, foolish Queen! you see, without -anger, this conduct—What do I say? without anger! -It is you who authorize it! For it is your own insolent looks -that have inspired him with the audacity to refuse me!"</p> - -<p>The Queen, already stung by the contemptuous language -of the Fairy, was no longer mistress of herself, and accidentally -casting her eyes on a looking-glass, before which we -happened to be standing at the moment, the wicked Fairy -thus provoked her: "What answer can I make you," said -she, "that you ought not to make to yourself? Deign to -contemplate, without prejudice, the object this glass presents -to you, and let it reply for me." The Fairy easily comprehended -the Queen's insinuation. "It is the beauty, then, of -this precious son of yours that renders you so vain," said she -to her, "and has exposed me to so degrading a refusal! I -appear to you unworthy of him. Well," she continued, -raising her voice furiously, "having taken so much pains to -make him charming, it is fit that I should complete my work, -and that I should give you both a cause, as novel as remarkable, -to make you remember what you owe to me. Go, -wretch!" said she to me; "boast that thou hast refused me -thy heart and thy hand. Give them to her thou findest -more worthy of them than I am." So saying, my terrible -lover struck me a blow on the head. It was so heavy that I -was dashed to the ground on my face, and felt as though I -were crushed by the fall of a mountain. Irritated by this -insult, I struggled to rise, but found it impossible. The -weight of my body had become so great that I could not lift -myself; all that I could do was to sustain myself on my -hands, which had in an instant become two horrible paws, -and the sight of them apprised me of the change I had - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_291">[Pg 291]</a></span> -undergone. My form was that in which you found me. I -cast my eyes for an instant on that fatal glass, and could no -longer doubt my cruel and sudden transformation.</p> - -<p>My despair rendered me motionless. The Queen at this -dreadful sight was almost out of her mind. To put the last -seal upon her barbarity, the furious Fairy said to me, in an -ironical tone, "Go make illustrious conquests, more worthy -of thee than an august Fairy. And as sense is not required -when one is so handsome, I command thee to appear as stupid -as thou art horrible, and to remain in this state until a young -and beautiful girl shall, of her own accord, come to seek thee, -although fully persuaded thou wilt devour her. She must -also," continued the Fairy, "after discovering that her life is -not in danger, conceive for thee a sufficiently tender affection -to induce her to marry thee. Until thou canst meet with -this rare maiden it is my pleasure that thou remain an object -of horror to thyself and to all who behold thee. As for you, -too happy mother of so lovely a child," said she to the -Queen, "I warn you that if you acknowledge to any one that -this monster is your son, he shall never recover his natural -shape. Neither interest, nor ambition, nor the charms of -his conversation, must assist to restore him to it. Adieu! -Do not be impatient; you will not have long to wait. Such -a darling will soon find a remedy for his misfortune." "Ah, -cruel one!" exclaimed the Queen, "if my refusal has offended -you, let your vengeance light on me. Take my life, but do -not, I conjure you, destroy your own work." "You forget -yourself, great Princess," replied the Fairy, in an ironical -tone, "you demean yourself too much. I am not handsome -enough for you to condescend to entreat me; but I am firm -in my resolutions. Adieu, powerful Queen; adieu, beautiful -Prince; it is not fair that I should longer annoy you with -my hateful presence. I withdraw; but I have still charity -enough to warn thee," addressing herself to me, "that thou -must forget who thou art. If thou sufferest thyself to be -flattered by vain respects or by pompous titles, thou art lost -irretrievably! And thou art equally lost if thou shouldst -dare to avail thyself of the intellect I leave thee possessed of, -to shine in conversation."</p> - -<p>With these words she disappeared, and left the Queen and -me in a state which can neither be described nor imagined. - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_292">[Pg 292]</a></span> -Lamentations are the consolation of the unhappy; but our -misery was too great to seek relief in them. My mother -determined to stab herself, and I to fling myself in the adjacent -canal. Without communicating our intentions to each -other, we were on the point of executing these fatal designs, -when a female of majestic mien, and whose manner inspired -us with profound respect, appeared, and bade us remember -that it was cowardice to succumb to the greatest misfortunes, -and that with time and courage there was no evil that could -not be remedied. The Queen, however, was inconsolable; -tears streamed from her eyes, and not knowing how to inform -her subjects that their sovereign was transformed into a horrible -monster, she abandoned herself to the most fearful -despair. The Fairy (for she was one, and the same whom -you have seen here), knowing both her misery and her embarrassment, -recalled to her the indispensable obligation she -was under to conceal from her people this dreadful adventure, -and that in lieu of yielding to despair, it would be better to -seek some remedy for the mischief.</p> - -<p>"Is there one to be found," exclaimed the Queen, "which -is powerful enough to prevent the fulfilment of a Fairy's -sentence?" "Yes, Madam," replied the Fairy, "there is a -remedy for everything. I am a Fairy as well as she whose -fury you have just felt the effects of, and my power is equal -to hers. It is true that I cannot immediately repair the -injury she has done you, for we are not permitted to act -directly in opposition to each other. She who has caused -your misfortune is older than I am, and age has amongst us -a particular title to respect. But as she could not avoid -attaching a condition upon which the spell might be broken, -I will assist you to break it. I grant that it will be a difficult -task to terminate this enchantment; but it does not -appear to me to be impossible. Let me see what I can do -for you by the exertion of all the means in my power."</p> - -<p>Upon this she drew a book from under her robe, and after -taking a few mysterious steps, she seated herself at a table, -and read for a considerable time with such intense application -that large drops of perspiration stood on her forehead. At -length she closed the book and meditated profoundly. The -expression of her countenance was so serious that for some -time we were led to believe that she considered my misfortune - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_293">[Pg 293]</a></span> -irreparable; but recovering from a sort of trance, and her -features resuming their natural beauty, she informed us that -she had discovered a remedy for our disasters. "It will be -slow," said she, "but it will be sure. Keep your secret; let -it not transpire, so that any one can suspect you are concealed -beneath this horrible disguise, for in that case you will -deprive me of the power of delivering you from it. Your -enemy flatters herself you will divulge it; it is for that -reason she did not take from you the power of speech."</p> - -<p>The Queen declared that the condition was an impossible -one, as two of her women had been present at the fatal transformation, -and had rushed out of the apartment in great -terror, which must have excited the curiosity of the guards -and the courtiers. She imagined that the whole Court was -by this time aware of it, and that all the kingdom, and even -all the world, would speedily receive the intelligence; but the -Fairy knew a way to prevent the disclosure of the secret. -She made several circles, now solemnly, now rapidly, uttering -words of which we could not comprehend the meaning, and -finished by raising her hand in the air in the style of one -who is pronouncing an imperative order. This gesture, added -to the words she had uttered, was so powerful, that every -breathing creature in the Palace became motionless, and was -changed into a statue. They are all still in the same state. -They are the figures you behold in various directions and in -the very attitudes they had assumed at the instant the Fairy's -potent spell surprised them. The Queen, who at that moment -cast her eyes upon the great court-yard, observed this change -taking place in a prodigious number of persons. The silence -which suddenly succeeded to the stir of a multitude, awoke -a feeling of compassion in her heart for the many innocent -beings who were deprived of life for my sake; but the Fairy -comforted her by saying that she would only retain her subjects -in that condition as long as their discretion was necessary. -It was a precaution she was compelled to take, but she -promised she would make up to them for it, and that the -period they passed in that state would not be added to the -years allotted to their existence. "They will be so much -the younger," said the Fairy to the Queen; "so cease to -deplore them, and leave them here with your son. He will -be quite safe, for I have raised such thick fogs around this - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_294">[Pg 294]</a></span> -Castle, that it will be impossible for any one to enter it but -when we think fit. I will convey you," she continued, -"where your presence is necessary. Your enemies are plotting -against you. Be careful to proclaim to your people that -the Fairy who educated your son retains him near her for -an important purpose, and keeps with her also all the persons -who were in attendance on you."</p> - -<p>It was not without shedding a flood of tears that my mother -could force herself to leave me. The Fairy renewed her -assurances to her that she would always watch over me, and -protested that I had only to wish, and to see the accomplishment -of my desires. She added that my misfortunes would -shortly end, provided neither the Queen nor I raised up an -obstacle by some act of imprudence. All these promises -could not console my mother. She wished to remain with -me, and to leave the Fairy, or any one she might consider -the most proper person, to govern the kingdom; but fairies -are imperious, and will be obeyed. My mother, fearing by a -refusal to increase my miseries and deprive me of the aid of -this beneficent spirit, consented to all she insisted on. She -saw a beautiful car approach; it was drawn by the same white -stags that brought her here to day. The Fairy made the -Queen mount by her side. She had scarcely time to embrace -me, her affairs demanded her presence elsewhere, and she was -warned that a longer sojourn in this place would be prejudicial -to me. She was transported with extraordinary velocity -to the spot where her army was encamped. They were not -surprised to see her arrive with this equipage. Everybody -believed her to be accompanied by the old Fairy, for the one -who was with her kept herself unseen, and departed again -immediately to return to this place, which, in an instant, she -embellished with everything that her imagination could -suggest and her art supply.</p> - -<p>This good-natured Fairy permitted me also to add whatever -I fancied would please me, and after having done for me -all she could, she left me with exhortations to take courage, -and promising to come occasionally and impart to me such -hopes as she might entertain of a favourable issue to my -adventure.</p> - -<p>I seemed to be alone in the Palace. I was only so to -sight. I was served as if I were in the midst of my courtiers, - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_295">[Pg 295]</a></span> -and my occupations were nearly the same as those which -were afterwards yours. I read, I went to the play, I cultivated -a garden which I had made to amuse me, and found -something agreeable in everything I undertook. What I -planted arrived at perfection in the same day. It took no -more time to produce the bower of roses to which I am -indebted for the happiness of beholding you here.</p> - -<p>My benefactress came very often to see me. Her presence -and her promises alleviated my distresses. Through her, the -Queen received news of me, and I news of the Queen. One -day I saw the Fairy arrive with joy sparkling in her eyes. -"Dear Prince," said she to me, "the moment of your happiness -approaches!" She then informed me that he whom you -believed to be your father had passed a very uncomfortable -night in the forest. She related to me, in a few words, the -adventure which had caused him to undertake the journey, -without revealing to me your real parentage. She apprized -me that the worthy man was compelled to seek an asylum -from the misery he had endured during four-and-twenty -hours.</p> - -<p>"I go," said she, "to give orders for his reception. It -must be an agreeable one. He has a charming daughter. I -propose that she shall release you. I have examined the conditions -which my cruel companion has attached to your -disenchantment. It is fortunate that she did not ordain that -your deliverer should come hither out of love for you. On -the contrary, she insisted that the young maiden should -expect no less than death, and yet expose herself to it voluntarily. -I have thought of a scheme to oblige her to take that -step. It is to make her believe the life of her father is in -danger, and that she has no other means of saving him. I -know that in order to spare her father any expense on her -account, she has asked him only to bring her a rose, whilst her -sisters have overwhelmed him with extravagant commissions. -He will naturally avail himself of the first favourable opportunity. -Hide yourself in this arbour, and seizing him the -instant he attempts to gather your roses, threaten him that -death will be the punishment of his audacity, unless he give you -one of his daughters; or, rather, unless she sacrifice herself, -according to the decree of our enemy. This man has five -daughters besides the one I have destined for you; but not - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_296">[Pg 296]</a></span> -one of them is sufficiently magnanimous to purchase the life of -their father at the price of their own. Beauty is alone capable -of so grand an action."</p> - -<p>I executed exactly the Fairy's commands. You know, -lovely Princess, with what success. The merchant, to save -his life, promised what I demanded. I saw him depart without -being able to persuade myself that he would return with -you. I could not flatter myself that my desire would be -fulfilled. What torment did I not suffer during the month he -had requested me to allow him. I longed for its termination -only to be certain of my disappointment. I could not imagine -that a young, lovely, and amiable girl would have the courage -to seek a monster, of whom she believed she was doomed to -be the prey. Even supposing her to have sufficient fortitude -to devote herself, she would have to remain with me without -repenting the step she had taken, and that appeared to me -an invincible obstacle. Besides, how could she behold me -without dying with affright? I passed my miserable existence -in these melancholy reflections, and never was I more to be -pitied. The month, however, elapsed, and my protectress -announced to me your arrival. You remember, no doubt, the -pomp with which you were received. Not daring to express -my delight in words, I endeavoured to prove it to you by the -most magnificent signs of rejoicing. The Fairy, ceaseless in -her attentions to me, prohibited me from making myself known -to you. Whatever terror I might inspire you with, or whatever -kindness you might show me, I was not permitted to -seek to please you, nor to express any love for you, nor to -discover to you in any way who I was. I could have recourse, -however, to excessive good-nature, as, fortunately, the malignant -Fairy had forgotten to forbid my giving you proof of -that.</p> - -<p>These regulations seemed hard to me, but I was compelled -to subscribe to them, and I resolved to present myself before -you only for a few moments every day, and to avoid long -conversations, in which my heart might betray its tenderness. -You came, charming Princess, and the first sight of you produced -upon me a diametrically opposite effect to that which -my monstrous appearance must have done upon you. To see -you was instantly to love you. Entering your apartment, -tremblingly, my joy was excessive to find that you could - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_297">[Pg 297]</a></span> -behold me with greater intrepidity than I could behold myself. -You delighted me infinitely when you declared that you would -remain with me. An impulse of self-love, which I retained -even under that most horrible of forms, led me to believe that -you had not found me so hideous as you anticipated.</p> - -<p>Your father departed satisfied. But my sorrow increased -as I reflected that I was not allowed to win your favour in -any way except by indulging the caprices of your taste. -Your demeanour, your conversation, as sensible as it was unpretending, -everything in you convinced me that you acted -solely on the principles dictated to you by reason and virtue, -and that consequently I had nothing to hope for from a -fortunate caprice. I was in despair at being forbidden to -address you in any other language than that which the Fairy -had dictated, and which she had expressly chosen as coarse -and stupid.</p> - -<p>In vain did I represent to her it was unnatural to expect -you would accept my proposition to marry you. Her answer -was always, "Patience, perseverance, or all is lost." To -recompense you for my silly conversation, she assured me she -would surround you with all sorts of pleasures, and give me -the advantage of seeing you continually, without alarming -you, or being compelled to say rude and impertinent things to -you. She rendered me invisible, and I had the gratification -of seeing you waited on by spirits who were also invisible, -or who presented themselves to you in the shapes of various -animals.</p> - -<p>More than this, the Fairy caused you to behold my natural -form in your nightly slumbers, and in portraits by day, and -made it speak to you in your dreams as I should have spoken -to you myself. You obtained a confused idea of my secret and -my hopes, which she urged you to realize, and by the means -of a starry mirror I witnessed all your interviews, and read -in it either all you imagined you uttered or all that you actually -thought. This position, however, did not suffice to -render me happy. I was only so in a dream, and my sufferings -were real. The intense affection with which you had inspired -me obliged me to complain of the restraint under which I -lived; but my state was much more wretched when I perceived -that these beautiful scenes had no longer any charms for you. -I saw you shed tears, which pierced my heart, and would have - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_298">[Pg 298]</a></span> -destroyed me. You asked me if I was alone here, and I was -on the verge of discarding my feigned stupidity, and assuring -you by the most passionate vows of the fact. They would -have been uttered in terms that would have surprised you, -and caused you to suspect that I was not so coarse a brute as I -pretended to be. I was on the point even of declaring -myself, when the Fairy, invisible to you, appeared before me. -By a threatening gesture, which terrified me, she found a way -to close my lips. O, heavens! by what means did she impose -silence upon me? She approached you with a poniard in -her hand, and made signs to me that the first word I uttered -would cost you your life. I was so frightened that I naturally -relapsed into the stupidity she had ordered me to affect.</p> - -<p>My sufferings were not yet at an end. You expressed a -desire to visit your father. I gave you permission without -hesitation. Could I have refused you anything? But I -regarded your departure as my death-blow, and without the -assistance of the Fairy I must have sunk under it. During -your absence that generous being never quitted me. She -saved me from destroying myself, which I should have done -in my despair, not daring to hope that you would return. -The time you had passed in this Palace rendered my condition -more insupportable than it had been previously, because I -felt I was the most miserable of all men, without the hope -of making it known to you.</p> - -<p>My most agreeable occupation was to wander through the -scenes which you had frequented, but my grief was increased -by no longer seeing you there. The evenings and hours -when I used to have the pleasure of conversing with you for -a moment, redoubled my afflictions, and were still more -painful to me. Those two months, the longest I had ever -known, ended at last, and you did not return. It was then -my misery reached its climax, and that the Fairy's power -was too weak to prevent my sinking under my despair. The -precautions she took to prevent my attempting my life were -useless. I had a sure way which eluded her power. It was -to refrain from food. By the potency of her spells she contrived -to sustain me for some time, but having exhausted all -her secrets, I grew weaker and weaker, and finally had but a -few moments to breathe, when you arrived to snatch me from -the tomb.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_299">[Pg 299]</a></span></p> - -<p>Your precious tears, more efficacious than all the cordials -of the disguised Genii who attended on me, delayed my soul -upon the point of flight. In learning from your lamentations -that I was dear to you, I enjoyed perfect felicity, and -that felicity was at its height when you accepted me for -your husband. Still I was not permitted to divulge to you -my secret, and the Beast was compelled to leave you without -daring to disclose to you the Prince. You know the lethargy -into which I fell, and which ended only with the arrival of -the Fairy and the Queen. On awaking I found myself as you -behold me, without being aware of how the change took place.</p> - -<p>You have witnessed what followed, but you could only -imperfectly judge of the pain which the obstinacy of my -mother caused me in opposing a marriage so suitable and so -glorious for me. I had determined, Princess, rather to be a -monster again than to abandon the hope of being the husband -of so virtuous and charming a maiden. Had the secret of -your birth remained for ever a mystery to me, love and gratitude -would not less have assured me that in possessing you -I was the most fortunate of men!</p> -</div> - -<p class="p2">The Prince thus ended his narration, and Beauty was about -to speak, when she was prevented by a burst of loud voices -and warlike instruments, which, however, did not appear to -announce anything alarming. The Prince and Princess looked -out of the window, as did also the Fairy and the Queen who -returned from their promenade. The noise was occasioned -by the arrival of a personage who, according to all appearances, -could be no less than a king. His escort was obviously -a royal one, and there was an air of majesty in his demeanour -which accorded with the state that accompanied him. The -fine form of this sovereign, although of a certain age, testified -that there had been few who could have equalled him in -appearance when in the flower of his youth. He was followed -by twelve of his body-guard, and some courtiers in -hunting-dresses, who appeared as much astonished as their -master to find themselves in a castle till now quite unknown -to them. He was received with the same honours that would -have been paid to him in his own dominions, and all by -invisible beings. Shouts of joy and flourishes of trumpets -were heard, but no one was to be seen.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_300">[Pg 300]</a></span></p> - -<p>The Fairy, immediately on beholding him, said to the -Queen, "Here is the King your brother, and the father of -Beauty. He little expects the pleasure of seeing you both -here. He will be so much the more gratified, as you know -he believes that his daughter has been long dead. He -mourns her still, as he also does his wife, of whom he retains -an affectionate remembrance." These words increased the -impatience of the Queen and the young Princess to embrace -this monarch. They reached the court-yard just as he dismounted. -He saw, but could not recognize them; not doubting, -however, that they were advancing to receive him, he -was considering how and in what terms he should pay his -compliments to them, when Beauty, flinging herself at his -feet, embraced his knees, and called him "Father!"</p> - -<p>The King raised her and pressed her tenderly in his arms, -without comprehending why she addressed him by that title. -He imagined she must be some orphan Princess, who sought -his protection from some oppressor, and who made use of the -most touching expression in order to obtain her request. -He was about to assure her that he would do all that lay in -his power to assist her, when he recognized the Queen his -sister, who, embracing him in her turn, presented her son to -him. She then informed him of some of the obligations -they were under to Beauty, and especially of the frightful -enchantment that had just been terminated. The King -praised the young Princess, and desired to know her name, -when the Fairy, interrupting him, asked if it was necessary -to name her parents, and if he had never known any one -whom she resembled sufficiently to enable him to guess them. -"If I judged only from her features," said he, gazing upon -her earnestly, and not being able to restrain a few tears, -"the title she has given to me is legitimately my due; but -notwithstanding that evidence, and the emotion which her -presence occasions me, I dare not flatter myself that she is -the daughter whose loss I have deplored; for I had the most -positive proof that she had been devoured by wild beasts. -Yet," he continued, still examining her countenance, "she -resembles perfectly the tender and incomparable wife whom -death has deprived me of. Oh, that I could but venture to indulge -in the delightful hope of beholding again in her the fruit -of a happy union, the bonds of which were too soon broken!"</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_301">[Pg 301]</a></span></p> - -<p>"You may, my liege," replied the Fairy; "Beauty is your -daughter. Her birth is no longer a secret here. The Queen -and Prince know who she is. I caused you to direct your -steps this way on purpose to inform you; but this is not a -fitting place for me to enter into the details of this adventure. -Let us enter the Palace. After you have rested yourself there -a short time I will relate to you all you desire to know. When -you have indulged in the delight which you must feel at -finding a daughter so beautiful and so virtuous I will communicate -to you another piece of intelligence, which will -afford you equal gratification."</p> - -<p>The King, accompanied by his daughter and the Prince, -was ushered by the monkey officers into the apartment -destined for him by the Fairy, who took this opportunity of -restoring to the statues the liberty of relating what they had -witnessed. As their fate had excited the compassion of the -Queen, it was from her hands that the Fairy desired they -should receive the benefit of re-animation. She placed her wand -in the Queen's hand, who, by her instructions, described with -it seven circles in the air, and then pronounced these words: -"Be re-animated. Your King is restored to you." All the -statues immediately began to move, walk, and act as formerly, -retaining only a confused idea of what had happened to them.</p> - -<p>After this ceremony the Fairy and the Queen returned to -the King, whom they found in conversation with Beauty and -the Prince, caressing each in turn, and most fondly his -daughter, of whom he inquired a hundred times how she -had been preserved from the wild beasts who had carried her -off, without remembering that she had answered him from -the first that she knew nothing about it, and had been ignorant -even of the secret of her birth.</p> - -<p>The Prince also talked without being attended to, repeating -a hundred times the obligations he was under to Princess -Beauty. He desired to acquaint the King with the promises -which the Fairy had made him, that he should marry the -Princess, and to beg he would not refuse his cheerful consent -to the alliance. This conversation and these caresses were -interrupted by the entrance of the Queen and the Fairy. -The King, who had recovered his daughter, fully appreciated -his happiness, but was as yet ignorant to whom he was indebted -for this precious gift.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_302">[Pg 302]</a></span></p> - -<p>"It is to me," said the Fairy; "and I alone can explain -to you the adventure. I shall not limit my benefits to the -recital of that alone. I have other tidings in store for you, -not less agreeable. Therefore, great King, you may note this -day as one of the happiest of your life." The company, perceiving -that the Fairy was about to commence her narration, -evinced by their silence the great attention they were anxious -to pay to it. To satisfy their curiosity the Fairy thus addressed -the King:—</p> - -<div class="block05"> -<p>"Beauty, my liege, and perhaps the Prince, are the only -persons present who are not acquainted with the laws of the -Fortunate Island. It is necessary I should explain those laws -to them. The inhabitants of that island, and even the King -himself, are allowed perfect liberty to marry according to their -inclinations, in order that there may be no obstacle whatever -to their happiness. It was in virtue of this privilege that -you, Sire, selected for your wife a young shepherdess whom -you met one day when you were hunting. Her beauty and -her good conduct were considered by you deserving of that -honour. You raised her to the throne, and placed her in a -rank from which the lowliness of her birth seemed to have -excluded her, but of which she was worthy, by the nobleness -of her character and the purity of her mind. You know that -you had continual reasons to rejoice in the selection you had -made. Her gentleness, her obliging disposition, and her -affection for you, equalled the charms of her person. But you -did not long enjoy the happiness of beholding her. After -she had made you the father of Beauty you were under the -necessity of travelling to the frontiers of your kingdom, to -suppress some revolutionary demonstrations of which you -had received intimation. During this period you lost your -dear wife, an affliction which you felt the more sensibly -because, in addition to the love with which her beauty had -inspired you, you had the greatest respect for the many rare -qualities that adorned her mind. Despite her youth and the -little education she had received, you found her naturally -endowed with profound judgment, and your wisest ministers -were astonished at the excellent advice she gave you, and the -policy by which she enabled you to succeed in all your undertakings."</p> -</div> - -<p>The King, who still brooded over his affliction, and to - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_303">[Pg 303]</a></span> -whose imagination the death of that dear wife was ever -present, could not listen to this account without being sensibly -affected, and the Fairy, who observed his emotion, said, -"Your feelings prove that you deserved that happiness. I -will no longer dwell on a subject that is so painful to you, -but I must reveal to you that the supposed shepherdess was -a Fairy, and my sister, who, having heard that the Fortunate -Island was a charming country, and also much praise of its -laws and of the gentle nature of your government, was particularly -anxious to visit it. The dress of a shepherdess -was the only disguise she assumed, intending to enjoy for a -short time a pastoral life. You encountered her in her new -abode. Her youth and beauty touched your heart. She -yielded to a desire to discover whether the qualities of your -mind equalled those she found in your person. She trusted -to her condition and power as a Fairy, which could place her -at a wish beyond the reach of your assiduities if they became -too importunate, or if you should presume to take advantage -of the humble position in which you found her. She was not -alarmed at the sentiments with which you might inspire her, -and persuaded that her virtue was sufficient to guarantee her -against the snares of love, she attributed her sensations to a -simple curiosity to ascertain if there were still upon the earth -men capable of loving virtue unembellished by exterior ornaments, -which render it more brilliant and respectable to vulgar -souls than its own intrinsic merit, and frequently, by their -fatal attractions, obtain the reputation of virtue for the most -abominable vices.</p> - -<div class="block05"> -<p>"Under this illusion, far from retreating to our common -asylum, as she had at first proposed, she chose to inhabit a -little cottage she had raised for herself in the solitude in which -you met her, accompanied by a phantom, representing her -mother. These two persons appeared to live there upon the -produce of a pretended flock that had no fear of the wolves, -being, in fact, genii in that form. It was in that cottage she -received your attentions, which produced all the effect you -could desire. She could not resist the offer you made her of -your crown. You now know the extent of the obligations -you were under to her at a time when you imagined she -owed everything to you, and were satisfied to remain in -that error.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_304">[Pg 304]</a></span></p> - -<p>"What I now tell you is a positive proof that ambition had -no share in the consent she accorded to your wishes. You -are aware that we look upon the greatest kingdoms but as -gifts which we can bestow on any one at our pleasure. But -she appreciated your generous behaviour, and esteeming -herself happy in uniting herself to so excellent a man, she -rashly entered into that engagement without reflecting on the -danger which she thereby incurred. For our laws expressly -forbid our union with those who have not as much power as -ourselves, more especially when we have not arrived at that -age when we are privileged to exercise our authority over -others, and enjoy the right of presiding in our turn. Previous -to that time we are subordinate to our elders, and that we -may not abuse our power, we have only the liberty of disposing -of our hands in favour of some spirit or sage whose knowledge -is at least equal to our own. It is true that after that -period we are free to form what alliance we please; but it is -seldom that we avail ourselves of that right, and never without -scandal to our order. Those who do are generally old -fairies, who almost always pay dearly for their folly; for they -marry young men, who despise them, and, although they are -not punished as criminals, they are sufficiently punished by -the bad conduct of their husbands, on whom they are not -permitted to avenge themselves.</p> - -<p>"It is the only penalty imposed upon them. The disagreements -which almost invariably follow the indiscretion they -have committed takes from them the desire of revealing to -those profane persons from whom they expected respect and -attention the great secrets of art. My sister, however, was -not placed in either of these positions. Endowed with every -charm that could inspire affection, she was not of the required -age; but she consulted only her love. She flattered herself -she could keep her marriage a secret. She succeeded in so -doing for a short time. We rarely make inquiries about those -who are absent. Each is occupied with her own affairs, and -we fly through the world, doing good or ill, according to our -inclinations, without being obliged at our return to account -for our actions, unless we have been guilty of some act which -causes us to be talked about, or that some beneficent fairy, -moved by the unjust persecution of some unfortunate mortal, -lays a complaint against the offender. In short, there must - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_305">[Pg 305]</a></span> -arise some unforeseen event to occasion us to consult the general -book in which all we do is written at the same instant without -the aid of hands. Saving these occasions, we have only to -appear in the general assembly three times in the year; and, -as we travel very swiftly, the affair does not occupy more -than a couple of hours.</p> - -<p>"My sister was obliged to give light to the throne (such -is our phrase for the performance of that duty). On such -occasions, she arranged for you a hunting party at some -distance, or a journey of pleasure, and after your departure -she feigned some indisposition, to remain alone in her -cabinet, or that she had letters to write, or that she wished -to repose. Neither in the palace nor amongst us was there -any suspicion of that which it was so much her interest -to conceal. This mystery, however, was not one for me. -The consequences were dangerous, and I warned her of them; -but she loved you too much to repent the step she had -taken. Desiring even to justify it in my eyes, she insisted -that I should pay you a visit.</p> - -<p>"Without flattering you, I confess that, if the sight of you -did not compel me entirely to excuse her weakness, it at least -diminished considerably my surprise at it, and increased the -zeal with which I laboured to keep it a secret. Her dissimulation -was successful for two years; but at length she betrayed -herself. We are obliged to confer a certain number of favours -on the world generally, and to return an account of them. -When my sister gave in hers, it appeared that she had limited -her excursions and her benefits to the confines of the Fortunate -Island.</p> - -<p>"Several of our ill-natured fairies blamed this conduct, and -our Queen, in consequence, demanded of her why she had -restricted her benevolence to this small corner of the earth, -when she could not be ignorant that a young fairy was bound -to travel far and wide, and manifest to the universe at large -our pleasure and our power.</p> - -<p>"As this was no new regulation, my sister could not murmur -at the enforcement of it, nor find a pretext for objecting to -obey it. She promised, therefore, to do so; but her impatience -to see you again, the fear of her absence being discovered at -the Palace, the impossibility of acting secretly on a throne, did -not permit her to absent herself long enough and often enough - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_306">[Pg 306]</a></span> -to fulfil her promise; and at the next assembly she could -hardly prove that she had been out of the Fortunate Island -for a quarter of an hour.</p> - -<p>"Our Queen, greatly displeased with her, threatened to -destroy that island, and so prevent her continuing to violate -our laws. This threat agitated her so greatly that the least -sharp-sighted fairy could see to what a point she carried her -interest for that fatal island, and the wicked fairy who turned -the Prince here present into a frightful monster, was convinced -by her confusion that, on opening the great book, she -should find in it an important entry which would afford some -exercise to her propensities for mischief. 'It is there,' she -exclaimed, 'that the truth will appear, and that we shall learn -what has really been her occupation!' and with these words, -she opened the volume before the whole assembly, and read -the details of all that had taken place during the last two -years in a loud and distinct voice.</p> - -<p>"All the fairies made an extraordinary uproar on hearing of -this degrading alliance, and overwhelmed my wretched sister -with the most cruel reproaches. She was degraded from -our order, and condemned to remain a prisoner amongst us. -If her punishment had consisted of the first penalty only, -she would have consoled herself; but the second sentence, far -more terrible, made her feel all the rigour of both. The loss -of her dignity little affected her; but, loving you fondly, she -begged, with tears in her eyes, that they would be satisfied with -degrading her, and not deprive her of the pleasure of living as -a simple mortal with her husband and her dear daughter.</p> - -<p>"Her tears and supplications touched the hearts of the -younger judges, and I felt, from the murmur that arose, that -if the votes had been collected at that instant, she would certainly -have escaped with a reprimand. But one of the eldest, -who, from her extreme decrepitude had obtained amongst us -the name of 'the Mother of the Seasons,' did not give the -Queen time to speak and admit that pity had touched her -heart as well as the others'.</p> - -<p>"'There is no excuse for this crime,' cried the detestable -old creature, in her cracked voice. 'If it is permitted to go -unpunished, we shall be daily exposed to similar insults. The -honour of our order is absolutely involved in it. This miserable -being, attached to earth, does not regret the loss of a - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_307">[Pg 307]</a></span> -rank which elevated her a hundred degrees higher above -monarchs than they are above their subjects. She tells us -that her affections, her fears, and her wishes, all turn upon -her unworthy family. It is through them we must punish -her. Let her husband deplore her! Let her daughter, the -shameful fruit of her illegal marriage, become the bride of a -monster, to expiate the folly of a mother who could allow -herself to be captivated by the frail and contemptible beauty -of a mortal!'</p> - -<p>"This cruel speech revived the severity of many who had -been previously inclined to mercy. Those who continued to -pity her being too few to offer any opposition, the sentence -was approved of in its integrity; and our Queen herself, whose -features had indicated a feeling of compassion, resuming their -severity, confirmed the majority of votes in favour of the -motion of the ill-natured old Fairy. My sister, however, in -her endeavours to obtain a revocation of this cruel decree, to -propitiate her judges, and to excuse her marriage, had drawn -so charming a portrait of you, that it inflamed the heart of -the fairy Governess of the Prince (she who had opened the -great volume); but this dawning passion only served to -increase the hatred which that wicked Fairy already bore to -your unfortunate wife.</p> - -<p>"Unable to resist her desire to see you, she concealed her -passion under the colour of a pretext that she was anxious to -ascertain if you deserved that a fairy should make such a sacrifice -for you as my sister had done. As she had obtained the -sanction of the assembly to her guardianship of the Prince, she -could not have ventured to quit him for any length of time if the -ingenuity of love had not inspired her with the idea of placing -a protecting genius and two inferior and invisible fairies to -watch over him in her absence. After taking this precaution, -there was nothing to prevent her following her inclination, -which speedily carried her to the Fortunate Island. In the -meanwhile, the women and officers of the imprisoned Queen, -surprised that she did not come out of her private cabinet, -became alarmed. The express orders she had given them not to -disturb her, induced them to pass the night without knocking -at the door; but impatience at last taking place of all other -considerations, they knocked loudly, and no one answering, -they forced the doors, under the impression that some accident - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_308">[Pg 308]</a></span> -had happened to her. Although they had prepared themselves -for the worst, they were not the less astonished at perceiving -no trace of her. They called her, they hunted for her in vain. -They could discover nothing to appease the despair into which -her disappearance had plunged them. They imagined a thousand -reasons for it, each more absurd than the other. They -could not suspect her evasion to be voluntary. She was all-powerful -in your kingdom. The sovereign jurisdiction you had -confided to her was not disputed by any one. Everybody -obeyed her cheerfully. The affection you had for each other, -that which she entertained for her daughter and for her subjects, -who adored her, prevented them from supposing she had fled. -Where could she go to be more happy? On the other hand, -what man would have dared to carry off a queen from the -midst of her own guards, and the centre of her own palace? -Such a ravisher must have left some indications of the road -he had taken.</p> - -<p>"The disaster was certain, although the causes of it were -unknown. There was another evil to dread; namely, the -feelings with which you would receive this fatal news. -The innocence of those who were responsible for the safety of -the Queen's person by no means satisfied them that they -should not feel the effects of your wrath. They felt they must -either fly the kingdom, and thereby appear guilty of a crime -they had not committed, or they must find some means of -hiding this misfortune from you.</p> - -<p>"After long deliberation, they could imagine no other than -that of persuading you the Queen was dead, and this plan they -put instantly into execution. They sent off a courier to inform -you that she had been suddenly taken ill; a second followed -a few hours afterwards, bearing the news of her death, in order -to prevent your love inducing you to return post-haste to -Court. Your appearance would have deranged all the measures -they had taken for general security. They paid to the supposed -defunct all the funeral honours due to her rank, to your -affection, and the sorrow of a people who adored her, and who -wept her loss as sincerely as yourself.</p> - -<p>"This cruel adventure was always kept a profound secret -from you, although it was known to every other inhabitant of -the Fortunate Island. The first astonishment had given publicity -to the whole affair. The affliction you felt at this loss - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_309">[Pg 309]</a></span> -was proportionate to your love; you found no consolation -except in the innocent caresses of your infant daughter, whom -you sent for to be with you. You determined never again to -be separated from her; she was charming, and presented you -continually with a living portrait of the Queen, her mother. -The hostile Fairy, who had been the original cause of all this -trouble by opening the great book in which she discovered -my sister's marriage, had not come to see you without paying -the price of her curiosity. Your appearance had produced the -same effect upon her heart as it had previously done on that -of your wife, and instead of this experience inducing her to -excuse my sister, she ardently desired to commit the same -fault. Hovering about you invisibly, she could not resolve to -quit you. Beholding you inconsolable, she had no hope of -success, and fearing to add the shame of your refusal to the -pain of disappointment, she did not dare make herself known -to you; on the other hand, supposing she did appear, she -imagined that by skilful manœuvring, she might accustom you -to see her, and perhaps in time induce you to love her. But -to effect this, she must be introduced to you; and after much -pondering to find some decorous way of presenting herself, she -hit on one. There was a neighbouring Queen who had been -driven out of her dominions by a usurper, who had murdered -her husband. This unhappy Princess was ranging the world -to find an asylum and an avenger. The Fairy carried her off, -and having deposited her in a safe place, put her to sleep, and -assumed her form. You beheld, Sire, that disguised Fairy -fling herself at your feet, and implore your protection and -assistance to punish the assassin of a husband whom she professed -she regretted as deeply as you did your Queen. She -protested that her love for him alone impelled her to this -course, and that she renounced, with all her heart, a crown -which she offered to him who should avenge her dear -husband.</p> - -<p>"The unhappy pity each other. You interested yourself in -her misfortunes the more readily for that she wept the loss -of a beloved spouse, and that mingling her tears with yours, -she talked to you incessantly of the Queen. You gave her -your protection, and lost no time in re-establishing her authority -in the kingdom she pretended to, by punishing the rebels -and the usurper she seemed to desire; but she would neither - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_310">[Pg 310]</a></span> -return to it nor quit you. She implored you, for her own -security, to govern the kingdom in her name, as you were too -generous to accept it as a gift from her, and to permit her to -reside at your Court. You could not refuse her this new -favour. She appeared to be necessary to you for the education -of your daughter, for the cunning Fairy knew well enough -that child was the sole object of your affection. She feigned -an exceeding fondness for her, and had her continually in her -arms. Anticipating the request you were about to make to -her, she earnestly begged to be permitted to take charge of -her education, saying that she would have no heir but that -dear child, whom she looked on as her own, and who was the -only being she loved in the world; because she said she -reminded her of a daughter she had had by her husband, and -who perished along with him.</p> - -<p>"The proposal appeared to you so advantageous that you -did not hesitate to entrust the Princess to her care, and to -give her full authority over her. She acquitted herself of -her duties to perfection, and by her talent and her affection -obtained your implicit confidence and your love as for a tender -sister. This was not sufficient for her: all her anxiety was -but to become your wife. She neglected nothing to gain this -end; but even had you never been the husband of the most -beautiful of fairies, she was not formed to inspire you with -love. The shape she had assumed could not bear comparison -with hers into whose place she would have stolen. It was extremely -ugly, and being naturally so herself, she had only the -power of appearing beautiful one day in the year.</p> - -<p>"The knowledge of this discouraging fact convinced her -that to succeed she must have recourse to other charms than -those of beauty. She intrigued secretly to oblige the people -and the nobility to petition you to take another wife, and to -point her out to you as the desirable person; but certain -ambiguous conversations she had held with you, in order to -sound your inclinations, enabled you easily to discover the -origin of the pressing solicitations with which you were importuned. -You declared positively that you would not hear -of giving a step-mother to your daughter, nor lower her -position, by making her subordinate to a queen, from that -which she held as the highest person next to yourself in the -kingdom, and the acknowledged heir to your throne. You - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_311">[Pg 311]</a></span> -also gave the false Queen to understand that you should feel -obliged by her returning to her own dominions immediately, -and without ado, and promised her that when she was settled -there you would render her all the services she could expect -from a faithful friend and a generous neighbour; but you did -not conceal from her that if she did not take this course willingly, -she ran the risk of being compelled to do so.</p> - -<p>"The invincible obstacle you then opposed to her love threw -her into a terrific rage, but she affected so much indifference -about the matter that she succeeded in persuading you that -her attempt was caused by ambition, and the fear that eventually -you might take possession of her dominions, preferring, -notwithstanding the earnestness with which she had appeared -to offer them to you, to let you believe she was insincere in -that case, rather than you should suspect her real sentiments. -Her fury was not less violent because it was suppressed. Not -doubting that it was Beauty who, more powerful in your -heart than policy, caused you to reject the opportunity of -increasing your empire in so glorious a manner, she conceived -for her a hatred as violent as that which she felt for your -wife, and resolved to get rid of her, fully believing that if -she were dead, your subjects, renewing their remonstrances, -would compel you to change your state, in order to leave -a successor to the throne. The good soul was anything -but of an age to present you with one; but that she -cared little about. The Queen, whose resemblance she had -assumed, was still young enough to have many children, -and her ugliness was no obstacle to a royal and political -alliance.</p> - -<p>"Notwithstanding the official declaration you had made, it -was thought that if your daughter died you would yield to -the continual representations of your council. It was believed, -also, that your choice would fall upon this pretended Queen; -and that idea surrounded her with numberless parasites. It -was her design, therefore, by the aid of one of her flatterers, -whose wife was as base as her husband, and as wicked as she was -herself, to make away with your daughter. She had appointed -this woman governess to the little Princess. These wretches -settled between them that they would smother her, and report -that she had died suddenly; but for more security they -decided to commit this murder in the neighbouring forest, so - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_312">[Pg 312]</a></span> -that nobody could surprise them in the execution of this -barbarous deed. They counted on no one having the slightest -knowledge of it, and that it would be impossible to blame -them for not having sought for assistance before she expired, -having the legitimate excuse that they were too far away -from any. The husband of the governess proposed to go in -search of aid as soon as the child was dead; and that no suspicion -might be awakened, he was to appear surprised at -finding it too late when he returned to the spot where he had -left this tender victim of their fury, and he also rehearsed -the sorrow and consternation he was to affect.</p> - -<p>"When my wretched sister saw herself deprived of her -power and condemned to a cruel imprisonment, she requested -me to console you and to watch over the safety of her child. -It was unnecessary for her to take that precaution. The -tie which unites us, and the pity I felt for her, would have -sufficed to ensure you my protection, and her entreaties -could not increase the zeal with which I hastened to fulfil her -decrees.</p> - -<p>"I saw you as often as I could, and as much as prudence -permitted me, without incurring the risk of arousing the -suspicions of our enemy, who would have denounced me as a -Fairy in whom sisterly affection prevailed over the honour of -her order, and who protected a guilty race. I neglected -nothing to convince all the Fairies that I had abandoned my -sister to her unhappy fate, and, by so doing, trusted to be -more at liberty to serve her. As I watched every movement -of your perfidious admirer, not only with my own eyes, but -those of the Genii, who were my servants, her horrible intentions -were not unknown to me. I could not oppose her by -open force; and though it would have been easy for me to -annihilate those into whose hands she had delivered the little -innocent, prudence restrained me; for, had I carried off your -daughter, the malignant Fairy would have retaken her from -me, without its being possible for me to defend her.</p> - -<p>"It is a law amongst us that we must be a thousand years -old before we can dispute the power of the ancient fairies, or -at any rate we must have become serpents. The perils which -accompany the latter condition cause us to call it the Terrible -Act. The bravest amongst us shudder at the thought of -undertaking it. We hesitate a long time before we can - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_313">[Pg 313]</a></span> -resolve to expose ourselves to its consequences; and without -the urgent motive of hatred, love, or vengeance, there are few -who do not prefer waiting for time to make them Elders than -to acquire their privilege by that dangerous transformation, in -which the greater number are destroyed. I was in this -position. I wanted ten years of the thousand, and I had no -resource but in artifice. I employed it successfully. I took -the form of a monstrous she-bear, and, hiding myself in the -forest selected for the execution of this detestable deed, -when the wretches arrived to fulfil the barbarous order they -had received, I flung myself upon the woman who had the -child in her arms, and who had already placed her hand on -its mouth. Her fright made her drop the precious burden, -but she was not allowed to escape so easily; the horror I felt -at her unnatural conduct inspired me with the ferocity of the -brute I had assumed the form of. I strangled her, as well as -the traitor who accompanied her, and I carried off Beauty, -after having rapidly stripped off her clothes and dyed them -with the blood of her enemies. I scattered them also about -the forest, taking the precaution to tear them in several places, -so that they should not suspect the Princess had escaped; and -I withdrew, delighted at having succeeded so completely.</p> - -<p>"The Fairy believed her object had been attained. The -death of her two accomplices was an advantage to her. She -was mistress of her secret, and the fate they had met with -was but what she had herself destined them to, in recompense -of their guilty services. Another circumstance was also -favourable to her. Some shepherds who had seen this affair -from a distance ran for assistance, which arrived just in time -to see the infamous wretches expire, and prevent the possibility -of suspicion that she had any part in it.</p> - -<p>"The same circumstances were equally favourable to my -enterprise. The wicked Fairy was as fully convinced as the -people by them. The event was so natural, that she never -doubted it. She did not even condescend to exert her skill -to satisfy herself of the fact. I was delighted at her fancied -security. I should not have been the strongest had she -attempted to recover little Beauty, because, in addition to -the reasons which made her my superior, and which I have -explained to you, she possessed the advantage of having -received that child from you. You had deputed to her your - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_314">[Pg 314]</a></span> -authority, which you alone could re-assume, and short of your -wresting her yourself out of her hands, nothing could interfere -with the control she had a right to exercise over the -Princess till she was married.</p> - -<p>"Preserved from this anxiety, I found myself overwhelmed -by another, on recollecting that the Mother of the Seasons -had condemned my niece to marry a monster; but she was -then not three years old, and I flattered myself I should be -able, by study, to discover some expedient to prevent this -curse being fulfilled to the letter, and to evade it by some -equivocation. I had plenty of time to ponder on it, and my -first care was, therefore, only to find some spot where I could -place my precious charge in safety.</p> - -<p>"Profound secrecy was absolutely necessary to me. I dared -not place her in a castle, nor exercise for her benefit any of -the magnificent wonders of our art. Our enemy would have -noticed it. It would have awakened an anxiety, the consequences -of which would have been fatal to us. I thought it -better to assume an humble garb, and confide the infant to -the care of the first person I met with, who appeared to me -to be an honest man, and under whose roof I could promise -myself she would enjoy the comforts of life.</p> - -<p>"Chance soon favoured my intentions. I found what suited -me exactly. It was a small house in a village, the door of -which was open. I entered this cottage, which appeared to -me that of a peasant in easy circumstances. I saw by the -light of a lamp three country women asleep beside a cradle, -which I concluded contained a baby. The cradle did not at -all correspond with the general simplicity of the apartment. -Everything about it was sumptuous. I imagined that its -little occupant was ill, and that the deep sleep into which its -nurses had fallen was the consequence of long watching over -it. I approached silently, with the intention of curing the -infant, and anticipated with pleasure the surprise of these -women, on awaking, to find their invalid restored to health, -without knowing what to attribute it to. I was about to -take the child out of the cradle in order to breathe health -into it; but my good intentions were vain: it expired at the -instant I touched it.</p> - -<p>"I immediately conceived the idea of taking advantage of -this melancholy event, and substituting my niece for the dead - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_315">[Pg 315]</a></span> -child, which, by good fortune, was also a girl. I lost no time -in making the exchange, and bearing away the lifeless infant, -buried it carefully. I then returned to the house, at the -door of which I knocked long and loudly, to awaken the -sleepers.</p> - -<p>"I told them, feigning a provincial dialect, that I was a -stranger to those parts, who was in want of a night's lodging. -They good-naturedly offered me one, and then went to look -at their nursling, whom they found quietly asleep, with all -the appearance of being in perfect health. They were astonished -and delighted, not dreaming of the deception I had -practised upon them. They informed me that the child was -the daughter of a rich merchant; that one of their party -had been her nurse, and after having weaned her had restored -her to her parents, but that the child, having fallen ill in her -father's house, had been sent back to the country, in hope -that the change of air would be of service to her. They -added, with satisfied countenances, that the experiment had -succeeded, and produced a better effect than all the remedies -which had been resorted to previous to its adoption. They -determined to carry her back to her father as soon as it was -daylight, in order to afford him, as early as possible, the gratification -he would derive from her restoration, for conducing -to which, also, they expected to receive a liberal reward, as -the child was his particular favourite, although the youngest -of eleven.</p> - -<p>"At sunrise they set out, and I feigned to continue my -journey, congratulating myself on having so well provided for -my niece's safety. To insure this object more completely, and -induce the supposed father still more to attach himself to the -little girl, I assumed the form of one of those women who go -about telling fortunes, and arriving at the merchant's door -just as the nurses reached it with the child, I followed them -into the house. He received them with delight, and taking -the little girl in his arms, became the dupe of his paternal -affection, and fancied that the emotions simply caused by his -kindly disposition were the mysterious workings of nature at -the sight of his offspring. I seized this opportunity of -increasing the interest he believed he had in the child.</p> - -<p>"'Look well upon this little one, my good gentleman,' said -I, in the usual language of the class to which by my dress I - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_316">[Pg 316]</a></span> -appeared to belong. 'She will be a great honour to thy family, -she will bring thee immense wealth, and save thy life and that -of all thy children. She will be so beautiful—so beautiful, -that she will be called Beauty by all who behold her.' As -a reward for my prediction, he gave me a piece of gold, and I -withdrew, perfectly satisfied. I had no longer any reason for -residing with the race of Adam. To profit by my leisure, I -returned to Fairyland, resolving to remain in it some time. I -passed my days there quietly in consoling my sister, in giving -her news of her dear daughter, and in assuring her that, far -from forgetting her, you cherished her memory as fondly as -you had formerly herself.</p> - -<p>"Such, great King, was our situation whilst you were suffering -under the fresh calamity which had deprived you of your -child, and renewed all the affliction you had felt at the loss of -her mother. Although you could not positively accuse the -person to whom you had confided the infant of being the wilful -cause of the accident, it was still impossible for you not to -look upon her with an evil eye; for though it did not appear -that she was guilty of intentional mischief, it was certainly -through her neglecting to see that the young Princess was -properly attended and protected that the event had proved -fatal.</p> - -<p>"After the first paroxysms of your grief had subsided, she -flattered herself that no obstacle would arise to prevent your -espousing her. She caused her emissaries to renew the proposal -to you; but she was undeceived, and her mortification was excessive, -when you declared that not only were your intentions -unchanged respecting a second marriage, but that even, could -anything alter your determination, it would never be in her -favour. To this declaration you added a positive order -for her to quit the kingdom immediately. Her presence -continually reminded you of your child, and renewed your -affliction. Such was the reason you adduced for this step; -but your principal object was to put an end to the intrigues -she was constantly carrying on in order to gain her end.</p> - -<p>"She was furious; but she was obliged to obey without being -able to avenge herself. I had persuaded one of our ancient -fairies to protect you. Her power was considerable, for she -joined to her age the advantage of having been four times a -serpent. In proportion to the excessive peril incurred by that - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_317">[Pg 317]</a></span> -process, are the honours and powers attached to it. This -Fairy, out of consideration for me, took you under her protection, -and put it out of the power of your indignant lover -to do you any mischief.</p> - -<p>"This disappointment was fortunate for the Queen, whose -form she had assumed. She awoke her from her magic slumber, -and concealing from her the criminal use she had made of her -features, placed her conduct in the best light before her.</p> - -<p>"She expatiated on the value of her intercession with the -King, and on the trouble she had saved her, and gave her the -best advice she could how to maintain herself for the future -in her proper person. It was then that, to console herself -for your indifference, the Fairy returned to the young Prince -and resumed her care of him. She became too fond of him, -and not being able to make herself beloved, she caused him to -suffer that terrible effect of her fury.</p> - -<p>"In the meanwhile, I had insensibly arrived at the privileged -age, and my power was increased, but my desire to serve my -sister and yourself induced me to feel that still I had not -sufficient. My sincere friendship blinding me to the perils of -"the Terrible Act," I resolved to undertake it.</p> - -<p>"I became a serpent, and passed fortunately through the -ordeal. I was then in a position to act openly in favour of -those who were persecuted by my malicious companions. If -I cannot at all times entirely dissolve their fatal spells, I can -at least counteract them by my skill and by my counsels.</p> - -<p>"My niece was amongst the number of those whom I could -not completely favour. Not daring to discover all the interest I -took in her, it appeared to me that the best thing I could do -was to allow her still to pass as the merchant's daughter. I -visited her under various forms, and always returned satisfied. -Her virtue and beauty equalled her good sense. At the -age of fourteen she had already given proof of great fortitude -during the changes of fortune which had befallen her supposed -father.</p> - -<p>"I was delighted to find that the most cruel reverses had -not been able to affect her tranquillity. On the contrary, by -her cheerfulness, by the charm of her conversation, she had -succeeded in restoring it to the hearts of her father and her -brothers; and I rejoiced to observe also that her sentiments -were worthy of her birth. These pleasant reflections were, - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_318">[Pg 318]</a></span> -however, mingled with much bitterness, when I remembered -that, with so many perfections, she was destined to be the wife -of a monster. I toiled, I studied night and day to find some -means of saving her from so great a misfortune, and was in -despair at finding none.</p> - -<p>"This anxiety did not prevent me, however, from paying -occasional visits to you. Your wife, who was deprived of that -liberty, implored me incessantly to go and see you; and, notwithstanding -the protection of our friend, her affectionate -heart was continually alarmed about you, and persuaded her -that the instant I lost sight of you would be the last of your -life, and in which you would be sacrificed to the fury of our -enemy. This fear possessed her so strongly, that she scarcely -gave me a moment's rest. No sooner did I bring her news -of you than she supplicated me so earnestly to return to you, -that it was impossible to refuse her.</p> - -<p>"Compassionating her anxiety, and more desirous to end it -than to save myself the trouble it gave me, I employed against -my cruel companion the same weapons she had made use of -against you. I proceeded to open the great book. By good -fortune, it was at the very moment she was holding that conversation -with the Queen and Prince which terminated in his -transformation. I lost not a word of it, and my rapture was extreme -at finding that, in seeking to assure her vengeance, she -neutralized, without knowing it, the mischief which the Mother -of the Seasons had done us in dooming Beauty to be the bride -of a monster.</p> - -<p>"To crown our happiness, she added conditions so advantageous, -that it almost seemed as if she made them on purpose -to oblige me, for she thereby furnished my sister's daughter -with an opportunity of proving that she was worthy of being -the issue of the purest of fairy-blood.</p> - -<p>"The slightest sign or gesture expresses amongst us as much -as it would take an ordinary mortal three days to explain. I -uttered but one contemptuous word. It was enough to inform -the assembly that our enemy had pronounced her own sentence -in that which she had caused ten years before to be passed -upon your wife. At the age of the latter, the weakness of -love was more natural than at the advanced period of existence -of a fairy of the highest order. I spoke of the base and wicked -actions which had accompanied that superannuated passion. I - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_319">[Pg 319]</a></span> -urged that if so many infamous acts were allowed to pass -unpunished, mortals would be justified in saying that fairies -existed in the world but to dishonour nature and afflict the -human race. Presenting the book to them, I condensed this -abrupt oration in the single word "Behold!" It was not -the less powerful in its effect.</p> - -<p>"There were present also friends of mine, both young and -old, who treated the amorous fury as she deserved. She had -not succeeded in becoming your wife, and to that disgrace was -now added degradation from her order, and imprisonment, as -in the case of the Queen of the Happy Island.</p> - -<p>"This council was held whilst she was with you, Madam, and -your son. As soon as she appeared amongst us, the result was -communicated to her. I had the pleasure to be present, after -which, closing the book, I descended rapidly from the middle -region of air in which our empire is situated, to combat the -effect of the despair to which you were ready to abandon yourselves. -I performed my journey in as short a space of time as I -had occupied with my laconical address. I arrived soon enough -to promise you my assistance. All sorts of reasons combined -to invite me. Your virtues, your misfortunes, (said the -Fairy, turning to the Prince), the advantages they offered to -Beauty made me see in you the Monster that suited me. -You appeared to me worthy of each other, and I felt convinced -that when you became acquainted, your hearts would do each -other mutual justice.</p> - -<p>"You know," she continued, addressing the Queen, "what -I have since done to attain my object, and by what means I -obliged Beauty to come to this Palace, where the sight of the -Prince, and her interviews with him, in the dreams I conjured -up for her, had the effect I desired. They kindled love in -her heart without diminishing her virtue or weakening the -sense of duty and gratitude which attached her to the Monster. -In short, I have happily brought my scheme to perfection. -Yes, Prince," pursued the Fairy, "you have no longer anything -to fear from your enemy. She is stripped of her power, and -will never again be able to injure you by other spells. You -have exactly fulfilled the conditions she imposed on you. Had -you not done so, you would have been still bound by them, -notwithstanding her eternal degradation. You have made -yourself beloved without the aid of your rank or your intelligence; - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_320">[Pg 320]</a></span> -and you, Beauty, are equally relieved from the curse -pronounced upon you by the Mother of the Seasons. You -cheerfully accepted a monster for your husband. She has -nothing more to exact. All now tends to your happiness."</p> -</div> - -<p class="p2">The Fairy ceased speaking, and the King threw himself at -her feet. "Great Fairy," he exclaimed, "how can I thank -you for all the favours you have heaped on my family? My -gratitude for the benefits you have bestowed on us far exceeds -my power of expression; but, my august sister," added he, -"that title encourages me to ask more favours; for, despite the -obligations I am already under to you, I cannot avoid confessing -to you that I shall never be truly happy so long as I am -deprived of the presence of my beloved Fairy Queen. This -account of what she has done and what she has suffered for me -would increase my love and my affliction, were either of them -capable of being augmented. Ah, Madam," he added, "can you -not crown all your benefactions by enabling me to behold her?"</p> - -<p>The question was useless. If the Fairy had had the power -to have afforded him that gratification, she was too willing -to have waited for the request: but she could not alter what -the Council of the Fairies had decreed. The young Queen -being a prisoner in the middle regions of air, there was not -the shadow of a chance of his being enabled to see her; and -the Fairy was about to explain this to him kindly, and to -exhort him to await patiently some unforeseen events, of -which she might take advantage, when an enchanting melody -stole upon their ears and interrupted her. The King, his -daughter, the Queen, and the Prince, were in ecstasies, -but the Fairy experienced another sort of surprise. Such -music indicated the triumph of some Fairy. She could not -imagine what Fairy had achieved a victory. Her fears suggested -that it was the old one, or the Mother of the Seasons, -who in her absence had obtained, the former her liberty, or -the latter permission to persecute the lovers afresh.</p> - -<p>She was in this perplexity when it was agreeably ended -by the presence of her Fairy-sister, the Queen of the Happy -Island, who suddenly appeared in the centre of that charming -group. She was no less lovely than when the King, her -husband, lost her. The monarch, who instantly recognised -her, making the respect he owed her yield to the love he had - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_321">[Pg 321]</a></span> -cherished for her, embraced her with such transports of joy, -that the Queen herself was surprised at them.</p> - -<p>The Fairy, her sister, could not imagine to what fortunate -miracle she was indebted for her liberty; but the royal Fairy -informed her that she owed her happiness solely to her own -courage, which had impelled her to hazard her own existence -to preserve another's. "You are aware," said she to the -Fairy, "that the daughter of our Queen was received into -the order at her birth; that her father was not a sublunary -being, but the sage Amadabak, whose alliance is an honour to -the fairy race, and whose sublime knowledge invests him -with much higher powers. Notwithstanding this, however, -it was imperative for his daughter to become a serpent at -the end of her first hundred years. The fatal period arrived, -and our Queen, as tender a mother, and as anxious respecting -the fate of this dear infant as any ordinary parent could be, -could not resolve to expose her to the many chances of destruction -in that shape, the misfortunes of those who had perished -being but too notorious for her not to feel the greatest alarm. -My wretched situation depriving me of all hope of again -beholding my affectionate husband and my lovely daughter, -I had conceived a perfect disgust for a life which I was -doomed to pass apart from them. Without the least hesitation, -therefore, I offered to become a crawling reptile in the -place of the young Fairy. I saw with delight a certain, -prompt, and honourable mode of delivering myself from all -the miseries with which I was overwhelmed, by death or by -a glorious emancipation, which would render me mistress -of my own actions, and thereby enable me to rejoin my -husband.</p> - -<p>"Our Queen hesitated as little to accept this offer, so gratifying -to her maternal affection, as I did to make it. She -embraced me a hundred times, and promised to restore me -to liberty unconditionally, and re-establish me in all my privileges, -if I was fortunate enough to pass unharmed through -that perilous enterprise. I did do so, and the fruit of my -labours was enjoyed by the young Fairy, for whom I had -been the substitute. The success of my first trial encouraged -me to make a second for my own benefit. I underwent the -transformation anew, and was equally fortunate. This last -act made me an Elder, and, consequently, independent. I - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_322">[Pg 322]</a></span> -was not long in profiting by my liberty, and flying hither to -rejoin a family so dear to me."</p> - -<p>As soon as the Fairy had finished her narrative, the embraces -were renewed by her affectionate auditors. It was a -charming confusion, in which each caressed the other almost -without knowing what they were about: beauty, particularly, -enchanted at appertaining to such an illustrious family, -and no longer fearing to degrade the Prince, her cousin, by -causing him to form an alliance beneath him.</p> - -<p>But although transported by the excess of her happiness, -she did not forget the worthy man whom she had formerly -believed to be her father. She recalled to her fairy aunt -the promise she had made to her, that he and his children -should have the honour of being present at her marriage. -She was still speaking to her on this subject when they saw -from the window sixteen persons on horseback, most of whom -had hunting-horns, and appeared in considerable confusion. -Their disorder evidently arose from their horses having ran -away with them. Beauty instantly recognised them as the -six sons of the worthy merchant, the five daughters, and -their five lovers.</p> - -<p>Everybody but the Fairy was surprised at this abrupt -entrance. Those who made it were not less so, at finding -themselves carried by the speed of their unmanageable horses -into a palace totally unknown to them.</p> - -<p>This is the way it happened. They were all out hunting, -when their horses, suddenly uniting themselves as in one -squadron, galloped off with them at such speed to the Palace -that all their efforts to stop them were perfectly useless.</p> - -<p>Beauty, thoughtless of her present dignity, hastened to -receive and re-assure them. She embraced them all kindly. -The good man himself next appeared, but not in the same -disorder. A horse had neighed and scratched at his door. -He had no doubt that it came to seek him by order of his -dear daughter. He mounted him without fear, and, perfectly -satisfied as to whither the steed would bear him, he was not -at all surprised to find himself in the court-yard of a Palace -which he now saw for the third time, and to which he felt -convinced he had been conducted to witness the marriage of -Beauty and the Beast.</p> - -<p>The moment he perceived her he ran to her with open arms, - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_323">[Pg 323]</a></span> -blessing the happy moment that presented her again to his -sight, and heaping benedictions on the generous Beast who -had permitted him to return; he looked about for him in -every direction, to offer him his most humble thanks for all -the favours he had heaped on his family, and particularly on -his youngest daughter. He was vexed at not seeing him, -and began to apprehend that his conjectures were erroneous. -Still, the presence of all his children seemed to support the -idea he had formed, as they would scarcely have been all -assembled in that spot if some solemn ceremony, such as that -marriage, were not to be celebrated.</p> - -<p>These reflections, which the good man made to himself, -did not prevent him from pressing Beauty fondly in his arms, -and bathing her cheek with tears of joy. After allowing due -time for this first expression of his feelings, "Enough, good -man," said the Fairy. "You have sufficiently caressed this -Princess. It is time that, ceasing to regard her as a father, -you should learn that that title does not appertain to you, -and that you must now do her homage as your sovereign. -She is the Princess of the Happy Island, daughter of the -King and Queen whom you see before you. She is about to -become the wife of this Prince. Here stands the Prince's -mother, sister of the King. I am a Fairy, her friend, and -the aunt of Beauty. As to the Prince," added the Fairy, -observing the expression of the good man's face, "he is -better known to you than you imagine; but he is much -altered since you last saw him. In a word, he was the Beast -himself."</p> - -<p>The father and his sons were enchanted at these wonderful -tidings, while the sisters felt a painful jealousy, but they -endeavoured to conceal it under the mask of a gratification -which deceived no one. The others, however, feigned to -believe them sincere. As to the lovers, who had been rendered -inconstant by the hope of possessing Beauty, and who -had only returned to their first attachments on their despairing -to obtain her, they knew not what to think.</p> - -<p>The merchant could not help weeping, without being able -to tell whether his tears were caused by the pleasure of seeing -the happiness of Beauty, or by the sorrow of losing so perfect -a daughter. His sons were agitated by similar feelings. -Beauty, extremely affected by this evidence of their love, - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_324">[Pg 324]</a></span> -entreated those on whom she now depended, as well as the -Prince, her future husband, to permit her to reward such -tender attachment. Her entreaty testified the goodness of -her heart too sincerely not to be listened to. They were -laden with bounties, and by permission of the King, the -Prince, and the Queen, Beauty continued to call them by the -tender names of father, brothers, and even sisters, though she -was not ignorant that the latter were as little so in heart as -they were in blood. She desired they would all, in return, -call her by the name they were wont to do when they believed -her to be a member of their family. The old man and his -children were appointed to offices in the Court of Beauty, and -enjoyed the pleasure of living continually near her, in a -station sufficiently exalted to be generally respected. The -lovers of her sisters, whose passion for Beauty might easily -have been revived, if they had not known it would be useless, -thought themselves too happy in being united to the good -man's daughters, and becoming allied to persons for whom -Beauty retained so much goodwill.</p> - -<p>All those she desired to be present at her wedding having -arrived, the celebration of it was no longer delayed. The -festivities lasted many days, and ended at length only because -the fairy aunt of the young bride pointed out to them the -propriety of leaving that beautiful retreat, and returning to -their dominions, to show themselves to their subjects.</p> - -<p>It was quite time she should recall their kingdom to their -recollection and the indispensable duties which demanded their -presence. Enraptured with the scenes around them, entranced -by the pleasure of loving and expressing their love to -each other, they had entirely forgotten their royal state and -the cares that attend it.</p> - -<p>The newly-married pair, indeed, proposed to the Fairy -that they should abdicate, and resign their power into the -hands of any one she should select; but that wise being -represented to them clearly that they were under as great an -obligation to fulfil the destiny which had confided to them -the government of a nation as that nation was to preserve for -them an unshaken loyalty.</p> - -<p>They yielded to these just remonstrances, but the Prince -and Beauty stipulated that they should be allowed occasionally -to visit that spot, and cast aside for a while the cares -inseparable from their station, and that they should be waited - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_325">[Pg 325]</a></span> -on by the invisible Genii or the animals who had attended -them during the preceding years. They availed themselves -as often as possible of this liberty. Their presence seemed to -embellish the spot. All were eager to please them. The -Genii awaited their visits with impatience, and received -them with joy, testifying in a hundred ways the delight their -return afforded them.</p> - -<p>The Fairy, whose foresight neglected nothing, gave them -a chariot, drawn by twelve white stags with golden horns and -hoofs, like those she drove herself. The speed of these animals -was almost greater than that of thought; and, drawn by them, -you could easily make the tour of the world in two hours. -By this means they lost no time in travelling. They profited -by every moment of leisure, and went frequently in this -elegant equipage to visit their father, the King of the Happy -Island, who had grown so young again through the return of -his Fairy Queen, that he equalled in face and form the -Prince, his son-in-law. He felt also equally happy, being -neither less enamoured nor less eager to prove to his wife his -unceasing affection, while she, on her part, responded to his -love with all that tenderness which had previously been the -cause of so much misfortune to her.</p> - -<p>She had been received by her subjects with transports of -joy as great as those of grief which her loss had occasioned -them. She had always loved them dearly, and her will being -now unfettered, she proved as much, by showering upon them -for many centuries all the benefits they could desire. Her -power, assisted by the friendship of the Queen of the Fairies, -preserved the life, health, and youth of the King, her husband, -for ages. He only ceased to exist because no mortal can live -for ever.</p> - -<p class="pmb3">The Queen and the Fairy, her sister, were equally attentive -to Beauty, her husband, the Queen, his mother, the old -man, and all his family, so that there never was known people -who lived so long. The Queen, mother of the Prince, caused -this marvellous history to be recorded in the archives of her -kingdom and in those of the Happy Island, that it might be -handed down to posterity. They also disseminated copies of -it throughout the Universe, so that the world at large might -never cease to talk of the wonderful adventures of Beauty and -the Beast.</p> - - -<p class="break" /> -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_326">[Pg 326]</a></span></p> - - -<div class="footnotes"><b>FOOTNOTES:</b> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_16_16"></a><a href="#FNanchor_16_16"><span class="label">[16]</span></a> I have not thought it necessary to alter these initials, signifying those -of "La Belle."</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_17_17"></a><a href="#FNanchor_17_17"><span class="label">[17]</span></a> A South American tribe (genus <i>Erbus</i>), distinguished from all other -monkeys for their gentleness and intelligence. There are many varieties,—the -white-fronted, the horned, the large-headed, the golden-footed, the weeper, -&c., and their differences in colour are very considerable.</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_18_18"></a><a href="#FNanchor_18_18"><span class="label">[18]</span></a> Perhaps an allusion to the New Theatre in the Rue des Fosses, St. Germain. -Vide page 272, note.</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_19_19"></a><a href="#FNanchor_19_19"><span class="label">[19]</span></a> At this period, the Grand Opera, or "Académie Royal de Musique," -under the direction of the celebrated Lulli, was located at the Theatre du -Palais Royal, which had been occupied by Molière from 1660 to his death in -1673. It was opened in 1674, with the opera of <i>Alceste</i>, and destroyed by -fire on the 6th of April, 1763.</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_20_20"></a><a href="#FNanchor_20_20"><span class="label">[20]</span></a> Of this celebrated Fair a notice will be found in the notes to the -Fairy Tales of Madame d'Aulnoy, page 65. It was visited by the royal family, -and may be said to have been the birthplace of the opera comique and the -vaudeville of France. It was suppressed in 1789.</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_21_21"></a><a href="#FNanchor_21_21"><span class="label">[21]</span></a> The most celebrated was that of Brioche, who is said to have been the -inventor of that species of entertainment.</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_22_22"></a><a href="#FNanchor_22_22"><span class="label">[22]</span></a> Le Sage and other equally celebrated authors wrote for this theatre.</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_23_23"></a><a href="#FNanchor_23_23"><span class="label">[23]</span></a> The Italian company invited to France by Cardinal Mazarin, from 1645 -to 1680, performed at the Hôtel du Petit Bourbon, the Théâtre du Palais -Royal, and the Hôtel de Bourgogne, alternately with the French comedians. -On the removal of the latter company to the Rue Quénégaud, the Italians -remained in possession of the Hôtel de Bourgogne until the performance of -the <i>False Prude</i>, in 1697, gave offence to Madame de Maintenon, and excited -the anger of Louis XIV., who suppressed the Italian troop, and ordered seals -to be placed on the doors of their theatre. Having obtained an audience to -remonstrate, the King refused to listen to them, saying, "You have no reason -to regret that Cardinal Mazarin induced you to quit your country. You came -to France on foot, and have gained enough to return in a carriage." -</p> -<p> -They returned to Paris in 1716, at the invitation of the Duke of Orleans, -and took the title of Comédiens du Régent.</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_24_24"></a><a href="#FNanchor_24_24"><span class="label">[24]</span></a> After the death of Molière, in 1673, transferred to the Rue Quénégaud. -In 1680, the King gave the company the title of "Comédiens du Roy," and -granted them a pension of 12,000 livres; but at the period at which this story -was written, they had established themselves, by an Order in Council, in a -tennis-court in the Rue des Fosses, St. Germain, where they erected a theatre -after the designs of D'Orbay, in which they remained till 1770.</p></div></div> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_327">[Pg 327]</a></span></p> - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_328"></a></span></p> - -<h2 class="no-break" id="THE_COUNT_DE_CAYLUS">THE COUNT DE CAYLUS.</h2> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_329">[Pg 329]</a></span></p> - - -<h3 class="no-break" id="PRINCESS_MINUTE_AND_KING">PRINCESS MINUTE AND KING<br /> -FLORIDOR.</h3> - - -<p>There was, once upon a time, a King and Queen who died -young, and left a very fine empire to the Princess, their only -daughter, who was then but thirteen years of age. She -imagined that she knew how to reign, and all her good -subjects persuaded themselves into the same idea, without -well knowing why: however, it is a profession which is not -without its difficulties.</p> - -<p>The King and Queen had at least the consolation, when -dying, of leaving the Princess, their daughter, under the -protection of a friendly fairy. She was called Mirdandenne, -and was a very good woman, but she added to the defect of -allowing herself to be prejudiced that of obstinacy in continuing -so. As for the little Princess, she was so very diminutive, -that they called her Minute.</p> - -<p>Thus was this fine kingdom governed by prejudice and -frivolity; for the Princess had never been corrected in the -taste which she showed for trifles; and it was for her that -all those little knickknacks were invented, with which we have -since been overwhelmed.</p> - -<p>This Princess exhibited the grandeur of her ideas by an -act which I will select from a thousand such. She would -not retain as General of her forces, nay, even exiled from her -Court, a veteran distinguished for the services which he had -rendered the State. And why? Because he had appeared -in her presence with a hat bound with silver when his coat -was laced with gold. She thought that a man who could be -guilty of such negligence at Court would be also, for the - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_330">[Pg 330]</a></span> -same reason, very capable of allowing himself to be surprised -by the enemy. The discernment which she flattered -herself as having shown in this instance, and the sound -judgment which the Fairy distinguished in her most frivolous -ideas, prove the existence of a delusion which would have -been enough to turn a stronger head.</p> - -<p>There was near this great country a little kingdom, so very -small that I hardly know what to compare it to. A Queen -Mother had for a long time reigned over it, in the name of -Prince Floridor; but this good Queen died. Floridor, who -was the most affectionate son possible, felt this loss acutely, -and always retained a feeling of gratitude for the obligations -he was under to her. One of the greatest was a perfect education—the -most perfect, the most rigid, as far as concerned -the body, which had rendered him as robust as active; and -the mildest with regard to his mind, to which she had given -both accomplishments and solidity. This young Prince was -handsome and well formed. He governed wisely, without -abusing his despotic power. His desires were well regulated—in -a word, he would have been an amiable person in private -life. His subjects adored him, and the strangers who visited -at the Court agreed that he would have conferred happiness -on the greatest empire. But one thing they were not aware -of was, that he owed to a charming Ant a great number of his -advantages. She had been attached to him from his infancy.</p> - -<p>At the death of the Queen the good Ant was his sole -consolation. He took no single step without going previously -to consult this Ant, in a wood in the palace gardens, -which she had chosen as her residence. He often abandoned -the Court and its pleasures to go and converse with her. No -weather prevented his presenting himself to her, and however -severe might be the winter, she always came out of her anthill, -which was the best regulated for an hundred miles -round, and gave him advice full of prudence and wisdom.</p> - -<p>You may easily have guessed that the pretty Ant of whom -we speak was a fairy. Her history, which dates back seven -thousand years, will be found brought down to the twenty-two -thousandth year of the world at the four hundred and -sixtieth page of the volume for that year. It would therefore -have been easy for this Ant to give the King, whom she -loved so well, several kingdoms—for Fairies dispose of them -at their own pleasure,—but the Ant was prudent, and prudence - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_331">[Pg 331]</a></span> -is always guided by justice. It was not that she did -not heartily desire the advancement of Floridor, but she -wished him to employ no means to obtain it but those that -might increase the true glory with the love of which she had -inspired his heart.</p> - -<p>The Ant was naturally patient: she waited for an opportunity -to bring to light the virtues of her pupil. The conduct -of Minute, and the prejudice of Mirdandenne, soon furnished -her with one. They were informed that the flame of revolt -was kindled in the mighty kingdom of Minute. When this -news had been confirmed by all the newspapers, the good fairy -Ant desired King Floridor to set out, attended by a simple -groom, to assist the Queen, his neighbour. She gave him, at -parting, nothing but a common sparrow, a little knife, which -is usually called a <i>jambette</i>,<a id="FNanchor_25_25"></a><a href="#Footnote_25_25" class="fnanchor">[25]</a> and a walnut-shell. "My gifts," -said she, "appear mean; but make yourself easy respecting -them. They will be of service in your need, and I hope you -will be satisfied with them." He readily assured her of that -confidence which her former favours had rendered it but just -that he should place in her, and having bidden her tenderly -farewell, he set out on his journey; every inhabitant of his -little kingdom regretting his departure as much as if he had -been a brother, a son, or a bosom friend.</p> - -<p>He arrived in the capital of Queen Minute's dominions; -he found it in a state of commotion, as they had heard that -a neighbouring king was advancing rapidly, followed by a -terrible army. He was coming with the design of seizing the -kingdom. Floridor learnt that the Queen had retired to a -delightful residence she possessed near the capital, and in -which she had collected all sorts of brilliant gewgaws. She -had, however, a motive for this retirement: she wished to -consider seriously and decide, without being interrupted, -whether the troops which the Fairy had ordered to be levied -to oppose the usurper should wear blue or white cockades. -The Queen was, notwithstanding, at this time twenty years -of age. King Floridor having ascertained the road which led -to this country-house, proceeded there with all speed. His -handsome face prejudiced Mirdandenne in his favour. The -compliments which he paid to the Queen and her only -increased the good opinion which his first appearance had -inspired her with, and the offer of his services was all the -better received as the state was in a very embarrassed situation. -Minute appeared to Floridor to be charming.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_332">[Pg 332]</a></span></p> - -<p>From -that moment the King fell desperately in love. The zeal and -alacrity always inseparable from that passion were displayed -in his words and actions, and shone in his eyes; and it was -with extreme care he investigated the existing position of -affairs. He wished to have recourse to the powers of Fairyland; -but the blind prejudice of Mirdandenne had induced -her long before to give her wand to Minute, with the idea of -amusing her, and that Princess had made such a prodigal use -of it, that it was worn out, and had neither strength nor -virtue, particularly for important things. Floridor returned -to the capital, but found there neither fortifications nor -munitions of war.</p> - -<p>Meanwhile the invader advanced nearer and nearer. Floridor -saw only a rival in the person of the hostile king; and finding -no other resource, he was obliged to propose to the Queen to -take flight, offering her with pride an asylum in his dominions. -Prudence suggested to him a line of conduct which his courage -condemned; but it was necessary to save an unhappy sovereign, -and he only made this proposition on condition of his being -allowed to return and expose himself to every danger, and -use every effort to restore to the Queen a throne which so -legitimately belonged to her, the moment he had placed -her person in safety in his little kingdom. Mirdandenne, -convinced by all the King represented to her, accepted the -proposition; but the Queen only consented to depart when -they promised her that the horse she was to ride should have -a rose-coloured harness, and Floridor had agreed to present her -with the sparrow which the fairy Ant had given him on his -leaving her. The bird was soon given, but though the departure -was urgent, they had to wait till a harness such as -the Queen wished for could be procured from the city. It -came at length, and Floridor and Minute, with no other suite -but Mirdandenne, took the road to the King's dominions. -Floridor was enchanted at being allowed to conduct Minute -to his own kingdom, and at believing himself to be useful -to her he adored. To be in love and a traveller are two -things which make people exceedingly talkative. Floridor, -in announcing the limited extent of his states, at which he -sometimes blushed, could not refrain from speaking of the -obligations he owed to the good Ant. When he came, however, - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_333">[Pg 333]</a></span> -to the details of their parting, the walnut, the little -knife, and the sparrow appeared to the Queen very singular -presents. She was very anxious to see the walnut: the King -gave it to her without any scruples. As soon as it was in -her hand, she cried, "Heavens, what do I hear!" She put -her ear to it with the utmost attention, and then said, with -surprise mingled with curiosity, "I hear very distinctly little -voices of men, neighing of horses, trumpets, in short, a singular -murmur. This is the prettiest thing in the world!" she -exclaimed. While the King was himself occupied by that which -amused her whom he loved, he perceived the scouts of the -revolted army close upon them, and consequently ready to take -them prisoners. At this perilous moment, by an involuntary -movement, he broke the walnut, and out of it he saw issue -thirty thousand effective men, horse, foot, and dragoons,<a id="FNanchor_26_26"></a><a href="#Footnote_26_26" class="fnanchor">[26]</a> with -artillery and all the necessary munitions of war. He placed himself -at their head, and showing a bold front to the enemy, he -made, without ever striking a blow, the most beautiful retreat -in the world; he took possession in this way of the mountains -he found on his road, and saved the Queen from the hands of -her rebellious subjects. After this fine military manœuvre, -which was not accomplished without much fatigue, and alarm -at the danger the Queen had incurred, they halted several -days on the mountain; but as all the country was up in arms, -they perceived, on recommencing their march, another army, -much more numerous than that which they had escaped, and -which it would have been the height of rashness to give -battle to. In this cruel situation, the Queen asked for the -little knife which the Ant had given to him, to use for some -trifling purpose; but finding that it did not cut to her fancy, -she threw it away, saying, "There's a pleasant knife!" The -moment it touched the ground it made a considerable hole in -it. The King was struck with the talent of his <i>jambette</i>, -and immediately cut with it deep entrenchments all round -the mountain, which rendered their position impregnable.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_334">[Pg 334]</a></span></p> - -<p>When this operation was finished, which only occupied him -the time necessary to make the circuit, the sparrow he had -presented to Minute took wing, and flew to the summit of -the mountain; then flapping its wings, it cried, in a terrible -voice, "Leave me alone to deal with them; you are about to -see a fine game. Let all descend the mountain, march upon -the enemy, and fear nothing." He was instantly obeyed, and -the sparrow raised the mountain as easily as if it had been a -straw, and traversing the air with it, he let it fall upon the -army of the enemy, crushing, no doubt, the greater part of -them; the rest took flight and left the passage free. The -King, who was solely occupied with the desire of seeing the -Queen in safety, was anxious to put the horses to their speed; -but as the march of an army is necessarily slow, he would -have been glad if it had re-entered the walnut-shell. Hardly -had he formed the wish when it actually did so. He put it -in his pocket, and they arrived in the little kingdom, where -the good Ant received them with every mark of sincere -friendship.</p> - -<p>When Floridor had made every arrangement for the accommodation -of Minute, and was satisfied that she could want -for nothing in the palace, he began to think of his departure, -and he did so more cheerfully as the good Ant assured him -of her attention to all that concerned the Queen. During the -journey he had lately performed, and the short time he had -passed in his own dominions, he had taken the opportunity -of declaring his passion to Minute, which she had been kind -enough to approve. At length he was obliged to leave her; -their adieus were tender, and Floridor set out with no other -assistance but that of a letter from Minute, addressed to her -good and faithful subjects, in which she required them to obey -the commands of King Floridor implicitly.</p> - -<p>The good Ant neither gave him the walnut nor the little knife -which he had returned to her when he came back: the Queen -only begged him to accept from her hand the sparrow which -he had given her, praying that he would always carry it about -with him, as well as a scarf of <i>nonpareille</i><a id="FNanchor_27_27"></a><a href="#Footnote_27_27" class="fnanchor">[27]</a> which she had herself -made for him. The King followed exactly the same road that -he had taken in conducting the Queen, not only because lovers -are gratified by seeing again the places which are associated -in their memories with those whom they love, but because it -was also the shortest cut.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_335">[Pg 335]</a></span></p> - -<p>When he was near the transplanted -mountain, the sparrow, rising in the air, took it up with the -same facility as before, and carried it back to the spot which it -had formerly occupied. The sparrow then in that terrible voice -which he knew how to assume when he wished, said to those -whom he found shut up under the mountain, "Be faithful to -Minute, and do what King Floridor shall command you in her -name." This singular sparrow then disappeared.</p> - -<p>The mountain, it seems, was hollow, so those who had -found themselves enclosed in it were as if under a bell; they -had wanted for nothing during the time of their imprisonment; -all the soldiers and officers who saw the light of day -again with the utmost pleasure, ran in crowds to Floridor, -whose handsome countenance interested them, and looking -upon him as a demi-god, they were ready to worship him. -The King, moved by their obedience and the new vows of -fidelity to the lawful Queen, which they took at his hands, -received their respects but not their adoration, after having -shown them the letter with which he was charged. He made -the army pass in review, and chose from it fifty thousand of -the finest men, and of those to whose devotion a general's -success is mostly due. He established in his new army a -very strict discipline, of which he was both the author and example; -and it was with these troops that he became invincible—that -he defied the countless forces of the usurper, whom he -slew with his own hand in one of the last battles, and whose -death restored to Minute a kingdom which she had entirely -lost. Floridor marched through all the provinces of this -great state, and re-established the authority of Minute, -whom he then hastened to rejoin.</p> - -<p>But what a change did he find in the character and mind -of this lovely Queen? The counsels of the good Ant, and, -above all, Love, and the wish to please and be worthy of -Floridor, had completely corrected her only fault. She was -ashamed of having always done little things with great -assistance, whilst her lover had done such great things with -so little.</p> - -<p class="pmb3">They married, and lived happily ever after.</p> - - -<p class="break" /> -<div class="footnotes"><b>FOOTNOTES:</b> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_25_25"></a><a href="#FNanchor_25_25"><span class="label">[25]</span></a> A clasp or folding-knife.</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_26_26"></a><a href="#FNanchor_26_26"><span class="label">[26]</span></a> "<i>Tant Cavalerie, infanterie que dragons</i>" "Horse, foot, and dragoons," -was, within my recollection, a familiar phrase expressive of any overpowering -force or number. Dragoons were first raised in France by the Marshal de -Brisac in 1600, and being trained to fight both on foot and horseback, were -frequently in the seventeenth century thus distinguished from the general -cavalry and infantry.</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_27_27"></a><a href="#FNanchor_27_27"><span class="label">[27]</span></a> Narrow ribbon used to embroider silk, satin, or velvet with, a favourite -work of ladies in the last century; but, looking at the character of Minute, it -is probable the author meant a scarf composed of nothing but the ribbon -itself.</p></div></div> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_336">[Pg 336]</a></span></p> - - -<h3 class="no-break" id="THE_IMPOSSIBLE_ENCHANTMENT">THE IMPOSSIBLE ENCHANTMENT.</h3> - - -<p>Once upon a time there was a King who was very much -beloved by his subjects, and who was equally fond of them. -This Monarch had a great repugnance to marriage, and what -was still more astonishing, love had never made the slightest -impression on his heart. His subjects, however, pressed so -strongly upon him the necessity of providing for the succession -to the throne, that the good King finally consented to -their request. But as no woman he had as yet seen, had -awakened in him the faintest inclination to marry her, he -resolved to seek in foreign lands that which his own had -failed to present him with, and despite the severe and satirical -remarks of all his countrywomen, both handsome and -ugly, he set out on his travels, after having duly provided for -the maintenance of order and tranquillity in his dominions. -He would take no one with him but a single equerry, a very -sensible man, but not particularly brilliant. Such companions -are not always the worst upon a journey.</p> - -<p class="pmb1">The King roamed in vain through several kingdoms, using -all his best endeavours to fall in love; but his time not being -come, he retraced his road to his own dominions, after two -years' absence and fatigue, in the same state of indifference as -he left them.</p> - -<div class="figcenter"> - <img src="images/i008.jpg" alt="" /> - <p class="center font08">Impossible Enchantment.—P. 337.</p> -</div> -<p class="pmb2" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_337">[Pg 337]</a></span></p> - -<p>It happened, however, that in traversing a forest he heard -a most fearful squalling of cats. The worthy equerry did not -know what to think of such a commencement of an adventure. -All the stories of sorcerers that he had ever seen came into his -head. As to the King, he was unmoved by it. Courage and -curiosity combined to induce him to wait and see what would -follow this strange and disagreeable interruption. The noise -coming nearer and nearer, they at length saw an hundred -Spanish cats rush by them through the Forest. You might -have covered them all with a cloak, so well did they run -together and so perfectly were they on the scent. They were -closely followed by two of the largest monkeys that ever were -seen. They were dressed in amaranth-coloured coats. Their -boots were the prettiest and best made in the world. They -were mounted on two superb English bull-dogs, and rode at -full speed, blowing little toy-trumpets. The King, surprised -at such a sight, gazed at them with great attention, when a -score of tiny dwarfs appeared, some mounted on lynxes and -leading relays of them, others on foot with cats in couples. -They were dressed in amaranth like the huntsmen, which -colour seemed to be the livery of the equipage. A moment -afterwards he perceived a young female as remarkable for her -beauty as for the proud air with which she rode a large tiger, -whose paces were admirable.</p> - -<p>She passed the King full gallop, without stopping or even -saluting him; but though she hardly looked at him, he was -enchanted with her, and his heart was gone like a flash of -lightning.</p> - -<p>All in agitation, he perceived a dwarf who had lagged -behind the rest of the company. He addressed him with all -that eagerness which the curiosity of love to obtain some -information respecting the object of its admiration would -naturally occasion. The dwarf informed him that the lady -he had just seen was the Princess Mutine, daughter of King -Prudent, in whose dominions they were at that moment. -He told him, also, that the Princess was exceedingly fond of -the chase, and that the pack he had seen pass was what she -hunted rabbits with. The King asked nothing further, -except the nearest road to the Court of King Prudent. The -dwarf pointed it out to him, and spurred on his lynx to -rejoin the hunt, and the King, with the impatience of a new-born -passion, gave the spurs to his horse, and in less than two -hours found himself in the capital of King Prudent's dominions. -He was presented to the King and Queen, who -received him with open arms, the more graciously on learning -his name and that of his empire.</p> - -<p>The beautiful Mutine returned from the chase shortly after - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_338">[Pg 338]</a></span> -this presentation. Hearing that the Princess had killed two -rabbits, he ventured to compliment her on so fine a day's -sport, but the Princess made no reply. He was rather -surprised at her silence, but he was still more so when he -observed that during supper she was equally taciturn. He -noticed only that there were moments when she appeared -about to say something, but that either King Prudent or the -Queen (who never drank at the same time) immediately -commenced speaking. This silence, however, did not prevent -the increase of his passion for Mutine. The King retired to -the handsome apartment which had been assigned to him, -and his worthy Equerry did not appear overjoyed when he -found his royal master so deeply in love. He did not even -conceal from him that he was sorry for it. "And why are -you sorry?" inquired the King. "The Princess is so beautiful; -surely she is all I could desire." "She is beautiful, I -admit," replied the Equerry. "But to be happy, something -is required besides beauty. Pardon me, sire, but there is -something harsh in the expression of her features." "It is -pride," said the King, "and very becoming in so beautiful a -woman." "Pride or ill-nature, whichever you please; but the -taste she exhibits in her amusements, and her choice of so -many mischievous animals, are to my mind convincing proofs -of a cruel disposition. Moreover, the care that is taken to -prevent her speaking is to me a very suspicious circumstance. -The King, her father, is not called Prudent for nothing. I -don't fancy even her own name of Mutine. It appears to me -only a softening down or a diminutive of the appellation -which would truly be applied to her from the impression -she has made on me. For you know better than I do, that -it is too common a practice to gloss over the faults of persons -of her rank."</p> - -<p>The observations of the worthy Equerry were sensible -enough, but as objections only increase love in the hearts of -all men, and particularly in those of kings, who dislike being -contradicted, this monarch the very next morning demanded -the hand of the Princess in marriage. As the previous indifference -of the King had become notorious, the triumph of -the charms of Mutine was complete. Her hand was accorded -to him—but on two conditions. The first, that the marriage -should take place the very next morning; the second, that he - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_339">[Pg 339]</a></span> -should not speak to the Princess until she was his wife. On -this occasion the pretext for her silence was a solemn vow -she had taken in consequence of—the first thing that came -into their heads: and the enamoured King only saw in this -circumstance the proof of a truly religious feeling. Those -great precautions formed a new theme for the arguments of -the Equerry, but they made no more impression than the -former did. The King, after listening to them, closed the -conversation by saying, "It has cost me a great deal of -trouble to fall in love. I have done so at last. What the -deuce wouldst thou have? I mean to remain in love."</p> - -<p>The rest of that day and all the following was passed in -dancing and feasting. The Princess was present, and took -her part in all the entertainments without uttering a single -word, and the first he heard her pronounce was the fatal -"Yes," which bound her to him for life. As soon as she -was married she threw off all restraint, and the first day did -not pass without her having very liberally distributed a volley -of abuse and a host of impertinences amongst her maids of -honour. In short, the mildest expressions she made use of in -return for the most particular services were characterized by -rudeness and ill-temper. Even the King, her husband, was -not exempted from this sort of language; but as he was very -much in love, and, moreover, a good-natured man, he bore it -all patiently.</p> - -<p>A few days after their marriage the newly-wedded pair -took the road to their own kingdom, and Mutine's departure -was not regretted by any one in her Father's. The cordial -reception King Prudent had always given to foreigners had -no other motive than the hope of such a love as his daughter's -charms had succeeded in inspiring—a passion which was too -strong to pause for a better acquaintance with her mind and -character.</p> - -<p>The worthy Equerry had had too much reason for his remonstrances, -and the King perceived it too late. All the time -the new Queen was on the road she filled the hearts of her -attendants with grief, anger, and despair. But once arrived -in her kingdom, her ill-temper and ill-nature were redoubled. -By the time she had been a month on her throne her reputation -was perfect. She was acknowledged unanimously as -the worst Queen in the world.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_340">[Pg 340]</a></span></p> - -<p>One day that she was taking an airing on horseback in a -wood near the Palace, she perceived an old woman walking in -the high road. She was very simply dressed. This good -woman having made her the best curtsey she could, continued -her route; but the Queen, who was only waiting for an occasion -to give vent to her ill-humour, bade one of her pages -run after the old woman, and bring her back. As soon as -she was in her presence she said, "Thou art very impertinent -to make me no lower a curtsey! Dost thou not know I am -the Queen? I am more than half inclined to order my people -to give thee an hundred lashes with their stirrup-leathers." -"Madam," said the old woman, "I never knew exactly what -difference there was in curtseys. It is clear I had no intention -of being disrespectful." "How!" exclaimed the Queen; -"does she dare to answer me? Tie her instantly to the tail -of my horse. I will take her with speed to the best dancing-master -in the city, and he shall teach her how to make me a -curtsey."</p> - -<p>The old woman begged for mercy whilst they tied her, but -in vain. She even boasted of the protection of the Fairies. -The Queen heeded the warning as little as the prayer. "I -care for them as little as I do for thee," she exclaimed, "and -wert thou even thyself a Fairy, I would serve thee the same -way."</p> - -<p>The old woman suffered herself patiently to be fastened to -the tail of the horse; but the instant the Queen would have -given him the spur, he became motionless. In vain she endeavoured -to stick the rowels into his side. He had become -a horse of bronze. The cords which fastened the old woman -changed at the same moment to garlands of flowers, and the -old woman herself suddenly appeared eight feet high. Then -fixing on Mutine her fiery and disdainful eyes, she said to her, -"Wicked woman! unworthy of the royal title thou bearest, -I desired to judge myself if thou didst deserve the bad character -they give thee in the world. I am satisfied thou dost, -and thou shalt soon see whether the fairies are as little to be -feared as thou fanciest." So saying, the Fairy Paisible (for -it was she herself) whistled through her fingers, and a chariot -was seen advancing, drawn by six of the most beautiful -ostriches in the world, and in this chariot they recognised the -Fairy Grave, looking more grave even than her name. She was - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_341">[Pg 341]</a></span> -at that time the Elder of the Fairies, and presided in all cases -affecting the Fairy community. Her escort was composed of -a dozen other Fairies, mounted on crop-tailed dragons. -Notwithstanding her astonishment at the appearance of the -Fairies, Queen Mutine retained the proud and malevolent -expression which was so natural to her.</p> - -<p>When this brilliant company had descended and dismounted, -the Fairy Paisible related her adventure to them. The Fairy -Grave, who was very severe in the execution of her office, -approved of Paisible's conduct, and then gave it as her opinion -that the Queen should be transformed into the same metal as -her horse; but the Fairy Paisible objected to this, and with -unequalled generosity, exerted herself to moderate all the -rigorous measures that were suggested for the punishment of -the Queen.</p> - -<p>At length, thanks to the kind Fairy, she was condemned -only to be her slave until she was confined, for I had forgotten -to tell you that she was expecting to become a mother. This -sentence, which was pronounced in full court, decreed that, on -her recovery, the Queen should be permitted to return to her -husband, and that the infant she had given birth to should -remain the slave of the Fairy in her place.</p> - -<p>They were polite enough to announce to the King the -sentence that had been passed on his wife. He was compelled -to give his assent to it. What could the worthy Prince -have done, supposing he had objected?</p> - -<p>After this act of justice, the Fairies returned each one to -her own affairs. Paisible waited an instant the arrival of -her equipage, which she had sent for. It was a little car -made of various coloured bugles, drawn by six hinds, white as -snow, with caparisons of green satin, embroidered with gold. -One touch of her wand changed the Queen's dress into -the habit of a slave. In this attire she was made to mount -an obstinate mule, and to follow, at a hard trot, the car of the -Fairy.</p> - -<p>After an hour's jolting, the Queen arrived at Paisible's -mansion. As you may easily believe, she was in great affliction, -but her pride prevented her from shedding a single tear. -The Fairy sent her to work in the kitchen, after giving her -the name of Furieuse, that of Mutine being too gentle for -the wickedness she was inclined to.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_342">[Pg 342]</a></span></p> - -<p>"Furieuse," said the Fairy Paisible, "I have saved your -life, and perhaps conscience may hereafter reproach me for it. -I will not give you any heavy work to do, out of compassion -for the unborn infant, who you are aware is to become my -slave. I will, therefore, remove you from the kitchen, and -set you only the task of sweeping my apartment, and combing -my little dog Christine." Furieuse knew there was no opposition -to be made to these commands. She took, therefore, -the sensible course of doing exactly as she was bid as long as -she was able.</p> - -<p>After some time, she gave birth to a Princess, as lovely -as day; and when her health was re-established, the Fairy -lectured her severely respecting her past life, exacted from her -a promise to behave better in future, and sent her back to the -King her husband. One may imagine, from the kindness shown -by the Fairy Paisible to so wicked a woman, what affectionate -care she would take of the young Princess who was left in -her hands. She soon perfectly doated on her, and determined -to have her endowed by two fairies besides herself. She was -a long time deciding on the two godmothers she should select, -for she feared that the resentment they all felt against the -mother might be extended to the child. At length, she -thought that the Fairies Divertisante and Eveillée were -amongst the best natured of them, and invited them accordingly. -They arrived in a Berlin,<a id="FNanchor_28_28"></a><a href="#Footnote_28_28" class="fnanchor">[28]</a> made of Italian flowers, -drawn by six grey ponies with beautiful flame-coloured manes. -Eveillée's robe was composed of parrots' feathers, and her -hair was dressed en chien fou.<a id="FNanchor_29_29"></a><a href="#Footnote_29_29" class="fnanchor">[29]</a> The Fairy Divertisante had -a robe of cameleon's skin, which made her appear alternately -in every imaginable colour.</p> - -<p>Paisible gave them both a capital reception, and to insure -their good offices, I have been confidently informed, that -(during the excellent supper they sat down to) she managed -to make them just merry enough with wine. Having taken -this wise precaution, she had the lovely infant brought to -them. It was in a cradle of rock crystal, and swathed in -clothes of scarlet embroidered with gold; but its beauty was -an hundred times more brilliant than its apparel.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_343">[Pg 343]</a></span></p> - -<p>The young Princess smiled at the Fairies, and made little -attempts to kiss them, which so pleased them that they -determined to place her, as far as it laid in their power, beyond -the reach of the anger of their Elders. They began by giving -her the name of Galantine.</p> - -<p>The Fairy Paisible then said to them, "You know that -the punishments we Fairies usually inflict, consist in changing -beauty to ugliness, intellect to imbecility, and in many cases -resorting to transformation. Now, as it is impossible for us -to endow her with more than one gift each, my advice is that -one of you should bestow upon her beauty, the other intelligence, -and that I, for my part, should render it impossible -for any one to change her form."</p> - -<p>This advice was adopted, and followed upon the spot. As -soon as Galantine was endowed, the two Fairies took their -leave, and Paisible gave all her attention to the education of -the little Princess. Never was such attention so well rewarded, -for at four years of age her grace and beauty had -already begun to make a noise in the world. In fact, they -made too much noise, for the circumstances of the case having -been reported to the Council of Fairies, Paisible, one morning, -saw the Fairy Grave enter the court-yard of the Palace, -mounted on a lion. She wore a long robe, very full, and -consequently very much plaited, of sky-blue colour, and on -her head a square cap of gold brocade.</p> - -<p>Paisible recognised her with as much anxiety as vexation, -for her dress and the animal she rode proved that she came -to promulgate some decree: but when she perceived that she -was followed by the Fairy Rèveuse, mounted on a unicorn, -and dressed in black morocco, faced with changeable taffeta, -and wearing also a square cap, she no longer doubted that this -visit had some very serious object.</p> - -<p>In short, Fairy Grave, opening the business, said to her, -"I am much surprised at the conduct you have pursued -towards Mutine. It is in the name of the whole body of -Fairies, whom she has insulted, that I come to reprimand -you. You were at liberty to forgive her offences to yourself, -but you had no right to pardon her for those which she had - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_344">[Pg 344]</a></span> -committed against the entire community. Nevertheless, you -treated her with mildness and kindness during the time she -resided with you. I therefore come to do strict justice, and -punish an innocent child for the acts of a guilty mother. -You have endowed her with beauty and intelligence, and you -have also raised an obstacle against her transformation; but -though I cannot deprive her of the gifts you have bestowed -upon her, I know how to prevent her deriving any advantage -from them as long as she lives. She shall never be able to -get out of an enchanted prison which I am about to build -for her, until she shall find herself in the arms of a lover -who is beloved by her. It is my business to take care that -such an event shall never occur."</p> - -<p>The enchantment consisted of a tower of great height and -size, built of shells of all colours, in the middle of the sea. -On the lowest floor there was a great bath-room, into which -the water could be admitted at pleasure. The bath was -surrounded by steps and slabs, on which you could walk with -dry feet. The first floor was devoted to the apartment of -the Princess, and it was really a magnificent affair. The -second was divided into several rooms. In one you saw a -fine library, in another a wardrobe full of beautiful linen and -superb dresses for all ages, each more splendid than the other. -A third was appropriated to music, a fourth was entirely -filled with the most agreeable wines and liqueurs, and in the -last (which was the largest of all), nothing was to be seen but -wet and dry sweetmeats, and preserves of every description, -and all sorts of pies and patties, which by the power of the -enchantment were kept always as warm as they were when -first taken out of the oven. The tower was terminated by a -platform on which there was a garden laid out full of the -finest flowers, which were renewed and succeeded each other -unceasingly. In this garden was also seen a fruit tree of each -sort, on which as fast as you gathered one fruit another -appeared in its place. This lovely spot was ornamented by -green arbours, rendered delicious by the shade and fragrance -of the flowering shrubs that formed them, and the songs of -the thousand birds that frequented them.</p> - -<p>When the Fairies had placed Galantine in the tower, with -a governess named Bonnette, they remounted the whale that -had taken them there, and retiring a certain distance from - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_345">[Pg 345]</a></span> -this grand edifice, Fairy Grave, by a tap of her wand on the -water, assembled two thousand of the most ferocious sharks<a id="FNanchor_30_30"></a><a href="#Footnote_30_30" class="fnanchor">[30]</a> -in the ocean, and ordered them to keep strict watch around -the tower, and tear in pieces every mortal who should be -rash enough to approach it; but as ships are not much -afraid of sharks, she also sent for a quantity of remoras,<a id="FNanchor_31_31"></a><a href="#Footnote_31_31" class="fnanchor">[31]</a> -and commanded them to form an advanced guard, and stop, -without exception, every vessel that by design or accident -shaped its course in that direction.</p> - -<p>Fairy Grave felt so fatigued with having done so much in -so short a time, that she requested Fairy Rèveuse to fly to -the top of the tower and enchant the air about it so powerfully -and completely that not even a bird should be able to -go near it. The Fairy obeyed; but as she was an exceedingly -absent being, she forgot some of the necessary ceremonies, -and made some few mistakes. If the enchantment of the -water had not been more perfect than that of the air, the -safe keeping of Galantine, which they took so much trouble -about, would have been greatly endangered by sea.</p> - -<p>The good governess occupied every instant of her time in -the proper education of Galantine; and although she looked -upon all the accomplishments that the Princess acquired as -completely thrown away on one who would never have an -opportunity of displaying them to the world, she neglected -nothing that could tend to the improvement of her mind and -the cultivation of her talents, in all imaginable arts and -sciences.</p> - -<p>When the Princess had attained the age of twelve she -appeared to the governess a perfect prodigy. All the fine -qualities she discovered in her caused her deeply to deplore -the sad fate imposed on so amiable a person. Galantine, who -knew nothing about herself, perceiving her one day more -melancholy than usual, entreated to know the reason of it so -urgently, that Bonnette related to her all her own history -and that of the Queen her mother.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_346">[Pg 346]</a></span></p> - -<p>Galantine was thunderstruck at this recital. "I had never -before," she exclaimed, "reflected on my position. I fancied -that when I was old enough I should leave this retreat: but -if I am condemned never to do so, of what value is life to -me? Better surely would it be for me to die." The Princess, -after this burst of grief, remained silent for some time, -then added, "You say, my dear Bonnette, that the spell -which is cast upon me cannot be broken until I shall love -some one who loves me. Is this so difficult a matter? I -don't know what it may be, but I would endure anything -that could assist to release me from this prison." Bonnette -could not help smiling at the simplicity of Galantine, and -then answered, "To love and to be beloved, it is necessary -that some young Prince should enter this tower to see and -be seen by you, and that he should be one who intends to -marry you, otherwise his appearance here would not be correct; -now you know that it is not possible for any man to approach -these walls. Have I not told you all the precautions that -have been taken by sea and by sky. You must, therefore, -my dear Galantine, make up your mind to pass your days in -this solitude."</p> - -<p>This conversation produced a great change in the Princess. -No amusements had charms for her any longer. Her melancholy -became excessive. She passed her days in weeping and -in devising plans to escape from the tower.</p> - -<p>One day that the Princess was sitting in her balcony, she -saw an extraordinary figure emerge from the water. She -called Bonnette immediately to come and observe it. It had -the appearance of a man with a bluish countenance, and ill-curled -hair of a sea-green colour. He approached the tower, -and the sharks made no opposition to his progress. "In -my opinion," said the Governess, "it is a Mer-man." "A -man do you say," exclaimed Galantine; "let us go down to -the gate of the tower, we shall see him better there." As -soon as they reached the gate, the Mer-man stopped to gaze -on the Princess, and at her sight made several signs of admiration. -He said something to her in a very hoarse voice; but -as he found his language was not understood, he had recourse -again to signs. He had in his hand a little rush-basket filled -with the rarest shells. He presented it to the Princess, who -took it, and in her turn made signs to thank him; but as - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_347">[Pg 347]</a></span> -night was coming on she retired, and the Mer-man plunged -under water.</p> - -<p>As soon as Galantine had reached her own apartment, -she said to her Governess, sorrowfully, "I think that man -frightful. Why did the villainous sharks who guard me -allow such an ugly man to pass them, in preference to one -who was better looking? for I suppose they are not all like -him." "Not any like him, I should say," replied Bonnette; -"and as to the sharks allowing him to pass, I presume that, -being inhabitants of the same element, they do not harm -each other. They may even be his relations, or at least -friends."</p> - -<p>A few days after this first adventure, Bonnette and Galantine -were attracted to one of the windows of the tower by -what appeared to them a singular sort of music, and which -indeed proved to be so. There was the same Mer-man that they -had already seen, who, always up to his waist in the water, -and his head covered with reeds, blew with all his might a -species of conch-shell, the sound of which was something like -that of our ancient goat's horns. The Princess again descended -to the gate of the tower, and courteously accepted the coral -and other marine curiosities which he presented to her. After -this second visit, he came every day under the windows of the -Princess, diving and grimacing, or playing on the charming -instrument I have described to you. Galantine contented -herself with curtseying to him in the balcony; but no longer -came down-stairs, notwithstanding the signs by which the -Mer-man implored her.</p> - -<p>Some days afterwards, the Princess saw him appear in company -with another of his species of the other sex. Her hair -was dressed with much taste, and her voice was charming.</p> - -<p>This addition to the company induced Galantine and -Bonnette to descend again to the gate of the tower. They -were much surprised when the lady (whom they now saw for -the first time) after having tried several languages, spoke to -them in their own, and complimented Galantine on her beauty. -She perceived that the basement story, or bath-room, of which -I have spoken, was open and full of water. "Here," said she, -"is a place made expressly for our reception; for it is impossible -for us to live entirely out of our element." She immediately -entered, and reclined as one does in a bath, and her - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_348">[Pg 348]</a></span> -brother (for she was the sister of the Mer-man) placed himself -beside her in a similar attitude. The Princess and her governess -sat down on the steps which were continued round the -apartment.</p> - -<p>"I suspect, madam," said the Syren, "that you have -abandoned your residence on the earth in consequence of -being beset by crowds of lovers. If that be really the cause -of your retirement, you will not obtain your object here; for -my brother is already dying for love of you, and when the -inhabitants of our great city have perceived you, he will certainly -have them all for his rivals."</p> - -<p>The brother, who imagined she was speaking of him, at that -moment made signs of assent with his head and his hands, and -continued to do so when she was not speaking of him at all.</p> - -<p>The Syren expressed to her the regret of her brother at not -being able to make himself understood. "I am his interpreter," -she continued, "thanks to the languages which I -was taught by a fairy." "You have fairies, then, also amongst -you?" said Galantine, accompanying the question with a -heavy sigh. "Yes, madam," replied the Syren, "we have -a few; but, if I am not deceived, you have suffered some -injuries from those who inhabit the earth? At least the sigh -which escaped you would justify me in so believing." The -Princess, who had not been enjoined secresy on the subject, -recounted to the Syren all that Bonnette had told her.</p> - -<p>"You are much to be pitied," said the Syren, when Galantine -had finished her story. "Nevertheless your misfortunes -may not be without a remedy; but it is time to terminate -my first visit." The Princess, delighted at the hope she held -out to her, said a thousand kind things to her, and they -separated with a promise to see one another frequently.</p> - -<p>The Princess appeared charmed with this adventure. -Independently of the hope the Syren had inspired her with, -it was much to have found some one with whom it was possible -to enjoy a little society. "We shall make the acquaintance," -said she to her governess, "of several of these Mer-men, -and they may not all be as hideous as the first we have seen. -At any rate we shall not be always alone." "Good heavens," -said Bonnette; "how easily young people do flatter themselves. -I tell you I am afraid of those folks. But what say you," -continued she, "to the handsome lover of whom you have made - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_349">[Pg 349]</a></span> -a conquest?" "I say that I shall never love him," replied -the Princess, "and that he is exceedingly disagreeable to me; -but," pursued she, "I would fain discover if he cannot, by -means of his relative the Fairy Marine, contrive to do me -some service." "I repeat to you," insisted Bonnette, "that -those odd-coloured faces and great fish-tails are alarming." But -Galantine being younger, was consequently bolder and less -prudent.</p> - -<p>The Syren came to see her several times, and always talked -to her of her brother's affection; the Princess, constantly occupied -by her ideas of escaping from prison, encouraged the -conversation, and at length induced the Syren to promise she -would bring the Fairy Marine to pay her an early visit, and -that she would instruct her what to do.</p> - -<p>The Fairy came with the Syren the very next morning; -the Princess received her as her liberator. Some short time -after her arrival she requested Galantine to show her over -the Tower, and to take a turn with her in the garden, for -(with the assistance of two crutches) she could manage to -walk about, and as she was a Fairy, she was able to remain -out of the water as long as she pleased, only it was necessary -for her to moisten her forehead occasionally, for which purpose -she always carried a little silver fountain suspended from her -girdle.</p> - -<p>Galantine acceded to the request of the Fairy, and Bonnette -remained in the hall to entertain the rest of the company. -When the Fairy and the Princess had entered the garden, the -former said, "Let us lose no time. Let us see if there is -anything I can do to serve you." Galantine told her all her -history, not omitting the smallest details; and the Fairy -then said to her, "I can do nothing for you, my dear -Princess, on the land, my power does not extend beyond my -own element; but you have a resource, and one in which I -can assist you with all the art I possess. If you will do -Gluatin the honour to marry him, an honour which he most -ardently aspires to, you can come and live with us. I will -teach you in a moment to dive and to swim as well as we do. -I will harden your skin without blemishing its whiteness, and -so prepare it, that the coldness of the water, in lieu of inconveniencing -you, shall give you the greatest pleasure. My -cousin," added she, "is, as you may suppose, one of the best - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_350">[Pg 350]</a></span> -matches in the ocean, and I will do so much for him in consideration -of your alliance that nothing shall have ever -equalled your mutual happiness."</p> - -<p>The Fairy spoke with so much fervour, that the Princess -hesitated to refuse, and requested a few days to consider. As -they were about to rejoin the company, they perceived a -vessel in the distance. The Princess had never before seen -one so distinctly, as none had ever ventured to come so near -the Tower. They could easily distinguish on the deck of this -ship a young man reclining under a magnificent pavilion, and -who appeared to be very attentively surveying the Tower by -means of a telescope; but the distance was still too great for -them to see anything more.</p> - -<p>The vessel beginning to recede, Galantine and the Fairy -returned to the company, the latter much pleased at the -progress of her negotiation. She told the Princess, on leaving -her, that she should shortly come again to know her -answer.</p> - -<p>As soon as the Fairy was gone, Galantine related to her -governess all that had passed between them. She was very -sorry to see that her pupil was half inclined to yield to the -Fairy's persuasions. She was dreadfully afraid of being compelled -in her declining years to become an old Syren herself. -To avert all the misfortunes she foresaw, she hit upon the -following idea. As she could paint miniatures to perfection, -she set to work, and by the next morning produced one of a -young man with fair hair, dressed in large curls, the finest -complexion in the world, blue eyes, and his nose slightly -<i>retroussé</i>; in fact, presenting an assemblage of all the features -that could compose a charming portrait, and we shall see in -the end that some supernatural power must have assisted her -in a work which she had undertaken solely to show Galantine -the difference between a man of the world and her marine -adorer, and so dissuade her from a marriage which was not at -all to her taste.</p> - -<p>When she presented her work to her, the Princess was -struck with admiration, and asked her if it were possible -that any man on earth could resemble that portrait. Bonnette -assured her that there were many such, and some -even handsomer. "I can scarcely believe it," replied Galantine, -"but alas, neither the original of this portrait, nor any one - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_351">[Pg 351]</a></span> -like him, can ever be my husband. They will never see -me, nor I them as long as I live. Oh, how miserable is my -fate!"</p> - -<p>Nevertheless, Galantine passed the whole day in gazing on -this miniature. It had the effect Bonnette anticipated. It -ruined Gluatin's affairs, which had previously been put in -pretty good train; but the governess almost repented having -painted so handsome a face, as the Princess gave up eating -and drinking in order to have more time to gaze upon it. If -ever a portrait was capable of inspiring a real passion, it was -assuredly in this case and under the circumstances here -related.</p> - -<p>The Fairy Marine returned a few days after the visit we -have described, to ascertain what were the intentions of -Galantine; but this young creature, engrossed by her new -passion (for she was positively in love with the portrait), -could not control herself as prudence would have suggested. -She not only broke off with the Fairy abruptly, but, what -was worse, she exhibited so much contempt and aversion -for Gluatin, that the Fairy, indignant at the style of -her refusal, left the Princess with a determination to be -revenged.</p> - -<p>In the meanwhile the Princess had made a conquest she -was unconscious of. The vessel she had seen so near her -residence had on board the handsomest Prince in the world. -He had heard of the Enchanted Tower, and determined to go -nearer to it than any one had yet done. He possessed such -excellent glasses, that in surveying the Tower, simply from a -motive of curiosity, he caught sight of the Princess, and the -best proof of the goodness of his glass, and that he must -have seen her distinctly is, that he fell desperately in love -with her.</p> - -<p>Like a young man and a new lover, two conditions in which -nothing is thought too hazardous, he was eager to cast anchor -near the Tower, lower a boat, and encounter all the dangers -that the enchantment could threaten him with; but all his -crew upon their knees implored him not to venture. His -Equerry, who was more frightened than any, or whose knowledge -of the circumstances rendered him more competent to -form an opinion, was most eloquent. "You would lead us all -to certain death, my Lord," said he; "deign to return on - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_352">[Pg 352]</a></span> -shore, and I promise you to go in search of the Fairy Commode. -She is a relation of mine, and has always been very fond of -me. I will answer for her zeal and her skill. I am perfectly -sure she will do you good service." The Prince yielded, but -very reluctantly, to so many good arguments. He landed -therefore on the nearest point of land, and despatched his -Equerry to find his relative, and implore her protection and -assistance. In the meanwhile he ordered a tent to be pitched -on the sea shore, and, glass in hand, sat incessantly looking -either at the Princess or at her prison, and his imagination -becoming more and more excited, often presented to him its -own creations for realities.</p> - -<p class="pmb1">At the end of a few days the Equerry returned with the Fairy -Commode. The Prince received her with the greatest demonstrations -of affection. The Equerry had informed her during -their journey of the state of the case. "In order to lose no -time," said she to the Prince, "I will send a white pigeon, in -which I place implicit confidence, to examine the enchantment. -If he finds a flaw in it anywhere, he shall enter the garden -that crowns the Tower, and I will order him to bring back -some flowers as a proof that he succeeded in finding an entrance. -If he can get in, I will soon find a way to introduce -you." "But," said the Prince, "can I not, by means of -your pigeon, send a note to the Princess, declaring the -passion with which she has inspired me?" "Certainly you -can," said Commode, "and I advise you to do so." The -Prince immediately wrote the following letter:—</p> - -<div class="block1"> -<p class="center"><i>"Prince Blondin to Princess Galantine.</i></p> - -<p>"I adore you, and I am aware of your destiny. If, beautiful -Princess, you will deign to accept the homage of my heart, -there is nothing I will not undertake to render myself the -happiest of men by terminating your misfortunes.—<span class="smcap">Blondin</span>."</p> -</div> - -<p class="p1">When this note was written, they tied it round the neck -of the Pigeon, who only awaited his dispatches, for he had -already received his instructions. He rose gracefully into the -air, and flew off as fast as his wings would carry him; but -when he approached the tower there issued from it a furious -wind that repelled him violently. He was not, however, to -be disheartened by such an obstacle, and after making many - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_353">[Pg 353]</a></span> -circles round and round about the building, he discovered the -weak point which the Fairy Rèveuse had left in the enchantment. -He slipped through it instantly, and flew down into -the garden to wait for the Princess and to rest himself.</p> - -<p class="pmb1">The Princess generally took her walk alone; from inclination, -because a passion engrossed her heart; from necessity, -because the Governess could no longer ascend to that height -without great fatigue. As soon as the Pigeon saw her appear, -he flew to her in the most flattering manner. Galantine -caressed him, and seeing a rose-coloured ribbon round his -neck, she wondered what it was put there for. How great -was her surprise when she perceived the note! She read it, -and this was the answer she returned by the Pigeon:—</p> - -<div class="block1"> -<p class="center"><i>"Princess Galantine to Prince Blondin.</i></p> - -<p>"You say that you have seen me, and that you love me. I -cannot love you, nor promise to love you, without having seen -you. Send me your portrait by the same courier. If I return -it to you, hope nothing; but if I keep it, be assured that in -working for me you work for yourself.—<span class="smcap">Galantine</span>."</p> -</div> - -<p class="p1">She fastened this letter in the same manner as they had -done that which she had just received, and dismissed the -Pigeon, who did not forget that he was ordered to bring back -a flower from the garden; but as he was well aware of the -importance lovers often attach to trifles, he stole one from a -bouquet the Princess wore in her bosom, and flew away.</p> - -<p>The return of this bird gave the Prince such extreme -delight, that, but for the anxiety he was still under, he might -perhaps have lost his senses. He wanted to send the Pigeon -back instantly with a miniature of himself, which, by the -greatest chance in the world, he happened to have amongst -his baggage; but the Fairy insisted on an hour's rest for her -courier, which the Prince employed in writing verses to send -with his portrait.</p> - -<p>The Pigeon, duly furnished with miniature and verses, set -out once more for the tower. The Princess was not certain -he would return so soon, but she was looking out for him, notwithstanding. -She was in the garden, and had said nothing -of this last adventure to her Governess, for she began to feel -that love of mystery and reserve with which a first passion - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_354">[Pg 354]</a></span> -usually inspires one. She eagerly detached the miniature -from the Pigeon's neck, and her surprise was infinite when, -on opening the case, she discovered that the portrait of Prince -Blondin perfectly resembled that which Bonnette had painted -from fancy. It was one of those fortunate accidents which it -is impossible to account for.</p> - -<p>The delight of Galantine was extreme at making this agreeable -discovery; and to express in the prettiest possible way -her own sentiments, she took the Prince's miniature out of its -case, put in its place the one she thought best of the many -which Bonnette had painted of her, and immediately sent the -Pigeon back with it, who began to be rather fatigued, and -would not long have been able to serve two lovers who kept -up a correspondence so uncommonly active.</p> - -<p>Prince Blondin had kept his eyes constantly turned in the -direction of the tower, awaiting the return of his courier. At -length he saw the blessed Pigeon approaching; but what -were his feelings as soon as he could discern that the bird had -fastened round his neck the same case that he had taken away -with him! He was nearly dying with grief. The fairy, who -had never left him, consoled him as well as she could, and -took herself from the Pigeon's neck the case, which he even -refused to look at. She opened it, and pointed out to him his -error. In an instant he went into a transport of joy that -could only be compared for its intensity to that he had just -endured of affliction. "We will lose no time," said Commode; -"I can only make you happy by changing you into a -bird; but I will take care that you shall be re-transformed at -the right moment." The Prince, without hesitation, consented -to the transformation, and to anything else which -could assist him to approach the person he adored. The good -Commode thereupon touched him with her wand, and he -became in an instant the prettiest little Humming-bird in the -world, joining to the attractions which nature has bestowed -on that charming bird that of being able to speak in the most -agreeable way possible.</p> - -<p>The Pigeon received fresh orders to conduct him to the -garden. Galantine was astonished to see a bird she had no -knowledge of; but his being accompanied by the Pigeon put -her heart in a flutter, and the Humming-bird, flying to her, -said, "Good morning, beautiful Princess." She had never before - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_355">[Pg 355]</a></span> -heard a bird speak, and this novelty increased the gratification -with which she received this one. She took him on her finger, -and he immediately said to her "Kiss, kiss Colibri." She did -so with great pleasure, over and over again. I leave you to -imagine if the Prince was delighted, and if he was not at the -same time very much vexed that he was only a Humming-bird, -for lovers are the only persons in the world who are happy -and miserable at the same time.</p> - -<p>Commode, however, knew by her art that this was exactly -the moment to restore the Prince to his natural form, which -she did so quickly that the Princess, in the twinkling of an -eye, found herself pressed to the heart of a lover whom she -loved.</p> - -<p>The spell was broken. That instant the tower trembled -and rocked to his foundations. Its walls even began to -open. Bonnette, who was below-stairs, in the greatest alarm -ascended to the terrace, at least to perish with the Princess. -The rocking of the tower increased as she mounted the staircase, -and when she arrived at the top and saw the whole -building lean over and on the verge of falling into the sea, -she fainted outright.</p> - -<p>At the same moment the two fairies, Commode and Paisible, -arrived in a chariot of Venetian glass, drawn by six eagles of -the largest size. "Save yourselves quickly," they cried to the -two lovers. "The tower is falling, and you will perish with it." -They leapt into the fairy car, without having had time to say -a word to each other; but the Prince managed at the same -moment to fling the Governess, still in her swoon, into the -bottom of the car. Scarcely had they begun to rise in the -air, when the tower toppled over, and, with a horrible noise, -fell, a mass of ruins, into the sea. The Fairy Marine, Gluantin, -and his friends, in order to be revenged on the Princess, had -sapped the foundations.</p> - -<p>Marine, perceiving that her designs were foiled by the -intervention of the two Fairies, determined to try if she could -not by open war obtain possession of Galantine. She suddenly -formed an immense chariot out of some exhalations, -and, entering it with all her family, filled every available -space in it with oysters in their shells, fragments of rock, -stones, and other trifles of that description. With this -chariot and this ammunition she caused herself to be wafted - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_356">[Pg 356]</a></span> -by a high wind to the sea-shore, to intercept the car of glass. -She did even more—she commanded all the wild ducks and -sea-fowl of every sort for ten leagues round to come in flocks -to darken the air, and oppose the landing of the Fairies. -This order was executed with a quacking and squalling that -was insupportable.</p> - -<p>Our two lovers thought themselves lost; but as they had -a taste for the destruction of enchantments, they wished to -try what they could do against this. The Fairies, however, -did not consider it necessary. Commode produced from the -box-seat of the car a great quantity of petards and rockets, -which she had provided apparently for the purpose of making -a display of fireworks. But whatever might have been her -reason for bringing them, she now used them with much -effect, for she directed so many against these troublesome -fowl, that they were compelled to disperse. The enemy in -the chariot then had recourse to their last weapons. Not -one of the Marine party doubted that, with the oysters and -stones, they should shatter the glass car to fragments in a -few moments. It was not a bad idea, and we may even -presume that they would have achieved their object if the -Fairy Paisible had not taken out of her pocket a burning-glass -which she always carried about with her.</p> - -<p>It is best to be candid. I frankly admit that I never very -clearly understood for what purpose she constantly carried that -particular utensil. But she placed it, however, on this occasion, -in such a position that it speedily warmed her enemies -after a fashion as new as it was disagreeable. They uttered -the most fearful shrieks, and the exhalations being dispelled -by the power of the sun, all the Marine family, with the -Fairy herself, were precipitated pell-mell into the ocean, -leaving our two victorious Fairies to continue their journey -to the dominions of Queen Mutine.</p> - -<p>On arriving in them they found she was dead. She had -endeavoured, partly from fear of some new punishment, partly -from conviction, to control her temper. In this attempt she -had swallowed so many violent expressions, and stifled so -many wicked impulses, that these prodigious and continued -efforts, after causing her several severe fits of illness, at length -terminated fatally.</p> - -<p>She had been dead, indeed, some years. The good king - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_357">[Pg 357]</a></span> -who had married her, quietly enjoyed the sweets of his -widowhood; and though he had no other children than the -daughter whom he never expected to see again, nothing in -the world could have induced him to marry a second time. -He governed his estates very peacefully, and the good King -Prudent, Galantine's grandfather, had just arrived, notwithstanding -his great age, to pass the holidays with him.</p> - -<p>What joy for these two worthy sovereigns. The whole -Court soon participated in it, as the news spread of the -arrival of the Fairies with a charming Princess, who was their -King's daughter.</p> - -<p>The marriage of the two lovers was fixed for the next -morning. Couriers were instantly dispatched in all directions, -to beg the Fairies generally to honour the nuptials with their -presence. You may believe that Fairy Grave was not forgotten. -In short, they arrived from all quarters. Festivities, -balls, tournaments, grand banquets, succeeded each other for -many days. They bantered, and at the same time thanked, -Fairy Rèveuse, for the blunder she had made in her enchantments. -She defended herself by observing that lovers were -always more ingenious than magicians were skilful, and that -to prevent their success it would require an enchantment that -was impossible.</p> - -<p class="pmb3">I forgot to tell you that the Governess recovered from her -swoon immediately on her arriving at the Palace. In short, -everybody was satisfied, and the Fairies, after sharing in the -festivities for several days, departed, each to manage her -own affairs, or to enjoy new pleasures. Our lovers were -always constant, and became the happiest sovereigns on the -face of the earth.</p> - - -<p class="break" /> -<div class="footnotes"><b>FOOTNOTES:</b> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_28_28"></a><a href="#FNanchor_28_28"><span class="label">[28]</span></a> A light sort of travelling carriage still in use abroad, and so called from -the city in which it was invented.</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_29_29"></a><a href="#FNanchor_29_29"><span class="label">[29]</span></a> Literally "mad dog fashion." One of the many extravagant whims -of the day.</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_30_30"></a><a href="#FNanchor_30_30"><span class="label">[30]</span></a> <i>Requin</i>, chien de mer, Landais. In Cotgrave, <i>requien</i>, who describes it -as "a certaine ravenous, rough-skinned, and wide-mouthed fish, which is good -meat." It is generally, however, the name given to the white-shark, and said -by some writers to be derived from the word <i>Requiem</i>—a far-fetched allusion -to the vast number of victims to its voracity.</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_31_31"></a><a href="#FNanchor_31_31"><span class="label">[31]</span></a> The sea-lamprey, a small fish that, by adhering to the keels of ships, -was supposed to have the power of stopping them, or at least of retarding their -progress.</p></div></div> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_358">[Pg 358]</a></span></p> - - -<h3 class="no-break" id="BLEUETTE_AND_COQUELICOT">BLEUETTE AND COQUELICOT.</h3> - - -<p>There was once upon a time a Fairy named Bonnebonne, -who became weary of the great offices in Fairy Land to which -her character and talents had elevated her. She retired from -state affairs, and chose for her retreat an island situated in -the midst of a very beautiful lake, bordered by the most rich, -smiling, and luxuriant scenery. This charming retreat was -called the "Island of Happiness." It is known to have -existed; it is even believed by some to be always in the -country adjoining their own; but the geographers have not -yet laid it down in any map, and I have never read of any -traveller fortunate enough to land on it. It is sufficient for -us, however, that we have a full account of it in the annals of -the Fairies.</p> - -<p>Bonnebonne, as we have already stated, weary of the -world, and not caring to pay court to it, demanded of the -Queen of the Fairies permission to withdraw from it altogether, -and went to reside in the Island of Happiness. It -was there that, with the finest library and all the knowledge -she had acquired in the world, she became the most clever of -all the fairies. She made all her neighbours happy, and -gratitude was the foundation of her authority. Independently -of a natural inclination to oblige, a sentiment which -retirement from the great world by no means tends to diminish, -there is a great satisfaction in seeing those around us happy.</p> - -<p>In order to enjoy this real pleasure, and at the same time -to avoid being overwhelmed with foolish petitions, she had -placed, at short distances from each other, columns of white -marble, to which those addressed themselves who had either - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_359">[Pg 359]</a></span> -requests or complaints to make. These columns were constructed -in such a manner that, on speaking in a whisper to -them, they repeated every word distinctly, and in the same -tone of voice, in a cabinet of the castle. Bonnebonne had -lodged in this cabinet a niece whom she had brought up as a -fairy, and who gave her an account every evening of all that -the columns had reported, and the Fairy then pronounced -her decisions.</p> - -<p>The principal occupation of Bonnebonne was to educate and -make children happy: she gave them for breakfast as well as -for luncheon everything they could wish for in sweetmeats -and pastry; but when they had been a fortnight in this -happy dwelling, they cared no more for sugar-plums, but -passed the day in running on the grass, gathering nuts in the -woods, or flowers in the gardens. They went on the lake in -pretty boats, which they rowed themselves—in short, they -did all day just whatever they liked, and happiness consists -principally in liberty. It is true that they had nurses and -tutors, but they were generally invisible. They informed -Bonnebonne of anything their pupils had done that was wrong, -and for this she reprimanded the offender, but always with -mildness, for she was the most kind-hearted woman in the -world.</p> - -<p>Sometimes the nurses and preceptors made themselves -visible, and on these occasions they might be seen supping -all together on the turf, or dancing and singing, or amusing -themselves in making toys and dolls; in short, nothing had -an air of severity in this happy abode, and no one left it -without the greatest regret. But as all must submit to fate, -and the Fairies themselves are obliged to obey it, when the -young people had attained a certain age—that is to say, -twelve or fifteen years,—and when the lessons of the Fairy -had made a sort of impression on the minds of her pupils, and -she considered them sufficiently well informed to enter into -the world, she was obliged to send them home, which she -always did laden with caresses and presents, and assurances of -a friendship the proof of which she frequently gave them in -the after course of their lives.</p> - -<p>Amongst the number of children confided to her care by -their parents, there was a little girl named Bleuette, so pretty -and so good that Bonnebonne preferred her to all the rest, - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_360">[Pg 360]</a></span> -and loved her to distraction. She was affectionate without -being troublesome, and lively without being fatiguing; her -face expressed the sweetness of her character: her beauty -increased with her age, and possessed that peculiar brilliancy -which is so dazzling. It is to her rare beauty that we owe -the familiar saying, still in use amongst us, when we speak of -anything which has dazzled us, "J'ai vu des Bleuettes."</p> - -<p>A boy, about two years older than Bleuette, also inhabited -the Island of Happiness; he was called Coquelicot: his face -was charming, it was as bright as his mind, and his pretty -little graceful ways were equally pleasing to Bonnebonne. -That which rendered both more charming was, that in their -infancy they became inseparable, and that the vivacity of the -one was tempered by the mildness and tenderness of the other. -Bonnebonne daily enjoyed observing the impression and progress -which true love makes upon innocence and ingenuousness. -She was constantly occupied in the study of it, and -felt that all other happiness, which she knew so well how to -procure, could not be compared to it; indeed, what felicity -can be placed in the balance with that of two hearts which -love has united by similarity of taste and temper?</p> - -<p>Coquelicot, quick as he was, perhaps, indeed, too soon excited, -was moderate and even mild in all that regarded Bleuette, -who on her part, was only animated and vivacious in matters -which concerned Coquelicot. The birth and progress of these -sentiments had been their delight; the sweet emotions which -they exhibited were the charm of Bonnebonne's existence, -for she said to herself a hundred times, "Good Heavens! how -pretty are these poor children! How they love each other! -How happy they are; they never think of leaving my Island. -Never have more happy subjects inhabited my empire!"</p> - -<p>On an evening of one of the most beautiful of summer -days, all the lovely children were playing and amusing themselves -in different parts of this enchanted residence, when -all at once there appeared in the air a car drawn by six flame-coloured -griffins: the car was of the same colour, relieved with -black ornaments: it bore the Fairy Arganto. Her hair was -powdered brown with a slight sprinkle of red.<a id="FNanchor_32_32"></a><a href="#Footnote_32_32" class="fnanchor">[32]</a></p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_361">[Pg 361]</a></span></p> - -<p>Her dress -was of the same colour as the car. Her griffins alighted at -the portico of the castle, whither Bonnebonne and her niece -had repaired to do the honours to the Fairy, and assist her to -descend. After the first compliments, Arganto confessed to -Bonnebonne that not being able to understand the pleasures -of retirement, and disgusted by some disagreements at Court, -she had wished to judge for herself of the pleasures and cares -of a life like hers, and that, in order to be perfectly enlightened -on the subject, she had come to the resolution of passing some -days with her.</p> - -<p>Bonnebonne kindly replied that she would willingly satisfy -her, and hide nothing from her. "The beauties of nature," -added she, "are the pictures which I study; its fruits are my -treasures; its secrets the object of my researches, and my -pleasures are solely dependent on the happiness of others. -Infancy is the state of humanity which can be made the most -happy; you will find me, therefore, only surrounded by the -prettiest children nature has produced."</p> - -<p>So saying, she led Arganto further into the Island, at each -step encountering troops of little children of both sexes and -all ages, whose natural manners inspired true gaiety; some -danced, others played at blindman's-buff, some amused themselves -playing at "ladies and gentlemen," in short they passed -quickly from one fancy to another; their characters were -thus developed, and it was easy to imagine what each would -become at a more advanced age. Arganto thought this -recreation of Bonnebonne very poor; she judged of it as a -person of fashion, that is to say, with contempt. She told -her companion that she could not conceive the pleasure of -such amusements, unless some ingenuity was employed to -improve them: it was in vain that Bonnebonne eulogized -them. She would not be persuaded; at length, continuing -their walk, they met Bleuette and Coquelicot, conversing -together, who saw nothing but themselves in nature, and -who had no pleasure, no wish, no occupation nor will but in -common.</p> - -<p>Bonnebonne called them, and they ran towards her with -that confidence and affection which her goodness and their -gratitude had inspired them with. Arganto was struck with -the charms of their countenances, and said as much to them; -they blushed, and thanked the Fairy for each other. "I - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_362">[Pg 362]</a></span> -agree," said she to Bonnebonne, "that nature could not -present a more agreeable picture than that of these lovely -children; but," continued she, "are they as intelligent as -their features would seem to denote?" "Most assuredly," -replied Bonnebonne, "it may not be perhaps the kind of intelligence -to please you, for it is quite natural. Besides this, -they love each other more than they choose to acknowledge, -especially to a stranger." The Fairies then embraced them -a thousand times, and left them together.</p> - -<p>Bonnebonne agreed with Arganto not to trouble herself -about her during her stay, but to occupy herself as usual with -her studies; but the latter could not help speaking of the -impression which Bleuette and Coquelicot had made on her, -and she requested they might keep her company.</p> - -<p>Arganto was born wicked, and wickedness looks with impatience -on the happiness of others, and is always at work to -destroy it, even if with no other motive but that of doing -mischief. Upon these fearful principles, she employed the -time of her visit in pointing out to her young companions -the poverty and insipidity of the place they inhabited; they, -whom nature had formed for the delight and ornament of the -most brilliant Court; and then she gave them a glowing -description of the abodes of kings. "You are enchanted," -said she, continually, "with the life which you lead; but do -you know any other? The splendour of the world, the fêtes -which are given to beauty alone, the preference which is at -all times accorded to it, are the real triumphs of a pretty girl;" -it was thus she spoke to Bleuette. "And you," addressing -herself to Coquelicot, "with the spirit you possess, what -would you not do at Court? You certainly must be brave; -and of what are you not capable?"</p> - -<p>This wicked discourse made by degrees the impression -which Arganto wished upon the minds of these amiable -children. They sought each other's company as usual, but -they found each other no longer occupied with themselves -alone: they began by self reproaches, and at length made -reciprocal confessions, for they could no longer talk of anything -else but the opinions of the Fairy. Love, and the -hope of not being separated, it is true, were the foundation -of their projects; but curiosity, and the novelty of all which -Arganto had told them, and above all, self-love, the poison of - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_363">[Pg 363]</a></span> -life, perverted at length their innocent minds; they abandoned -themselves to the wicked fairy, who, in order to make -them fall more easily into the snare she had laid for them, -did not neglect to destroy the respect and gratitude they -entertained for Bonnebonne, by telling them, "She is a -provincial fairy, whose taste is not at all refined. Her character -not suiting the Court, she is too happy to be able to -keep you with her; she sacrifices your fortunes to the pleasure -and use which you are of to her." It was by such discourse -as this that she induced these children to become ungrateful: -she promised them not to forsake them, and assured them -that, being a more powerful fairy than Bonnebonne, they -need not be anxious about anything. She did even more,—she -warned them of all that the good fairy would say to them -when she should learn the resolution they had taken: in -short, they promised to follow her after she had again given -them her word that they should not be separated.</p> - -<p>When Arganto was well assured of the part they had taken, -she said to Bonnebonne that it was time she should cease to -trouble her in her retreat, and begged her, at the same time, -to allow her to take with her Bleuette and Coquelicot. The -good Fairy, who had perceived nothing, and who had no suspicion -of the designs of Arganto, as she had herself ordered -them to pay court to and obey the Fairy, whilst she was -occupied in her cabinet, and above all, because a good heart -cannot imagine ingratitude: Bonnebonne, as I said before, -consented to Arganto's request, with the understanding, however, -that the proposition should please the young couple, -feeling quite convinced that they would never wish to leave -her. The question was put to them on the spot. What -was the astonishment of Bonnebonne when they accepted the -proposal to abandon her and follow the Fairy! They set at -nought all her reasonings, so full of friendship and good -advice; they were too deeply prejudiced against her. Bonnebonne -then said to them, with mildness, "It is conviction -which makes happiness. You would cease to be happy in -this abode, because you imagine greater felicity awaits you in -another country: depart, let nothing detain you," said she, -with tears in her eyes, "may you be contented."</p> - -<p>Bleuette and Coquelicot were moved by this tender discourse, -and on the point of falling at the feet of this adorable - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_364">[Pg 364]</a></span> -fairy, and conjuring her to forget that they had ever had the -idea of separating from her; but the emotion they felt at the -moment made them both faint away, so that the wickedness -of Arganto was not required to counteract this return of -good feeling. She herself was touched by so tender a scene, -and at the moment almost repented having caused so much -sorrow to three persons, who were only to blame for placing -too much confidence in her. Not knowing exactly what to -do, she prepared to set out alone, when Bonnebonne said, -"I might complain of the manner in which you have abused -the reception I have given you: but the great fruit of -study and of solitude is forgiveness of injuries. I am -not, therefore, at all affected by it myself, but I feel for -the misfortune of these young people—I love them both." -"I will not take them away, then," replied Arganto; "you -see they have refused me, and you cannot doubt the attachment -they feel for you." "No," replied Bonnebonne, "I -feel myself compelled to beg you to take with you those I -loved best in my retreat; you have perverted them, their -hearts are no longer what they were: they would henceforth -only live with me out of compliment. If they had sufficient -art to disguise it from me, could I be ignorant of their -thoughts? Take them, then, I conjure you, and at least -protect them amongst the dangers to which you expose them." -"As you absolutely wish it," replied Arganto, "I will do so." -She then carried them, fainting as they were, both into her -car, and her griffins flying at a rapid pace speedily landed -them in the Kingdom of Errors.</p> - -<p>The King who governed it at that time thought himself -the greatest of princes. Flattery had persuaded him that he -was descended from the gods. In consequence of this idea -he caused himself to be worshipped by his subjects. His -throne of gold and precious stones, upon which he only appeared -once a month, was surrounded by tigers and elephants, -bound with chains of the same precious materials, and covered -with superb embroidery. Without entering into further -details of the ceremonies of this court, suffice it to say, the -King exhibited upon every occasion all the ostentation with -which a crown could inspire him. Arganto was his best -friend, the partaker of his pleasures, and it was into the -superb palace which she possessed at his court that she conducted -Bleuette and Coquelicot.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_365">[Pg 365]</a></span></p> - -<p>The moment they recovered from their swoon they had the -pleasure of seeing each other. The magnificence of the -place in which they found themselves astonished them. Their -uncertainty did not last long: Arganto entered to dissipate -it. They immediately asked her to give them some news of -Bonnebonne. The Fairy informed them that Bonnebonne -had consented to their advancement, and had herself conjured -her to take them away. Bleuette and Coquelicot were comforted -by this account, for they had been afraid of displeasing -her. Arganto then said to them, "Here, Bleuette, is the -apartment prepared for you; your household shall be formed -to-night. Meanwhile, here are your waiting-women: let me -present them to you."</p> - -<p>At these words, there appeared a dozen handsome young -persons, carrying all the innumerable trifles which have -become so necessary to a lady's toilet. They were followed -by an equal number of valets-de-chambre, bearing boxes and -caskets, and who in a few moments fitted up and set out a -most superb dressing-table. Garments adapted to the season -then appeared in such great profusion that they covered all -the chairs, beds, and couches in this large apartment. When -everything was arranged according to the Fairy's pleasure, she -said to Bleuette, "This all belongs to you, and you have -nothing to study but how to avail yourself of it." She then -showed her a basket full of ornaments and a jewel-case -crammed with precious stones as perfect in themselves as -they were tastefully set, saying to her, "Beautiful Bleuette, -this little jewel-box will amuse you, but let us now proceed to -the apartment I destine for Coquelicot." Bleuette followed -the Fairy without being able to reply; her surprise and astonishment -appeared to her like a beautiful dream. They all -three passed into another apartment. It was plain, but neat. -Four valets-de-chambre, who were in the second room, stept -forward and presented him with clothes as tasteful as they -were superb, in order that he might select those in which he -wished to appear that day. They then opened the door of a -sort of large cabinet, containing all kinds of musical instruments, -also a library well stocked with historical works, but -more particularly with romances and fairy tales.</p> - -<p>"Behold," said Arganto, "what will amuse you when you -are weary of the pleasures of society, or require rest after -exercise." She then commanded the person she had chosen for - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_366">[Pg 366]</a></span> -his equerry to appear. "You may," said she to Coquelicot, -"take his advice; he is a man to be depended on, and a good -companion. Show," continued she to this gentleman, "the -things of which you have the charge." There then appeared -servants in livery, who carried the most magnificent and -perfect arms for war and the chase. And even this was not -all: "Let us," said Arganto, "look out of the window." -They obeyed her, and perceived fifty saddle-horses, led by five-and-twenty -grooms, superbly clothed and well mounted. -"There," said she, "are your horses for hunting and riding." -She then ordered out the carriages: berlins, berlingots, -vis-à-vis, calêches of all kinds, defiled under the windows, -drawn by the prettiest and best groomed horses in the world, -with their manes tastefully plaited. Coquelicot, as much astonished -as Bleuette, observed also the same silence. "Learn, -both of you," said Arganto, "to make good use of what I -have just given you; you are both charming, but believe me, -dress is necessary to beauty." She then left them in their -separate apartments, questioning their new domestics on the -particular use of all the novelties that surrounded them, for -they dared not yet give any orders. They at length dressed -themselves, and Coquelicot proceeding to the apartment of -Bleuette, they were mutually astonished at the agreeable -effect of their attire, and uttering a hundred praises of the -good taste of Arganto, they became more than ever convinced -of the truth of what she had told them respecting -Bonnebonne, for whose simplicity they began to blush.</p> - -<p>All the Court learning the arrival of Bleuette and Coquelicot, -either from curiosity or the desire to please the Fairy, came -with great eagerness to pay her a visit. The King himself -did her this honour. The praises of the men of Bleuette, and -those of the women of Coquelicot, gratified both exceedingly. -They found that the language spoken in this country had an -agreeable style hitherto quite unknown to them; they were -struck by it, and thought of nothing but imitating it. Bleuette, -from the first day, perceived that Coquelicot was not made for -his fine clothes, and that he had a borrowed air which the -other young men who surrounded her had not: in short, both -were occupied by a thousand new fancies. They saw each -other every day, it is true, but they sought each other less; -and the tender conversations, in which simplicity, ingenuousness, - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_367">[Pg 367]</a></span> -candour, and truth had formerly so large a share, no -longer took place between them; they were only anxious now -to place their words and turn their phrases according to the -style which they had been so much struck with in their new -residence.</p> - -<p>The dress, the magnificence, and the brilliancy with which -they dazzled the whole court caused every one to give them -the titles of prince and princess. They knew well that they -did not deserve them from their low birth; but the mistake -of others gratified their vanity. They agreed between them -to keep their real condition secret, and hoped privately that -their beauty and merit would in time really raise them to -that dignity.</p> - -<p>Coquelicot had perfectly handsome features and a charming -figure. He performed all kinds of feats with marvellous success; -almost all the ladies were pulling caps for him. Bleuette was -not in the least jealous of his conquests, and although in -such situations one is not always just, she had at least the -generosity not to reproach him in any way. In fact, she deserved -reproaching equally herself, for the Court and its grand -airs had changed her heart and mind as much as his. Bleuette, -on her part, thinking of nothing but how to attract admiration -and to outvie all the other beauties of the Court, became -a practised coquette. You may easily judge, knowing what -I have told you, how long she was in availing herself of all -the presents of the Fairy. She very soon invented fashions, -which all the other ladies, handsome or ugly, were, in spite of -themselves, obliged to follow. During some time this gratification -of her vanity only presented to her view jealous rivals, -men captivated and admiring, flattered or plunged into despair, -by her glances and her deceptive and provoking speeches; but -Bleuette was so beautiful, she had so much wit and grace, -that, even when making them most miserable, she was the -theme of their praises and the object of attraction to all the -finest people of the Court. She also conducted herself with -so much prudence that no one could cast the least slur on -her.</p> - -<p>Coquelicot, on his part—"fickle adorer of a thousand different -objects"—flattered his vanity without ever satisfying -his heart.</p> - -<p>Such was the true and unhappy situation in which these - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_368">[Pg 368]</a></span> -two persons, formerly the most loving and amiable possible, -found themselves, when this same vanity, the shoal on which -so much happiness has been wrecked, was itself violently -offended.</p> - -<p>It must be remembered that, dazzled by the splendour which -surrounded them, they had both received with pleasure the -titles of princes; but nothing is unknown to the world, and such -vanity would awaken a contempt for falsehood, in those who -have no higher motive for despising it. A youth, brought up, -as they had been, by Bonnebonne, in the Island of Happiness, -having wandered from it, as many others had done, in passing -through several countries, had been attracted to the Court -inhabited by Bleuette and Coquelicot. He was astonished to -hear the grand titles of prince and princess added to their -well-known names, he ran, however, to the Fairy's palace to -embrace them; but far from receiving him kindly, they did -not condescend even to recognise him. He complained to -everybody who would listen to him, and all the Court were very -soon informed that Princess Bleuette and Prince Coquelicot -were the children of, 'twas true, very honest people, but who -were nothing but poor shepherds. The Court is a region in -which nothing is forgiven, and where anything ridiculous is -sought for with the greatest eagerness; therefore, it profited by -this affair. Songs and epigrams were circulated in a moment; -and the objects of their attack could not pretend ignorance of -them, for, according to the praiseworthy custom of the authors -of such works, the first copies were addressed to the persons -most interested. Coquelicot was bantered by one of the wits -of the Court; but he demanded very prompt satisfaction, and -the combat, in which he killed his adversary, brought him -honour in a place where truth is so rare, notwithstanding that -a falsehood is never pardoned. They rendered justice to -his valour, but they no longer paid him the same attentions; -for in short, although riches can obtain everything, -the ridicule attached to low birth combined with vanity is -rarely overlooked at Court. As for Bleuette, whom wounded -pride rendered still more haughty than ever, and who hoped -by her beauty and accomplishments to stifle the disagreeable -reports which had been spread about her former pastoral condition—Bleuette, -I must tell you, had, in addition, the mortification -to see some letters which she had had the imprudence - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_369">[Pg 369]</a></span> -to write handed round amongst her acquaintances. Her -attraction diminished and her reputation tarnished (however -unjustly) hurt her deeply, and induced her to reflect seriously. -Recalling then the remembrance of her former happiness, the -words of Bonnebonne presented themselves to her mind.</p> - -<p>Bleuette being thus agitated by all the recollections which -led her back to her first sentiments for Coquelicot, looked -only with regret upon the conduct she had pursued towards him -since she had been at Court. She was ashamed of it, but it -was not possible for her to speak to him openly on the subject. -"He will consider," said she, "my most sincere repentance -to be caused either by coquetry or jealousy; and I cannot -complain, or he will believe that my birth being known and -made public in this country, has deranged my projects of -advancement, and that I am brought back to him only by a -feeling of shame and necessity." "No," continued she, "I -will not betray to him all the weakness of my heart, or all -the pain which the false friendship of Arganto has caused -me."</p> - -<p>Similar ideas tormented Coquelicot. He thought all those -who treated him, as formerly, like a prince, did so in mockery, -and to ridicule him, and felt satisfied that those whose conduct -was changed by the reports which had been spread -respecting him would give him continual annoyance; this -situation, distressing as it really could well be, was not the -sole evil which oppressed him. The remembrance of Bleuette, -tender, faithful, simple, and innocent; the recollection of the -residence of Bonnebonne, and that of the charm and peace -that pervaded it, awoke in his soul so great a disgust for all -that the world calls pleasure, and which he had himself taken -for happiness, that he determined to fly from the Court. -They had but to speak to one another, and they would have -been convinced and consoled; but still young and inexperienced, -they determined on the thing of all others to be -avoided in love and friendship—silence: for want of confidence -increases and envenoms the wound we have received, -as well as that which we have inflicted on others; thus, therefore, -not daring to look at each other (so much had the shame -of their proceedings made an impression on their hearts), -they each separately, and without communicating their intentions -to any one, made up their minds to quit the Court. - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_370">[Pg 370]</a></span> -Solitude appeared to offer them the only chance of consolation. -They departed the same morning, just as if they had been -acting in concert. They chose the plainest dresses they -could find, not without regretting those they had brought -with them to the Court; they would have felt still nearer -approaching their former innocence, in habits so vividly -recalling the scenes of their past felicity. They took nothing -away with them but the portraits which Arganto had had -painted of them in miniature, representing them as they were -when they left the Island of Happiness.</p> - -<p>They set out by very different roads; but in proportion as -they left the Court behind them, nature spoke to their hearts. -The song of the birds, the serenity of the air, the view of the -country, that sweet freedom which it inspires,—all recalled -their former happiness, all softened them, and drew them -towards each other. "But how shall we ever find each other -again," said they unceasingly to themselves. "I should have -convinced him," thought Bleuette. "She would have pardoned -me," sighed Coquelicot: "I will return to the Court. -But how can I reappear there (for each thought the other had -remained in the palace) in this miserable condition?" The -remembrance of Bonnebonne again presented itself to their -mind. It is friendship we invoke in adversity. They resolved -then to have recourse to her kindness. If they had not themselves -known the delights of the Island of Happiness, if they -had not been anxious to revisit the scenes of their former -felicity, it is so natural to desire a similar habitation, that we -often set out in search of it on the description of others. -Each, therefore, turned their steps in the direction of the -Island. It was very easy for them to find the way, they who -had once so worthily inhabited it. They intended to address -themselves to one of the columns of which I have spoken, -and which conveyed to the ears of the Fairy all the requests -of her petitioners. What was their surprise, or rather what -was their delight, to meet with each other again on a spot -and in a dress which explained everything! After the first -transports, in which the eye hardly sufficed to satisfy the soul, -the first words they uttered were, "Pardon me, I cannot live -without you." The pardon which is mutually sought is soon -granted; and it was no longer necessary to implore the aid of -the Fairy. The unison of their desires had already transported - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_371">[Pg 371]</a></span> -them into the most beautiful spot in the Island. They -were anxious to excuse themselves, and request the forgiveness -of Bonnebonne; but she prevented them. "I know all -that has happened to you," said she, "I have shared your -troubles, although they were deserved. Enjoy the happiness -of my empire, you are now better able to appreciate its -delights."</p> - -<p class="pmb3">They lived happily because they never ceased to love each -other, and they died at the same moment. Bonnebonne -bestowed their names upon two wild flowers<a id="FNanchor_33_33"></a><a href="#Footnote_33_33" class="fnanchor">[33]</a> in order to immortalize -their memory.</p> - - -<p class="break" /> -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_372">[Pg 372]</a></span></p> - - -<div class="footnotes"><b>FOOTNOTES:</b> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_32_32"></a><a href="#FNanchor_32_32"><span class="label">[32]</span></a> Hair-powder was at this period of various colours. Brown hair-powder -was called "Maréchal," and grey powder was extremely fashionable in England -as late as 1763.</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_33_33"></a><a href="#FNanchor_33_33"><span class="label">[33]</span></a> The corn-flower and the poppy.</p></div></div> -<p class="pmb2" /> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_373">[Pg 373]</a></span></p> - - -<h2 class="no-break" id="MADEMOISELLE_DE_LUBERT">MADEMOISELLE DE LUBERT.</h2> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_374">[Pg 374]</a></span></p> - - -<div class="figcenter"> - <img src="images/i009.jpg" alt="" /> - <p class="center font08">The Princess Camion.—P. 373.</p> -</div> -<p class="pmb2" /> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_375">[Pg 375]</a></span></p> - - -<h3 class="no-break" id="THE_PRINCESS_CAMION">THE PRINCESS CAMION.</h3> - - -<p>There was once upon a time a King and Queen who had -but one son, who was their only hope. Fourteen years had -elapsed from the time of his birth, and the Queen had had no -other children. The Prince was marvellously handsome, and -learnt with facility everything they wished him to know. -The King and Queen loved him to distraction, and their -subjects placed all their affections on him, for he was affable -to everybody, and yet he knew well how to distinguish -between the people who approached him. His name was -Zirphil. As he was an only son, the King and Queen resolved -he should marry as early as possible, in order to secure the -succession to the crown should they unhappily be deprived -of Zirphil.</p> - -<p>They therefore sought on foot and on horseback a Princess -worthy of the heir-apparent,<a id="FNanchor_34_34"></a><a href="#Footnote_34_34" class="fnanchor">[34]</a> but none was found suitable. -At length, after a most diligent inquiry, the Queen was -informed that a veiled lady desired a private audience of her -Majesty, on business of importance. The Queen immediately -ascended her throne in the audience-chamber, and ordered the -lady to be admitted. The lady approached, without removing -her white crape veil, which reached to the ground. When she -arrived at the foot of the throne, "Queen" said she, "I am -astonished that, without consulting me, you have thought of -marrying your son. I am the Fairy Marmotte, and my -name is sufficiently celebrated to have reached your ears." -"Ah, Madam," said the Queen, quickly descending from her -throne, in order to embrace the Fairy, "you will easily pardon -me my fault when you learn that I have only listened to all -the wonders which have been told me about you as to a -nursery tale; but now that you do me the favour to come to -my palace, I no longer doubt your power, and beg you will -honour me with your advice." "That is not a sufficient -answer to a Fairy," replied Marmotte. "Such an excuse -might perhaps satisfy a common person, but I am mortally -offended; and to begin your punishment, I command you to -marry your Zirphil to the person I have brought with me."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_376">[Pg 376]</a></span></p> - -<p>At these words she felt in her pocket, and, drawing out a -toothpick case, she opened it, and out of it came a little ivory -doll, so pretty and so well made that the Queen, despite her -grief, could not help admiring it. "This is my goddaughter," -said the Fairy, "and I have always destined her for Zirphil." -The Queen was bathed in tears. She conjured Marmotte, in -the most touching words, not to expose her to the ridicule of -her people, who would laugh at her if she announced to them -such a marriage. "Laugh, indeed, will they, Madam?" said -the Fairy. "Ah, we shall see if they have reason to laugh, -Madam. Ah, we shall see if they will laugh at my goddaughter, -and if your son ought not to adore her. I can tell -you that she deserves to be adored. She is small, it is true; -but she has more sense than there is in all your kingdom put -together. When you hear her talk, you will be surprised -yourself; for she can talk, I promise you. Now, then, little -Princess Camion," said she, to the doll, "speak a little to -your mother-in-law, and show her what you can do." Then -the pretty Camion jumped upon the Queen's <i>palatine</i>,<a id="FNanchor_35_35"></a><a href="#Footnote_35_35" class="fnanchor">[35]</a> and -paid her a little compliment so tender and so sensible that -her Majesty suspended her tears to give the Princess Camion -a hearty kiss.</p> - -<p>"Here, Queen," said the Fairy, "is my toothpick-case; -replace your daughter-in-law in it. I wish your son to get -well accustomed to her before marrying her. I think it will -not be long first. Your obedience may soften my anger; but -if you act contrary to my orders, you, your husband, your son, -and your kingdom, shall all feel the effect of my wrath. -Above all, take care to replace her in her case early in the -evening, for it is important that she should not be out late."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_377">[Pg 377]</a></span></p> - -<p>At these words she raised her veil, and the Queen fainted -with fright when she perceived an actual live Marmot<a id="FNanchor_36_36"></a><a href="#Footnote_36_36" class="fnanchor">[36]</a>—black, -sleek, and as large as a human creature. Her women came -to her assistance, and, when she recovered from her swoon, she -saw nothing but the case that Marmotte had left with her.</p> - -<p>They put her to bed, and went to inform the King of the -accident. He arrived in a great fright. The Queen sent -every one away, and, with a torrent of tears, she related her -adventure to the King, who would not believe it till he saw -the doll that the Queen drew from the case. "Just heaven!" -cried he, after having meditated a little, "is it possible that -kings should be exposed to such great misfortunes? Ah! we -are only placed above other men in order to feel more acutely -the cares and afflictions attached to our existence." "And in -order to give the greater example of fortitude, sire," added -the Doll, in a small, sweet, and distinct voice. "My dear -Camion," said the Queen, "you speak like an oracle."</p> - -<p>At length, after a conversation of an hour between these -three persons, it was decided that they should not yet divulge -the contemplated marriage, and that they should wait until -Zirphil, who was gone hunting for three days, should have -returned, and consented to obey the command of the Fairy, -which the Queen undertook to communicate to him. In the -interim, the Queen, and even the King, shut themselves up, -in order to converse with the little Camion. She had a -highly-cultivated intellect, she spoke well, and with a singular -turn of thought which was very pleasing. But although she -was animated, her eyes had a fixed expression which was not -agreeable, and the Queen was annoyed by it, as she began to -love Camion, and feared that the Prince might take a dislike -to her.</p> - -<p>More than a month had elapsed since Marmotte had -appeared, but the Queen had not yet dared to show Zirphil -his intended. One day he entered her room whilst she was -in bed. "Madam," said he, "the most singular thing in the -world occurred to me some days since whilst I was hunting. -I had wished to conceal it from you, but at length it has -become so extraordinary, that I must positively tell you of it.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_378">[Pg 378]</a></span></p> - -<p>"I followed a wild boar with great ardour, and had pursued -it into the midst of a forest without observing that I was alone, -when I saw him throw himself into a hole which opened in -the ground. My horse having plunged in after it, I continued -falling for half an hour, and at length found myself at the -bottom, without any hurt. There, instead of the boar, which -I confess I feared to find, I saw a very ugly woman, who -begged me to dismount from my horse and follow her. I did -not hesitate, and giving her my hand, she opened a little door -which had previously been hidden from my view, and I entered -with her a saloon of green marble, where there was a golden -bath, covered with a curtain of very rich stuff; the curtain -rose, and I saw in the bath a person of such marvellous beauty -that I thought I should have fallen to the ground. 'Prince -Zirphil,' said the lady, who was bathing, 'the Fairy Marmotte -has enchanted me, and it is by your assistance alone that I -can be released.' 'Speak, Madam,' said I to her: 'what -must I do to help you?' 'You must either,' said she, -'marry me instantly or skin me alive.' I was as much surprised -at the first proposition as alarmed at the second. She -read in my eyes my embarrassment, and said, 'Do not imagine -that I jest, or that I propose to you an act of which you may -repent. No, Zirphil, dismiss your fears; I am an unfortunate -Princess to whom the Fairy has taken an aversion; she has -made me half-woman, half-whale because I would not marry -her nephew, the King of the Whiting, who is frightful, and -even more wicked than he is hideous. She has condemned -me to remain in my present state until a Prince named Zirphil -shall fulfil one of the conditions that I have just proposed to -you; to expedite this matter, I caused my maid of honour to -take the form of a wild boar, and it is she who has led you hither. -I must now tell you that you cannot leave this spot until you -shall have fulfilled my desire in one manner or the other. I -am not mistress here; and Citronette, whom you see with me, -will tell you that it cannot be arranged otherwise.'</p> - -<p>"Imagine, Madam," said the Prince to the Queen, who -listened attentively, "in what a state this discourse left me." -Although the face of the Whale-Princess pleased me excessively, -and her charms and misfortunes rendered her extremely -interesting, her being half a fish horrified me exceedingly; and -the idea of skinning her alive threw me into utter despair. 'But, -Madam,' said I to her, at length (for my silence became -as stupid as insulting), 'is there not a third way?' I - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_379">[Pg 379]</a></span> -had hardly uttered those unlucky works, than the Whale-Princess -and her attendant uttered shrieks and lamentations -which were enough to pierce the vaulted roof of the saloon. -'Ungrateful wretch! cruel tiger! and everything that is most -ferocious and most inhuman!' exclaimed the former. 'Thou -wouldst, then, that I should also be condemned to the torture -of seeing you expire? For if thou dost not resolve to grant -my request, the Fairy has assured me thou wilt perish, and I -shall remain a whale all my life!'</p> - -<p>"Her reproaches pierced my heart; she raised her beautiful -arms out of the water, and joined her charming hands to -implore me to decide quickly. Citronette was at my knees, -which she embraced, screaming loud enough to deafen me. -'But how can I marry you?' said I; 'what sort of -ceremony can be performed?' 'Skin me,' said she tenderly, -'and do not marry me, I prefer that.' 'Skin her!' screamed -the other, 'and fear nothing.' I was in a state of perplexity -which I cannot describe; and while I considered what I -ought to do, their shrieks and tears were redoubled, till I -knew not what would become of me. At length, after a -thousand and one struggles, I cast my eyes once more on the -beautiful Whale, and I confess that I found in her features -an inexpressible charm. I threw myself on my knees close to -the bath, and taking her hand, 'No, divine Princess,' said I -to her; 'I will not skin you, I would rather marry you!'</p> - -<p>"At these words joy lighted up the countenance of the -Princess, but a modest joy, for she coloured, and casting down -her beautiful eyes, 'I shall never forget,' said she, 'the -service that you render me; I am so penetrated with gratitude, -that you may expect anything of me after this generous -resolution.' 'Do not lose time,' cried the insupportable -Citronette; 'tell him quickly all that he must do.' 'It is -sufficient,' said the Whale-Princess, blushing again, 'that -you give me your ring, and that you should take mine; there -is my hand, receive it as a pledge of my faith.' I had hardly -made this tender exchange, and kissed the beautiful hand -which she presented to me, when I found myself again upon -my horse in the midst of the forest. Having called my people, -they came to me, and I returned home without being able to -utter a word, I was so completely astounded. Since then, I -am transported every night without knowing how, into the -beautiful green saloon, where I pass the night near an invisible - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_380">[Pg 380]</a></span> -person; she speaks to me, and tells me that the time is not -yet come for me to know who she is."</p> - -<p>"Ah, my son," interrupted the Queen, "is it possible, -then, that you are really married to her?" "I am, Madam," -replied the Prince; "but although I love my wife infinitely, -I would have sacrificed this affection if I could have escaped -from the saloon without resorting to that alternative." At -these words, a little voice, proceeding from the Queen's -pocket, said, "Prince Zirphil, you should have flayed her; -perhaps your pity may be fatal to you."</p> - -<p>The Prince, surprised at this voice, remained speechless. -The Queen in vain tried to conceal from him the cause of his -astonishment; he felt quickly in her pocket, which was hanging -upon the arm-chair near the bed, and drew from it the -toothpick-case, which the Queen took from his hand and -opened. The Princess Camion immediately came out of it, -and the astonished Prince threw himself on his knees by the -bed-side of the Queen to inspect her nearer. "I vow, Madam," -cried he, "that this is my dear Whale in miniature. Is this -some pleasantry, and have you only wished to frighten me, -by allowing me so long to believe that you would not approve -of my marriage?" "No, my son," at length the Queen -replied; "my grief is real, and you have exposed us to the -most cruel misfortunes by marrying that Whale, for, in fact, -you were promised to the Princess Camion whom you see in -my hands." She then related to him what had passed between -her and the Fairy Marmotte, and the Prince allowed her to say -all she wished without interruption, so much was he astonished -to find that she and his father had agreed to a proposition -which was, on the face of it, so ridiculous. "Heaven forbid, -Madam," said he at length, when the Queen had finished, -"that I should ever oppose the designs of your Majesty, or -that I should act contrary to the wish of the King, my father, -even when he commands me to do anything as impossible as -this appears to me to be; but had I consented, could I even -have fallen in love with this pretty Princess, would your -subjects ever have——" "Time is a great teacher, Prince -Zirphil," interrupted Camion; "but it is done; you cannot -now marry me, and my godmother appears to me a person -who will not patiently suffer any one to break their word -with her. Diminutive as I am, I feel as acutely as the largest - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_381">[Pg 381]</a></span> -woman would the disagreeable nature of this adventure; but -as you are not so much to blame, except perhaps for having -been a little too hasty, I may persuade the Fairy to mitigate -the punishment."</p> - -<p>After these words Camion was silent, for she was exhausted -with having said so much. "My dear darling," said the -Queen, "I implore you to take some repose for fear you -should be ill and not in a condition to speak to the Fairy -when she comes to afflict us; you are our consolation, -and however she may punish us, I shall not feel it so deeply -if Marmotte does not take you from us." The Princess -Camion felt her little heart beat at these words of the Queen: -but being quite overcome, she could only kiss her hand, and -let fall upon it some tiny tears. Zirphil was moved at this -incident, and begged Camion to permit him to kiss her hand -in his turn: she gave it him with much grace and dignity, -and then re-entered her case. After this tender scene the -Queen rose, in order to go and tell the King what had passed, -and take every rational precaution against the anger of the -Fairy.</p> - -<p>The following night Zirphil, in spite of the guard which -they had doubled in his apartment, was carried off at midnight, -and found himself, as usual, in the company of his -invisible wife; but instead of hearing any of those sweet and -touching things which she was accustomed to say to him, he -heard her weep, and found she kept aloof from him. "What -have I done?" said he at last, when quite tired of pursuing -her. "You weep, dear Princess, when you ought to console -me for all the peril I may have incurred, as the effect of my -tenderness." "I know all," said the Princess, with a voice -interrupted by sobs—"I know all the misery that may happen -to me; but, ungrateful man! it is of you I have most to -complain." "Oh, heavens!" cried Zirphil, "what have you -to reproach me with?" "The love which Camion bears to -you," replied the voice, "and the tenderness with which you -have kissed her hand." "The tenderness," replied the Prince, -quickly; "oh! divine Princess, do you know so little of that -I feel for you as to accuse me so lightly. Besides, even if -Camion could love me, which is impossible, as she only saw -me for a moment, can you be alarmed, knowing my love for -you, and after the proofs which I have given you of my - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_382">[Pg 382]</a></span> -attachment? It is you whom I should accuse of injustice: -for if I have looked at her with any attention, it is because -her features reminded me of yours, and that being deprived -of the pleasure of beholding you, anything which resembled -you gave me the greatest gratification. Be visible again, my -dear Princess, and I will never look on any other woman."</p> - -<p>The invisible lady appeared to be consoled by these words, -and approaching the Prince, said, "Pardon me this little -movement of jealousy. I have too much reason to fear they -will separate me from you, not to feel afflicted by a circumstance -which appeared to me to announce the commencement -of that misfortune." "But," said the Prince, "may I not -know why you are no longer permitted to show yourself? -For if I have delivered you from the tyranny of Marmotte, -how is it possible that you should be again subjected to it?" -"Alas!" said the invisible Princess, "if you had decided to -flay me we should have been very happy; but you had such -a horror of that proposition, that I did not dare press you -further on the subject." "By what chance," interrupted the -Prince, "was Camion informed of this adventure, for she told -me nearly the same thing?"</p> - -<p>Hardly had he finished these words, when the Princess -uttered a frightful shriek. The Prince, in surprise, rose hastily. -But what was his alarm when, in the middle of the -apartment, he perceived the hideous Marmotte, who held by -the hair the beautiful Princess, now no longer either half a -whale or invisible! He was about to seize his sword when the -Princess, in tears, begged him to moderate his anger, for it -would be of no avail against the power of the Fairy; and -the horrible Marmotte, grinding her teeth, emitted through -them a blue flame which scorched his beard. "Prince Zirphil," -said she to him, "a fairy who protects thee prevents -me from exterminating thee, thy father, thy mother, and -all that belong to thee: but thou shalt suffer at least in -all that is most dear to thee, for having married without -having consulted me, and thy torment shall never finish, -nor that of thy Princess, until thou shalt have obeyed my -commands."</p> - -<p>In finishing these words the Fairy, the Princess, the chamber, -and the palace, all disappeared together, and he found -himself in his own apartment, in his night-dress, and his - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_383">[Pg 383]</a></span> -sword in his hand. He was so astonished, and so transported -with rage, that he did not feel the severity of the cold, -though it was in the depth of winter. At the noise which -he made his guards entered the room and begged him to go -to bed, or to allow them to dress him. He took the latter -course, and went to the Queen's chamber, who, on her part, -had passed the night in the most cruel state of anxiety. She -had not been able to sleep after going to bed, and in order to -induce slumber she had wished to talk over her grief with -little Camion; but she sought in vain for her in her case: -Camion was no longer there. She feared she might have lost -her in the garden: she rose, and having ordered flambeaux -to be lighted, went in search of her, but without success—she -had entirely disappeared, and the Queen retired to bed -again in an alarming state of affliction; she gave fresh vent -to it as her son entered. He was so distressed himself that -he did not perceive the tears of the Queen. She, on her part, -observing his agitation, exclaimed, "Ah! without doubt, you -have come to announce to me some dreadful tidings!"</p> - -<p>"Yes, Madam," replied the Prince; "I come to tell you -that I shall die if I do not find my Princess." "How!" said -the Queen; "do you already, my dear son, love that unhappy -Princess?" "What, your Camion?" said the Prince: "can -you suspect me, Madam, of such a thing? I speak of my dear -Whale-Princess who has been torn from me; it is for her -alone that I live, and it is Marmotte, the cruel Marmotte, -who has carried her away!" "Ah, my son," said the Queen, -"I am far more unhappy than you, for if they have taken -your Princess away from you, they have robbed me of my -Camion. Since last evening, she has disappeared from her -case!"</p> - -<p>They then related to each other their respective adventures, -and wept together over their common misfortunes. The -King was informed of the cries and despair of the Queen, and -the grief of his son. He entered the apartment in which -this tragic scene was passing, and as he was an exceedingly -clever man, the thought occurred to him immediately of -advertising Camion, with the offer of a large reward to whoever -should bring her back. Everybody agreed this was a -capital idea, and even the Queen, in spite of her great grief, -was obliged to confess that no one of ordinary capacity could - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_384">[Pg 384]</a></span> -have imagined so singular an expedient. The handbills were -printed, and distributed, and the Queen became rather calm -in the hope of soon hearing some tidings of her little Princess. -As for Zirphil, the loss of Camion interested him no more -than her presence; he resolved to seek a fairy of whom he -had heard speak. He asked permission of the King and Queen, -and departed with a single equerry in attendance on him.</p> - -<p>It was a great distance from that country to the one inhabited -by the Fairy; but neither time nor obstacles could -check the fond impatience of the youthful Zirphil. He passed -through states and kingdoms without number: nothing particular -happened to him because he did not desire it; for being -handsome as Cupid and brave as his own sword, he would have -had no lack of adventures had he sought for them.</p> - -<p>At length, after a year's travelling, he arrived at the commencement -of the desert wherein the Fairy had fixed her -abode; he dismounted from his horse, and left his equerry in -a little cottage, with orders to await him there, and not to be -impatient. He entered the desert, which was frightful from -its solitude; screech-owls alone inhabited it, but their cries -did not alarm the valiant spirit of our Prince.</p> - -<p>One evening, he perceived at a distance a light which made -him think he was approaching the grotto; for who but a -fairy could live in such a horrible desert. He walked all -night long; at length, at break of day, he discovered the -famous grotto; but a lake of fire separated him from it, and -all his valour could not protect him from the flames, which -spread right and left. He looked about for a long time to -see what he could do, and his courage nearly failed him when -he found that there was not even a bridge. Despair proved -his best friend, for in a frenzy of love and anguish, he resolved -to end his days in the lake, if he could not traverse it. No -sooner had he taken this strange resolution than he put it -in execution, and throwing himself bodily into the flames, he -felt a little gentle warmth which did not even inconvenience -him, and passed without the least trouble to the other side. -Hardly had he landed, when a young and beautiful Salamander -emerged from the lake, and said, "Prince Zirphil, if -your love be as great as your courage, you may hope for -everything from the Fairy Lumineuse; she favours you, but -she wishes to prove you."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_385">[Pg 385]</a></span></p> - -<p>Zirphil made a profound bow to the Salamander in acknowledgment, -for she did not give him time to speak; she -plunged again into the flames, and he pursued his way. He -arrived at length at the foot of a rock of prodigious height, -which from its great brilliancy appeared all on fire. It was -a carbuncle, so large that the Fairy was very commodiously -lodged in the inside. As soon as the Prince approached, -Lumineuse came out of the rock; he prostrated himself -before her, she raised him, and made him enter the grotto.</p> - -<p>"Prince Zirphil," said she, "a power equal to mine has -neutralized the benefits I bestowed on you at your birth; but -you may hope for everything from my care. It requires as -much patience as courage to foil the wickedness of Marmotte; -I can tell you nothing more." "At least, madam," replied -the Prince, "do me the favour to inform me if my beautiful -Princess is unhappy, and if I may hope to see her again -soon?" "She is not unhappy," replied the Fairy: "but you -cannot see her till you have pounded her in the mortar -of the King of the Whiting." "Oh! heavens!" cried the -Prince; "is she in his power; and have I to dread not -only the consequences of his passion, but the still greater -horror of pounding her with my own hands?" "Summon -up your courage," replied the Fairy, "and do not hesitate to -obey; upon that depends all your happiness, and that of your -wife." "But she will die if I pound her," said the Prince, -"and I would rather die myself." "Away," said the Fairy, -"and do not argue; each moment that you lose adds to the -fury of Marmotte. Go and seek the King of the Whiting; -tell him you are the page I promised to send him, and rely -on my protection."</p> - -<p>She then pointed out to him on a map the road he must -take to reach the dominions of the King of the Whiting; -and took her leave of him, after having informed him that -the ring which the Princess had given him would show him all -he had to do whenever the King commanded him to execute -a difficult task.</p> - -<p>He departed, and after some days' travelling arrived in a -meadow which stretched down to the sea, to the shore of -which was moored a small sailing-vessel of mother-of-pearl -and gold. He looked at his ruby, and saw himself in it -going on board the vessel. He therefore stepped into it, and - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_386">[Pg 386]</a></span> -after having cast off, the wind took it out to sea. After some -hours' sail, the vessel brought up at the foot of a crystal castle, -built upon wooden piles. He jumped ashore, and entered a -court-yard which led through a magnificent vestibule to -apartments without number, the walls of which were of rock -crystal, admirably cut, and which produced the most beautiful -effect in the world. The castle appeared to be inhabited only -by men with fishes' heads of all species. He felt convinced -this was the dwelling of the King of the Whiting, and -shuddered with rage; but he restrained himself so far as to -inquire of a turbot, who had the air of being a captain of the -guard, how he could manage to see the King of the Whiting. -The man-turbot very gravely made him a signal to advance, -and he entered the guard-chamber, where he saw under arms -a thousand men with pikes' heads, who formed in line for him -to pass.</p> - -<p>At length, after making his way through an infinite -crowd of men-fish, he came to the throne-room. There was -not much noise, for the courtiers were all dumb, the greater -part having whiting's heads. He saw several who appeared -of more consequence than the rest, from the crowd which -surrounded them, and by the air which they assumed with -the others. They arrived at the King's cabinet, out of which -he saw the council issue, composed of twelve men who had -sharks' heads. The King at length appeared himself. He had -a whiting's head, like many of the others; but he had fins on -his shoulders, and from his waist downwards he was a veritable -whiting. He could speak, and wore only a scarf made -of the skin of goldfish, which was very brilliant, and a helmet -in the form of a crown, out of which arose a codfish's tail, -which formed the plume. Four whiting carried him in a bowl -of Japanese porcelain, as large as a bath, full of sea water. -His greatest pride consisted in causing it to be filled twice a -day by the dukes and peers of his kingdom. This office was -extremely sought after.</p> - -<p>The King of the Whiting was very large, and had more -the air of a monster than of anything else. When he had -spoken to some of those who had presented him with petitions, -he perceived the Prince. "Who are you, my friend?" -said he to him. "By what chance do I see a man here?" -"My lord," said Zirphil, "I am the page the Fairy Lumineuse - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_387">[Pg 387]</a></span> -has promised you." "I know what she means," said -the King, laughing, and showing his teeth, like those of a -saw. "Lead him into my seraglio, and let him teach my -crayfish to talk." Immediately a troop of whiting surrounded -him, and conducted him according to the King's -orders. In returning through the apartments all the fish, -even those the highest in favour, professed, by various signs, -a great deal of friendship for him. They led him through a -delicious garden, at the end of which was a charming pavilion, -built entirely of mother-of-pearl, and ornamented with great -branches of coral. The favourite Whiting introduced him -into an apartment similarly adorned, the windows of which -overlooked a magnificent piece of water. They made him -understand that that was to be his residence, and after -having shown him a little chamber at one corner of the saloon, -which he understood was to be his bed-room, they retired, -and he remained alone, very much astonished to find himself -something very like a prisoner in the palace of his rival.</p> - -<p>He was meditating on this position of affairs, when he saw -the doors of the chamber open, and ten or twelve thousand -crayfish, conducted by one larger than the rest, entered, and -placed themselves in straight lines, which nearly filled the -apartment. The one which marched at their head mounted -upon a table near him, and said, "Prince, I know you, and -you owe much to my care; but as it is rare to find gratitude -in men, I will not tell you what I have done for you, for fear -you should destroy the sentiments with which you have -inspired me. I have only, therefore, to inform you that -these are the crayfish of the King of the Whiting, that they -alone speak in this empire, and that you are chosen to teach -them refined language, the customs of the world, and the -means of pleasing their sovereign. You will find them intelligent; -but you must every morning choose ten to pound in -the King's mortar, to make his broth."<a id="FNanchor_37_37"></a><a href="#Footnote_37_37" class="fnanchor">[37]</a></p> - -<p>The Crayfish having ceased speaking, the Prince replied, -"I had no idea, Madam, that you had interested yourself in -my concerns. The gratitude I already feel towards you should -induce you to abandon the bad opinion you have conceived of -men in general, since on the bare assurance which you have -given me of your friendship, I feel deeply obliged to you. - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_388">[Pg 388]</a></span> -But what I am very anxious to learn is, the course I should -take in reasoning with the persons whose education you would -confide to me. If I were sure that they had as much intellect -as you, I should have no trouble, and I should feel a pride in -the task; but the more difficult I should find them to teach, -the less should I have the courage to punish them for faults for -which they are not responsible. And having lived with them, -how can I have the heart to deliver them to a torture?" "You -are obstinate and a great talker," interrupted the Crayfish; -"but we know how to subdue you." So saying, she rose -from the table, and jumping to the ground, took her real -form of Marmotte (for she was that wicked fairy). "Oh, -heavens!" cried the Prince; "so this is the person who boasts -of the interest she takes in my affairs—she who has done -nothing but make me miserable. Ah, Lumineuse," continued -he, "you abandon me!" He had hardly finished these words, -when Marmotte precipitated herself by the window into the -reservoir and disappeared, and he remained alone with the -twelve thousand crayfish.</p> - -<p>After having meditated a little as to how he should proceed -to educate them, during which time they waited in complete -silence, it occurred to him that he might very probably find -amongst them his beautiful and unfortunate Princess, because -the hideous Marmotte had ordered him to pound ten of them -every morning. "And why should I be selected to pound -them," said he, "if it be not to drive me distracted? Never -mind, let us look for her," continued he, rising; "let us at -least try to recognise her, even if I die of grief before her eyes." -Then he asked the crayfish if they would kindly permit him -to search amongst them for one of his acquaintance. "We -know nothing about it, my Lord," said the first who spoke; -"but you can make what inquiry you please up to the time -of our return to the reservoir, for we must positively pass -the night there." Zirphil commenced his inspection; the -more he sought, the less he discovered, but he surmised, -from the few words which he drew from those he interrogated, -that they were all princesses transformed by the wickedness -of Marmotte. This caused him inconsolable grief, for he had -to choose ten for the King's broth.</p> - -<p>When evening came, they repeated that they must retire -to the reservoir, and it was not without pain that he relinquished - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_389">[Pg 389]</a></span> -the sweet occupation of seeking the Princess. -He had only been able in the whole day to interrogate -a hundred and fifty; but as he was certain at least that she -was not amongst them, he determined to take ten from -that number; he had no sooner chosen them than he -proceeded to carry them to the King's offices; but he was -arrested by the most astonishing peals of laughter from -the victims he was about to immolate; he was so surprised -by it, that he was some time without speaking; at -length he interrupted them to inquire what it was they found -so amusing in their present circumstances? They renewed -their shouts of laughter so heartily that he could not help, in -spite of his own sorrows, partaking in their mirth. They -wanted to speak, but could not for laughing; they could only -ejaculate, "Oh, I can say no more!" "Oh, I shall die of it!" -"No, there is nothing in the world so amusing!" and then -roared again. At length he reached the Palace with them all -laughing together, and having shown them to a pike-headed -man, who seemed to be the principal cook, a mortar of green porphyry, -ornamented with gold, was set before him, into which -he put his ten crayfish, and prepared to pound them. At that -moment the bottom of the mortar opened, emitted a brilliant -flame, which dazzled the Prince, and then closing up again, -appeared perfectly empty; even the crayfish had vanished. -This astonished, but at the same time gratified him, for he was -very reluctant to pound such merry creatures. The man-pike, -on the contrary, seemed sadly distressed at this adventure, and -wept bitterly. The Prince was as much surprised at this as -he was at the laughter of the crayfish, and he could not -ascertain the cause, as the pike's-head was dumb.</p> - -<p>He returned, much disturbed by his adventure, to his -pretty apartment, where he no longer found the crayfish, for -they had returned to the reservoir. The following morning, -they re-entered without Marmotte; he sought for his Princess, -and still not discovering her, he again chose ten of the finest -for pounding. The same adventure occurred—they laughed, -and the man-pike wept when they disappeared in the flame. For -three months this extraordinary scene was daily repeated; he -heard nothing of the King of the Whiting, and he was only -uneasy at not discovering his beautiful Princess.</p> - -<p>One evening, returning from the kitchen to his own apartments, - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_390">[Pg 390]</a></span> -he traversed the King's gardens, and passing near a -palisade which surrounded a charming plantation, in the -midst of which was a little sparkling fountain, he heard some -one speaking; this surprised him, for he believed all the inhabitants -of that kingdom to be as dumb as those he had -seen. He advanced gently, and heard a voice, which said,—"But -Princess, if you do not discover yourself, your husband -will never find you." "What can I do?" said the other -voice, which he recognised as that he had so often heard. -"The cruelty of Marmotte compels me to remain silent, and -I cannot discover myself without risking his life as well as -my own. The wise Lumineuse, who aids him, conceals my -features from him in order to preserve us to each other: he -must absolutely pound me, it is an irrevocable sentence." -"But why should he pound you?" inquired the other. "You -have never yet told me your history; Citronette, your confidante, -would have related it to me had she not last week been -chosen for the King's broth." "Alas!" replied the Princess, -"that unfortunate has already undergone the torture which I -await; would that I were in her place, for assuredly by this -time she is in her grotto." "But," rejoined the other voice, -"as it is such a beautiful night, tell me now why you are subjected -to the vengeance of Marmotte. I have already told -you who I am, and I burn with impatience to know more -about you." "Although it will renew my grief," replied the -Princess, "I cannot refuse to satisfy you, especially as I must -speak of Zirphil, and I take pleasure in all that relates to -him."</p> - -<p>One may easily judge of the delight which the Prince felt -at this fortunate moment; he glided gently into the plantation, -but as it was very dark he saw nothing; he listened, -however, with all his ears, and this is word for word what he -heard:—</p> - -<p>"My father was King of a country near Mount Caucasus; -he reigned to the best of his ability over a people of incredible -wickedness; there were perpetual revolts, and often the -windows of his Palace were broken by the stones which they -hurled against them. The Queen, my mother, who was a -very accomplished woman, composed speeches for him to -make to the disaffected; but if he succeeded in appeasing -them one day, the next produced a new trouble. The judges -were tired of condemning to death, and the executioners of - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_391">[Pg 391]</a></span> -hanging. At length things arrived at such a pitch that my -father, seeing all our provinces were uniting against us, -resolved to withdraw from the capital, that he might no longer -witness so many disagreeable scenes. He took the Queen with -him, and left the kingdom to the government of one of his -ministers, who was very wise, and less timid than the King, -my father. My mother was expecting my birth, and travelled -with some difficulty to the foot of Mount Caucasus, -where my father had chosen his habitation. Our wicked -subjects fired the guns for joy at their departure, and next day -strangled our minister, saying that he wished to carry matters -with too high a hand, and that they much preferred their old -Sovereign. My father was not at all flattered by their preference, -and remained concealed in his little retreat, where -very soon I saw the light.</p> - -<p>"They named me Camion, because I was so very diminutive.<a id="FNanchor_38_38"></a><a href="#Footnote_38_38" class="fnanchor">[38]</a> -Moreover, the King and Queen, tired of the honours -which had cost them so dear, and wishing to conceal my high -birth from me, brought me up as a shepherdess. At the end of -ten years (which appeared to them like ten minutes, so happy -were they in their retreat), the fairies of the Caucasus, -indignant at the wickedness of the people who inhabited our -kingdom, resolved to restore order in it. One day that I was -tending my sheep in the meadow which adjoined our garden, -two old shepherdesses accosted me, and begged me to give -them shelter for the night; they had such a sad dejected air -that my soul was moved with compassion. 'Follow me,' said -I; 'my father, who is a farmer, will receive you willingly.' I -ran to the cottage to announce their arrival to him; he came -to meet them, and received them with much kindness, as did -my mother also. I then brought in my sheep, and set milk -before our guests. Meanwhile, my father prepared them a -nice little supper, and the Queen, who, as I before told you, -was a clever woman, entertained them wonderfully.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_392">[Pg 392]</a></span></p> - -<p>"I had a little lamb which I loved excessively; my father -called to me to bring it to him that he might kill it and -roast it. I was not accustomed to dispute his will, and -therefore took it to him; but I was so distressed at having -to do so that I went and sat down weeping beside my mother, -who was so occupied in talking to these good women that -she took no notice of me. 'What is the matter with little -Camion?' said one of them, who saw me in tears. 'Alas, -Madam!' said I to her, 'my father is roasting my pet lamb -for your suppers.' 'How?' said the one who had not yet -spoken, 'is it on our account that pretty Camion is thus -distressed?' Then rising and striking the ground with her -stick, a table rose out of it magnificently covered, and the -two old women became two beautiful ladies, in dresses so dazzling -with precious stones, that I was struck motionless, so -much so, indeed, that I paid no attention when my little -lamb bounded into the room, and made a thousand leaps, -which much amused the company. I ran at length to him, -after having kissed the hands of the beautiful ladies; but I -was quite amazed to find his wool all of silver purl, and -covered with knots of rose-coloured ribbon.</p> - -<p>"My father and mother paid every attention to the Fairies, -for such I need not tell you they were both. They raised -the King and Queen, who had fallen at their feet. 'King -and Queen,' said she who was the most majestic, 'we have -known you for a long time past, and your misfortunes have -excited our pity. Do not imagine that greatness exempts any -one from the ills attached to humanity. You must know by -experience that the more elevated the rank the more keenly -are they felt. Your patience and virtue have raised you -above your misfortunes: it is time to give you your reward. -I am the Fairy Lumineuse, and I come to ask what would -be most agreeable to your majesties. Speak, and do not fear -to put our power to the proof; consult together, your wishes -shall be accomplished; but say nothing respecting Camion—her -destiny is apart from yours. The Fairy Marmotte, -envious of the brilliant fate which has been promised her, -has obscured it for a time: but Camion will better know the -value of her happiness when she shall have experienced the -ills of life; we will protect her by softening them: that is all -we are permitted to tell you. Speak; with that exception -we can do anything for you.'</p> - -<p>"The Fairies, after this harangue, were silent. The Queen -turned to the King that he might reply, for she wept to find -I was doomed to be unhappy; but my father was no better -able than herself to speak: he uttered piteous exclamations, -and I, seeing them in tears, left my lamb to come and weep -with them. The Fairies waited with much impatience, and - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_393">[Pg 393]</a></span> -in perfect silence, till our tears were ended. At length my -mother pushed the King gently to let him know they were -expecting his reply. He took his handkerchief from his eyes -and said, that as it was decided that I should be miserable, -nothing they could offer him could be agreeable to him, and -that he refused the happiness which they promised him, as he -should always find it embittered by the idea of what I had to -dread. The Queen added, seeing that the poor man could -say no more, that she begged the Fairies to take their lives -on the day when my sad destiny was to be fulfilled, for that -her only wish was not to be compelled to witness my -misery. The good Fairies, affected by the extreme grief which -reigned in the royal family, spoke together in a whisper. At -length Lumineuse, who had already addressed us, said to the -Queen, 'Be consoled, Madam; the misfortunes which threaten -Camion are not so great but that they may terminate happily; -for from the moment that the husband destined for her shall -have obeyed the commands of fate, she will be happy with -him, and the malignity of our sister can have no further -power over either. The Prince we have selected is one -worthy of her; and all we can tell you is, that you must -absolutely lower your daughter every morning into the well, -and that she must bathe in it for half-an-hour. If you -strictly observe this rule, perhaps she may escape the evil -with which she is threatened. At twelve years old the critical -period of her fate will commence; if she reach the age of -thirteen in safety, there will be nothing more to fear. That -is all which regards her. Now wish for yourselves, and we -can gratify your desires.'</p> - -<p>"The King and Queen looked at each other, and after a -short silence, the King asked to become a statue until after I -should have completed my thirteenth year; and the Queen -limited her request to the modest one that the temperature -of the well in which I was to be dipped should be always -according to the season. The fairies, charmed at this excess -of parental tenderness, added that the water should be orangeflower -water, and that the King, whenever the Queen should -throw this water over him, should resume his natural form, -and again become a statue when he pleased. At length they -took leave of us, after having lauded the King and Queen -for their moderation, and promised to assist them whenever - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_394">[Pg 394]</a></span> -they should require it, by burning a bit of the silver purl -with which my lamb was covered.</p> - -<p>"They vanished, and I felt real anguish for the first time -in my life, at seeing my father become a great statue of black -marble. The Queen burst into tears, and I also; but at -length, as everything has an end, I ceased to cry, and occupied -myself in consoling my mother, for I felt a sudden increase -both of sense and sensibility.</p> - -<p>"The Queen passed her life at the feet of the statue, and I, -after having bathed as they had ordered me, went to milk my -ewes. Upon that food we lived, for the Queen would not -take anything else, and it was only from love to me that she -could be prevailed on to preserve an existence, which to her -was so full of bitterness. 'Alas! my daughter,' said she, -sometimes, 'of what use to us have been our grandeur and -our high birth? (for she no longer concealed from me my -rank.) 'Would it not have been better to have been born in -a lower sphere, since a crown draws down on us such great misfortunes? -Virtue, and my affection for you, my dear Camion, -alone enable me to support them; but there are moments -when my soul seems impatient to leave me, and I confess I -feel pleasure in imagining that I shall soon die. It is not for -me you should weep,' added she, 'but for your father, whose -grief, still greater than mine, has carried him so far as to -make him desire a worse fate than ceasing to live. Never -forget, my dear, the gratitude you owe him.' 'Alas! Madam,' -said I, 'I am not capable of ever forgetting it, and still less -can I forget that you have wished to live in order to assist -me.'</p> - -<p>"I was bathed regularly every day, and my mother was -sadly distressed to see the King always an inanimate statue. -She dared not, however, recall him to life, fearing to inflict -on him the pain of witnessing the misfortune with which I -was threatened. The Fairies not having specified what it -was, we were in mortal fear. The Queen especially fancied -no end of frightful things, because her imagination had an -unlimited field to range over. As for me, I did not trouble -myself much about it, so true is it that youth is the only -time when we enjoy the present.</p> - -<p>"My mother told me repeatedly that she felt a great desire -to bring my father to life again, and I had the same inclination. - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_395">[Pg 395]</a></span> -At length, after six months, finding that the Fairies' -bath had greatly embellished both my person and mind, she -resolved to gratify this longing, if but to give the King the -pleasure of seeing my improvement. She therefore desired -me to bring her some water from the well. Accordingly, -after my bath, I drew up a vase of this marvellous water, and -the statue was no sooner sprinkled with it, than my father -became a man again. The Queen threw herself at his feet, to -ask pardon for having troubled his repose. He raised her, -and embracing her tenderly, forgave her readily, and she -presented me to him.</p> - -<p>"I am ashamed to tell you that he was both delighted and -surprised. For how can you believe me, beautiful Princess?" -said the voice, hesitatingly, "me, the most hideous of crayfish?" -"Alas! I can well believe you," replied the one to -whom she spoke; "I also might boast of being handsome, but -is it possible to appear so in these frightful shells? Pray -continue, however, for I am eager to hear the rest of your -history." "Well, then," said the other voice, "the King was -enchanted with me, loaded me with caresses, and asked the -Queen if she had any news to tell him. 'Alas!' said she, -'who in this desert should come to tell me any? Besides, -being occupied solely in lamenting your transformation, I have -taken little interest in the world, which is nothing to me -without you.' 'Well,' said the King, 'I will tell you some -news, then; for do not think that I have been always asleep. -The Fairies who protect us have disclosed to me the punishment -of my subjects. They have made an immense pond of -my kingdom, and all the inhabitants are men-fish. A nephew -of the Fairy Marmotte, whom they have set up as their -king, persecutes them with unequalled cruelty: he devours -them for the least fault; and at the end of a certain time a -prince will arrive who will dethrone him, and reign in his -stead. It is in this kingdom that Camion will be made -perfectly happy. This is all that I know; and it was not a -bad way of passing my time' said he, laughing, 'to have discovered -these things. The Fairies came every night to inform -me of what was doing, and I should perhaps have known -much more if you had let me remain a statue a little longer; -but, however, I am so delighted to see you once more, that I do -not think I shall very soon wish to become a statue again.'</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_396">[Pg 396]</a></span></p> - -<p>"We passed some time in the happiest manner possible. -The King and Queen, notwithstanding, were rather anxious -when they thought of my approaching the age of thirteen. -As the Queen bathed me with great care, she hoped that the -prediction would not be fulfilled. But who can boast of -escaping their destiny? One morning that the Queen had -risen early, and was gathering some flowers to decorate our -cottage, because the King was fond of them, she saw come -out from beneath a tube-rose an ugly animal, something like a -marmot. This beast threw itself on her, and bit her nose. -She fainted with the pain which this bite occasioned her, and -my father, at the end of an hour, not seeing her return, went -to seek her. Judge of his consternation at finding her nearly -dead, and covered with blood! He uttered fearful cries. I -ran to his assistance, and we together carried the Queen into -the house, and placed her in bed, where she was two hours -without coming to herself. At length she began to give some -signs of life, and we had the pleasure of seeing her very shortly -recovered, except from the pain of the bite, which caused her -much suffering.</p> - -<p>"She asked directly if I had been to bathe: but we had quite -forgotten it in our anxiety about her. She was much alarmed -at hearing this; however, seeing that as yet no accident had -happened to me, she became re-assured, and related to us her -adventure, which surprised us immensely.</p> - -<p>"The day passed over without any other trouble; the King -had taken his gun and sought in every direction for the horrid -beast without finding it. The next day at sunrise the Queen -awoke and came to fetch me, to repair the fault of the preceding -morning; she lowered me into the well as usual, but -alas, fatal and unlucky day! at this same instant, although -the heavens were quite serene, a dreadful clap of thunder rent -the air, the sky seemed suddenly all on fire, and from a burning -cloud there issued a flaming dart which flew into the well. -My mother in her fright let go the cord which held me, and -I sank to the bottom, without hurting myself, it is true, but -horrified at discovering that I was partially transformed into -an enormous fish which they call a whale. I rose to the -surface again, and called the Queen with all my power. She -did not reply. I was sadly afflicted and wept bitterly, as much -for her loss as at my metamorphosis, when I felt that an - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_397">[Pg 397]</a></span> -invisible power forced me to descend to the bottom of the -well. Having reached it, I entered a grotto of crystal, where -I found a species of Nymph, ugly enough, for she was like an -immensely fat frog. However, she smiled at my approach, -and said to me—'Camion, I am the Nymph of the Bottomless -Well; I have orders to receive thee, and to make thee -undergo the penance to which thou art sentenced for having -failed to bathe; follow me, and do not remonstrate.'</p> - -<p>"What, alas, could I do? I was so distressed and so faint -at finding myself on dry ground, that I had not the strength -to speak. She dragged me, not without pain, into a saloon -of green marble which was near the grotto; she there put -me into an immense golden tub filled with water, and I then -began to recover my senses. The good Nymph appeared delighted -at this. 'I am called Citronette,' said she to me; 'I am -appointed to wait on thee; thou canst order me to do anything -thou wilt—I know perfectly well both the past and the present; -as for the future, it is not my province to penetrate it. Command -me, and at least I can render the time of thy penance -less irksome to thee.'</p> - -<p>"I embraced the good Citronette at these words, and -related to her the events of my life. I then inquired of her -what had become of the King and Queen. She was about to -reply, when a hideous marmot, as large as a human being, -entered the saloon, and froze me with horror. She walked -upon her hind legs, and leant upon a gold wand, which gave -her a dignified air. She approached the tub, in which I -would willingly have drowned myself, I was so frightened, -and raising her wand, with which she touched me—'Camion,' -said she, 'thou art in my power, and nothing can release thee -but thy obedience and that of the husband whom my sisters -have destined for thee. Listen to me, and cast off this fear, -which does not befit a person of your rank. Since thine -infancy I wished to take care of thee, and to marry thee to -my nephew, the King of the Whiting. Lumineuse, and two -or three other of my sisters, combined to deprive me of this -right; I was provoked, and not being able to revenge myself -on them, I resolved to punish thee for their audacity. I -doomed thee, therefore, to be a whale for at least half the -term of thy existence. My sisters protested so strongly -against what they called my injustice, that I diminished my - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_398">[Pg 398]</a></span> -vengeance by three-quarters and a half; but I reserved to -myself the right of marrying thee to my nephew in return -for my complaisance. Lumineuse, who is imperious, and unfortunately -my superior, would not listen to this arrangement, -because she had destined thee, before me, to a Prince whom -she protected. I was compelled then to consent to her plan, -in spite of my resentment; all that I could obtain was that -the first who should deliver you from my claws should be thy -husband. Here are their portraits,' continued she, showing -me two gold miniature cases, 'which will enable thee to -recognise them: but if one of them come to deliver thee, he -must betroth himself to thee whilst thou art in the tub, -and before thou canst leave it, he must tear off the skin -of the whale; without that, thou wilt always remain a -fish. My nephew would not hesitate a moment to execute -that order; but the favourite of Lumineuse will consider it a -horrible task, for he has the air of a very delicate little -gentleman. Set, then, thy wits to work to make him skin -thee, and after that thou shalt be no longer unhappy, if to -be a beautiful whale, very fat and well fed, and up to the neck -in water, can be called unhappiness.'</p> - -<p>"To these words I made no reply, but remained very -dejected, as much at my present state as by the thought of -scaling to which I must submit.</p> - -<p>"Marmotte disappeared, leaving with me the two miniature -cases. I wept over my misfortunes and my situation, without -dreaming of looking at the portraits, when the good and -sympathising Citronette said to me, 'Come, we must not -lament over ills which cannot be remedied. Let us see if I -cannot help to console you; but first, try not to weep so -much, for I have a tender heart, and I cannot see your tears -without feeling inclined to mingle mine with them. Let us -chase them away by looking at these portraits.'</p> - -<p>"So saying, she opened the first case, and showing it to me, -we both uttered shrieks like Melusine's<a id="FNanchor_39_39"></a><a href="#Footnote_39_39" class="fnanchor">[39]</a> at seeing a hideous -whiting's head, painted, it is true, with all the advantages -which could be given to it; but, in spite of that, never in the -memory of man had anything been seen so ugly. 'Take -away that object,' cried I to her; 'I cannot bear the sight of -it longer. I would rather be a whale all my life than marry -that horrible Whiting!'</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_399">[Pg 399]</a></span></p> - -<p>"She did not give me time to finish my imprecations on -this monster, but said, 'Behold this darling young man! Oh, -as for him, would he but skin you I should be delighted.' -I looked hastily to see if what she said was true; I was only -too soon convinced. A noble and charming countenance presented -itself to my view; fine eyes full of tenderness embellished -a face which was both mild and majestic; an air of -intellectuality was spread over it, which completed the fascination -of this delightful painting; a profusion of black hair, -curling naturally, gave an air to it which Citronette mistook -for indifference, but which I interpreted, and I think rightly, -as conveying a precisely opposite sentiment.</p> - -<p>"I contemplated this beautiful face with a pleasure of -which I was scarcely conscious. Citronette remarked it first. -'Without a doubt,' cried she, 'that is the one we will -choose.' This bantering roused me from my reverie, and -colouring at my own ecstasy, 'Why should I trouble myself,' -said I; 'ah, my dear Citronette, this appears to me very like -another trick of that cruel Marmotte; she has exhausted her art -in endeavouring to make me regret the impossibility of finding -a similar object in nature.' 'What,' said Citronette, 'already -such tender reflections on this portrait? Ah! truly, I did -not expect that so soon.' I blushed again at this jest, and -became quite embarrassed at finding that I had too innocently -betrayed the effect which this beautiful painting had produced -on my heart. Citronette again read my thoughts. -'No, no,' said she, embracing me, 'do not repent of this avowal, -your frankness charms me; and to console you, I will tell -you that Marmotte does not deceive you, and that there is -in the world a Prince who is the veritable original of the -picture.'</p> - -<p>"This assurance filled me with joy at the moment; but the -next instant that feeling departed, when I remembered that -this Prince would never see me, as I was in the depths of the -earth, and that Marmotte, by her power, would sooner enable -her monster of a nephew to penetrate my abode than give the -least assistance to a prince whom she hated, because they had - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_400">[Pg 400]</a></span> -destined me to him without her consent. I no longer concealed -what I thought from Citronette; the attempt, indeed, -would have been useless, for she read with surprising facility -the utmost secret of my thoughts; I therefore preferred to -take the credit of candour; she deserved my confidence for -her attachment to me, and I found it a great consolation, for -I have felt from that time that when the heart is filled with -one object there is much happiness in being able to speak of -it. In fact, I loved from that moment, and Citronette dissipated, -with much address and clear-sightedness, the confusion -and trouble which the commencement of a violent passion -produces in the mind. She soothed my grief by allowing me -to speak of it; and when I had exhausted words, she gently -changed the conversation, which almost always, however, bore -upon my troubles or my affection.</p> - -<p>"She had informed me that the King, my father, was transported -to the abode of the King of the Whiting; and that -the Queen, at the moment that she lost me, had become a -crayfish. I could not understand this. 'One cannot become -a crayfish,' said I. 'Can you better understand how you -have become a whale?' said she.</p> - -<p>"She was right; but we are often surprised at things which -happen to others, although we have in ourselves still greater -subject for astonishment. My small experience was the cause -of this. Citronette laughed frequently at my innocence, and -was surprised to find me so eloquent in my affection, for truly -I was so on that subject; and I found that love throws much -light into the mind. I could not sleep; I woke the good-natured -Citronette an hundred times in the night to talk to her -of my Prince; she had told me his name, and that he hunted -almost every day in the forest beneath which I was interred. -She proposed to me to try to attract him to our dwelling, but -I would not consent, although I was dying to do so. I was -afraid that he would die for want of air; we were accustomed -to it, that was a different thing; I feared also that it would -be too great a freedom; besides, I was in despair at appearing -to him in the form of a whale, and I measured his aversion -for me by that which the portrait of the King of the Whiting -had inspired me with. Citronette re-assured me, telling me -that spite of the whale's body my face was charming. I -believed it sometimes, but more often I was uneasy, and after - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_401">[Pg 401]</a></span> -having looked at myself, I could not imagine I was sufficiently -handsome to inspire with love one who had made me so well -acquainted with it. My self-love came to the support of my -prudence. Alas! how rarely it is that our virtues can be traced -to purer inspirations.</p> - -<p>"I passed my time in forming projects for obtaining a sight -of him, and letting him see me, and rejected by turns each -that occurred to me. Citronette was a great assistance to -me at this time; for it must be confessed that she has plenty -of sense, and still more gentleness and amiability. One day -that I was even more sad than usual—for love has the peculiarity -of infecting gentle souls with melancholy—I saw the -frightful Marmotte enter, with two persons whom I did not at -first recognise. I took it into my head that it was her wretched -nephew whom she brought with her; I uttered frightful -shrieks as they approached me hastily. 'Why, she could not -cry louder,' said the horrid Marmotte, 'if they were skinning -her! Look what terrible harm is done to her!' 'Good -gracious, sister,' said one of these persons who accompanied her, -and whom I then remembered with joy having formerly seen -in our village; 'a truce to your stories of skinning, and let -us tell Camion what we have to tell her.' 'Willingly,' said -Marmotte; 'but on the conditions which you are aware of.'</p> - -<p>"'Camion,' said the good Fairy, without replying to -Marmotte, 'we are too much distressed at your condition -not to think of remedying it, more especially as you have -not deserved it. My sisters and I have resolved to ameliorate -it as much as lies in our power. This, therefore, -is what we have determined on. You are about to be presented -at the Court of the Prince to whom I have destined -you from your infancy; but, my dear child, you will not -appear there as you are, and you are commanded to return -three nights a week and plunge again in your tub; for until -you are married'—'and skinned!' interrupted the odious -Marmotte, laughing violently. The good Fairy merely turned -towards her, shrugging her shoulders, and continued—'Until -you are married you will be a whale in this place. We can -tell you no more; the rest you will be informed of by degrees; -but above all keep your secret; for if a word escape you which -tends to discover it, neither I nor my sisters can do anything -for you, and you will be delivered up to my sister Marmotte.' - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_402">[Pg 402]</a></span> -'That is what I expect,' said the wicked Fairy; 'and I already -see her in my power; for a secret kept by a girl would be a -phenomenon.' 'That is her own affair,' said Lumineuse (for it -was she who had already spoken). 'To proceed, my daughter,' -said she, 'you will become a little doll made of ivory, but -capable of thinking and speaking; we shall preserve all your -features, and I give you a week to consider whether what I -propose to you will suit you; we will then return, and you -shall tell me if you consent to it, or if you would prefer -awaiting here the event which must bring you one of the two -husbands selected for you.'</p> - -<p>"I had not time to reply; the Fairies departed after these -words, and left me astounded by what I had just seen and -heard. I remained with Citronette, who represented to me -that it was a great treat for me to become an ivory doll. I -sighed when I thought that my Prince would never take a -fancy to such a bauble; but at length the desire to see him -and become acquainted with him overcame the anxiety to -please him, and I resolved to accept the proposal which was -made to me, and the more readily as Zirphil (for they had -mentioned his name) might possibly be forestalled by the -King of the Whiting, and this idea made me nearly die -of grief.</p> - -<p>"Citronette told me that Prince Zirphil hunted daily in -the forest which was above us; and I made her take every -day the form of a stag, a hound, or a wild boar, in order that -she might bring me some news, which never failed to be in -some way connected with the subject which occupied my -heart. She described him to me as an hundred times handsomer -than his picture, and my imagination embellished him -to such a degree that I resolved to see him or to die. But -one more day had to elapse before the expected arrival of the -Fairies, and Citronette, in the form of a wild boar, was roaming -the forest to find food for my curiosity, when suddenly I saw -her return, followed by the too amiable Zirphil. I cannot -describe to you my joy and astonishment; there are no terms -which can express them to you. But what enchanted me most -was, that this charming Prince appeared equally delighted -with me; perhaps I desired this too much not to help to -deceive myself. However, I thought I saw in his eyes that -he felt the impression he had made. Citronette, more anxious - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_403">[Pg 403]</a></span> -for my happiness than mindful of our ecstasy, aroused us from -it, by begging him either to skin or to marry me. Then -coming to myself, and feeling the danger of my situation, I -joined in her entreaties, and by our prayers and tears induced -him to plight me his faith. I had hardly accepted it, when -he vanished, I know not how, and I found myself in my ordinary -form, lying on a good bed; I was no longer a whale, but -I was still in the depths of the earth in the green saloon, and -Citronette had lost the power of leaving it and of transforming -herself.</p> - -<p>"I expected the Fairies in a state of the greatest trepidation. -My love had redoubled since I had become personally -acquainted with its object, and I feared that my charming -husband might be included in the vengeance of the Fairies for -not having waited till they could witness my marriage. -Citronette had enough to do to re-assure me; I could not overcome -my grief and fear. Marmotte appeared with the dawn -of day, but I neither saw Lumineuse nor her companion; she -did not seem more irritable than usual; she touched me with -her wand without speaking to me, and I became a charming -little doll, which she put in her toothpick-case, and then -transported herself into the presence of the Queen-mother of -my betrothed. She gave me to her, with orders to marry -me to her son, or to expect all the evil which she was capable -of inflicting, telling her that I was her goddaughter, and was -called the Princess Camion. I took, in fact, a great fancy to -my mother-in-law; I considered her charming, as being the -mother of Zirphil, whom I adored, and my caresses were -returned by her. I was transported every night into the -green saloon, and there enjoyed the pleasure of meeting my -husband, for the same power acted on him, and transported -him likewise into this subterraneous dwelling. I knew not -why they forbad me to tell him my secret, as I was married; -but I kept it in spite of his impatience to know it. You will -see," continued the speaker, with a sigh, "how impossible it is -to avoid one's fate. But it begins to get light, and I feel I -am quite tired with being so long out of the water; let us -return to the reservoir, and to-morrow, at the same hour, if we -are not selected for the soup of that worthless King of the -Whiting, we will resume the thread of our discourse.—Come, -let us go."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_404">[Pg 404]</a></span></p> - -<p>Zirphil heard no more, and himself returned to his apartment, -much concerned at not having made known to the -Princess his being so near her; but the fear of increasing her -misfortunes by this indiscretion, consoled him for not having -risked it; the misery of knowing she was likely to perish by -his hand made him resolve to continue his diligent search -amongst the crayfish.</p> - -<p>He retired to bed, but not to sleep, for he did not -close his eyes all night. To have found his Princess in -the form of a crayfish, ready to be made into soup for the -King of the Whiting, appeared to him a still more frightful -torment than the death to which he had believed her destined. -He was sighing and distressing himself cruelly, when he was -disturbed by a great noise in the garden; he at first heard it -confusedly, but listening attentively, he distinguished flutes and -conch shells. He rose and went to the window, when he saw the -King of the Whiting, accompanied by the dozen sharks who -composed his council, advancing towards the pavilion; he -hastened to open the door, and the train having entered, the -King first had his tub filled with sea water by the peers of -the realm who bore it, and after a short repose, and making -the council take their places, he addressed the young Prince, -"Whoever you may be," said he, "you have resolved, apparently, -to make me die of hunger, for you send me every day -a broth which I cannot swallow; but, young man, I must -tell you, that if you are leagued with evil powers to poison -me, you have taken a very foolish part. As nephew of the -Fairy Marmotte I am beyond all such attempts, and my life -is safe."</p> - -<p>The Prince, astonished at being suspected of so base an -act, was about to reply with haughtiness, but by chance, as -he raised his hand, he cast his eyes upon his ring, and saw -therein Lumineuse, who placed her finger on her mouth as a sign -to him to be silent; he had not before thought of consulting -his ring, he had been so engrossed by his grief. He accordingly -held his tongue: but he betrayed his indignation in his -countenance, which the sharks remarked, for they made signs -of approbation, which appeared to say that they did not -believe him capable of such a thing. "Ho, ho!" said the -King, "as this myrmidon appears so angry, we must make him -work before us. Let them go to my kitchen; let them bring - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_405">[Pg 405]</a></span> -the mortar for the crayfish; I shall give my council a treat." -Immediately a pike's-head went to execute the King's commands, -and during this time the twelve sharks took a large -net, which they threw into the reservoir from the window, -and drew in three or four thousand crayfish. During the -interval that the council was employed in fishing, and the -pike's-head in fetching the King's mortar, Zirphil reflected, -and felt that the most critical moment of his life approached, -and that his happiness or misery would depend upon his present -conduct. He armed himself with resolution for whatever -might come to pass, and placing all his hopes in the -Fairy Lumineuse, he implored her to be favourable to him. -At the same moment he looked at his ring, and saw in it the -beautiful Fairy, who made a sign to him to pound courageously; -this revived him, and took from him some of the pain -he felt at consenting to this cruelty.</p> - -<p>At length the horrid mortar was produced. Zirphil approached -it boldly, and prepared to obey the King. The -council put in the crayfish with great ceremony, and the -Prince tried to pound them; but the same thing happened to -them as to the former ones in the kitchen—the bottom of -the mortar opened and the flames devoured them. The King -and the odious sharks amused themselves for a long time -with this spectacle, and were never tired of filling the mortar; -at length there was but one left of the four thousand; it was -surprisingly large and fine. The King commanded that it -might be shelled, in order to see if he should like to eat some -of them raw. They gave it to Zirphil to shell; he trembled -all over at having to inflict this new torture, but still more -when this poor fish joined her two claws, and, with her eyes -filled with tears, said, "Alas! Zirphil, what have I done to -you that you should wish to do me so much harm?"</p> - -<p>The Prince, moved by these words, and his heart pierced -with grief, looked at her sadly, and at length took it on himself -to beg the King to allow her to be pounded. The King, -jealous of his authority, and firm in his resolution, was enraged -at this humble request, and threatened to pound Zirphil himself -if he did not shell it. The poor Prince took it again -from the hands of the shark to whom he had confided it, and -with a little knife which they had given him he tremblingly -touched the crayfish; he looked at his ring, and saw Lumineuse - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_406">[Pg 406]</a></span> -laughing and talking to a veiled person whom she held -by the hand. He could not understand this at all, and the -King, who did not give him time to reflect, cried out to him -so loudly to finish, that the Prince stuck the knife with such -force under the shell of the crayfish that it cried piteously; -he turned away his eyes from hers, and could not help shedding -tears. At length he resumed his task, but to his great -astonishment he had not finished the shelling when he found -in his hands the wicked Marmotte, who jumped to the ground, -uttering shrieks of laughter so loud and disagreeable in -mockery of Zirphil, that it prevented him from fainting, or -he would have fallen on the floor.</p> - -<p>The King cried in astonishment, "Why, it is my aunt!" -"And truly it is she," said this annoying animal. "But, my -dear Whiting, I come to tell you a terrible piece of news." -Whiting grew pale at these words, and the council assumed -an air of satisfaction, which increased the ill-humour of the -King and his terrible aunt. "The fact is, my darling," -continued Marmotte, "you must return to your watery -dominions, for this rash boy whom you see here has chosen -to display a constancy that nothing can shake, and has -triumphed over all the traps I set for him to prevent him -from carrying off the Princess I had destined for you."</p> - -<p>At these words the King of the Whiting fell into such a -rage, that he could not contain himself: he committed extravagances -which proved he was possessed of the most violent -passions. Marmotte tried in vain to calm him; he broke his -bowl into a thousand pieces, and, being on dry ground, he -fainted. Marmotte, mad with rage, turned to Zirphil, who had -remained a quiet spectator of this tragic scene, and said to him, -"Thou hast conquered, Zirphil, by the power of a fairy whom -I must obey; but thou art not yet at the end of thy troubles. -Thou canst not be happy till thou shalt have given into my -own hand the case which enclosed the accursed Camion. -Even Lumineuse agrees to this, and I have obtained her -consent for you to suffer until that time."</p> - -<p>At these words she took the King of the Whiting on her -shoulders, and threw him into the reservoir, as well as the -sharks, the palace, and all its inhabitants. Zirphil found -himself alone at the foot of a great mountain, in a country -which was as arid as a desert, without being able to perceive - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_407">[Pg 407]</a></span> -the vestige of a habitation, or even of the great reservoir. -All had disappeared at the same moment. The Prince was -even more distressed than astonished at so extraordinary an -event. He was accustomed to wonders—he was only alive -to the grief which the persecution of the Fairy Marmotte -occasioned him. "I cannot doubt," said he, "that I have -pounded my Princess. Yes, I must have pounded her; yet I -am none the happier for it. Ah, barbarous Marmotte! And -you, Lumineuse, you leave me without help, after having -obeyed you at the expense of all which a heart as sensitive as -mine could suffer!"</p> - -<p>His grief, and the little repose which he had taken since -the previous night, threw him into such a state of weakness, -that he would have sunk altogether if he had not had the -courage to wish to live. "If I could but find something to -support me," said he; "but in this horrible desert I shall -seek in vain a single fruit which can refresh me." He had -not pronounced the word when his ring opened, and a little -table covered with excellent viands came out of it. It became -in a moment large enough to accommodate the person for -whom it was intended. He found on it all that could tempt -his eye and his appetite, for the repast was so beautifully -arranged, that in fact nothing was wanting, and the wine was -delicious. He returned thanks to Lumineuse, for who else -could have assisted him so opportunely? He ate, drank, and -felt strong again.</p> - -<p>When he had finished, the table lost its form, and re-entered -the ring. As it was late, he did not make much -progress in ascending the mountain, but stretched himself -under a wretched tree, which had hardly enough leaves to -protect him from the night air. "Alas!" said he, as he laid -himself down, "such is the nature of man. He forgets the -good that is past, and is only sensible of present evil. I -would now willingly exchange my table for a couch a little -less hard than this." A moment after he felt that he was in -a comfortable bed; but he could see nothing, for it appeared -to him that the darkness was redoubled. He ascertained that -this was caused by the ample curtains which surrounded his -bed, and protected him from the cold and dew, and having -again thanked the good and attentive Lumineuse, he dropped -off to sleep. On waking at daybreak, he found himself in an - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_408">[Pg 408]</a></span> -angel-bed,<a id="FNanchor_40_40"></a><a href="#Footnote_40_40" class="fnanchor">[40]</a> of yellow taffety and silver, which was placed in -the middle of a tent of satin of the same colour, embroidered -all over with ciphers in bright silver, which formed -the name of Zirphil, and all the ciphers were supported by -whales formed of rubies. Everything that could possibly be -required was to be found also in this beautiful tent. If the -Prince had been in a more tranquil state of mind he would -have admired this elegant habitation generally; but he only -looked at the whales, dressed himself, and went out of the -tent, which folded itself up, and re-entered the ring from -which it had issued.</p> - -<p>He began to ascend the mountain, taking no longer any -trouble in seeking food or lodging, for he was certain to have -both as soon as he wished for them. His only anxiety was -to find Lumineuse; for his ring was mute on that subject, -and he found himself in a country so strange to him, and so -deserted, that he was necessarily compelled to trust to -chance.</p> - -<p>After having passed several days in ascending without discovering -anything, he arrived at the brink of a well which was -cut in the rock. He seated himself near it to rest, and began to -exclaim, as usual, "Lumineuse, can I not find you, then?" -The last time he pronounced these words, he heard a voice -which proceeded from the well say, "Is it Zirphil who speaks -to me?" His joy at hearing this voice was increased by -recognising her to whom it belonged. He rushed to the -brink of the well, and said, "Yes, it is Zirphil. And are you -not Citronette?" "Yes," replied Citronette, emerging from -the well, and embracing the Prince.</p> - -<p>It is impossible to express the pleasure which this sight -gave him. He overwhelmed the nymph with questions about -herself and about the Princess. At length, after the excitement -of their first meeting had subsided, they spoke more rationally -together. "I am about to inform you," said she, "of all that you -are ignorant of; for since the time you pounded us, we have -enjoyed a happiness which was only alloyed by your absence, -and I awaited your arrival here on the part of the Fairy -Lumineuse, to tell you what remains for you to do in order -to obtain possession of a Princess who loves you as much as -you love her. But as some time must elapse before you can -arrive at this happiness, I will relate to you the rest of the -marvellous history of your amiable bride."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_409">[Pg 409]</a></span></p> - -<p>Zirphil kissed the hand of Citronette a thousand times, and -followed her into her grotto, where he thought he should die -of mingled pleasure and grief when he recognised the spot in -which he had for the first time seen his divine Princess. -At length, after partaking of a repast which came out of the -ring, he begged the good Citronette to have the kindness to -resume the narrative of the Princess from where she had -herself left off in the palace garden.</p> - -<p>"As it is here," said Citronette, "that Lumineuse is to -meet you, you shall, whilst waiting for her, learn all that you -wish to know, for it is useless for you to run after her. She -confides you to my care, and a lover is less impatient when -one talks to him about her whom he loves. The fairy Marmotte -was not ignorant of your marriage; she had transformed -our friend into an ivory doll, believing that you would be -disgusted at her. Lumineuse conducted this affair herself, -knowing that nothing could deprive you of the Princess if you -married her, or if you destroyed her enchantment by skinning -her. You chose the former alternative, and you know what -followed. By night she resumed her proper form, and -lamented at having to pass all her days in your royal -mother's pocket, for Marmotte had been permitted by Lumineuse -to torment the Princess until you had fulfilled your -destiny, which was, to skin her; so enraged was she at finding -that you had married her, and that the King of the -Whiting, her nephew, could not become her husband.</p> - -<p>"As the Princess was no longer a whale, there was no -fish to skin; but Marmotte, fertile in expedients, determined -to make you pound her, and had forbidden the Princess to -tell you anything about it, under pain of your life, promising -her afterwards the greatest felicity. 'How will he ever -resolve to pound me?' said she when expecting you. 'Ah, -my dear Citronette, if it were only my life that Marmotte -threatened, I would give it cheerfully to shield my husband -from the torments they prepared for him; but they attack -his life—that life which is so dear to me. Ah, Marmotte! -barbarous Marmotte! Is it possible that you can take -pleasure in making me so miserable when I have never given -you any cause for it?' She knew the period prescribed for - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_410">[Pg 410]</a></span> -your separation from her, but she dared not tell you of it. -The last time that you saw her, you know that you found her -in tears; you asked her the cause, she pretended it was on -account of your attentions to little Camion, and accused -you of inconstancy. You appeased her apparent jealousy; -and the fatal hour at which Marmotte was to fetch her -arrived. You were transported into the palace of the King, -your father; the Princess and I were changed into crayfish, -and placed in a little cane basket, which the Fairy put under -her arm, and ascending a car drawn by two adders, we arrived -at the palace of the King of the Whiting. This palace was -that of the royal father of the Princess: the city, changed into -a lake, formed the reservoir which we have inhabited, and all -the men-fish that you have seen were the wicked subjects of -that good King.</p> - -<p>"I must tell you, my Lord," said Citronette, interrupting -herself, "that that unfortunate Monarch, and the Queen, his -wife, being in despair at the moment when the Princess sank -to the bottom of the well, the Fairies who had formerly -come to their assistance, appeared, to console them for her -loss; but the unhappy pair knowing that it was to their -kingdom that Camion would be exiled, chose to be there -rather than at a distance from her, notwithstanding what -they had to fear from the cruelty and ferocity of the King of -the Whiting, whom his Aunt had caused to be crowned by -these men-fish. The Fairies did not conceal from them the -future fate of the Princess; and the King, her father, begged -to be the clerk of the kitchen and keeper of the King of the -Whiting's mortar. The Fairy immediately gave him a tap -of her wand, and he became the pike-headed man you saw in -that situation; and you need no longer be surprised at his -having wept bitterly whenever you brought the crayfish to -pound, for as he knew that his daughter must undergo this -torture, he always thought she was amongst the number; -and the miserable Monarch had not a moment's rest, because -his daughter had no means of making herself known to him. -The Queen had requested to be changed into a crayfish, in -order to be with the Princess, and her wish was also granted.</p> - -<p>"As soon as we arrived at the palace of the King of the -Whiting, the Fairy presented us to him, and ordered him to -have crayfish soup made for his dinner every day. We were - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_411">[Pg 411]</a></span> -then thrown into the reservoir. My first care was to seek -the Queen, in order to soothe a little the grief of the Princess, -but either by the decree of fate or stupidity on my part, I -found it impossible to discover her. We passed our days in -this mournful search, and our pleasantest moments were those -in which we recalled the circumstances of our unhappy lives. -You arrived at length, and they presented us to you; but the -Fairy had forbidden us to make ourselves known before you -should interrogate us, and we dared not infringe this rule, so -continually were we compelled to submit to severities for -trifles.</p> - -<p>"The Princess told me she thought she should have died -of fright at observing you in conversation with the cruel -Marmotte; we saw you searching amongst our companions -with a mortal impatience, it being obvious that, by the direction -you took, you had little chance of arriving at us.</p> - -<p>"We knew that we must be pounded; but we had also -learnt that immediately after we should be restored to our -former condition, and that the wicked Marmotte would have -no further power over us. On the eve of the day on which -you were to commence the infliction of this torture on us, we -were all assembled in a cavity of the reservoir, weeping over -our destiny, when Lumineuse appeared. 'Do not weep, my -children,' said that admirable fairy; 'I come to inform you -that you will escape the punishment they threaten you with, -provided you go gaily to the mortar, and do not answer any -questions that may be addressed to you. I can say no more -at present—I am in haste; but do as I have told you, and -you will not repent it. Let her whose fate appears the most -cruel not lose hope—she will soon find relief.' We all -thanked the Fairy, and appeared before you perfectly resolved -to keep our secret. You spoke to some, who only made -vague replies, and when you had chosen ten, we returned to -the reservoir, where the assurance of our speedy deliverance -inspired us with a natural gaiety which assisted the project -of our protectress.</p> - -<p>"The last words Lumineuse had spoken gave to the beautiful -Camion a lightness of heart which rendered her charming -in the eyes of her mother and me; for the Queen had at -length recognised her, and we three were inseparable. At -length your choice fell on the Queen and me, and we had not - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_412">[Pg 412]</a></span> -time to say adieu to the Princess. An unknown power acted -on us at the moment, and inspired us with such gaiety that -we thought we should die of laughter at the absurd things -we said to each other. You carried us to the kitchen, and -we had not touched the bottom of the fatal mortar before -Lumineuse herself came to our assistance, and restoring me -my natural form, transported me to my customary abode. I -had the consolation of seeing the Queen and our companions -also resume theirs, but I know not what became of them. -The Fairy embraced me, and told me to await you, and -relate to you everything when you should come to seek the -Princess.</p> - -<p>"I awaited this moment with impatience, as you will well -believe, my Lord," said Citronette to the Prince, who listened -most eagerly to her; "and yesterday I seated myself at the -mouth of the well, when Lumineuse appeared. 'Our children -are about to be made happy, my dear Citronette,' said -she to me; 'Zirphil has only to recover the toothpick-case of -Marmotte to finish his labours, for at length he has skinned -the Princess.' 'Ah! great Queen,' cried I, 'are we so happy -as to be certain of this?' 'Yes,' replied she, 'it is quite -true; he thought that he only skinned Marmotte, but it was -in reality the Princess. Marmotte was concealed in the -handle of the knife he used for that act, and the instant he -had finished his task she caused the Princess to vanish, and -appeared in her place, for the purpose of again intimidating -him!" "What!" cried the Prince, "was it to my charming -bride that I did that harm? Have I had the barbarity to inflict -on her such a cruel torment! Ah, heavens! she will never -pardon me, and I do not deserve she should!" The unhappy -Zirphil spoke so impetuously, and distressed himself so greatly, -that poor Citronette was sorry she had told him this news.</p> - -<p>"How," said she, at last, seeing that he was quite overcome -by his reflections, "how, you did not know it?" "No, -I did not know that," said he; "what determined me to take -the shell off that unhappy and too charming crayfish was, -that I saw Lumineuse in my ring speaking to a veiled person -who even laughed with her, and who, I flattered myself, was -my Princess; and I thought that she had passed through -the mortar like the rest. Ah, I shall never forgive myself -for this mistake!" "But, my Lord," said Citronette, "the - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_413">[Pg 413]</a></span> -charm depended on your skinning or pounding her, and you -had done neither one nor the other; besides, the person to -whom Lumineuse spoke was the mother of the Princess; they -awaited the end of your adventure in order to seize on your -bride and protect her for you; it was quite necessary that it -should so happen." "Nevertheless," said the Prince, "if I -had known it, I would rather have pierced my own heart -with that horrid knife!" "But consider," said Citronette, -"that in piercing your heart you would have left the Princess -for ever in the power of your enemy and frightful rival, and -that it is far better to have shelled her than to have died -and left her in misery."</p> - -<p>Apparently this argument, so obviously founded on truth, -appeased the grief of the Prince, and he consented to take a -little nourishment for his support. They had just finished, -when the roof of the saloon opened, and Lumineuse appeared, -seated upon a carbuncle drawn by a hundred butterflies; she -descended from it, assisted by the Prince, who bathed the -hem of her garment with a torrent of tears. The Fairy -raised him, and said, "Prince Zirphil, to-day you are about -to reap the fruit of your heroic labours. Console yourself, -and enjoy at length your happiness. I have vanquished the -fury of Marmotte by my prayers, and your courage has disarmed -her: come with me to receive your Princess from her -hands and mine." "Ah, Madam," cried the Prince, throwing -himself at her feet, "am I not dreaming? Is it possible -that my happiness is real?" "Do not doubt it," said the -Fairy, "come to your kingdom and console the Queen, your -mother, for your absence, and for the death of the King, your -father: your subjects wait to crown you."</p> - -<p>The Prince in the midst of his joy felt a pang at the -tidings of the death of his father; but the Fairy to divert -him from his affliction, made him place himself by her side, -permitted Citronette to seat herself at their feet, and then -the butterflies spread their brilliant wings, and set out for the -empire of King Zirphil.</p> - -<p>On the road, the Fairy told him to open his ring, and he there -found the toothpick-case which he had to return to Marmotte. -The King thanked the generous Fairy a thousand times over, -and they arrived at the capital of his dominions, where they -were expected with the utmost impatience. Zirphil's mother - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_414">[Pg 414]</a></span> -advanced to receive the Fairy as she descended from her car, -and all the people becoming aware of the return of Zirphil, -uttered acclamations which diverted him a little from his -grief; he tenderly embraced his mother, and all ascended to -a magnificent apartment which the Queen had prepared for -the Fairy.</p> - -<p>They had hardly entered, when Marmotte arrived in a car -lined with Spanish leather, and drawn by eight winged rats. -She brought with her the beautiful Camion, with the King -and Queen, her father and mother. Lumineuse and the Queen -hastened to embrace Marmotte, Zirphil respectfully kissed -her paw, which she extended to him, laughing; and he -returned her the toothpick case. She then permitted him -to claim his bride, and presented her to the Queen, who embraced -her with a thousand expressions of joy.</p> - -<p>This numerous and illustrious assemblage began speaking -all together. Joy reigned supreme amongst them. Camion -and her charming husband were the only persons who could -not speak a word. They had so much to say. There was an -eloquence in their silence which affected every one present; -the good Citronette wept with joy whilst kissing the hands -of the divine Princess.</p> - -<p>At length, Lumineuse took them both by the hand, and -advancing with them towards the Queen, mother of Zirphil: -"Behold, Madam," said she, "two young lovers who only -wait your consent to be happy: complete their felicity; my -sister Marmotte, the King and Queen, here present, and I -myself, all request you to do so."</p> - -<p>The Queen replied as she ought to this courteous speech, -and tenderly embracing the happy pair, said, "Yes, my -children, live happily together, and permit me, in relinquishing -my crown to you, to participate in that happiness." Zirphil -and the Princess threw themselves at her feet, from whence -she raised them, and again embracing them, they conjured -her not to abandon them, but to aid them by her counsels.</p> - -<p>Marmotte then touched the beautiful Camion with her -wand, and her clothes, which were already sufficiently magnificent, -became silver brocade embroidered with carat diamonds, -and her beautiful locks fell down and rearranged themselves -so exquisitely that the Kings and Queens declared her -appearance was perfectly dazzling: the toothpick-case which - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_415">[Pg 415]</a></span> -the Fairy held was changed into a crown formed entirely of -brilliants, so beautiful and so well set that the room and the -whole palace became illuminated by it. Marmotte placed -it on the head of the Princess. Zirphil, in his turn, -appeared in a suit similar to that of Camion; and from the -ring which she had given him came forth a crown exactly -like hers.</p> - -<p>They were married on the spot, and proclaimed King and -Queen of that fine country. The Fairies gave the royal -wedding-breakfast, at which nothing was wanting. After -having spent a week with them, and having overwhelmed -them with good things, they departed, and reconducted the -King and Queen, father and mother of Camion, into their -kingdom, the old inhabitants of which they had punished, -and repeopled it by a new race faithful to their master. As -for Citronette, the Fairies permitted her to come and pass -some time with her beautiful Queen, and consented to allow -Camion, by only wishing for her, to see her whenever she -pleased.</p> - -<p class="pmb3">The Fairies at length departed, and never were people -so happy as King Zirphil and Queen Camion. They found -their greatest felicity in each other: and days seemed to them -like moments. They had children who completed their -happiness. They lived to an extreme old age; loving with -the same intensity, and striving which should most please the -other. On their decease their kingdom was divided, and after -various changes it has become, under the dominion of one -of their descendants, the flourishing empire of the Great -Mogul.</p> - - -<p class="break" /> -<div class="footnotes"><b>FOOTNOTES:</b> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_34_34"></a><a href="#FNanchor_34_34"><span class="label">[34]</span></a> <i>Dauphin</i> in the original.</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_35_35"></a><a href="#FNanchor_35_35"><span class="label">[35]</span></a> In the <i>Lady's Dictionary</i>, 1694, we find a palatine "is that which used -to be called a sable tippet; but that name is changed to one that is supposed -to be finer, because newer, and <i>à la mode de France</i>."</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_36_36"></a><a href="#FNanchor_36_36"><span class="label">[36]</span></a> The Marmot of the Alps (<i>Aretomys</i>—literally "Bear-rat"), a large -mountain-rat, more than a foot long, with a body shaped something like a -bear.</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_37_37"></a><a href="#FNanchor_37_37"><span class="label">[37]</span></a> See Appendix.</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_38_38"></a><a href="#FNanchor_38_38"><span class="label">[38]</span></a> <i>Camion</i> signifies in French what we call a minikin-pin.</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_39_39"></a><a href="#FNanchor_39_39"><span class="label">[39]</span></a> Melusine is the heroine of a story as old as the fourteenth century, and -on which some portion of "La Princesse Camion" appears to have been -founded (<i>Vide</i> Appendix). Brantôme says she haunts the castle of Lusignan, -where she announces by <i>loud shrieks</i> any disaster that is to befal the French -monarchy. This legend gave rise to the expression of "Cris de Melusine."</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_40_40"></a><a href="#FNanchor_40_40"><span class="label">[40]</span></a> <i>Lit d'ange</i>—a bed with curtains suspended over it by a ring or pole.</p></div></div> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_416">[Pg 416]</a></span></p> - - -<h3 class="no-break" id="PRINCESS_LIONETTE_AND_PRINCE">PRINCESS LIONETTE AND PRINCE<br /> -COQUERICO.</h3> - - -<p class="pmb1">In the Circassian mountains lived an old man and his wife -who had retired from the world, weary of the caprices of -fortune. They had found for themselves a convenient retreat in -a cavern, which extended far beneath one of the mountains, -and the dread of seeing each other expire was the only anxiety -that troubled them in their solitude. They had lived at -Courts, and knew all the insincerity that prevailed in them; -and far from regretting the brilliant positions they had -occupied, they pitied those who, from ambition or want of -experience, were desirous of them. They lived a happy and -quiet life. Their food consisted of fruit and fish, the latter -abounding in a large pond, wherein the old man amused himself -by taking them; while a flock of sheep which the old -woman had the care of, produced the finest wool in the world -to make their clothes with. The old man called himself -Mulidor, and his wife was named Phila. They incessantly -implored the gods to send somebody to console whichever -might be left the last upon earth, or to close their eyes, but -their prayers had not yet been granted. It must not, however, -be supposed that the gods rejected such pure and -reasonable desires, but they wished to prove the constancy -of these good people, to recompense them afterwards with -interest.</p> - -<div class="figcenter"> - <img src="images/i010.jpg" alt="" /> - <p class="center font08">Princess Lionette and Prince Coquerico.—P. 416.</p> -</div> -<p class="pmb2" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_417">[Pg 417]</a></span></p> - -<p>The old man had just caught some fish, and after fastening -his boat to the bank, he spread his net upon a rock to dry it -in the sun, when a lion rushed out from one of the cavities of -the rock, and went to drink in the pond. Mulidor was afraid -at first, but afterwards finding that the proud beast was roaring -because he could not reach the water, which was too far off from -the edge at this spot, he re-entered his boat, and filling a bowl -offered it to the lion, who came and emptied it several times. -After he had quenched his thirst, he raised his head and -looked at his benefactor so mildly, that the good man ventured -to caress him. The lion appeared pleased at his doing -so, and ate some bread and cheese which the old man took -from a basket he had slung on his arm. As, however, this -was not a very safe companion, Mulidor thought he had better -return to his cavern, fearing that his wife, uneasy at his -absence, might come in search of him, and that the lion, -having less respect for her than for him, would devour her.</p> - -<p>This idea was beginning to agitate him, when the lion, -after licking his hand, returned to his own home, leaving the -old man at liberty to do so likewise. Upon reaching the -cavern he found his wife, as he expected, alarmed at his delay; -he related his adventure to her, which made her shudder. -They continued to talk upon the subject, and drew this inference, -that men might learn lessons of kindness and gratitude -from animals. "Do not, however, place yourself again at the -mercy of this fierce beast," said she, affectionately, "or let -me go with you, for I could not live under the fear I shall -henceforth be in concerning you. You have been restored to -me this time, but can I flatter myself that the Gods will be -always equally gracious to me." The old man, touched by -her affection, promised to avoid the lion in future. This conversation -kept them up late, and consequently they did not -awake till the golden rays of morning shone full upon them. -On opening the door to go out and feed her sheep, Phila was -greatly surprised to find at it a lion of prodigious size and -strength, and a lioness of equal power and beauty, the latter -carrying on her back a little girl of five or six years old, who, -as soon as she saw the old woman, alighted, ran to her, and -embraced her.</p> - -<p>The good woman stood motionless with fear and wonder, -and the lions, after kissing the little girl, who returned their -caresses, ran off, and disappeared in an instant, leaving her in -the good wife's hands. Recovering from her fright she looked -at the child, who never ceased kissing her, took her in her -arms, and went into the cavern to show her to her husband. - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_418">[Pg 418]</a></span> -They both of them admired her beauty and gentleness; she -was quite naked, her fair hair only falling over her shoulders, -and upon her right breast she had a singular mark in the -shape of a crown.</p> - -<p>The good people thanked the Gods for this gift; they -dressed the beautiful little child in a light snow-white robe, -with a rose-coloured girdle, and tied up her hair with ribbon -of the same colour. She allowed them to do so quietly, and -without saying a word. They fondled her, and gave her some -ewe's milk quite fresh. She smiled at the sight of it, and -looking at them, uttered a little cry resembling the roar -of a lion. She soon became accustomed to them, however; -she had no resemblance to a lion but in her voice, and from -that circumstance they called her Lionette. She answered -to this name, and her natural intelligence soon enabled her to -understand what they said to her, and at length to speak and -explain herself. She had been a year with these good people, -who loved her dearly, and were equally loved by her, when -Mulidor, to make her familiar with their way of life, in case -she should lose them, took her out to fish with him. He -had been there several times alone without meeting the lions, -but little Lionette was no sooner at the foot of the rock where -the good man dried his fish than she uttered a little roar, -which awoke the lion and lioness, who ran out to her immediately, -each vying with the other in fondling and caressing -her. She embraced the lioness affectionately, who allowed -her freely to do so; at length she jumped upon her back, and -the lions ran off with her in a moment. The poor old man -was in consternation; he threw himself upon the ground and -prayed to die, now that he had lost Lionette. After lying -there a long time, finding his despair could be of no avail, he -dragged himself to his cavern, and created fresh misery there -in relating to Phila the accident that had happened to -Lionette.</p> - -<p>"Lionette! my dear Lionette!" cried the good woman, -"is it possible we can have lost you? Alas! why did the -Gods present you to us, so cruelly to take you from us? Of -all the goods we have lost we but regret you!" Their affliction -was inconsolable, and poor Mulidor had scarcely spirit -enough to bear up against this misfortune. The night was -passed in lamentations and tears. At break of day they went - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_419">[Pg 419]</a></span> -in search of her, fearing neither the lions nor their fury; -their great love for Lionette made them wish to be devoured -also, if she had undergone that frightful fate. They ran to -the rock where the lions had chosen to establish themselves, -when suddenly they saw little Lionette riding on the lioness -towards them. As soon as the lovely child saw them she -jumped down, and ran and threw her arms round their necks; -then taking from the back of the lioness a kid that she had -killed in the chase, "There," said she, "see what mother -lioness gives you; she took me hunting to get game for you." -These good people were half crazy with delight at seeing her -again; they could not help crying, and bathing her pretty -face with their tears. "My dear daughter! my dear child!" -they exclaimed, "you are restored to us again." Lionette -was affected at this sight. "Do you then," said she, "forbid -me from seeing the lioness, that you can say nothing to her, -and that you shed tears in embracing me?" "No, no, my -dear child," they both cried at once, "but we feared that you -had abandoned us." "Mother lioness does not wish it," said -the child, "she wishes me to be your daughter." She turned -round for her to agree to what she said, but she was no longer -there, and Lionette returned cheerfully with them to the -cavern.</p> - -<p>Mulidor and Phila thought this was a very wonderful -adventure; they had many private conversations about it, and -determined they would not refuse the child to the Lioness, -when she chose to come for her; at the same time, Mulidor obtained -his wife's consent to consult Tigreline upon Lionette's -destiny. She was a very learned Fairy. "I had already -thought of doing so," replied Phila, "and it had better be done -directly." It was settled he should start the first thing in -the morning.</p> - -<p>The good woman prepared a present for the Fairy, to -induce her to be more gracious—nothing very precious, the -Fairies do not desire it—it was a piece of sky-blue ribbon, and -a little basket of nuts, which Tigreline was passionately fond -of. Mulidor set out on his journey to her dwelling; she had -fixed her habitation in the heart of an immense forest which -was filled with tigers—it was from that circumstance she -took her name. When any one sought her for a good object, -the tigers did them no harm, but if they went thither with - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_420">[Pg 420]</a></span> -any evil design, they tore them to pieces, and none such were -ever known to reach the Fairy's castle. The old man having -nothing to fear upon that subject, did not arm himself with -any weapon of defence, and arrived without difficulty at the -castle at the moment the Fairy was getting up. He found -her occupied in stringing large pearls on a golden thread. She -received him very graciously, and taking her spectacles from -off her nose, "Approach, wise old man," said she. "I know -what has brought you here, and I am very glad to see you." -Mulidor bowed profoundly, and kissed Tigreline's robe. He -offered his little present, which she received very kindly, then -making him sit down, she told him she would consult Destiny -in her large book, that she might answer correctly the -questions he came to ask her. After reading for some time, she -raised her eyes to Heaven, then fixing them upon Mulidor, -"Listen," said she, "to what I think of Lionette. She must -be warned from loving one who is her direct opposite, otherwise -great misfortune may happen to her, even to the loss of -life. Should she arrive at twenty without this fate befalling -her, I answer for her happiness." She then informed the old -man that Lionette was a great Princess, exposed to be eaten -by lions almost immediately after she was born, through the -wickedness of a certain Queen; but she would not tell him -anything more, and exhorted the old man to continue to -cultivate in the child all those good feelings which he himself -possessed, and left it to him to decide on telling her who she -was, trusting to his prudence for securing her happiness.</p> - -<p>She then gave him for Lionette the string of pearls she -had just finished. "If she do not lose it, or give it away," -said the Fairy, "it will preserve her from many dangers. It -may, indeed, insure her happiness if she take special care of -it." The old man thanked the Fairy and returned home, -where he arrived before nightfall.</p> - -<p>He found his wife and Lionette; the latter embraced him -a thousand times, and he tied the Fairy's pearls round her -neck, earnestly entreating her to take great care of them. -She was enchanted with this new ornament, and the old man -related to Phila, as soon as they were alone, all that the Fairy -had told him. They consulted together upon the course they -should take, and resolved they would say nothing to Lionette -of her birth, to prevent her feeling useless regrets. "We can - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_421">[Pg 421]</a></span> -tell her at any time, should it be necessary to do so," added -the prudent wife; "and we should be sorry for it (not having -it in our power to give her more than the education of a -simple shepherdess) if her disposition, sweet as it is now, -should be changed by the knowledge of her rank. Let us -attend to her heart and mind: princesses have not the time -to do so. She will learn from her own experience that they -are as subject as other mortals are to the caprices of Fortune, -and perhaps she may be the happier for it."</p> - -<p>Mulidor quite agreed with the truth of this, and they -applied themselves more than ever to the education of this -amiable child, whose natural excellence left them nothing to -wish for. She was twelve years old, and continued to go -hunting with the Lioness, very often carrying on her shoulder -a little quiver, and skilfully shooting the wild beasts. One -night, returning later than usual, the cavern resounded with -the roars of the Lioness. Mulidor and Phila both went out, -and found the Lioness at the door, having brought Lionette -with her, who was seated on the ground, endeavouring to -console the poor animal, that appeared in deep despair. "The -Lion is dead," cried the young child, "and my mother cannot -be comforted—a hunter has killed him." The Lioness rolled -upon the ground, and shed torrents of tears. The old man, -his wife, and Lionette did their best to soothe her grief; -but after passing the whole night in the vain attempt, the -Lioness expired herself in the morning. The sobs and grief -of Lionette were excessive, she could not leave the body of -the poor beast, she embraced it, and shed tears over it. At -length they dragged her from this sad scene, and while the -old man buried the Lioness, the kind Phila attended to -Lionette, who was in the deepest affliction. When Mulidor -came in, he was much moved by the child's grief, and was -anxious to comfort her, but finding he only increased her -sorrow, he said, "What would you have done, then, my child, -if this accident had happened to either of us? It is not possible -you could have felt it more keenly." "Ah! my father," -cried she, holding her arms out to embrace him, fearing -that he was offended at the little attention she paid to his -consolations, "if the Gods have reserved so much misfortune -for me, I implore them to let me die instantly, for I shall not -be able to support it." "The Gods, my child," replied the old - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_422">[Pg 422]</a></span> -man, "do not always grant such rash petitions. It is offending -Providence not to submit humbly to its decrees. Do you -suppose you are the only one who suffers from affliction in -this life? Is this the courage I thought you capable of?"</p> - -<p>Lionette cast down her eyes: the severity of this remonstrance -had brought a slight colour into her cheeks, which -made her more lovely. Mulidor felt he had said enough; he -went out and left his wife to soften anything he might have -said too harshly; and Phila, embracing Lionette, said, -"Really, my child, you would make us believe you could have -no greater grief. No doubt the friendship you show for -these poor animals is highly laudable, but you must take -comfort, and thank the Gods that they have not inflicted -on you greater misfortunes." "Ah! my mother," cried -Lionette, embracing her, "how much obliged I am to you -for speaking to me thus; do not let my father be angry with -me any more—I feel I could not bear it." Mulidor re-entered; -Lionette ran to embrace him; he returned her caresses with -a fondness that consoled the charming child. They could -not sufficiently admire the goodness of her heart, her sensibility, -her gentleness, and frankness; and she also loved -them dearly.</p> - -<p>Lionette, however, continued to deplore the loss of the -Lions: a deep melancholy appeared to have taken possession -of her; she dared not give way to it before Mulidor, but she -felt less restraint with Phila. The worthy couple often conversed -together upon this subject; they became alarmed at -Lionette's condition; they tried to amuse her; they went -out more frequently, took walks with her, allowed her to go -hunting and fishing, gave her birds, flowers, shells; but she -preferred hunting to all other amusements. The part of the -country in which they lived was so wild a desert that persons -must either have come there on purpose, or have lost their way, -to be seen in it, so there was little danger of Lionette meeting -with anybody. Still, the fact of the Lion having been killed -by a hunter was remembered by Mulidor. He never could -understand how a man could get so far without having found -out their retreat, or being more astonished at seeing a young -girl mounted on a Lioness, and hunting in company with a -Lion. They did not dare ask Lionette any questions about -it, fearing they should renew her grief; and yet they feared - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_423">[Pg 423]</a></span> -to prohibit her from hunting, feeling, good souls, how cruel -it would be to deprive her of her favourite amusement. They -only entreated her, therefore, to take care she did not lose -herself.</p> - -<p>At the end of some months, Lionette regained her spirits -a little. The old man and his wife were enchanted at this -happy change. They congratulated themselves upon having -promoted it by their indulgence, and trusted that she would -in time forget the Lions. She grew fast, and began to evince -character; she was wonderfully beautiful, even in the most -simple of her dresses. Phila had made her garment of the -finest tigers' skins, and a little cap of the same material; and -thus attired, one might have taken her for Diana herself, she -was so graceful and majestic. Her beautiful black eyes -heightened the brilliancy and vivacity of her complexion, -which neither the hottest sun nor the most scorching wind -had any effect upon, nor could they injure the whiteness of -her arms or neck. She was not at all aware of her beauty; -her strength of mind and her education made her above -priding herself on her personal advantages. She spoke well, -and her ideas were even superior to her language. The good -people were astonished to see her at so early an age evincing -so much talent and judgment. She was then just approaching -her fifteenth birthday.</p> - -<p>For some days past, Phila perceived that she had taken -the trouble to put her hair in curls on going to bed, and that -on going out she glanced at herself with a kind of satisfaction -in a fountain adjoining the cavern. She mentioned this to -Mulidor, who was as much surprised at it as herself; they, -however, did not choose to speak to her about it, but determined -to watch her closely, that they might discover the -motive of this unusual attention to her personal appearance, -and they recollected that for some time past she had appeared -thoughtful, uneasy, and indifferent to matters which had previously -amused her.</p> - -<p>Lionette returned to the cavern rather earlier on that day; -she brought with her a brace of partridges that she had -killed. The good woman asked her if she felt too tired to -help her with some spinning she wished to finish. "If you -could dispense with my assistance," said Lionette, "I should -be very much obliged to you; I feel so inclined to sleep."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_424">[Pg 424]</a></span></p> - -<p>Phila consented, and let her go into a little nook of the -cavern which made a kind of room for her. She had decorated -it with all the rarest things that she had found. The hangings -were composed of the feathers of singular birds, and an -abundance of flowers in shells, which she kept filled with fresh -water, ornamented this pretty chamber. Mulidor had taught -her to paint; she had finished some charming pictures, and -with the wool she had found in the cavern she had embroidered -some cushions, which she had arranged as a couch. -Upon this she threw herself, looking more like a goddess than -a mortal.</p> - -<p>The good woman becoming uneasy at the length of time -she slept, went to seek her; she found her, as I have just -described, reclining on the cushions; her eyes were shut, but -a few tears that were struggling to escape through their long -lashes, convinced her that the lovely Lionette was in some -distress. She stood looking at her for some time, she had -never seen her look so beautiful; but at length, alarmed at -her condition, she drew nearer, and taking her hands, pressed -them affectionately between her own.</p> - -<p>This action aroused Lionette, and turning her eyes -towards Phila, "Ah, mother!" said she, throwing herself -upon her neck, "how ashamed I am to appear thus before -you." "Why, my dear girl," said Phila, "why do you -conceal your troubles from me? Do you not know how -interested we both feel for you? What is the matter with -you, my child? Do not hide your distress from me; perhaps -I could assuage it."</p> - -<p>Lionette was some time before she ventured to answer. -She kept her head bent down in the old woman's hands; she -kissed them passionately. At length she regained her courage, -and raising herself, her cheeks suffused with blushes, "I am -about to tell you something," said she, "which has tormented -me for some time past. Let me hope this avowal at least -will serve to obtain your forgiveness." "Speak, my dear -girl," said Phila, "and fear nothing. I am more uneasy at -your grief than angry at your having concealed it from me."</p> - -<p>Lionette encouraged by this, told her that, on her way to -the forest, about three months ago, she had seen a young -shepherd fast asleep, and that an arrow which she had shot -at a bird having missed it, fell and pierced the young man's - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_425">[Pg 425]</a></span> -hand; that attracted by the cry he uttered, she approached -him, and assisted in stanching the blood. "This wound," -she added, "awoke in my heart a strange emotion. I trembled -in applying to it the herbs I had gathered, the properties of -which you had taught me. He, far from being angry with -me, told me he should never complain of that wound, but -eternally of the one my eyes had inflicted on him.</p> - -<p>"This language, quite new to me, was so fascinating that -I wished never to quit him. He wept as he gazed on me; -he kissed my hands to detain me. I proposed that he should -follow me, that my father might assist in curing him. 'I -cannot do so, beautiful Lionette,' said he (I had told him -my name), 'a most cruel fate has forced me to fly from the -world; but promise me to come sometimes and cheer my -solitude, and I shall ask nothing more from the Gods. I shall -believe their anger is appeased.' I did promise him—he -asked me too tenderly to be refused. At length I felt you would -be uneasy at my stay, and I left him with so much regret -that I burst into tears, and hurried away that he might not -perceive it, for I was ashamed, I think, of my compassion for -him.</p> - -<p>"I returned, restless and miserable. Next morning I -went in search of him. I cannot tell what prevented me -from making you acquainted with it, but I was on the -point of telling you a hundred times, and as often I felt it -would be impossible to do so—perhaps it was because he had -begged me to keep it a secret. I ran to look for him, to -ask his permission to tell you. Approaching the spot where -we had seen each other the evening before, I stopped suddenly. -A feeling of reproach came over me for having hidden this -proceeding from you; and besides, I was so agitated, I feared -I should be ill. 'What shall I do by myself here?' thought -I; 'I am without help, and that which I might find is -perhaps dangerous to wait for. Unfortunate Lionette, what -hast thou promised to do? Fly, return to thy duty, for it is -clear that thou hast wandered from it, since thou art so much -disturbed at taking this secret step. The Gods warn thee. -This state of mind is not natural.' I had sat down to reflect. -I got up. I retraced my steps, when a grievous thought -arrested me. 'Alas!' said I, 'perhaps he is unable to come -to meet me, from the wound I inflicted on him; and if so, - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_426">[Pg 426]</a></span> -what will be his despair at not seeing me? There is no one -to help him in this desolate place but myself. To refuse him -my assistance would be inhuman. Let me find out whether -he wants me, and see him but for that.'</p> - -<p>"I proceeded, therefore, to the fatal place where I had -wounded him the evening before. He was not there. I -became alarmed; my limbs failed me; I fell upon the moss -which covered the ground. I saw some traces of his blood -still remaining on it. I was nearly suffocated by my grief. -Happily my tears flowed, and that relieved me; but I felt the -keenest affliction when I thought that perhaps I had been the -cause of his death. I drew out my arrows, and broke them -deliberately as a punishment for my cruelty. I caught sight -by chance of the one with which I had wounded him. It was -still upon the ground, and stained with his blood. My tears -flowed faster at this frightful sight. I gave utterance to my -agony in piercing shrieks. They were interrupted by the -sight of the young shepherd himself, running quickly towards -me. I could not rise. He threw himself on his knees near -me, in so much terror that I was alarmed myself at his -excessive paleness. He asked me what had happened. At -the same time I put the same question to him. We re-assured -each other. I told him the reason of my tears. -Never was any one thanked so tenderly. His words had a -charm in them that went to my heart. I listened with a -pleasure I had never felt before; I nearly forgot his wound, -so much I feared to interrupt him. I was astonished, however, -to hear him say how much he loved me—he, whom I -had scarcely ever seen; and I was still more surprised to find -how dear he had become to me, for he told me more than I -could dare tell him; and I believe he could read my heart, -for I thought exactly as he did, only it appeared to me I could -not so well have expressed myself.</p> - -<p>"At last he told me that he wished to be mine. 'And are -you not so already?' said I. 'Can you be more so than you -are? That would enchant me.' He smiled at my words. -I thought I had said something wrong, and I blushed at my -awkward manner of expressing myself. I know not what he -thought, but he said a thousand more affectionate things to -me. He informed me he was the son of a great king, and - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_427">[Pg 427]</a></span> -would be my husband. 'I cannot be your wife,' said I: -'they will not let me.' 'Ah! who will oppose it,' exclaimed -he, 'if you consent?' I then told him that my father and -mother had always said a crown would be an obstacle to the -happiness of my life, and that they certainly would never -consent to such a union. 'Wait for a few days,' said he, -'and I will tell you how to soften their severity. If you -love me you will assist me in conquering it; but never -refrain from coming to this place. My life depends upon -your acquiescence. Fear nothing from me, lovely Lionette; -nothing can be purer than my affection, and I call all the -divinities of the forest to witness that I shall ever respect as -much as I love you.' He gave me his hand; I gave him -mine, and I vowed, as he had done, to love for ever, if you -consented to it.</p> - -<p>"I examined his hand, and found the wound had healed; -I was delighted at this, and left him, promising to return, -and not to say anything to you until he desired me. I -returned so absorbed by his image that I felt as though I -only lived when he was present. I had no pleasure in anything -but him: the more I saw him the more I wished to -see him. It was the same with him. He is charming, -mother! and were you to see him you could not do otherwise -than love him.</p> - -<p>"Three months have passed in this sweet union, and now -comes my misery. This morning he told me that it was necessary -that he should be absent for some days upon important -business which tended much to our happiness. I had never -known what it was to lose sight of him for more than a few -hours. I was as wretched as he was. He told me, however, -that he should soon return, and that he was even more anxious -than myself to complete our happiness. I wept bitterly. At -length the hour arrived for us to part, I unfastened my -necklace, and tied it round his arm——"</p> - -<p>"Oh, heavens! what have you done, my child?" exclaimed -Phila. "We are lost beyond help."</p> - -<p>She threw herself upon the ground, and filled the cavern -with her cries, Lionette, alarmed at this sight, arose to -assist the good woman. "What is the matter, then, mother?" -she cried. "Why should a necklace of such trifling consequence - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_428">[Pg 428]</a></span> -rouse you to so much grief?" "It is for you I weep, -my daughter," said Phila. "Your happiness was linked with -the preservation of that unfortunate necklace."</p> - -<p>She then repeated what the Fairy Tigreline had said to -Mulidor, and did not conceal from her that she was a princess, -but that she knew nothing more. Lionette, who possessed -naturally an elevated mind, was not astonished at this news. -"Very well, mother," said she; "the more you convince me of -the probability of my high birth, the more courageously I ought -to bear up against the sad events which are predicted of me, -though, to speak the truth, I do not believe in them; and I -see nothing unfortunate here but the absence of the shepherd -whom I love, and his unhappy name, which made me fly -from him without being able to control myself. These are -the only misfortunes I know of." "What say you, my -daughter?" exclaimed the old woman; "his name caused you -to fly from him? Explain this riddle—I do not understand -it." "Alas! this is the cause of my despair," replied Lionette. -"I had scarcely tied the necklace round his arm, -when he kissed my hand with such transport that I forgot -my grief for the moment. 'Yes, beautiful Lionette,' he -said, 'it is for life that you have enchained the happy Prince -Coquerico.'</p> - -<p>"Hardly had he pronounced his name, which he had never -told me (he preferred that I should always call him my shepherd), -than I felt so horrified, without knowing wherefore, that -I fled as swiftly as possible. He followed me; he called me. I -had not the power to return. An invisible hand seemed to -impel me forward. 'My dear Lionette,' he cried, 'where are -you going? It is your shepherd—it is Coquerico who calls -you.' I ran still faster. At last I lost sight of him, either -that I had taken paths he knew not of, or that he was afraid -of displeasing me by following me any longer. I arrived here -in such confusion I had some trouble in hiding it from you. -You know the rest, my mother—all that has happened to me, -and I beg you a thousand pardons for profiting so little from -your good lessons; and although I owe my birth to apparently -powerful princes, I shall always submit to your authority."</p> - -<p>Mulidor came in as Lionette finished speaking; they made -him acquainted with this adventure; he was in great alarm at -what might happen from the loss of the necklace, and did not - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_429">[Pg 429]</a></span> -dare go and consult Tigreline, whom they had so decidedly -disobeyed. There was nothing to be done but to wait and see -what would befal the Princess. They entreated her to forget -this young man; they succeeded by degrees in consoling her -for his absence, and notwithstanding her melancholy, she -took part occasionally in their cheerful conversation.</p> - -<p>Two months passed in this manner. One night they -were suddenly awakened out of a deep sleep by a clap of -thunder which made them think the cavern was crumbling -to pieces. They started to their feet, and had not time to -recover themselves before a hideous and very richly dressed -Fairy touched them with her wand, and they were transformed -into two Lionesses and a Lion, she then transported -them in an instant to the Forest of Tigers, where she vanished -and left them.</p> - -<p>Who could express the consternation of the wise old man, -or his wife's distress? That of the Princess was still greater, -she reproached herself as being the cause of these good peoples' -misfortune; and what distressed her still more was, not being -able to speak, she had not the power of comforting them. -This calamity for the moment made her forget Prince -Coquerico; but when she thought she should never see him -more, or that if she did, he would fly in terror from her, or -at least not recognise her, she uttered such frightful roars -that the forest resounded with them, and her poor companions -came near her to try to console her. Their grief was redoubled -to find they could neither understand nor speak to her. They -groaned despairingly. At length it occurred to all three of -them to go to the Fairy, but they had no power of communicating -the idea to each other. The Lion was the first to start, -the two Lionesses followed him, but the Tigers stopped the -way, without, however, doing them any harm. Finding their -intentions were frustrated, they concluded it was by the -Fairy's orders. They buried themselves in the thickest part -of the forest, and laid down very sorrowfully upon some -beautiful green grass, which served as a bed for them. They -passed some considerable time in this place without seeing -the Fairy, she took care, however, to send them food by one -of the Tigers regularly every day.</p> - -<p>It is now time to acquaint the reader who Prince Coquerico -was:—That young Prince was the son of a King who had been - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_430">[Pg 430]</a></span> -very powerful, and who had reigned in the Fortunate Islands. -This King was dead, and having left his son at a tender age, -the Queen became regent. The ambition of reigning, the -pride of being Sovereign Mistress, had closed her heart -against the feelings of nature. She had her son brought up -in a castle upon the edge of the sea, in luxury and idleness -unequalled; and her excuse for this sort of education was a -prediction of the Fairies at his birth, to the effect that his -life would be endangered if he took up arms before he was -twenty years old.</p> - -<p>Everything was interdicted that could give him any desire -for military exercises, and the art of war was depicted in such -frightful colours that, however valiant the Prince might have -been born, he shuddered at even the picture of a sword. The -King, his father, who had died in battle, was represented to -him as so sanguinary a sovereign that he vowed he would -never imitate him.</p> - -<p>They had named this prince, Coquerico, in derision from -his having amused himself one day—contrary to the desire of -his tutors—with looking at a fight between two game cocks. -He spent his life in walking; in hearing sentimental romances -read to him, the heroes of which they represented in such a -manner that he might not have a desire to become like them; -he learned to play upon several instruments, to paint, and to -work at tapestry. The Queen went to see him very often, -and pictured to him the fate of kings in such distressing -colours, that he dreaded the moment when he should ascend -the throne.</p> - -<p>He was just ten years old, the time appointed for the -Queen to resign the throne to him, when, walking on the -coast, apart from his followers, he was caught up by a whirlwind, -and disappeared in an instant. His tutors, surprised -that he was so long a time in returning, went to seek him, -but could find him nowhere. The most diligent search proved -in vain, and they were compelled to apprise the Queen of this -mysterious circumstance. She would easily have been consoled -for this accident if the people of the Island, tired of her -government, and indignant at the education that had been -given to their King, had not risen in rebellion. After having -torn her ministers in pieces, they compelled her to fly to a -neighbouring Monarch, who granted her an asylum. This - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_431">[Pg 431]</a></span> -King had been a widower for two years, having but one -daughter, in giving birth to whom the Queen died.</p> - -<p>He married the fugitive Queen; and the people of the -Fortunate Islands elected a council to rule the kingdom -until they could obtain news of their Prince Coquerico, -whom they did not believe to be dead. They were right, the -whirlwind had been caused by a Fairy, who, delighted at the -sight of so beautiful a Prince, and angry to find him brought -up so badly, had resolved to purloin him from a mother who -had proved herself unworthy of being blessed with such a -son.</p> - -<p>To cultivate a fine disposition spoiled by so wicked an -education, the Fairy was impelled by another feeling less -generous and more natural. The beauty of this Prince had -touched her heart, she imagined that gratitude would make -some impression upon that of the young Coquerico. The few -charms she possessed, however, were not likely to do so. She -was old, and had a horn in the middle of her forehead; but -she was very susceptible, and was always complaining that -she had met with none but ungrateful beings. "By bringing -up this young man," she thought, "he will become accustomed -to my appearance, and perhaps my care and affection -for him will inspire him with sentiments that may lead in -time to that happy union of souls, that perfect mutual love, -which I have heard so much of and never experienced."</p> - -<p>Cornue (that was her name) reasoned thus in transporting -the handsome Prince to her dwelling, which was in the -Desert where the old man and his wife had brought up the -young Lionette for the last four years. Cornue had built -herself a charming palace upon the summit of one of the -mountains, but it was inaccessible to all human beings, in -consequence of the clouds with which it was continually -surrounded. The charms of life, its amusements, both -rational and frivolous, were all united there. This palace -was of immense extent, although formed of one single opal, -so transparent and so beautiful that through the walls one -might see a grain of millet at the end of the garden, which -was worthy of so magnificent a palace, from its groves, -terraces, parterres, and fountains.</p> - -<p>The tasteful Cornue had not spared anything, even in her -dress, for when, placing the Prince in the vestibule of her - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_432">[Pg 432]</a></span> -palace, she made herself visible to him, she had enveloped -her horn in a green velvet case, covered with diamonds; her -hair, which was rather grey, was powdered white,<a id="FNanchor_41_41"></a><a href="#Footnote_41_41" class="fnanchor">[41]</a> and tied -with green <i>moulinet</i> bows, in the centre of each of which -sparkled a large diamond; and her dress, of flesh-colour and -silver, showed her form so truly, that one could perceive the -Graces had striven among themselves which should give the -finishing touch to it.</p> - -<p>The Prince was surprised at this apparition. She kissed -his hand, and asked his forgiveness for taking him away from -his retirement without his permission. "If I can avoid being -your king," said he, with an air which showed that he was -not alarmed at the manner in which he had been conducted -thither, "I should be very well contented, for the fear of -ascending the throne made me desirous of leaving my -kingdom, and you have done me a favour in taking me away -from it;—but I should like to know," added he, quickly, -"why you wear so pointed a head-dress, and why your dress -is of so peculiar a colour?" "We excuse such childish -questions at your age," said the Fairy, slightly blushing; -"you will be ashamed of them some day;—but let us enter -the palace, and you will find something to occupy your attention -more agreeably."</p> - -<p>She then gave him her hand, and they passed into a saloon -in keeping with the beauty of the rest of the palace. A -hundred black slaves were arranged in two files, through -which the Prince and the Fairy proceeded to the centre. -It was sufficiently light to see the rarities which ornamented -this beautiful place; statues, sculptured marbles, porcelain, -furniture, were all admired with the taste of a connoisseur -by the young Prince. The slave opened the door of a magnificent -gallery, filled with charts, maps of the world, instruments -of geometry, models of the most beautiful cities in -Asia, Europe, and Africa; of palaces where the men and -women of each nation were dressed in their national costumes, -and by the Fairy's skill they moved hither and thither, -spoke in their own language, and held conversations according -to their position. This amused the Prince for a considerable -time. He requested the Fairy to allow him to remain -in that gallery a little longer than she seemed inclined to do.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_433">[Pg 433]</a></span></p> - -<p>He made the slaves who accompanied him explain what this -all meant; he bade them repeat it, and was quite enchanted. -He recognised the Fortunate Islands; he saw his tutors -seeking for him, and who appeared in despair at not finding -him—that touched his heart with pity. The Fairy at length -withdrew him from this scene, that he might not witness the -catastrophe. She amused him with other objects.</p> - -<p>Some islands surrounded by the sea, upon another model, -afforded him great entertainment. Vessels filled with passengers -executed some wonderful evolutions; then there was -a sea-fight, followed by a storm, which dispersed the ships and -sank several of them. This terminated the diversions of this -day. The Fairy then proposed supper, after which an opera -was represented; this was succeeded by a ball, and the Prince -danced with the Fairy, and with the nymphs in the Fairy's -train, and at last six slaves conducted him to a handsome -apartment, in which he retired to rest.</p> - -<p>The next and following days were passed in conversations, -sometimes serious, sometimes mirthful; the slaves had orders -to cultivate his taste for the arts while amusing him, to -which purpose he lent himself readily. He was already -accustomed to walk in a second gallery, which formed a -superb arsenal; he heard them talk of arms and of war with -pleasure; he almost wished to witness a battle, and felt -ashamed he had ever thought otherwise. The slaves formed -themselves into battalions, he placed himself at their head, -he enjoyed his triumph in a sham fight, he invented stratagems, -he sought for glory everywhere; he no longer feared -to be a king. The gallery of models had displayed to him -the pleasures of royalty; he passed three hours each day in -it, and took lessons from the ablest politicians. The cabinet -secrets of all the Courts in the universe were no secrets -to him.</p> - -<p>There was a model of the whole globe in that gallery, and -what art pervaded that grand work! Not only all the kingdoms -and their various provinces, to the smallest habitation, were -represented; but every mortal upon the face of the earth was -seen in pursuit of his vocation. All spoke their own language, -you heard them, you saw them,—the most secret actions were -displayed therein: the ocean and its vessels, rivers, lakes, -streamlets, deserts, even yet undiscovered countries,—nothing - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_434">[Pg 434]</a></span> -was hidden from the learned Cornue. All was to be found -in her model. There was wherewithal to amuse one during -the longest life that ever was known.</p> - -<p>The Prince was fascinated by this wonderful work of art; -he studied it for a long time; he could with difficulty tear -himself from it; nor did he consent to do so till the Fairy -assured him that this gallery forming a portion of his suite -of apartments, he might visit it whenever he wished.</p> - -<p>He left it at length to enjoy new pleasures—an opera, a -supper, followed by a magnificent ball, in which the fairies of -Cornue's Court distinguished themselves in dancing, notwithstanding -they were ugly and old, for their mistress took care -not to incur the reproach of being the least handsome person -in the Palace; and the designs she had upon the heart of the -young Prince would not admit of her neglecting anything -that would bring them to bear.</p> - -<p>His education was entrusted to six fairies, who led him each -morning into the gallery of the globe for three hours; they -explained the various interests of Princes, he learned their -languages, he heard and saw the effect of their politics, their -battles by land and sea, which displayed to him the ability of -ministers and of generals. Already he was able to form -sound opinions, and to speak of things with the knowledge -acquired from experience. His noble mind developed itself, he -burned with a desire for glory, he blushed at having been -afraid of it. He also appreciated the pleasures of royalty, he -began to find a satisfaction in being master, but he did not at -all covet the soft and effeminate life which he perceived in the -seraglios of the sovereigns of Persia and Constantinople; he -preferred those kings who reigned absolutely over their -subjects, with a certainty that they would shed their blood -to preserve theirs. Insensibly he became the most accomplished -Prince living. He was not ignorant upon any point; -his fine intellect assisting his slight experience, he evinced -in everything the greatest judgment and discernment. "But -where can one see this land, and the inhabitants, that I -observe in my model?" said he sometimes to Cornue. "I -will show you some day," answered she; "it is not time yet." -That would vex him; he was desirous of appearing of some -consequence himself in this fine plan of the universe, he was -annoyed at not seeing himself in it. This caused him many -reflections, but as they only sprang from his brain, they did - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_435">[Pg 435]</a></span> -not distress him much—those suggested by the heart, more -interesting, he knew nothing of yet.</p> - -<p>The Fairy did not fear that the beauties whom he saw in -the model would awake in him any emotions contrary to her -wishes; they were so exceedingly small, that he could but -take them for pretty little puppets, the largest figure, of a -man even, not being taller than one's thumb. His great -amusement was the opera and comedy; he went to them -very often: the little figures acted wonderfully well, and as -he had a great appreciation of genius, he attended all orations -of the Academy,<a id="FNanchor_42_42"></a><a href="#Footnote_42_42" class="fnanchor">[42]</a> and commented upon them with great -sagacity.</p> - -<p>Until he was eighteen years old, this gallery continued to -be his greatest pleasure; in fact, he knew no other. At that -age he began to wish to know the people whose portraits he -saw; the Fairy, desirous to please him, dared not oppose him -too much; she put him off with promises, but feared he -would escape her. "I hunt in your park," he said; "I walk -in it; I always see the same things, it tires me; I should -like sometimes to see something different." "Ah! truly," -said the Fairy, "you have well preserved the faults of human -kind. Miserable state of men! Can they be perfectly happy?—they -cannot believe themselves to be so, they sigh for what -they do not possess, and when they have obtained it they -are disgusted with it. Ah! what have you to wish for here? -do you not reign here? are you not the master? Do you fear -treachery here, false friends, or bad advisers? We live but -to please you; you are all-powerful in this Palace—you command; -we obey you. What being could be grander and -happier than you are?"</p> - -<p>The Prince bent his head at the enumeration of all the -happiness the Fairy had surrounded him with, and found that -he still desired more. He said nothing, but his uneasiness, -his agitation, his weariness, appeared in spite of him in all -his actions. Cornue increased the magnificence of her dress; -the Prince did not notice it; he scarcely ever looked at her. -She was disconsolate; for the idea, entertained ever since she -had carried him off, the hope of being ardently loved by -him, had strengthened with time, and the Prince's increasing -beauty had contributed much to her passion. He was just -at that happy age in which we please without much trouble, -and love with that frankness which is so soon discarded.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_436">[Pg 436]</a></span></p> - -<p>Cornue was enraged that he did not think of her. "You -ought to love me, were it only to amuse you," said she to -him, one day, when she was very melancholy. "Love you," -replied he, looking very vacantly at her; "do I not love you?" -Then, without thinking of it, he added immediately, "I feel -certain I shall never love." "Ah! why?" said the Fairy; -"who prevents you?" "Nobody," he replied; then rose, and -took a gun, and went shooting for the rest of the day.</p> - -<p>The Fairy, in despair at his indifference, and fearing she -should lose him if she still persisted in opposing him, perceiving -also that he was thinner, and that his colour had -faded, determined to allow him to change the scene, and -for this reason one morning she sent for him. "The time -has arrived," said she, "that I can give you your liberty to -leave the Palace. You will find the vast universe, of which I -am about to open the roads to you, resemble a very stormy -ocean, but since you wish to expose yourself to it, I will not -detain you; all I advise you to do is to confide in me when -in trouble (for you will have much to endure before you -become King), and to commence your excursions by going -to my sister Tigreline, and asking her, from me, for the -wonderful necklace which can alone preserve you from the -misfortunes attached to your fate. Take this bottle, pour a -drop of the spirit it contains upon the clouds which surround -the park; they will open for you to pass, and this dog will -guide you on your way back to the palace."</p> - -<p>The Prince, who did not expect so great a favour, displayed -such transports of gratitude that the Fairy felt nearly recompensed -for her trouble by the caresses she received from him. -He promised to follow her advice upon every point, and set -out immediately. The boundaries of the park adjoined a -forest so wild and frightful that Coquerico found the world -was not quite so beautiful as he imagined it to be; notwithstanding, -he entered this vast wilderness, accompanied solely -by his dog. Guided by his faithful companion, he was pursuing -a path which led to the Forest of Tigers, when suddenly -he saw a lion of extraordinary size coming straight towards -him. At first he was startled at such a meeting, never - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_437">[Pg 437]</a></span> -having seen a lion in Cornue's park; but recovering himself -a little, he shot an arrow with so true an aim that it pierced -the lion's heart, and he fell dead at his feet. He proceeded -as fast as possible, but his attention was arrested a moment -afterwards by frightful roarings. He looked in the direction -from whence they came, and he saw in the distance another -lion, running at full speed, with a young child on its back; -he was about to pursue it, but his dog pulled him by the coat so -hard that he thought the Fairy Cornue had appointed this dog -to be his guardian, and so, giving himself up to his guidance, -he arrived at Tigreline's abode without further accident.</p> - -<p>As soon as he had told her the reason of his journey, she -replied, "Prince Coquerico, you will inform my sister that I -have disposed of the necklace that she asks me for; doubtless -it was for you she wanted it. I hope, however, that it will -not fall into your hands so soon, whatever advantage you -might desire from it. But to make up for the loss of this -gift, which I am no longer able to bestow, I warn you that if -you ever pronounce your name rashly, or without its being -absolutely necessary, you will lose, perhaps for ever, that -which is most dear to you. I advise you, therefore, to conceal -your name from every one, or at least not to mention it -lightly. Go, Prince, I can do nothing more for you."</p> - -<p>The Prince thanked the Fairy very much, kissed her hand, -retired, and returned to Cornue's palace, very well satisfied -with the little he had seen. He was received most graciously; -they asked him many questions; he related all his -adventures; he fancied he should never have finished talking -about them, everything had seemed of such singular beauty -to him. He was in high spirits all the evening. They -praised him, they caressed him, but that did not content him. -He was resolved to go out again, and the Fairy, perceiving -how good-tempered he was, permitted him to do as he wished. -For a whole year he roamed to the furthest extent of the -beautiful country in the neighbourhood; sometimes he went -on horseback, and often dismounted to sleep under the trees -during the heat of the day. This sort of exercise increased -his stature and his strength. He was now in the prime of -his beauty.</p> - -<p>He was very anxious to ask the Fairy to restore him to his -subjects; he was tired of this life of privation; his mind, as -fine as his person, made him anxious to revisit his kingdom; - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_438">[Pg 438]</a></span> -but he dared not as yet request Cornue's permission, lest he -should appear ungrateful. This brought back his former -melancholy. Cornue became alarmed; she endeavoured to -amuse him in every imaginable way. He scarcely ever went -out; he passed his days almost entirely in the gallery of -models, and when he saw a battle he could not be got -away from it. What was still worse, he one day witnessed -the coronation of a young King. At this sight they -thought he would go mad. The shouts of joy, the warlike -instruments, the pomp of the ceremony, transported him with -anger as well as delight. "Why, then," said he, "am I to -be imprisoned here during my youth, when I could be at the -head of these people, making either war or peace, enjoying -really my rights of birth? They would detain me here, a -captive, render me as effeminate as Achilles at the Court of -Licomedia. Can I not find a Ulysses who will come to my -rescue?" He would have given still greater vent to his vexation -had they not come to announce to him that the Fairy was -waiting for him to order them to begin an opera she had -commanded the performance of. "What, always some fête?" -said he. "Well," he continued, "I must submit to it."</p> - -<p>The opera they were to perform was <i>Armide</i>.<a id="FNanchor_43_43"></a><a href="#Footnote_43_43" class="fnanchor">[43]</a> The Fairy, -who had been told what an ill-humour the Prince was in, -watched him during the performance. She thought that he -seemed amused by it, for he was so attentive to the piece. -The fourth and fifth acts he certainly did think wonderful; -he spoke of it the whole of the evening; he admired above -everything the idea of the shield which restored the hero to -glory. "What," said the Fairy; "does not Armida interest -you at all? Do you not pity her? So much affection -deserves a better recompense." "By my faith, Madam," -replied the Prince, "your Armida has what she deserves. I -should like to know if the heart is to be commanded; I -believe it to be perfectly independent of the will, as far as I -am concerned." Cornue felt the cruelty of this answer, but -she did not appear to do so, and turned the conversation to -another subject.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_439">[Pg 439]</a></span></p> - -<p>The Prince retired early, that he might go the next day -shooting. This was the day that his hand was wounded by -the beautiful Lionette's arrow. Upon returning to the -Fairy's palace the Prince considered whether he should speak -of this adventure; he was astonished at himself for wishing -to keep it a secret. A sweet feeling (hitherto unknown to -him) stole over his mind, and took such possession of it that -he was unable to conceal it. He asked himself what it could -mean, and he could find no reason for it. The name of -Lionette enchanted him. He repeated it incessantly. The -grace, the beauty of this young girl enchanted him, and he -found himself within the palace without being aware how he -had arrived there. It was then he began to recover himself -a little.</p> - -<p>Under the effect of this intoxicating feeling, he said a -thousand gallant things to the Fairy. She was surprised at -it, but flattering herself that her charms had produced this -alteration, she did not inquire the reason of such extraordinary -joy. His wound made her uneasy, but he took care to tell -her that he had hurt himself with one of his own arrows, and -the enamoured Cornue, anxious about everything that concerned -him, cured it by breathing upon it, without further -inquiry. He was in charming spirits for the rest of the day; -Cornue thought he had lost his senses; she ordered some -music that he thought delightful, although he had heard the -same every day without noticing it—so much does love embellish -the slightest objects. His passion led him to indulge -in delicious meditations, and to discover in his heart the -existence of emotions he had never dreamed of. He retired -early, and hastened to the gallery, seeking for a representation -of her whom he had seen during the day—he was successful -in his search; he saw the lovely Lionette seated between -the old people in the cavern, and when, on separating for the -night, they extinguished the light, and she was in darkness, -he still remained gazing in the direction of the cavern, and -did not leave the gallery until the following morning was sufficiently -advanced for him to go and meet the lovely huntress -herself. In traversing the forest he lost himself, and that -was the cause of his being so long before he rejoined his beautiful -Lionette.</p> - -<p>Unfortunately for the Fairy, her skill was now useless to -her—from the moment Fairies fall in love, their art cannot -protect them; when they recover their reason they regain -their power; but in the interim they can neither punish - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_440">[Pg 440]</a></span> -their rivals nor discover them, unless chance assist them, -as it might common mortals. Three months elapsed without -her having an idea of the cause of the change in Prince -Coquerico; she heard no more of his ambitious aspirations; -a country life and retirement was all he now desired; -he dressed himself as a shepherd; he composed eclogues and -madrigals; he engraved them upon the trees in the park, -accompanied by gallant and amorous devices that the Fairy -could not understand. When she asked him for an explanation, -he smiled, and told her it was not for him to instruct so -learned a person as she was. "Ask your own heart, Madam," -added he, "that will teach you; it was mine that dictated it -all to me."</p> - -<p>The Fairy was quite contented with this answer; she -interpreted it according to her own wishes, but she could not -reconcile to herself the Prince's frequent absence, after all -he had said to her; for he went out the first thing in the -morning, and did not return till the last thing at night. She -passed whole days in thinking about new dresses and different -entertainments. As she had a lively imagination, she succeeded -with the latter, but the former were absolutely useless—her -age and her horn entirely defeated all attempts at decoration. -It was upon this occasion that she invented the -<i>Bal-Masqués</i>, which have been ever since so successful. The -Prince often indulged in this agreeable delusion, and with his -heart full of the beautiful Lionette, he spoke to the Fairy as -though he were addressing his love, and the credulous Cornue -took it all to herself.</p> - -<p>Towards the end of the third month of this intense and -secret passion, the Prince at length resolved to ask the Fairy -to conduct him to his own kingdom. It was not ambition -that induced him to wish it, but a higher and more delicate -sentiment. Why conceal it? Love itself made him anxious -to ascend the throne, that he might place the beautiful -Lionette on it beside him. He had scarcely spoken to the -Fairy about it before she consented, flattering herself that he -wished to share his crown with her. With what pleasure -did she order everything for his departure. The Prince, as -we know, took leave of his lovely shepherdess, and set out, -with the Fairy and a numerous suite, for the kingdom of the -Fortunate Isles. Cornue was seated with him in a car of - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_441">[Pg 441]</a></span> -rock crystal, drawn by a dozen unicorns; their harness was -of gold and rubies, as brilliant as the sun. A dozen other -chariots, as pompous, followed; and the Prince, as beautiful as -Cupid, and magnificently dressed, attracted the attention of -every one. He had most carefully concealed the necklace that -the lovely Lionette had given him; he wore it on his left -arm as a bracelet, and his dress covered it. He was delighted -at the thought of appearing before Lionette in such grand -apparel, and to read in her looks the joy such proof of his love -would give her; but he could not help feeling a secret anxiety, -which at times cast a cloud over his mind; he attributed it -to the distance between him and his love, and sometimes he -thought he had done wrong in going so far away from her. -"The happiness I am seeking, is it worth what I lose?" said -he. "Lionette loves me as she has seen me; will she love -me more for possessing a crown? Ah! Lionette, I know -you too well to wrong you so much; your noble and simple -heart only estimates that true grandeur which places man -above his fellows by the elevation of his mind."</p> - -<p>At length he arrived at the Fortunate Isles, and the people, -delighted to see their Prince again, received him with acclamations. -He was crowned, and by the attentions of the -enamoured Cornue, the ceremony was followed by magnificent -fêtes, in which the Prince, from gratitude, insisted on her -sharing all the honours. The fêtes ended, and the affairs of -this fine kingdom put in order by the Fairy and the ministers -she had chosen, she determined to have a complete explanation -with the King, and began by adroitly proposing that he -should marry. She had gained the ministers over to her -wishes, and induced them to join in the proposition she had -made to him; but who can tell Cornue's astonishment when -the young Prince replied by acknowledging his love for the -beautiful Lionette, and entreating her to assist in rendering -him happy, by enabling him to share his throne with the -object of his affections! "Ah! where have you seen this -Lionette?" replied the Fairy, with a look in which astonishment, -rage, and vexation were equally visible. "What, -then," added she, "is this the return for my care of you?" -The Prince, astonished at this sharp reply, and not fearing -her reproaches, ended by relating his interview with Lionette, -and painted his affection in such glowing colours that - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_442">[Pg 442]</a></span> -she plainly saw the opposition she might make against it -would only tend to irritate him and increase his passion; then -cleverly making her decision, "I would not speak thus to -you," said she, "but to reproach you for your want of confidence, -that you did not open your heart to me. I should -have served you better, and Lionette would have been to-day -Queen of the Fortunate Isles; but you have acted like a -young man without experience, and I doubt if I can serve -you at present as I could otherwise have done." "Ah! -Madam," replied the King, "you can if you will. Give me -your chariot, and let me go and seek my beautiful Lionette." -"I will do better for you," said she, with a forced smile; "I -will go with you as soon as it strikes midnight; hold yourself -in readiness; we shall be on our way back before the sun is -up, and I know no other means of satisfying your impatience."</p> - -<p>The Prince embraced the Fairy's knees, transported with -joy and gratitude, which wounded her much more than his -unfortunate confidence; she took leave of him under a pretext -of consulting her books, but really because she could not -contain herself, and her fury had risen to a most horrible -height. Who could describe it? All that an amorous, jealous, -and mistaken woman could feel, she, as a Fairy, felt still more; -nor could the most forcible language paint but feebly the -tortures which racked her heart. She had promised, however, -to accompany the Prince; but that would enable her to -execute the vengeance she meditated.</p> - -<p>She felt the more assured of her revenge as the Prince had -let the necklace fall from his arm, and had left her without -being aware of his loss. She picked it up, and thanking the -stars for so lucky an accident, no longer delayed taking -measures for her revenge, which would have been useless -without that precious necklace. She closed the doors of her -apartment, that her absence might not be perceived, and -desired the King might be told she must consult her books -in private, and at midnight she would be visible. She mounted -a flying dragon, and speedily arrived in the cavern, where -everything was in profound repose; the dragon sneezed, -which was like a clap of thunder, and enough to rend the -cavern. She accomplished, as we have already seen, her -wicked intentions, and returned to the Fortunate Isles as - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_443">[Pg 443]</a></span> -the clock struck eleven. She could hardly restrain her delight -while waiting for the King; but soon the idea of his being in -love, and without doubt loved in return, renewed her fury; -she was in a transport of rage when he entered her room -with an eagerness which assisted not a little to increase it.</p> - -<p>She endeavoured to calm herself, or rather to dissemble her -rage; her fury was at such a height that her horn was in a -flame, and the enamoured and too credulous Coquerico, thinking -it was an attention she was paying him to guide him in -the darkness of the night, thanked her a thousand times for -this precaution. They mounted a chariot drawn by three -owls, set off at full speed, and descended in the forest close -to the cavern wherein Lionette had been reared. The Prince -only knew it from Lionette's description of it. Love invests -with interest the most trifling circumstance connected with -its object.</p> - -<p>He had often asked her to describe the place she inhabited. -He remembered every little detail distinctly. He could not -be deceived; besides, he knew her bow and arrow that were in -the cabinet in which she slept. His grief was excessive at -not finding her; he called her, he went in and out of the -cavern a thousand and a thousand times, he entreated the -Fairy to throw a light from her horn upon places that were -obscure, and seeing some little pictures she had painted—"Ah! -this is her work," cried he; "I will preserve them all -my life." The Fairy was so irritated at his transports, that -she threw out a flame from her horn, which in a moment -destroyed everything that was in the cavern.</p> - -<p>The Prince had great difficulty to save himself from this conflagration. -The Fairy protected him, however, and triumphed -within herself at the absence of her rival. She advised the -Prince to seek for her elsewhere. "Perhaps," said she, "her -parents have married her; or perhaps," she continued, ironically, -"grief at your loss has caused her death." "I know -not what has happened," said the Prince, in a tone which -marked the agitation of his mind, and distracted at not being -able to find his mistress; "but I would rather believe her to -be dead than unfaithful; and if it be true that she exists no -longer, very soon I shall follow her to the grave." "Here -is a furious determination of a lover!" cried the Fairy; but -considering that under the circumstances it would be better - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_444">[Pg 444]</a></span> -not to irritate the King, she changed her tone. "What I -have said," pursued she, "is to prove the interest I take in -you. I am sorry you should have conceived an affection for -a person of such low extraction, and I cannot sufficiently -thank Fate that, in accordance with my own opinion, has -removed this shepherdess, and thus assisted your heart to -recover from its error." "I know not if Fate has assisted -you to drive me mad," replied the Prince, sharply; "but if -so, I feel she has been more successful in that attempt than -the other. As to Lionette, I will repair the defect, if it be -one, to be born of obscure parents,—not that I believe it -possible for her to be what she appears. In any case, however, -happy are the princesses who are as high-minded as she is."</p> - -<p>The Prince now, seeing how uselessly he was seeking for -her in this place, entered the chariot again with the Fairy, -and returned to the Fortunate Isles, where they arrived at -sunrise without having spoken a single word, both of them -occupied—the one by her fury, the other by his grief.</p> - -<p>The King, upon his return, shut himself up in his palace, -and thought of nothing but by what steps he might recover -Lionette. It occurred to him he ought to go to Tigreline. -This resolution taken, he proceeded to Cornue to tell her his -project. "I cannot imagine," said he to her, "why you do -not assist me in this affair; is your power so limited? Is -Tigreline's more extensive than yours?—for I believe," he -added, instantly, "you are so interested in my happiness, that -you would exert all the skill you possess to increase it, if it -were possible. I could not even doubt it, without being -ungrateful. I have had sufficient proofs to be quite sure of it, -and I feel that I can never forget them." Cornue blushed -at this question, which she did not expect, and becoming -acquainted with the extent of her misfortune by the latter -part of the King's discourse. "It is in consequence of that -very affection I have for you," said she, "as you ought to -know, that I will not serve you in fostering a passion that -would diminish your glory; and if you are as grateful as you -say you are for the care I have taken to make you happy, -and for preserving your life, you will discard an infatuation -which will be your ruin. What an idea will your people—will -the whole universe—have of a king so little master of -himself that he runs after a poor shepherdess, to give her a - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_445">[Pg 445]</a></span> -crown which he might share with the first princesses in the -world—no matter whom: perhaps even a fairy might not -have disdained to partake of one with you." These last -words, which escaped her in spite of herself, opened the -King's eyes, and looking at the Fairy with astonishment, he -was convinced of the truth of his suspicions when he saw her -standing silent, confused, and carefully avoiding his gaze.</p> - -<p>It was some time before he could find words to answer, -from his excessive astonishment; but unwilling either to irritate -the Fairy at the moment he so much wanted her -assistance, or to encourage a hope that he felt incapable of -sustaining. "The knowledge you have of the human heart, -Madam," said he, at last, "ought to have taught you that a -King cannot dispense with the laws of nature more than -other men. So pure and intense a passion as I have for -Lionette is not of a character to be easily extinguished. -Why did you not exert your power to render me insensible? -I should not then have felt the grief I have to-day, nor the -happiness you speak of. This choice of a great princess or -of a fairy who would deign to receive my vows and my -crown—this happiness, I say, does not at all affect me. Is -it necessary that to be happy I must sacrifice myself for -ever to the whims of my people? I must choose for myself. -I would willingly make them happy. I feel a pleasure even -in desiring and being able to do so—but what can it signify -to them who I give them for their Queen? I value my -greatness only because it enables me to elevate her whom I -love. This sweet pleasure would induce me to support the -weight of a crown; without it, what would be every other -enjoyment? And am I compelled, because I am their master, -to be deprived of the only pleasure I sigh for? No, Madam; -in giving them Lionette I consider that I make them as -happy as I make myself. Should they refuse to receive her, -they will repent their temerity; and whoever ventures to -oppose me will find that my love has not made me forget -I am a king."</p> - -<p>"Proceed, ungrateful one! Proceed to destroy me!" said -the Fairy. "You know too well all the violence of my love -for you, and you only pretend not to see it to overwhelm -me the more by your severity. It is I—it is I only—who -will expose myself to the danger of resisting thy base inclinations. - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_446">[Pg 446]</a></span> -Dare to punish me, and so complete the measure of -your crimes! But how wilt thou do it? Thou art in my -power, and the necklace which I hold, and which dropped -from thine arm yesterday in my room, will revenge me for -thy ingratitude." In saying this, she arose, and touching -the King with her wand as he advanced to recover his -mistress's love-token, she transformed him into a cock; then, -opening one of the windows, she threw him down into the -court of the palace; after which, assembling the Council, she -informed them that the King had absented himself upon -urgent business, and she, not being able to remain longer in -that kingdom, had determined to appoint a regent. This -affair concluded, she ascended her chariot and disappeared -from their sight.</p> - -<p>The King was dizzy with his fall, but his wings had supported -him, in spite of himself, and when he had a little -recovered his senses he jumped upon a balustrade of white -and rose-coloured marble, which surrounded a piece of magnificent -water in the centre of the court-yard, to see himself in -it. He was astounded at his appearance—not but that he was -the most beautiful bird in the world; his body seemed as -though it was covered with emeralds,—his wings were of a -bright rose-colour, and on his head was a crest of brilliants, -which threw out a most dazzling light,—his tail was a plume -of green and rose-colour,—his feet, of the latter hue, with -claws blacker than ebony, and his beak was a single ruby.</p> - -<p>We will leave this unhappy King reflecting upon the -cruelty of this transformation, and return to Lionette, whom -we left still more unhappy. This beautiful Princess, after having -been six months amongst the tigers of the Fairy Tigreline, -deploring her sad fate, was at length withdrawn from them -by the Fairy herself, who pitying her situation, came to seek -her and carry her to her palace, with both her unfortunate -companions. Then, after caressing them and conducting -them to a very comfortable den, she said to the Princess, -"My dear Lionette, you have been a sufficiently long time -punished for your imprudence in having given away your -necklace, without my adding further useless remonstrances -to the misery you endure in not being able to change your -form until you have recovered that talisman; therefore, -my dear child, I shall not scold you any more—on the contrary, -I will mitigate your penalty as much as I can, and I am - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_447">[Pg 447]</a></span> -going to prove it to you by restoring your good guardians -to their natural forms, that they may have the pleasure of -talking to you, and consoling you." Poor Lionette threw -herself at the Fairy's feet, and by the tears she shed, evinced -at the same time her joy and her sorrow at not being able -to answer her. Tigreline touched the Lion and Lioness with -her wand; in an instant they resumed their human form, -and after embracing the Fairy's knees, they embraced -Lionette a thousand times, who returned their caresses as -well as she could.</p> - -<p>After this affecting scene, at which even Tigreline herself -could not restrain her tears, she thus addressed the old man -and his wife: "Good people, the days of your transformation -will not be reckoned in the term of your existence, neither -will Lionette's when she has passed through hers. Live to -serve and console her until the time of her severe punishment -shall have ended. I will not have her shut up any longer; she -can run freely about my gardens and in my forest; as for -yourselves, you will remain in my palace, and have charge of -her. Let us wait patiently for time to bring about a more -happy termination to this adventure than I can dare to hope -for, and at least by our fortitude cause Fate to blush for her -injustice." The Fairy ceased speaking, and embraced Lionette -with all her heart. Lionette's was so full that she -shed a torrent of tears, and uttered groans which increased -the affliction both of the Fairy and the good people.</p> - -<p>She spent her days in the forest, hunting game, which the -Fairy had ordered to be put there for her. The tigers -respected and saluted her whenever she passed. She reclined -during the heat of the day in the most secluded and shady -places, meditating on her fate, and feeling less distressed at -her own situation than at the absence or the loss of Prince -Coquerico. She sighed affectionately at the remembrance of -him, and her greatest grief was her separation from him. -She scrawled with her talons on the barks of the trees rudely -formed initials, hearts and arrows, and wept over her lover's -and her own misfortune. At night she returned to her den, -and to the Fairy, who showed her great kindness. The old -man and his wife amused her by relating anecdotes to her.</p> - -<p>One day that she was at the Fairy's with her guardians, -she seized a sheet of paper and a pen, and wrote a request to -the Fairy that she would tell her who she was. She presented it - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_448">[Pg 448]</a></span> -to Tigreline, who, as she was very clever, contrived to read -what the Lioness had written. (No one but a Fairy could -well have deciphered it.) She sighed, and raised her eyes to -Heaven, then looking affectionately at Lionette, she said, "I -am going to satisfy you, my dear Lionette. The trials that -mortals encounter often serve as lessons to persons of your -rank. May it please the just gods that those which you -have endured from the commencement of your life be the only -trials ordained for you. But do not cease to bear them with -resignation and courage. You are a Princess, my dear child; -they did not deceive you when they told you so; you are the -daughter of the King of the Island of Gold; the Queen, your -mother, died in giving birth to you, and the King, your -father, resolved not to marry again, that he might preserve -the crown for you. You were scarcely four years old when -a fugitive Queen, driven from her kingdom, came to implore -your father's assistance to regain the throne that her rebellious -subjects had made her descend from, for having persisted in -reigning to the prejudice of her only son, whom she detained -at a distance from the capital, for fear he should claim the -sceptre.</p> - -<p>"This ambitious Princess, perceiving that the King, your -father, would afford his assistance too slowly for her impatience, -turned her thoughts in another direction. She -cared not where she reigned, provided she did reign. She -therefore resolved to marry your father; but knowing he did -not wish for an increase of family that might deprive you -of the crown, and that consequently as long as you lived he -would never marry, she came to consult me. She did not -attempt to conceal from me her sanguinary intentions respecting -you; and I knew if I were mistress of the necklace that -she wore, I should be able to save your life.<a id="FNanchor_44_44"></a><a href="#Footnote_44_44" class="fnanchor">[44]</a> I listened, therefore, -quietly to her, notwithstanding the horror that these propositions -gave me of her. 'Queen,' said I to her, 'you will -never obtain your object until I have possession of your necklace. -Give it to me, and be sure of the success of your -undertaking.' 'A Fairy who presided at my birth,' said -she, 'commanded that I should always wear it.' - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_449">[Pg 449]</a></span> -Those were her only words; but since it has not prevented my falling -from the throne to which my birth had entitled me, I part -with it willingly, and place it in your hands, relying much -more on your assistance than on the pretended charm to make -me happy.' 'Go,' said I, 'return to the Island of Gold, and -wait patiently the effect of my power, and above all, do not -attempt the life of the young Princess; I will serve you -without adopting such cruel means.'</p> - -<p>"She returned to the Island, and after some time, married -your father. That very day I transported you, with the -King and the Queen, into the cavern where the old man found -you, and changed them both into Lions. The King because -I feared his weakness, and the Queen to punish her for her -wickedness. I not only took from her the power of doing -you any harm, but obliged her to take care of you. As -for the King, I knew I need not inspire him with feelings -of humanity; he retained them, notwithstanding the natural -ferocity of the animal into which I had transformed him."</p> - -<p>Poor Lionette at these words interrupted the Fairy by a -melancholy roar. Tigreline smiled, and caressing the Lioness, -"Take courage, my dear girl," said she; "you mourn the -death of a good father; your susceptible heart will feel equal -joy in learning that I have saved his life; that he is at present -residing in a part of the world to which I transported him -after I had cured his wound; and that he is as anxious to see -you again as you can possibly desire." Lionette, who was -couched upon a great stone at the feet of the Fairy, licked -her hand softly, to show her gratitude, and her eyes sparkled -with so much pleasure that the Fairy, delighted at the effect -of her good-tidings, kissed her most tenderly. "As for the -Lioness, your mother-in-law," continued Tigreline, "she died, -not from grief at losing the Lion, but from rage at finding her -projects frustrated by his death, which she really believed; -and the tears you have shed for her were far more than she -deserved for the unwilling care she took of you."</p> - -<p>The Fairy had arrived at this point in her story, when in -at the window flew a cock of singular beauty, and perched -upon her shoulder; they were all very much astonished; the -Fairy, who was spinning, let fall her spindle, but quickly -recovering herself, she held out her finger to the bird, which -jumped upon it, and flapping its wings in token of gratitude, - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_450">[Pg 450]</a></span> -crowed out "Coquerico" two or three times. At the first -note the Lioness took fright, and ran off as fast as possible,<a id="FNanchor_45_45"></a><a href="#Footnote_45_45" class="fnanchor">[45]</a> -her guardians following her. In the meanwhile, Tigreline -examined the bird, and seeing how wonderfully beautiful he -was, immediately unravelled the mystery of this adventure. -"Prince," said she, "I believe I know you, and I am much -deceived if you have not just told me your name." The -Prince (for it was he) stooped his beak to her feet, as making -a low bow to the Fairy. "Oh, Heavens!" cried she, "is it -possible there should be such a complicated chain of misfortunes. -The barbarous being who has reduced you to this -sad state has only allowed you the power of pronouncing a -name which is the cause of all kinds of evil to you. It has -even now occasioned your Princess to fly from you, and -perhaps it may have been the last time in your life that you -could have seen her."</p> - -<p>The Cock at these words looked at the Fairy with -amazement; he had only perceived in the room a lioness -and two old people; he could not comprehend these words -of Tigreline; she read his thoughts, for he could not express -them. "She was here, I tell you," replied she, "and I -forgive you for not recognising her; but if my sister, the -cruel Cornue, has been able to change you into a cock, has -she not the power also of turning the Princess into a lion?" -The Cock felt as if he should faint at this cruel news. "Oh, -Fate! pitiless Fate!" continued the Fairy, "how blind are -thy decrees! Why dost thou punish the innocent, and let -the guilty live?" Her thoughts would have quite absorbed -her if her eyes had not fallen upon the poor bird, who had -fallen down, and appeared dying. She took him in her arms, -and giving him some wonderful liquid to smell, he recovered -his senses, but sighed bitterly at being compelled to see the -light again. "Do not distress yourself, my dear Prince," -said the Fairy, "I will use all my skill to assist you; but to -ensure my success you must second my endeavours. I cannot -render you perfectly happy so long as Cornue is in possession -of the necklace, and it is only through you that I can recover -it. Repose yourself, dear Prince; my books that I am going -to consult to-night will enlighten me as to what we shall do -to-morrow."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_451">[Pg 451]</a></span></p> - -<p>The King could not sufficiently express his gratitude—he -pressed his beak on the Fairy's hand, and squeezed her arm -gently with his claw—in short, he displayed as much feeling -as he possibly could. Tigreline, after giving him something -to eat and to drink, which he scarcely touched, placed him -upon a shelf in her cabinet, and then saluting him, retired to -her chamber to set about the work she had promised to -undertake for him.</p> - -<p>While this was passing, poor Lionette, overcome with a -fear she could not recover from, fled with all her might, and -had already gone far beyond the Forest of Tigers, notwithstanding -those animals had used all their endeavours to detain -her, for they were all fond of her, and several of them were -even in love with her; but she had forced her way through -every obstacle, and having no guide but terror, still believing -the Cock was pursuing her, she ran a hundred leagues at once, -and never stopped till her strength failed her. Her poor -guardians called to her and sought for her in vain; they -returned very much distressed at daybreak to the Fairy, to -tell her of Lionette's flight.</p> - -<p>The Fairy, who knew that if Lionette went beyond the -limits of the forest she had no longer any power over her, -and that she would be entirely at Cornue's mercy, left her -unwillingly to her fate, and thought only of being of service -to King Coquerico. She entered the cabinet wherein he had -passed the night, to tell him what he had to do. He flapped -his wings at her arrival, and flew to the ground to kiss the -hem of her robe. The Fairy took him on her hand, placed -him on a little table, and drew it up in front of an arm-chair, -in which she seated herself. "Great King," said she, "the -destiny that has nursed you since your birth commands me -to tell you that you will not regain your natural form but -upon very severe conditions. You must be sufficiently fortunate -to recover from Cornue the necklace given to you by -Lionette. If you fail to do so, you can never become a -human being again but by marrying Cornue. In that case, -if Lionette, whom my wicked sister insists upon being a -witness to this ceremony, can restrain the grief it must cause -her, I foresee that you may become happy at last; but if she - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_452">[Pg 452]</a></span> -have not the courage to support the terrible sight of that -marriage, I will not be answerable for anything." Coquerico -at these words bent his head and shed tears, at which the -Fairy was much affected. "A tender heart," said the Fairy, -"is pardonable, and even desirable in a King. Your grief, -according to this principle, is very excusable, but you must -not abandon yourself too much to sorrow. Leave to vulgar -minds, my lord, complaints and lamentations, and without -wishing to be stronger than humanity demands, courageously -resist the blows of fate, and if you only succeed in testing -your fortitude, and finding it cannot be shaken, you ought to -be content. It is the first of all advantages, and yet one we -rarely ask of the gods, because we do not know the value of -it. Take this bottle, and endeavour to throw a drop of the -liquid that is in it upon Cornue. That will make her swoon -away, and you will then obtain your object."</p> - -<p>Coquerico, who was in no hurry to depart, looked at the -Fairy to ask her to explain herself still further: she understood -what he would say. She related in a few words Lionette's -history. He thanked her in the most affectionate -manner he could, and he now recollected that the Fairy, in -speaking of her previously, had more than once called her the -Princess. He was enchanted to learn that this lovely girl -was of such high birth, but that did not increase his affection -for her. Nothing, indeed, could augment it. It was not so -with respect to his indignation against Cornue. Every -moment it became stronger, particularly when the Fairy, at -the end of her narration, told him that the unhappy Princess -had taken flight at his crowing, as well as at his name, from -the antipathy that lions had naturally to the crowing of a -cock, that the malicious Cornue had increased it in the case -of Lionette, that he had so frightened her that she had -flown beyond the bounds of the forest, and that she might -have fallen already into Cornue's power, as, having once -quitted the Forest of Tigers, she could not possibly re-enter -it till she had resumed her own shape.</p> - -<p>King Coquerico was instantly anxious to depart, and indicated -it as well as he could to Tigreline, who could understand -at half a word. After embracing him, and fastening the -bottle under his right wing, she opened her window, and he - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_453">[Pg 453]</a></span> -flew away, perfectly resolved that rather than crow to frighten -the lions, he would be devoured by them.</p> - -<p>To what fearful extent can passions increase in the hearts -of those who do not try to conquer them? The implacable -Cornue, distracted by turns, or rather at the same moment, -by the most violent love and by the most frightful jealousy, -spent her days in the Opal Palace, meditating the deepest -revenge against her rival and her lover. What more could -she desire? Were they not sufficiently wretched? They -could not recognise each other, and flew from one another as -soon as they met. Could anything more cruel be imagined? -Poor Lionette, overcome by fatigue, fell down from faintness -and fright upon some beautiful green turf, which answered -as a bed for the moment. She had run an hundred -leagues without stopping, as we have said before, and with -incredible swiftness, for she had quitted the Fairy in the -evening, and by sunrise next morning found herself in this -strange country. So true it is that fear lends one wings. -She looked around her, and saw nothing but that green -sward, through which flowed a clear stream, refreshing the -grass and the little wild flowers that adorned it. She slept -there profoundly after drinking of the beautiful water, which -possessed the property not only to quench thirst, but at the -same time to appease hunger.</p> - -<p>She slept for fifteen hours. When she awoke she felt much -refreshed, and continued her journey along the bank, at the end -of which she saw a palace, of architecture as simple as it was -wonderful. She entered it by a beautiful portico of foliage; -in it she saw cabinets, chambers, and galleries, all formed of -green hedges, and what charmed her particularly was, that -in the middle of each room were large groups of flowers of -all sorts, that greeted her with most friendly bows, and said -with one accord, as she approached, "Good morning, beautiful -Lionette." This wonderfully astonished her; she stopped -at a tube-rose plant that had saluted her still more graciously -than the rest. "Lovely flowers," said she to them, "by what -happy chance is it that you have given me the power of -speech, that all the skill and friendship of the generous -Tigreline could not restore to me? Is it you that have done -this? Tell me, that I may return my thanks to you?" - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_454">[Pg 454]</a></span> -"The stream that has quenched your thirst, beautiful Lionette," -replied one of the tube-roses, "has the merit of it; we -have no power, and it is only when we are watered by it that -we have the faculty of hearing, seeing, and expressing ourselves. -We are flowers from the garden of the Fairy Cornue; -for some time past she has been very sad; she came to converse -with us, but we were unable to comfort her; perhaps -that task was reserved for you; you must use your endeavours. -She will not return for two days, as she was here -yesterday; her palace is some distance from this; wait for -her, we will do all we possibly can to amuse you till she -returns."</p> - -<p>The Tube-rose then ceased speaking, although she was -naturally a little talkative, but she yielded from politeness to -Lionette's desire to ask some questions. "I should like to -know, obliging Tube-rose," said Lionette, "if Cornue, of -whom you speak, and to whom you belong, is a beautiful -fairy; and then I should be obliged by your telling me how -you knew my name and who I was as soon as you saw me." -"A Rose-tree, who is the oracle of this place," replied the Tube-rose, -"at the last sacrifice made to it by the Fairy, our mistress, -predicted that a great princess, in the form of a lion, would -one day come hither, and that here she would terminate all -her distress. The Fairy displayed immoderate joy at this; -she redoubled the incense and the bees, they being the only -victims that are immolated here. This is an answer to your -two questions at once, for by the Fairy's delight you can -easily conceive her good intentions towards you."</p> - -<p>The innocent Lionette thought there was great truth in -the tube-rose's conjectures; she thanked her heartily, and -begged she would inform her where the Rose-tree was, that -she might consult it as to what conduct she ought to adopt. -The Tube-rose directed her, and she soon found the spot; it -was not far from the cabinet of tube-roses. This apartment -had some appearance of a temple, the hedges forming an -arch above the Rose-tree, which preserved it from the heat of -the sun; a little balustrade of jasmine and pomegranate trees -surrounded this beautiful plant, which was covered with so -many roses that it was quite dazzling. The Lioness was -obliged to shut her eyes once or twice: she tremblingly -approached the balustrade, and prostrating herself, respectfully - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_455">[Pg 455]</a></span> -said, "Divinity of this lovely place, deign to receive my -homage, and tell me my destiny."</p> - -<p>The Rose-tree at these words appeared to be much agitated, -the leaves and flowers trembled, and became pale. Then a -voice interrupted by sobs issued from its branches, and Lionette -heard the following words:—</p> - -<div class="block2"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">To the severe decree of Fate</span> -<span class="i0 font09">In blind submission bend.</span> -<span class="i0 font09">A Princess, most unfortunate,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Will here her sorrows end.</span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p>The Princess was frightened at the indications of grief the -Rose-tree gave way to, and if the first words overwhelmed her, -the latter encouraged her a little. "Alas!" said she, "I fear -nothing but the prolongation of my existence; if I should -end my miserable life here, I should bless the fate that led -me to this spot; but wise and generous Rose-tree, before -ending my days, may I not know if he to whom I would -willingly consecrate them still lives; and if he is happy, -wherever he may be? This is my only anxiety. I should -die without one regret if I knew that his destiny was -decided." The rose-bush was again strongly agitated, and -thus replied:—</p> - -<div class="block2"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">For the last time, at thy desire,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">I raise my warning voice:—</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Thy lover only will expire</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Shouldst thou oppose his choice.</span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p>"Ah! wise Divinity," exclaimed the affectionate Lioness, "I -will ask you nothing more; if he live, I am too happy. May I -alone suffer from the severity of the Fairies! Their persecutions -appear as nothing to me if he be exempted from them, -and I permitted to see him happy. Ah! why should I fetter -his inclinations? Alas! the choice which I should be opposed -to, whatever it might be, would never offend me; what can he -owe me? and what can I offer him worthy of his merits? -The unfortunate Lionette not having it in her power to -make him happy, should not prevent him from becoming so, -at least I may be permitted the desire of being the cause of -it." Saying this, she retired to the cabinet of the tube-roses, -where she passed the night talking of her shepherd, and -telling her love for him to her faithful friend, who in return -more fully informed her what she knew of the Fairy Cornue - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_456">[Pg 456]</a></span> -and of her floral companions. "As for the oracular Rose-tree," -said she, "all we know is, it is not of the rose-tree race, it -was here when we came, and I believe that the Fairy, to -embellish its dwelling-place, transplanted us hither; it speaks -without being watered, and appears but little amused by our -conversation. It is naturally melancholy, and you have seen -for yourself it has a perfect knowledge of the past, the present, -and the future. The Fairy passes whole days, when she -comes here, in talking to it; rarely does she do us that -honour, and I think it is in consequence of the vexatious -things she hears from it that she feels no pleasure in talking -to us. A pomegranate blossom, a very great friend of mine, -often repeated their conversation to me. The Rose-tree conceals -from the Fairy what it is—the Fairy cannot discover -it; all one can make out is, that it was not always a rose-tree."</p> - -<p>She had spoken thus far, when a pink, a ranunculus, and -some other flowers entered, and after paying their compliments -to the Lioness, they announced to the Tube-rose that -Cornue intended to visit them a day earlier than usual; that -they might expect her the following morning, and that she -proposed making a pompous sacrifice to the Rose-tree; that -they were ignorant of the cause of this grand ceremony, but -thought it denoted the approach of some great event. The -flowers wondered among themselves what this great event -could be, without coming to any definite conclusion.</p> - -<p>They then talked about the weather, a conversation in -which they shone greatly, and which would have amused -Lionette had she been in another frame of mind, but she -spoke little, and listened less. At sunset the flowers retired -each to their home; and Lionette, after taking a very slight -repast of herbs from the mossy ground, and drinking the -water from the wonderful rivulet, went to sleep at the feet of -her faithful friend the Tube-rose. The first rays of the sun -having touched her eyelids, she awoke: the flowers were already -on the move. Lionette arose, and repaired to the Rose-tree. -She laid herself down in one of the corners of its little temple, -and saw all the flowers arrive, and place themselves artistically -to do honour to the Fairy, who did not keep them long waiting. -The whole of the temple glowed with the beautiful -colours of these various flowers; some formed themselves into - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_457">[Pg 457]</a></span> -arbours, others into garlands, crowns, girandoles, in short, -into a thousand and a thousand kinds of ornaments, so marvellously -arranged that the general effect was dazzling. The -sweetness of their perfume was exquisite; and that which -drew Lionette from her reflections was, that after this arrangement, -and on notice of the Fairy's approach, they commenced -so melodious a concert that the most melancholy beings -would have forgotten their grief, and have yielded to the -sweet enchantment in which this music wrapped the soul. -The Tube-rose, above all, was perfection. It charmed Lionette -completely. She listened with delight to this wonderful -melody, and admired the poetry of the hymn which they -sang; when suddenly she saw the redoubtable Cornue enter, -blazing with jewels, but more frightfully ugly than can be -described. She was seized with a horror at this sight which -she could not account for. She reproached herself for it. "Is -it possible," said she to herself, "that I can be still affected by -the weak prejudice of which my sex is so susceptible? Ought -we to decide upon the qualities of the mind by the beauty -or ugliness of the countenance? What feelings must I -inspire if they judge poor Lionette by her form? Judge thyself -before thou judgest others, and conceal not from thyself -that if ugliness induces thee to take an aversion to any one, -thou must thyself inspire a terrible horror."</p> - -<p>While Lionette was constraining herself to vanquish the -dreadful feeling that the presence of the Fairy had possessed -her with, the latter, to the sound of joyful music which echoed -through the temple of the Rose-tree, advanced towards the -balustrade and saw the Lioness, who, seated in the corner to -which she had retired, crouched in the most humble manner -as the Fairy gazed on her. Cornue's countenance brightened -with intense joy at this sight. "Oracle, whose words are -always those of truth," exclaimed she, "you have promised -me that I should one day find that which I have sought for -so earnestly, and which doubtless you have reserved as a -recompense for the many honours I have paid to you. Come," -said she to the fairies who followed her, "chain this wild -beast, and fasten it to my chariot, after which let us immolate -our victims." Four fairies threw a chain about Lionette, -who allowed herself to be dragged out of the temple notwithstanding -the grief shown by the flowers, that looked as - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_458">[Pg 458]</a></span> -they do when Aurora sheds her gentle dew upon them, for -they all loved Lionette; but their tears did not in the least -soften the inflexible heart of the jealous Cornue. The Rose-tree -shot from its stem a flame which consumed the offering -of bees which the fairies had just placed upon a little golden -altar they had drawn towards it. Its roses became amaranth -colour. Cornue was quite alarmed at this change. "What -prodigy is this?" cried she. "Divinity of these realms, do -you protect my rival, or is it the joy of delivering her into -my power that has produced this mysterious change?" The -Rose-tree shuddered at these words, and with a strong and -terrible voice thus answered the Fairy:—</p> - -<div class="block2"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">Immolate to my just wrath</span> -<span class="i0 font09">The first fowl that shall cross thy path.</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Mercy to it dare to show</span> -<span class="i0 font09">None thyself shall ever know!</span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p>The Rose-tree after this closed its flowers and leaves, and -by this action appeared to bid the Fairy depart. She left -the temple much discontented, and remounted her chariot, to -which they had fastened Lionette, with three other lions -who were very handsome. She took the reins that united -these animals and drove slowly over the velvet lawn by the -side of the rivulet, the gentle murmuring of which favoured -her meditations, until one of the fairies, following in another -chariot, exclaimed that she saw a fowl in the water, which -appeared to be drowning. Cornue stopped her chariot, and -ordered them to catch and bring to her the bird that so -luckily came to reconcile her with the oracular Rose-tree. -The fairies who were the lightest clad threw themselves into -the stream, and caught the poor bird, which was already -insensible. They carried it to Cornue, who was not at all surprised -at its beauty, for she instantly recognised, to her great -dismay, the unfortunate King Coquerico. "Oh, Heavens!" -exclaimed she to herself; "is it thus, cruel oracle, thou -wouldst have me understand thee?" She held the King up -by his feet, and having made him eject the water that he had -swallowed, he reopened his eyes, already darkened by the -approach of death, then quickly touching him with her wand, -said to him, "Resume thy proper form, and save me thereby -from the horror of taking thy life, upon which mine depends." -At these words the King, safe and sound, appeared more - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_459">[Pg 459]</a></span> -brilliant than the sun, his royal mantle on his shoulders, and -his crown of brilliants gracefully encircling his temples. What -became of Lionette at this sight? Her lover stood before -her—her lover a king, and more beautiful than the day! She -would have been speechless with astonishment even had she -not resolved beforehand that she would not speak to the -Fairy until she had discovered her motive for ill-treating her -so cruelly. She remained silent, therefore, but her eyes were -so affectionately fixed on the King, that if he had not been pre-occupied -by the adventure that had just occurred, he would -easily have recognised his unhappy Princess.</p> - -<p>"What more do you require of me, Madam?" said he to -Cornue. "Is it to make me feel my miseries more keenly -that you have restored me to my form of which you so unjustly -deprived me? or do you at last repent that you have -done me so much mischief?" "Ungrateful ever, and still -more ungrateful," replied the Fairy, presenting her hand for -him to assist her to descend from her chariot. "Come and -justify yourself, and do not accuse me." So saying, she -stepped with him upon the mossy bank of the rivulet, and -leaving her chariot and her companions at some distance, -spoke thus to the King, whom she made to sit down beside -her:—"I need scarcely tell you that I have loved you from -your infancy; the care that I have taken of you must convince -you of it, if you still remember it, for I do not expect gratitude -for such poor benefits. I will only slightly touch upon -what has hitherto passed, for I experienced but cruel ingratitude, -which my affection for you disguised under the name of -indifference, arising, perhaps, from my lack of beauty. I -believed for some time that by kindness I should overcome -this coldness. 'Beauty,' I said, 'is but a poor possession—a -sensible man is only caught at first by it. Unlimited power—a -fairy who condescends so far as to desire to please a -mortal is always sufficiently beautiful.' I discovered but -too late the abuse of my confidence, and saw with horror that -I had a rival. What did I then do to be revenged, but what -every woman would have done? Far from availing myself of -my power, I only exercised my discretion. I took Lionette -away from you, but I did not kill her—what excess of weakness!—for -she was at my mercy—and what a proof of my love -do you not recognise in that weakness? Your insults and - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_460">[Pg 460]</a></span> -contemptuous coldness drove me to despair. I deprived you -of your form, and I left you. What greater cruelty could -you show me than I had inflicted on myself? No, all your -hatred did not torture me as much. In what misery did I -pass my days after that frightful separation! I accused myself -of cruelty, I forgot all your injustice, and when, becoming -more calm, I thought of it as it really had been, I reproached -myself with having given you cause for it by too much vivacity—in -short, your image always present in my mind, the thought -of your anger constantly weighing on my heart, I could get -no rest. Some of the fairies who attended on me in the Opal -Palace advised me to consult the oracular Rose-tree respecting -my destiny. This Oracle, without any one knowing the reason, -has established itself here, or at least has planted itself in the -Sward of Eloquence (the name that is given to that which you -behold here, from the rivulet which surrounds it, because it -possesses the faculty of making everything speak that is -watered by it). Persecuted by my enemies, I came at last to -consult this new Oracle. I found at first some relief to my -troubles; I took great pleasure in embellishing its abode; by -my art I caused all kinds of flowers to grow here; I raised a -little temple of verdure, and watering all the flowers from the -Rivulet of Eloquence, I enabled them to converse with the Rose-tree -and entertain it. The information I gathered respecting -my destiny made me grateful to the Oracle, and gave me confidence -in its predictions. I came often to question it, and I -endeavoured to discover by whom it could possibly be inspired. -I ascertained that it was not one of those deities who -take pleasure in manifesting themselves to mortals, as at -Delphi. It was a man transformed into a rose-tree, and protected -by a power unknown to me, and carefully kept a secret. -I offered him all my power as a reward for what he had promised -me, but he constantly declined it. At last, having predicted -an event which has occurred to me this very day, and -the commencement of my happiness, he commanded me to -sacrifice to him the first fowl that I should see. Judge if all -the happiness I could expect from its promises is to be weighed -in the balance against your life—for that is what he demands -of me. Could I feel, could I know, a comfort, deprived of it? -Let the Oracle be angry with me, overwhelm me if it will -with the most dreadful calamities, I will not avoid them by - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_461">[Pg 461]</a></span> -the sacrifice of your life. Continue, if you dare, to treat me -inhumanly, cruelly—I will submit to it, provided I can still -behold you; for I have resolved to suffer everything your -hatred can inflict upon me, sooner than consent to immolate -you to the strange caprice of the Rose-tree."</p> - -<p>Cornue ceased speaking, and the King, having expressed his -acknowledgments, replied,—"What can I do for you, Madam? -My heart is mine no longer; I have no wish to deceive you; -not only is such perfidy incompatible with my nature, but -you too well know what I think for me to attempt to impose -on your credulity, and I owe you too much gratitude for -saving my life willingly to deceive you, were it in my power. -But why have you preserved one who never can make you -happy? Far better would it have been for you to have obeyed -your Oracle. Certain that you will always oppose my happiness, -I should have received my death at your hands with -pleasure, since I can never entertain for you a warmer feeling -than gratitude. You would have relieved me from the shame -of appearing thankless to you, and from being obliged to -drag out an existence far from the object of my eternal affection."</p> - -<p>The King was silent, and the Fairy greatly agitated; -neither spoke for some time. "What did this deceitful Oracle -promise you?" at length inquired the King. "If you can be -rendered happy by ending my life, why defer the sacrifice? -The generosity you have shown in preserving it, excites in -my heart a feeling of emulation. Conduct me to the temple, -it will not be you that will immolate me, at least; Love will -acquit you, for Love will dispose of my life, as it is he who -prevents my making you the mistress of it." "Talk no more -of sacrifice," said the Fairy, rising; "your life is too precious -for me not to struggle to preserve it, at the risk of all that -may happen. Come to my palace, and we will see to-morrow -what can be done." She then moved towards her chariot, -which she stepped into with the Prince, and the Lions went -at such speed that they arrived almost immediately at the -Opal Palace.</p> - -<p>Here it was that Lionette abandoned herself to the -bitterest grief when she saw the Fairy descend from her -chariot with the Prince, desiring that her lions might be put -into a grotto where a thousand other wild animals were - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_462">[Pg 462]</a></span> -lodged that she drove in harness. "Oh, Heavens!" she cried, -"to what am I reduced?" She permitted herself to be led -away to the grotto, and retiring into a dark corner, stretched -herself upon a little straw, and passed the night groaning at -her fate. Some days elapsed without any one disturbing her -sad repose; at the end of which time two young fairies came -to take four lions, some tigers, and two bears to be hunted -for the entertainment of the Fairy and in honour of the -King.</p> - -<p>As the Princess was ignorant of the purpose for which -these animals were selected, she did not speak to the Fairies. -But what a situation for her! Her lover, whom she could -not doubt was in the Palace, and who could not know her—the -severity of the Fairy—the horror of passing her days in -this strange place—all gave her a disgust to life, which would -not yield to the love she possessed for the King, though it -had been redoubled by the sight of him. "Ah, why should -I continue to love him?" she exclaimed. "Doubtless he no -longer loves me. And to render my punishment the greater, -I feel he is more lovely than ever. Let me die; and may he -never know the extent of the misery he has caused me. -Bereft of his love—bereft of him—why should I regret to -die?"</p> - -<p>She could not suppose him to be enamoured of Cornue; -she tried in vain to think why he was at the Opal Palace; -she lamented the timidity that induced her to fly from -Tigreline at the crowing of the cock. In recalling to her -mind the few circumstances she was cognizant of, she felt -convinced that the cock that flew in at the window was -certainly the same which was brought to Cornue, and re-transformed -upon the Sward of Eloquence. "How contrary is -my destiny!" said she. "My heart pants for an object which -certainly compels me to fly from it. Let me hasten to put -an end to this torment. Can the approach of death be a -greater punishment? Coquerico, ungrateful Coquerico, has -forgotten me. Why should I any longer doubt it? Let me -go and expire at the foot of the Rose-tree, and for ever fly -from a place that only aggravates and redoubles my grief."</p> - -<p>Fortunately the fairies had not shut the door of the -grotto. The wretched Princess stole out, and found herself -in Cornue's forest. She heard a great noise of horns and - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_463">[Pg 463]</a></span> -dogs; she entered a thick part of the wood which appeared -likely to conceal her. Anxious to let the chase go by, she -had thrust herself under some low branches, when she heard -a dear voice she could not be mistaken in. This voice spoke -to one whom she soon knew to be the Fairy Cornue. "Yes, -Madam, I avow it. I have an invincible repugnance to -hunt lions ever since the unfortunate Lionette has been -changed into one. I know not what has become of her. You -wish me to remain in ignorance about her; you object to my -taking any means by which I might obtain knowledge of -her present position. You wish to kill me. Ah, why, then, -do you hesitate, when your Oracle demands my death? -Let me go to consult it, or with my sword will I rid myself -of a life which is rendered insupportable by your tyranny." -"How can you imagine," replied the Fairy, "that I should -allow you to seek this Oracle who demands your death? For -it is not that he desires a cock as a sacrifice more than any -other bird—it is you yourself that the barbarous Oracle -would have immolated; and do you think I will consent to -that? I love you, and you hate me—that is all my offence -in your eyes. And if I were to restore Lionette to you, you -would soon forget even the trifling gratitude you might -profess to entertain for me." "I," exclaimed the King, -"forget it? Never! I forget that I was indebted to you -for the happiness of my existence? Do not imagine it. -Restore her to her natural shape, and I swear to you I will -agree to everything that depends upon myself. You will -command my obedience, and my friendship will be unbounded. -In fact, if I cannot give you my heart, at least there will be -so little apparent difference, that you yourself will scarcely -perceive it." "Enough," said the Fairy; "I trust to your -oath, and I will yield to your impatience. To-morrow we -will proceed to the temple of the Rose-tree. I will expose -myself to its anger. I will try to appease it, and then we -shall see if your word is inviolable."</p> - -<p>The King and the Fairy passed on, and the Princess, -delighted to find her lover as faithful as she had believed him -inconstant, turned her footsteps towards the temple of the -Rose-tree, and arrived there late at night.</p> - -<p>All the flowers were asleep. She did not disturb any of them; -she went and lay at the feet of the Tube-rose—she did not - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_464">[Pg 464]</a></span> -sleep. The beauty of the night filled her soul, already -prepared to receive delightful impressions, with the purest -joy, unmingled with a shade of sorrow. The amiable Coquerico, -faithful and loving, appeared in her idea so worthy of -being loved, that she did not regret all she had suffered for -him. She never thought about his being a King; she disdained -every advantage that was the mere consequence of -chance. He was worthy of her affection—that was all she -considered. Cornue's reproaches had revealed her jealousy. -Lionette in an instant therefore understood why the Fairy -had so ill-treated her; and as the happiest love is subject to -reverses, she distressed herself at what the King would have -to suffer if he resisted the Fairy's passion. She immediately -determined to abandon her lover to her rival in order to save -his life, which the Oracle had told her he would lose if she -opposed his choice. Some mournful reflections upon this -situation succeeded to those that had so pleasantly occupied -her. She determined to seek the Oracle without delay. She -arose very quietly, and entered the temple as the day broke.</p> - -<p>King Coquerico was not in a better situation. The horror -with which Cornue had inspired him by her new barbarity in -wishing his mistress to perish by his hand under the pretence -of affording him the entertainment of a lion hunt, was unconquerable: -his patience was exhausted, and he only feigned to -agree to her wishes in order to gain time to be revenged, by -getting the necklace out of her possession.</p> - -<p>The Fairy had luckily not noticed the little bottle under -his wing the day she restored him to his form; he therefore -still possessed it, and trusted it would be of great use to -him. He retired early that night, under pretence of being -fatigued, and the Fairy begged he would wear the ornaments -that she had ordered to be put into his room, that he might -make a grander figure in the eyes of the Rose-tree. He was -no sooner in his own apartment than the recollection of what -Cornue had said, and of what he had promised, threw him -into deep distress, as he foresaw that if he could not anticipate -the artful Fairy's intention, he should only obtain from -this jealous enemy the pleasure of once more seeing Lionette, -in return for which Cornue would undoubtedly insist upon -his marrying her.</p> - -<p>This cruel thought made him more eager for revenge, and - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_465">[Pg 465]</a></span> -that feeling was increased by his observing a large basket -made of pearls and garnets in filigree work, which stood on a -table beside him. He made no doubt it contained the -presents she had requested him to wear. He raised the white -taffeta embroidered in gold which covered this elegant basket, -and perceived with astonishment, mingled with rage, the -royal robes that are worn at the marriage of the Kings of the -Fortunate Islands. As they were the work of the Fairies, it -is impossible to describe their magnificence.</p> - -<p>A moment afterwards, recollecting that he should appear -thus attired before the Princess, he could not divest himself -of the idea that occurred to him, that perhaps such magnificence -might make an impression on her. However, believing -the Fairy to be asleep, he resolved to put his plan in execution -without delay, and throwing all the ornaments back into -the basket, he ascended a private staircase which led to -Cornue's bed-chamber. He arrived without any obstacle at -her bed-side; the curtains were open, and held back by Cupids -of mother-of-pearl; these also supported crystal chandeliers -filled with wax lights, to illumine the room. When she -could not sleep the Cupids sang, or read to her the news of -the day, Gazettes, or fresh stories that were written about -the Fairies. On that night they must certainly have been -reading to her as long a story as this, for she snored terribly. -She could not have foreseen the King's unseasonable visit, for -no one could look so ugly in bed as she did. She had neither -rouge nor patches; and her livid and unhealthy-looking skin, -gave her more the appearance of a corpse than of a living -and amorous Fairy. Her horn assisted in making her -more hideous. She had the fatal necklace round her neck, -which was partly uncovered. The King was not at all enchanted -by the sight of her. His desire to free himself from -so hideous an object made him hastily draw forth his little -bottle, in order to fling some drops of its contents over the -Fairy, when all the Cupids suddenly began to cry, "Who -goes there? who goes there?" The Fairy opened her eyes, -and the King remained more surprised and more distressed -than it is possible to say. "What do you here, Prince?" -said she, sitting upright; "what has brought you into my -room without having sent me word of your intention?" -She would have asked him a thousand other questions if she - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_466">[Pg 466]</a></span> -had had the time, for the King, more alarmed at her ugliness -than at the menacing tone she gave to her words, allowed her -to talk, and did not answer her. "What would you?" she -said again. "Explain your object."</p> - -<p>"I am very sorry, Madam, to have disturbed your rest," -at length said the King; "but not knowing your projects, -before I definitively pledge my word to you I wish to know -what you propose to exact from me." "Would there not -have been time to-morrow," said the Fairy, "to have asked -me this mighty question, and was it necessary to awake me -for so silly a purpose? Go to your rest, my Lord, and to-morrow -we shall be in a condition for you to propose, and for -me to resolve." The King, truly seeing no other way of -getting out of this embarrassment, was very well disposed to -return to his room, when the Fairy called him back. "Come -here," cried she, "where are you going? Ought you not to -apologize for your imprudence, or do you think you have not -committed any?" The King, annoyed by this fresh obstacle, -which prevented him from retiring, said, "Ah, Madam, do -not make me commit a greater fault, in any longer disturbing -your rest; it ought to be precious to me, and the respect I -owe you——" "No, no," replied the Fairy, "approach; I do -not wish to sleep any more, and I will absolutely know what -brought you here; do not fear to offend me, but dread to -conceal your feelings from me. I wish for a candid avowal, -and," continued she, looking at him most affectionately, "I -expect you will entertain me as a punishment for awaking -me."</p> - -<p>The King, at this disagreeable proposition, thought he -should lose all patience, but being in the power of this terrible -person he suppressed his first movement, and seating himself, -out of respect, some distance from the Fairy's bed, said, -"Since you wish it, Madam, I will obey you. I came, not -thinking you were asleep, to ask you to restore the Princess -to her natural form immediately, and to declare, without that, -I cannot follow you to the temple of the rose-tree." "Truly," -replied the Fairy, much annoyed at this commencement, -"this is a beautiful subject to disturb every one about; could -not that have been deferred till to-morrow?" "No, Madam," -replied the King, "and I am very sorry I did not urge it -yesterday, without being under the necessity of waiting - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_467">[Pg 467]</a></span> -another day." "Well," said the Fairy, "what will you do -for me in return, and what have I to expect from your gratitude?" -"I have told you, Madam, the strongest friendship, -and all that an affectionate heart could further give——" -"Friendship," replied the Fairy; "no, no, King Coquerico, -it is not at such a price that I dispense my favours—it must -be of more value than that. Shall I tell you what it is? -It is not worth while to wait till to-morrow to inform you. -I cannot ask you for your love, I am convinced of that; you -are incapable of feeling it for me; you have made me sufficiently -understand that; but I will forgive you upon condition -that to-morrow you will solemnly give me your faith."</p> - -<p>The King, prepared as he had been for this event by Tigreline, -could not quietly listen to her discourse, and find himself -so near renouncing for ever a Princess whom he loved, -without feeling it most cruelly. "If my heart were free," -he replied, in a tone of voice changed by the excessive effort -he made to suppress his fury, "I could offer you the one or -the other; but, Madam, I have disposed of my heart beyond -my own control, and I will not offer you my hand, the possession -of which would make you miserable, for at every -instant I should make you feel, in spite of myself, that, my -heart being separated from it, I was not worthy the honour -you conferred on me. The gratitude I owe you, therefore, -obliges me absolutely to refuse you, at the peril of my life." -"We shall see that to-morrow," replied Cornue. "Go and -strengthen or change your noble resolutions; but remember -that if you resist mine, it will not be your life that will answer -to me for it. I shall know how to find, in spite of you, the -sensitive place of a heart you assure me is so indifferent."</p> - -<p>The King, maddened by rage and grief, departed, and -returned to his own apartments, where he abandoned himself -to the deepest despair. Twenty times he was about to plunge -his sword in his heart, and sacrifice his life to the Princess; -but thinking he might perhaps revenge her, or at least save -her from the fury of the Fairy, he abandoned that frightful -idea, and resolved upon going to the temple of the Rose-tree.</p> - -<p>As soon as the morning appeared, the palace of the Fairy -resounded with music and nuptial hymns; she sent to know -if the King was ready, giving an order that they should -attend to him as her husband. A pompous chariot was in - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_468">[Pg 468]</a></span> -the palace court. All the fairies from far and near were -summoned to this ceremony; they arrived from every quarter. -Tigreline only announced that she should be at the temple. -At length the King appeared; his pale and thin face indicated -that he was the victim of the sacrifice, rather than the -person to whom it was to be offered. With all that he was -as lovely as the day.</p> - -<p>Cornue was attired as a Queen; all the skill in the world -had been employed about her robes. She seated herself with -the King in her chariot, and all the fairies followed according -to their rank, riding upon eagles, dragons, tigers, and leopards. -A dozen beautiful young fairies of the Court of Cornue, led -in couples a dozen lions, upon which, during all the journey, -the King had his eyes fixed, seeking to discover if the unfortunate -Lionette were not amongst them. They set out amidst -a flourish of drums and trumpets, and they arrived at the -Sward of Eloquence: the flowers were already on the boundaries, -and formed two ranks six feet high, between which -the brilliant procession passed, amidst loud acclamations and -joyous songs.</p> - -<p>The temple was crowded. The most beautiful flowers had -formed two thrones of exquisite taste, and the <i>coup-d'œil</i> was -enchanting, so well was everything arranged. The unfortunate -Lionette was already in the temple, and the pleasure -of seeing Tigreline there, whom she remembered directly, -had relieved in a slight degree the deep grief she was in at -being compelled to witness the happiness of her cruel rival. -"I shall die, Madam," said she to the Fairy, "but at any -rate let the King know, after my decease, that my affection -has equalled his own, and that I pardon him a fault which -fate has made him commit. I do not condemn him for his -inconstancy." She wept so bitterly in finishing these words, -and she was so overcome by the violence of her grief, that -she did not see the King and the Fairy enter. Cornue first -approached the Rose-tree. "I come," said she, "to redeem -my word. Divinity of this place, you demanded of me the -sacrifice of a fowl. I have too well understood your oracle; -behold what you required, and I think I shall interpret your -wishes by demanding of him, at the foot of your altar, the -hand he is so reluctant to bestow on me; a sacrifice which is -to him greater than that of his life." The Rose-tree drooped - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_469">[Pg 469]</a></span> -its leaves and blossoms, as if in approval of the words of the -Fairy. Cornue then turning to the King, who had remained -a few steps behind her, said, "Approach, my Lord, and fulfil -the decree of fate." He was at this moment much more -occupied with what he saw than with what was said to him; -he had perceived Tigreline, and he no longer doubted that the -lioness at her side was his divine Princess; he looked at her -tenderly and sorrowfully, not daring, however, to approach -her, for fear of displeasing Tigreline, who had made him a -severe sign to prevent him.</p> - -<p>Cornue, surprised at his silence, turned towards him, and -saw him in this pleasant occupation; then placing on the -altar the crown which she held in her hand, in order that the -King might put it on her head, she approached him. "What -are you about," said she; "is this a time for dreaming?" "I -delay my reply, Madam," said the King, without much -emotion, "till you shall render to the Princess of the Golden -Island the form which you have so unjustly deprived her of; -afterwards I will do what gratitude demands of me, and I will -not deceive you." Cornue perceiving that it was not time to -recede, especially as she saw Tigreline present, her superior in -power, and that the day which she had chosen for this ceremony -was precisely that on which the fairies are subject to -death, was very cautious not to let the King know this, for fear -that he should take advantage of those four-and-twenty hours -to revenge himself for the cruelty which she had exercised on -him and the Princess; yet, nevertheless, she was not willing to -delay the fulfilment of her happiness; knowing, therefore, that -it was impossible to deceive the King any longer, she turned -to Tigreline, who led the lioness to the altar. "My Sister," -said Cornue, taking off the necklace and presenting it to -Tigreline, "I restore the Princess to you, and you can use -your power to make her resume her proper form, but spare -her the grief of seeing me crowned by the hand of her lover, -and depart with her, as she can never be his."</p> - -<p>Tigreline lost not a moment: in lieu of replying to Cornue, -the good Fairy touched the lioness with her wand, and the -Princess stood before them more beautiful and more amiable -than ever. She was by the care of the Fairy clothed -magnificently and in the finest taste: she had a dress of cloth -of silver, covered with garlands of everlasting flower - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_470">[Pg 470]</a></span> -of <i>gris-de-lin</i><a id="FNanchor_46_46"></a><a href="#Footnote_46_46" class="fnanchor">[46]</a> colour; her beautiful light hair, adorned with diamonds -and the same sort of flowers as those on her dress, fell in curls -on her shoulders, and made her appear more beautiful than the -day. The King was transported: he advanced towards her, and -falling on one knee—"Will you permit, beautiful Princess," -said he, "that the faith which I have plighted you should be -taken from you, and that the unjust Fairy, who has made us -so unhappy, should quietly enjoy a crown which should be -yours?"</p> - -<p>The Princess Lionette, during the time that her lover was -speaking, kept her eyes tenderly fixed upon him, and by the -tears which gently rolled down her cheeks let him see the -effort which she made in giving him up. "I cannot," said -she at length, "oppose fate; yes, my dear Prince, you must -submit; I release you from your vows, live happy without me, -if it be possible for you to do so; and as I must of necessity -lose you, I quit this life without a regret, and am happy in -dying at having been able to tell you once more without -its being a crime that I love you." "Yes, you shall die," -cried the furious Cornue; "I have borne enough insults, -and that is another happiness which you have not counted -amongst those you boast of at this fatal moment!" The -King at these words rose from the feet of the Princess, who -did not seem alarmed even at seeing her rival advance towards -her with a poniard in her hand. He arrested the Fairy with -one hand, and with the other drew his sword. "It is I who -will perish," cried he, "and you cannot attempt the life of -my Princess, which mine will answer for." "Oh, heavens!" -cried the Fairy and Lionette at the same time. "Hold!" -Tigreline then advanced towards Cornue; she had not spoken -till that moment; she had allowed everything to proceed, and -those to speak who were most anxious to do so. She raised -her wand, and touching Cornue, "Receive," said she, "to-day, -the reward of your misdeeds, and witness in your turn the -happiness of these two lovers." At the words Cornue remained -motionless, but her eyes shone with such terrible fury, -that, not being able to find expression for it, her horn seemed -on fire, and she foamed with rage. "And you, wise Rose-tree," -continued Tigreline, "resume your form, and enjoy the -pleasure of embracing your amiable daughter." She had not -finished these words when the Rose-tree, bending itself a little, -appeared in its true form.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_471">[Pg 471]</a></span></p> - -<p>It was that of a man about fifty years of age, nobly made, -and magnificently attired; he had a long regal mantle, and a -crown of gold, set with precious stones, on his head. Lionette -resembled him so extremely that no one in the whole assembly -could doubt she was his daughter. That beautiful Princess -threw herself into his arms with so much natural delight, that -all the company were affected by it. The good King received -her with transports of joy, which would have been more -prolonged if he had not perceived at his feet the young King -of the Fortunate Islands, who embraced his knees. He quitted -his daughter a moment to raise the handsome Coquerico. "I -give you my daughter," said he to him, embracing him. -"Receive her, my Lord, and live as happily as I have seen you -miserable. I add my crown to this gift, and though I do -not expect it will increase your happiness, judging by the -vexations it has brought on me, still, such as it is, I give it to -my daughter to present to you."</p> - -<p>At this moment the King would have taken off his crown, -but the young King cried, "No, sire, you shall not cease to -reign: the charming, the tender Lionette fulfils all my wishes, -and my crown is at her feet. Permit us to live with you, -and let nothing separate us any more." Tigreline applauded -this mark of generosity in King Coquerico; and taking Lionette -by the hand, she presented her to him. He received -her with transports of love more easily imagined than described. -Then raising his crown, and placing one knee on -the ground, he presented it to Lionette, who accepted it as -she plighted her troth to him.</p> - -<p>The Temple resounded with the nuptial hymn. It was only -interrupted by Cornue, who uttered a piercing cry, and expired, -it being her day of doom. Her death caused no extraordinary -sensation. The young King and the Princess alone appeared -affected by the result of her despair. Tigreline had her carried -away, and the ceremony was concluded. King Coquerico -then turning towards the King, his father-in-law, asked him -if he wished to witness the coronation of the Queen Lionette, - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_472">[Pg 472]</a></span> -or if he would prefer waiting where he was for some days. -"And I," said Lionette, "I would entreat a favour of the -kind Tigreline, and of my dear husband, if I dare speak at -this moment." "My dear Princess," replied the King, -tenderly, "what do you fear?" "I would, then," said the -Princess, "that, disembarrassed of the cares of government, -we could live here always, and that, content with my happiness, -I might be occupied with nothing but the pleasure of -enjoying it. It is here that I have regained what is to me -most valuable. What signifies to me the rest of the world if -I live with these two persons; and if you, Madam," added -she, addressing the Fairy, "deign to come and see me, and -restore to me my two unfortunate guardians?" "I consent," -said the two Kings at once. "Yes, my daughter," said the -Fairy in her turn, "I approve of these noble sentiments, and -you shall live here as a Queen, but without feeling the inconvenience -of it. You shall both also enjoy the gift of fairydom. -I bestow it on you."</p> - -<p>Then touching the hedges that formed the walls of the -temple, the whole structure was changed into a palace of -emeralds so brilliant and so magnificent, that never was anything -seen to equal it. The flowers became living and speaking -persons, having as the sole mark of their transformation a -flower of their name on the head. The greensward became a -magnificent garden: on one side appeared a vast forest, at one -end of which the Fairy caused to be built a little palace of -rose-colour and white marble; and at the other, one of rock -crystal, in which she had the kindness to place the fine model -of the universe, which had been the delight of the King in -his youth. The Princess was enchanted. "It is for me," -said the King, "an inestimable gift—it will recall to me -without ceasing the pleasure I have enjoyed in exploring -it in search of my dear Princess." "And I," said she, "will -hold it dear, because it has taught you that I was occupied -with your memory."</p> - -<p>The Fairy was charmed to see them so happy, with a degree -of love so little known in our time or even in that at which -they lived. "Love each other always thus, my children," -said she, embracing them; "I can give you nothing preferable -to that blessing; it is the only real happiness." She then -made them observe that each palace had its separate gardens, - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_473">[Pg 473]</a></span> -its cascades, fountains, and charming flower-beds. On the -other side of the garden was a large and flowing river, upon -which were a thousand superb gondolas, silver and <i>gris-de-lin</i>, -which wound round towards a castle built entirely of flowers, -the marvellous variety of which had an admirable effect, and -crowning the summit of a mountain with terraces laid out as -gardens, descending to the brink of the river, and which -served as a country house to the Palace of Emeralds. "I give -you all this," said Tigreline, embracing Lionette; "live here, -my children, millions of years; your subjects will love you, -and never betray you. If you wish for more, a touch of this -wand," said she, giving hers to Lionette, "will change all the -flowers into speaking and rational beings, and they will -become flowers again at your will."</p> - -<p>The King and Lionette threw themselves at the feet of the -Fairy, and thanked her heartily. She raised them, and again -embraced them. "Wave your wand," said she to the Princess, -"that your guardians may have the pleasure of being recalled -by yourself." The beautiful Lionette quickly made this first -trial of her power; the good people appeared immediately. She -ran to embrace them, but they feared to receive her caresses; -the beautiful Queen, however, pressed them to her heart so -affectionately that they at length returned her embraces with -a tenderness which drew tears from all beholders. The Queen -seeing them so aged and decrepit, turned her beautiful eyes, -full of tears, on the Fairy, who comprehended what she -suffered. "I like to see so much sensibility, madam," said -Tigreline; "use your power, you cannot employ it better than -in the way you at present desire." She had not finished these -words, when the old man and his wife appeared to be,—he -a man of twenty years, and the old woman a girl of eighteen. -They threw themselves at the feet of the Fairy, and kissed -the hands of the Queen, who, delighted to see them so young -and amiable, embraced the Fairy to thank her for this great -favour.</p> - -<p>The good King then addressed his daughter, who turned -her eyes affectionately on him, "Do not confer on me the -same gift, my dear daughter; I do not wish to possess second -youth. I see you happy, that is the only thing which would -affect me; I shall never be sensible of greater joy; leave to the -gods the disposal of my days." "It is for me," said the Fairy, - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_474">[Pg 474]</a></span> -"to render them happy; you shall live, Sire, till you are sufficiently -tired of life to wish to lose it. Adieu; my affairs compel -me now to leave you, but I shall speedily see you again."</p> - -<p class="pmb3">The Queen conducted the Fairy to her car, the two Kings -handed her into it, after which they returned to the Palace, -where, charmed with each other's society, they passed their -golden days, more happy than they had ever been miserable. -They lived millions of years, and the King and Queen presented -the world with fairies and beneficent genii, who are -at this moment actually occupied in promoting the happiness -of the universe.</p> - - -<p class="break" /> -<div class="footnotes"><b>FOOTNOTES:</b> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_41_41"></a><a href="#FNanchor_41_41"><span class="label">[41]</span></a> See note, page 360.</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_42_42"></a><a href="#FNanchor_42_42"><span class="label">[42]</span></a> The "Académie Française," for which Cardinal Richelieu obtained letters -patent, January, 1635. The number of members was fixed at forty, and they -were called "<i>les immortels</i>."</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_43_43"></a><a href="#FNanchor_43_43"><span class="label">[43]</span></a> This opera, founded on the well-known episode in Tasso's <i>Gerusaleme -Liberata</i>, and produced at Paris in 1686, is considered the <i>chef-d'œuvre</i> of -Quinault.</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_44_44"></a><a href="#FNanchor_44_44"><span class="label">[44]</span></a> The necklace must also have preserved the Queen from the tigers, -or (according to the Author, page 420) one with so wicked an object for her -visit must have fallen their prey.</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_45_45"></a><a href="#FNanchor_45_45"><span class="label">[45]</span></a> The crowing of a cock was supposed by the ancients to terrify the lion -exceedingly. This idea is alluded to in Mademoiselle D'Aulnoy's story—"The -Pigeon and the Dove."</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_46_46"></a><a href="#FNanchor_46_46"><span class="label">[46]</span></a> <i>Gris-de-lin</i>, Englished into Gridelin, was an exceedingly fashionable -colour, both in France and England, at this period. It is variously described, -but appears to have been a reddish grey—"gris tirant sur le rouge"—not -unlike lilac.</p></div></div> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_475">[Pg 475]</a></span></p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_476"></a></span></p> - -<h2 class="no-break" id="MADAME_DE_BEAUMONT">MADAME DE BEAUMONT.</h2> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_477">[Pg 477]</a></span></p> - - -<h3 class="no-break" id="THE_PRINCE_DESIR">THE PRINCE DÉSIR<br /> - -<span class="font07">and</span><br /> - -THE PRINCESS MIGNONE.</h3> - - -<p>There was once upon a time a King who passionately loved -a Princess, but she could not be married because she was -enchanted. He went in search of a Fairy to learn what he -should do to be loved by this Princess. The Fairy said to -him, "You know that the Princess has a large cat, of which -she is very fond. She is destined to marry the man who -shall be sufficiently adroit to tread on the tail of her cat." -The King said to himself, "That will not be very difficult." -So he quitted the Fairy, determined to crush the tail of the -cat rather than fail to tread on it. He ran to the palace of -his mistress, where Minon came towards him, putting up his -back, as he was accustomed to do; the King raised his foot, -but when he thought he was certain to set it on the cat's -tail, Minon turned round so quickly that his Majesty trod on -nothing but the floor. He tried for eight days to step on -this fatal tail, but it appeared to be full of quicksilver, so -continually was it in motion. At length the King had the -good fortune to surprise Minon whilst he was sleeping, and -stamped upon his tail with all his force. Minon awoke, -squalling horribly. Then suddenly he took the form of a great -man, and regarding the Prince with eyes full of anger, he -said to him, "Thou shalt wed the Princess, because thou hast -destroyed the enchantment which prevented thee from doing -so, but I will be avenged. Thou shalt have a son who shall -be always unhappy until the moment when he shall discover -that he has too long a nose, and if thou darest to divulge the -threat I have uttered, thou shalt die immediately." Although - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_478">[Pg 478]</a></span> -the King was very frightened at the sight of this great man, -who was an enchanter, he could not help laughing at this -threat. "If my son has too long a nose," said he to himself, -"unless he be either blind or without arms, he can always -see it or feel it."</p> - -<p>The Enchanter having disappeared, the King sought the -Princess, who consented to marry him; but his happiness was -of brief duration, for he died at the end of eight months. -A month afterwards the Queen brought into the world a little -prince, whom they named Désir. He had large blue eyes, the -most beautiful in the world, and a pretty little mouth, but -his nose was so big that it covered half his face. The Queen -was inconsolable when she saw this great nose; but the ladies -who were with her told her that the nose was not so large as -it appeared to her: that it was a Roman nose, and that she -might learn from history that all heroes had large noses. -The Queen, who passionately loved her son, was charmed at -this discourse, and from constantly looking at Désir his nose -did not appear so large to her as at first. The Prince was -brought up with care, and as soon as he could speak they -told all sorts of shocking stories before him about people with -short noses. They allowed no one to come near him but -those whose noses in some degree resembled his own, and the -courtiers, to pay their court to the Queen and her son, pulled -the noses of their little children several times in the day to -make them longer; but it was no use pulling, for they appeared -snub-nosed by the side of Prince Désir. As soon as he -could understand it they taught him history, and when they -spoke of any great prince or beautiful princess they always -said they had long noses. All his apartments were full of -portraits of persons with large noses, and Désir became so -accustomed to regard the length of the nose as a beauty, -that he would not for a crown have had his in the least -diminished.</p> - -<p>When he was twenty years of age, and they thought of -marrying him, they presented him with the portraits of several -princesses. He was enchanted with that of Mignone. She -was the daughter of a great King, and heiress to several -kingdoms; but Désir thought nothing of that, so much was -he engrossed by her beauty. This Princess, whom he found -so charming, had, however, a little turned-up nose, which had - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_479">[Pg 479]</a></span> -the prettiest effect in the world on her face, but which threw -the courtiers into the utmost embarrassment. They had -acquired the habit of ridiculing little noses, and they could -not restrain a smile at that of the Princess, but Désir would -allow no raillery on this subject, and he banished from his -court two courtiers who had dared to disparage the nose of -Mignone. The others, profiting by this example, corrected -themselves, and there was one who said to the Prince, that -in truth a man could not be handsome without a large nose, -but that female beauty was altogether different, and that a -scholar who spoke Greek had told him that he had read, in an -old Greek manuscript, that the beautiful Cleopatra had the -tip of her nose turned up.</p> - -<p>The Prince made a magnificent present to the person who -told him this good news, and he sent ambassadors to demand -Mignone's hand in marriage. They granted his request, and -he went more than three leagues to meet her, so anxious was -he to behold her; but when he advanced to kiss her hand, the -Enchanter descended, carried off the Princess before his face, -and left him inconsolable. Désir resolved not to return to -his kingdom till he had recovered Mignone. He would not -allow any of his courtiers to follow him, and being mounted -on his good horse he put the bridle on his neck and let him -take his own road.</p> - -<p>The horse entered a large plain, over which he travelled all -day without seeing a single house. The master and the horse -were both dying of hunger, when at length in the evening -the Prince saw a cavern, in which was a light. He entered, -and perceived a little woman, who appeared to be more than -an hundred years old. She put on her spectacles to look at -the Prince, but she was a long time adjusting them, because -her nose was too short. The Prince and the Fairy (for she -was one) each burst out laughing at seeing the other, and -cried out both at once, "Ah, what a droll nose!" "Not so -droll as yours," said Désir to the Fairy; "but, Madam, let -us leave our noses as they are, and be so good as to give me -something to eat, for I am dying of hunger, and so is my -poor horse." "With all my heart," said the Fairy; "although -your nose is so ridiculous, you are no less the son of my best -friend. I loved the King your father like my own brother; -he had a very handsome nose, that Prince!" "And what is - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_480">[Pg 480]</a></span> -wanting in mine?" said Désir. "Oh, there is nothing wanting," -replied the Fairy; "on the contrary, there is but too -much of it; but never mind, one may be a very good man, -even with too long a nose. I have told you that I was the -friend of your father; he came to see me very often in those -days; and <i>à propos</i> of those days, let me tell you I was then -very pretty, and he used to say so. I must tell you a conversation -we had together the last time that he saw me."</p> - -<p>"Oh, Madam," said Désir, "I shall listen to you with much -pleasure when I have supped; think, I pray you, that I have -not eaten all day." "Poor boy," said the Fairy, "he is right: -I forgot all about that; I will give you your supper directly, -and whilst you eat I will tell you my history in few words, -for I am not fond of long stories. Too long a tongue is still -more insupportable than a long nose, and I remember, when -I was young, that I was admired because I was not a great -talker; they told the Queen my mother this, for notwithstanding -what you now see me, I am the daughter of a great -King. My father——" "Your father ate when he was -hungry," said the Prince, interrupting her. "Yes, without -doubt," replied the Fairy, "and you shall sup also, presently. -I wanted only to tell you that my father——" "And I will -listen to nothing till I have eaten," said the Prince, who -began to be in a passion. He calmed down, however, for he -had need of the Fairy, and he said to her, "I know that the -pleasure I should have in listening to you would make me -forget my hunger, but my horse, who will not hear you, has -need of food."</p> - -<p>The Fairy bridled up at this compliment. "You shall not -wait any longer," said she, calling her domestics; "you are -very polite, and notwithstanding the enormous size of your -nose, you are very good looking." "Plague take the old -woman with my nose," said the Prince to himself; "one would -imagine that my mother had stolen from her the quantity of -which her own nose is deficient. If I did not so much want -something to eat, I would leave this chatterbox, who thinks she -talks so little. One must be a great fool not to know his own -defects: this comes of being born a Princess; flatterers have -spoiled her, and have persuaded her that she is a little talker." -Whilst the Prince was thus thinking, the servants laid the -table, and he could not but wonder at the Fairy, who put a - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_481">[Pg 481]</a></span> -thousand questions to them merely for the pleasure of talking; -he admired, above all, a waiting-woman, who, whatever the -Fairy said, praised her mistress for her discretion. "Well," -thought he, whilst eating, "I am charmed at having come -here. This example makes me see how wisely I have acted in -not listening to flatterers. Such people praise us shamelessly, -hide our defects from us, and change them into perfections: -as for me, I shall never be their dupe—I know my -faults, thank God." The poor Désir believed this thoroughly, -and did not feel that those who had praised his nose mocked -him as much as the Fairy's waiting-woman mocked her (for -the Prince saw that she turned aside from time to time to -laugh). As for him, he said not a word, but ate with all his -might.</p> - -<p>"Prince," said the Fairy, when he began to be satisfied, -"turn yourself a little, I beg; your nose throws a shadow -which prevents my seeing what is on my plate. Now, come, -let us speak of your father: I went to his Court at the time -that he was a little boy, but it is forty years since I retired -to this solitude. Tell me a little about the way they live at -Court at present: the ladies, do they still love running from -place to place? In my time, one saw them the same day at -the assembly, at the theatres, at the promenades, at the ball—How -long your nose is! I cannot get accustomed to the sight -of it!" "Indeed," replied Désir, "I wish you would cease to -speak of my nose—it is as it is—what does it matter to you? -I am content with it, and I would not have it any shorter; -every one has his nose as it pleases Providence." "Oh! I see -plainly that you are angry, my poor Désir," said the Fairy; -"it was not, however, my intention to annoy you, quite the -contrary, I am one of your friends, and I wish to render you -a service; but, in spite of that, I cannot help being shocked -at your nose; I will, however, try not to speak of it, I will -force myself even to think you are snub-nosed, although, to -tell you the truth, there is enough material in that nose to -make three reasonable noses."</p> - -<p>Désir, who had supped, became so impatient at the endless -talk which the Fairy kept up on the subject of his nose, that -he threw himself on his horse and rode off. He continued his -journey, and wherever he passed he thought everybody was mad, -because every one exclaimed at his nose; but notwithstanding - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_482">[Pg 482]</a></span> -this, he had been so accustomed to hear it said that his nose was -handsome, that he could never admit to himself that it was -too long. The old Fairy, who wished to render him a service -in spite of himself, took it into her head to shut up Mignone -in a crystal palace, and placed this palace in the road of the -Prince. Désir, transported with joy, strove to break it, but -he could not succeed; in despair, he wished to approach so as at -least to speak to the Princess, who, on her part also stretched -out her hand close to the glass. He wished to kiss this hand, -but whichever way he turned he could not get his mouth near -it, because his nose prevented him. He perceived, for the first -time, its extraordinary length, and putting his hand to it to -bend it on one side, "It must be confessed," said he, "that -my nose is too long." At that moment the crystal palace -fell to pieces, and the old woman, who held Mignone by the -hand, said to the Prince, "Confess that you are under a great -obligation to me; I might have spoken in vain to you of -your nose, you would never have believed in the defect had -it not become an obstacle to the attainment of your wishes."</p> - -<p class="pmb3">It is thus that self-love hides from us the deformities of our -soul and body. Reason in vain seeks to exhibit them to us, -we do not admit them till the moment when this same self-love -finds them contrary to its interest. Désir, whose nose -had now become an ordinary one, profited by this lesson; he -married Mignone, and lived happily with her for a great -number of years.</p> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_483">[Pg 483]</a></span></p> - - -<h3 class="no-break" id="PRINCE_CHERI">PRINCE CHÉRI.</h3> - - -<p>There was once upon a time so excellent a monarch that his -subjects called him King Good. One day, when he was -hunting, a little white rabbit which the dogs were about to -kill, jumped into his arms. The King caressed the little -rabbit, and said, "As it has put itself under my protection, -I will not allow any harm to be done to it." He carried the -little rabbit into his palace and gave it a pretty little house -and nice herbs to eat. At night, when he was alone in his -chamber, a beautiful lady appeared before him; she was arrayed -neither in gold nor in silver, but her robe was white as snow, -and her head-dress consisted simply of a crown of white roses. -The good King was much surprised to see this lady, as his -door was locked, and he knew not how she had entered. She -said to him, "I am the Fairy Candid; I passed through the -wood as you were hunting, and I wished to ascertain if you -were as good as everybody said you were. For that purpose -I took the form of a little rabbit, and I saved myself by -jumping into your arms; for I know that those who have pity -for animals have more still for men; and if you had refused -me your assistance I should have thought you wicked. I -come to thank you for the kindness you have shown me, and -to assure you I shall always be your friend. You have only -to ask me for anything you wish, I promise to grant it."</p> - -<p>"Madam," said the good King, "as you are a Fairy, you -ought to know all I wish for. I have but one son, whom I -love exceedingly, and on that account they have named him -Prince Chéri; if you have any affection for me, become the -friend of my son." "With all my heart," said the Fairy; "I - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_484">[Pg 484]</a></span> -can make your son the handsomest Prince in the world, or -the richest, or the most powerful; choose which you wish him -to be." "I desire none of those things for my son," said -the good King; "but I shall be much obliged if you will -make him the best of all Princes. What will it profit him to -be handsome, rich, to have all the kingdoms of the world, if -he should be wicked? You know well he would be miserable, -and that nothing but virtue can make him happy." "You -are quite right," said Candid; "but it is not in my power to -make the Prince Chéri a good man in spite of himself; he -must himself endeavour to become virtuous. All I can -promise you is to give him good advice, to point out to him -his faults, and to punish him if he will not correct them and -punish himself."</p> - -<p>The good King was quite content with this promise, and -died a short time afterwards. Prince Chéri wept much for -his father, for he loved him with all his heart, and he would -have given all his kingdoms, his gold, and his silver, to have -saved him, if such things had power to change the will of -fate. Two years after the death of the good King, Chéri -being in bed, Candid appeared to him. "I promised your -father," said she to him, "to be your friend; and, to keep my -word, I come to make you a present." At the same time -she placed on the finger of Chéri a little gold ring, and said -to him, "Keep this ring carefully—it is more precious than -diamonds. Every time you commit a bad action it will -prick your finger; but if in spite of this pricking you persist -in the evil deed, you will lose my friendship, and I shall -become your enemy."</p> - -<p>Candid disappeared as she uttered these words, and left -Chéri much astonished. For some time his conduct was so -faultless that the ring did not prick him at all, and this gave -him so much gratification, that his subjects added to his name -Chéri, or Beloved, that of Heureux, or Happy. One day he -went out hunting, and caught nothing, which put him in -a bad humour. It appeared to him, then, that the ring -pressed his finger a little; but as it did not prick him he paid -no great attention to it. On entering his apartment, however, -his little dog Bibi came jumping about him affectionately, -when he said, "Get thee gone, I am not in a humour to -receive thy caresses!" The poor little dog, who did not - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_485">[Pg 485]</a></span> -understand him, pulled at his coat, to oblige him at least to -look at him. This irritated Chéri, and he gave him a violent -kick. In a moment the ring pricked him, as if it had been -a pin; he was much astonished, and seated himself, quite -ashamed, in a corner of the room. "I think the Fairy mocks -me," said he to himself. "What great evil have I done in -kicking an animal which worried me? Of what use is it to be -master of a great empire if I may not chastise my own dog?" -"I do not mock you," said a voice which replied to the -thoughts of Chéri. "You have committed three faults instead -of one. You have been in an ill-humour because you did not -like to be disappointed, and because you believe both beasts -and men were only made to obey you. You put yourself in -a passion, which is very wrong, and, lastly, you have been -cruel to a poor animal that did not deserve to be ill-treated. -I know you are much superior to a dog; but if it were a reasonable -thing, and permissible for the great to ill-treat those -who are beneath them, I would at this moment beat you—kill -you, for a Fairy is stronger than a man. The advantage -of being master of a great empire is not to be able to do all -the harm that you may wish, but all the good that you can." -Chéri confessed his fault, and promised to correct it; but he -did not keep his word. He had been reared by a foolish -nurse, who had spoilt him when he was little. If he wanted -anything he had only to cry, pout, and stamp his foot, -and this woman gave him all he wished for; and this had -made him wilful. She had told him also, from morning to -night, that he would be King some day, and that kings were -very happy, because everybody must obey them, and treat -them with great respect, and that no one could prevent their -doing whatever they pleased.</p> - -<p>When Chéri grew up, and was capable of reasoning, he soon -learnt that there was nothing so odious as to be proud, vain, -and obstinate. He made some efforts to correct himself, but -he had unfortunately contracted all three defects; and a bad -habit is very difficult to eradicate. It was not that he had -naturally a bad heart: he wept with annoyance when he had -committed a fault, and said, "How unfortunate am I in having -to fight thus all my days against my pride and my temper! -If they had corrected me when I was young, I should not -now have had so much trouble."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_486">[Pg 486]</a></span></p> - -<p>His ring pricked him very often. Sometimes he stopped -immediately, at others he persisted in his ill-behaviour; and -what was very singular was, that it pricked him very slightly -for a light offence, but when he did anything really wicked, -it would make the blood spurt from his finger. At length -he grew impatient at this, and wishing to sin at his ease, he -threw away his ring. He thought himself the happiest of -men when he was released from its pricking. He abandoned -himself to all the follies which entered his head, till at length -he became quite wicked, and nobody could bear him.</p> - -<p>One day that Chéri was out walking he saw a young -maiden so beautiful, that he determined to marry her. She -was called Zélie, and she was as good as she was pretty. -Chéri imagined that Zélie would be most happy to become a -great Queen; but the girl told him, with much firmness, -"Sire, I am only a shepherdess; I have no fortune; but in -spite of that, I will not marry you." "Am I displeasing to -you?" asked Chéri, a little offended. "No, Prince," replied -Zélie; "I think you are very handsome; but what would be -the advantage to me of your beauty, your riches, the fine -clothes and magnificent carriages which you would give me, -if the bad actions I should daily see you commit forced me -to despise and hate you?"</p> - -<p>Chéri became enraged with Zélie, and ordered his officers -to carry her by force to his palace. He brooded all day long -over the contempt with which this girl had treated him; but -as he loved her, he could not make up his mind to harm her. -Amongst the favourites of Chéri was his foster-brother, whom -he had made his confidant. This man, whose inclinations -were as low as his birth, flattered the passions of his master, -and gave him very bad advice. When he saw Chéri so -sad, he asked the cause of his grief. The Prince having -replied that he could not bear the contempt of Zélie, and that -he had determined to correct himself of his faults, because he -must be virtuous to please her, this wicked man said, "You -are very good to give yourself so much trouble for a little -girl. If I were in your place, I would force her to obey me. -Remember that you are King, and that it would be a shame -for you to submit to the will of a shepherdess, who should be -only too happy to be amongst your slaves. Make her fast on -bread and water; put her in prison; and if she continue to - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_487">[Pg 487]</a></span> -refuse to marry you, let her die by torture, in order to teach -others to yield to your wishes. You will be disgraced if it -be known that a simple girl resists your pleasure, and all -your subjects will forget that they are placed in this world -only to serve you." "But," said Chéri, "shall I not be disgraced -if I put to death an innocent girl? For in fact Zélie -is guilty of no crime." "No one is innocent who refuses to -obey your commands," replied the confidant. "But suppose -you do commit an injustice, it is better to be accused of that -than to let it be known that it is permitted to be wanting in -respect for you or to contradict you."</p> - -<p>The courtier knew Chéri's weak point; and the fear of -seeing his authority diminished made such an impression on -the King, that he stifled the good impulse which had given -him the wish to correct himself. He resolved to go the -same evening into the chamber of the shepherdess, and to ill-treat -her if she still refused to marry him.</p> - -<p>The foster-brother of Chéri, who feared some good change -in him, assembled three young lords as wicked as himself to -carouse with the King. They supped together; and the -courtiers took care to cloud the reason of the poor Prince, by -making him drink deep. During the repast they excited his -anger against Zélie, and made him so ashamed of the tenderness -he had shown for her, that he rose like a madman, -swearing that he would make her obey him, or sell her the -next day as a slave.</p> - -<p>Chéri having entered the chamber in which the girl had -been shut up, was surprised not to find her there, for he had -the key in his pocket. He was in a frightful rage, and -swore to be avenged on those whom he should suspect of -having aided her to escape. His confidants hearing him speak -thus, resolved to profit by his anger to rid themselves of a -nobleman who had been Chéri's governor. This worthy man -had occasionally taken the liberty of pointing out to the -King his faults, for he loved him as though he had been his -own son. At first Chéri had thanked him, but at length he -grew impatient at being contradicted, and then began to think -it was only from a spirit of opposition that his governor -found fault with him, whilst every one else praised him. He -ordered him, therefore, to retire from Court; but, notwithstanding -this order, he admitted now and then that he was - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_488">[Pg 488]</a></span> -an honest man; that he no longer loved him, but that he -esteemed him in spite of himself. The favourites were always -in dread of the King recalling the governor, and they now -imagined they had found a favourable opportunity of getting -rid of him altogether. They represented to the King that -Suliman (such was the name of the worthy man) had boasted -that he would set Zélie at liberty. They bribed three men, -who deposed that they had overheard Suliman speak to -this effect; and the Prince, transported with anger, commanded -his foster-brother to send a guard to bring the -governor to him fettered like a criminal.</p> - -<p>After having given these orders, Chéri retired to his room; -but hardly had he entered it, when the ground trembled, he -heard a tremendous clap of thunder, and Candid appeared -before him. "I promised your father," said she to him, in a -severe tone, "to give you advice, and to punish you if you -refused to follow it. You have scorned that advice; you -have retained but the form of a man; your crimes have -changed you into a monster, the horror of heaven and earth. -It is time I should fulfil my promise by punishing you. I -condemn you to become like the beasts whose inclinations -you already copy. You have resembled the lion in your rage, -the wolf in your gluttony, the serpent by wounding him who -has been your second father, and the bull by your brutality. -You shall bear in your new form the trace of all these -animals."</p> - -<p>Hardly had she finished these words before Chéri saw with -horror he was the monster she described. He had the head -of a lion, the horns of a bull, the feet of a wolf, and the tail -of a viper. At the same time he found himself in a great -forest, on the brink of a fountain wherein he saw his horrible -form reflected, and heard a voice, which said, "Consider -attentively the state to which thy crimes have reduced thee. -Thy mind is become a thousand times more frightful than -thy body." Chéri recognised the voice of Candid, and in his -fury he turned to throw himself on her, and, if it had been -possible, to devour her; but he saw no one, and the same -voice said to him, "I mock thy impotent fury, and will -humble thy pride by placing thee under the power of thine -own subjects."</p> - -<p>Chéri thought that by flying from this fountain he should - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_489">[Pg 489]</a></span> -escape from much of his vexation, as he should no longer -have his ugliness and deformity before his eyes: he rushed -therefore into the wood; but hardly had he gone a few steps, -when he fell into a hole which had been made to catch a bear, -and immediately the hunters, who had climbed the trees -to watch for their prey, descended, and having secured him -with chains, led him towards the capital city of his kingdom.</p> - -<p>On the way, instead of perceiving that he had drawn on -himself this chastisement by his own fault, he cursed the -Fairy, gnawed his chains, and gave himself up to his rage. -As he approached the city to which they were conducting -him, he observed great rejoicing going on; and the hunters -having asked what had happened, were told that Prince -Chéri, who had had no pleasure but in tormenting his people, -had been destroyed in his chamber by a thunderbolt, for so -they imagined. "The gods," said they, "could no longer -support the excess of his wickedness, and have thus ridden the -world of him. Four lords, accomplices of his crimes, thought -to profit by the event, and to divide his kingdom amongst -them; but the people who knew that it was their evil counsel -which had corrupted the King, tore them to pieces, and have -offered the crown to Suliman, whom the wicked Chéri had -wished to put to death. This worthy Lord has just been -crowned, and we celebrate this day as that of the deliverance -of the kingdom; for Suliman is virtuous, and will restore to -us peace and prosperity."</p> - -<p>Chéri groaned with rage at hearing this discourse; but -it was far worse when he arrived in the Great Square before -the Palace. He saw Suliman on a superb throne, and heard -the people wish him a long life, to repair all the evils which -his predecessor had committed. Suliman made a sign with -his hand to request silence, and said to the crowd: "I have -accepted the crown which you offered me, but only to preserve -it for Prince Chéri; he is not dead, as you believe. A Fairy -has revealed this to me, and perhaps some day you will see -him again as virtuous as he was in his youth. Alas!" continued -he, shedding tears, "flatterers ruined him. I knew -his heart, it was formed for virtue; and but for the poisonous -discourse of those who surrounded him, he would have been -a father to you. Detest his vices, but pity him, and let us -all pray the gods to restore him to us. As for me, I should - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_490">[Pg 490]</a></span> -esteem myself too happy to bathe this throne with my blood, -if I could see him ascend it again with those good dispositions -which would make him fill it worthily."</p> - -<p>The words of Suliman went to the heart of Chéri. He -found then how sincere had been the attachment and fidelity -of this excellent man, and for the first time reproached himself -for his wickedness. Hardly had he listened to this good -impulse than he felt the rage which had animated him -subdued, he reflected on the crimes he had committed, -and confessed he had not been punished as severely as he -had deserved. He ceased to struggle in his iron cage, and -became mild as a lamb. They placed him in a large menagerie, -where they kept all sorts of monsters and wild beasts, -and chained him up with the rest.</p> - -<p>Chéri then came to the resolution of beginning to amend -of his faults, by showing obedience to the man who kept him. -This man was very brutal when he was in an ill-temper. -Although the Monster was very docile, he beat him without -rhyme or reason. One day that this man was asleep, a tiger -that had broken his chain threw himself upon him to devour -him; at first Chéri felt an emotion of joy at seeing himself -about to be delivered from his persecutor, but immediately -after he condemned this feeling and wished himself at liberty. -"I would," said he, "render good for evil by saving the life -of this unhappy man." Hardly had he formed the wish, -than he saw his iron cage open, he threw himself before the -man, who was now awake and defending himself from the -tiger. The Keeper thought himself lost when he saw the -Monster; but his fear was soon turned into joy—the benevolent -Monster sprang upon the tiger, strangled him, and then -laid himself down at the feet of him whom he had saved. The -man, penetrated by gratitude, was about to stoop to caress -the Monster which had rendered him so great a service, when -he heard a voice which said, "A good action never goes without -its reward," and at the same moment he saw only a -pretty dog at his feet. Chéri, charmed at this metamorphosis, -bestowed a thousand caresses on his Keeper, who took -him in his arms and carried him to the King, to whom he -related this marvellous story. The Queen desired to have -the dog; and Chéri would have been very happy in his new -condition had he been able to forget that he was once a man - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_491">[Pg 491]</a></span> -and a monarch. The Queen loaded him with caresses; but -fearing that he would grow larger, she consulted her physicians, -who told her that she must give him no food but -bread, and only a moderate quantity of that. Poor Chéri -was dying of hunger half the day, but he was obliged to -have patience.</p> - -<p>One morning that they brought him his little roll for his -breakfast, he had a fancy to go and eat it in the garden of -the Palace. He took it in his mouth, and walked towards a -canal which he knew was a short distance off; but he could -nowhere find it, and in its place he saw a large mansion, the -exterior of which blazed with gold and precious stones. He -observed in it an immense number of persons of both sexes -magnificently dressed: they sang and danced, and fared -sumptuously within the building; but all those who came -out of it were pale, thin, covered with wounds, and nearly -naked, for their clothes were torn into shreds. Some -fell dead as they issued from it without having strength to -drag themselves a step further; others proceeded with great -difficulty; whilst some remained lying on the ground dying -of hunger and begging a morsel of bread from those who -entered the house, but who did not vouchsafe a look at -them. Chéri approached a young girl who was trying to tear -up some grass to eat; touched with compassion, the Prince -said to himself, "I have a good appetite, but I shall not die -of hunger if I wait till dinner-time and sacrifice my breakfast -to this poor creature; perhaps I shall save her life." He -resolved to act on this good impulse, and placed his bread in -the hand of the girl, who put it to her mouth with avidity. -She soon appeared quite restored by it; and Chéri, transported -with joy at having so opportunely come to her relief, -was about to return to the Palace when he heard loud -cries. It was Zélie in the hands of four men, who dragged -her towards the mansion, which they forced her to enter. -Chéri then regretted his form of a monster, which would -have afforded him the means of rescuing Zélie; but a poor -little dog as he was, he could only bark at the ravishers and -strive to follow them. They drove him away by kicks; but -he resolved not to quit the spot, and find out what had -become of Zélie. He reproached himself for the misfortunes -of this beautiful girl. "Alas!" said he to himself, "I am - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_492">[Pg 492]</a></span> -indignant with those who have carried her off. Have I not -committed the same crime myself? and if the justice of the -gods had not frustrated my attempt, should I not have -treated her with the same barbarity?"</p> - -<p>The reflections of Chéri were interrupted by a noise which -he heard above his head. He saw a window open; and his -joy was extreme when he perceived Zélie, who threw from -this window a plateful of meat so well dressed that it made -him hungry to see it. The window was shut again immediately; -and Chéri, who had not eaten all day, was about to -devour the meat, when the young girl to whom he had given -the bread uttered a cry, and having taken him in her arms, -"Poor little animal," said she, "do not touch that food; this -house is the Palace of Voluptuousness; all who come out of it -are poisoned." At the same moment Chéri heard a voice -which said, "Thou seest a good action never remains unrecompensed;" -and immediately he was changed into a beautiful -little white pigeon. He remembered that this colour was the -favourite one of Candid, and began to hope that she might at -length restore him to her good graces. He was desirous of -rejoining Zélie; and rising in the air, flew all round the palace, -and found with joy one window open; but in vain did he -traverse all the building—he could not find Zélie. In despair -at her loss, he resolved not to rest till he should meet with -her. He flew for several days, and having entered a desert, -observed a cavern, which he approached. How great was his -delight! Zélie was seated there by the side of a venerable -hermit, and sharing with him a frugal repast. Chéri, transported -with joy, flew on to the shoulder of the lovely -shepherdess, and expressed by his caresses the pleasure he -felt at seeing her. Zélie, charmed with the gentleness of the -little creature, stroked it gently with her hand, and although -she thought it could not understand her, she told it that she -accepted the gift it made her of itself, and that she would -always love it. "What have you done, Zélie?" said the -hermit. "You have plighted your faith." "Yes, charming -shepherdess," said Chéri to her, who resumed at this moment -his natural form, "the termination of my metamorphosis was -dependent on your consent to our union. You have promised -always to love me, confirm my happiness, or I shall hasten -and implore the Fairy Candid, my protectress, to restore me - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_493">[Pg 493]</a></span> -to the form under which I have had the happiness of pleasing -you." "You need not fear her inconstancy," said Candid, -who, quitting the form of the hermit under which she had -been concealed, appeared before them in her proper person. -"Zélie loved you from the first moment she saw you; but -your vices compelled her to conceal the passion with which -you had inspired her. The change in your heart leaves her -at liberty to show her affection for you. You will live happily, -because your union will be founded on virtue."</p> - -<p class="pmb3">Chéri and Zélie threw themselves at the feet of Candid. -The Prince was never tired of thanking her for her goodness, -and Zélie, enchanted to find that the Prince detested his -former evil ways, confirmed to him the Fairy's avowal of her -affection. "Rise, my children," said the Fairy to them, "I will -transport you to your Palace, and restore to Chéri a crown of -which his vices had rendered him unworthy." Hardly had -she finished speaking when they found themselves in the -chamber of Suliman, who, charmed to see his dear master once -more become virtuous, abdicated the throne, and remained -the most faithful of his subjects. Chéri reigned for a long -period with Zélie; and it is said that he applied himself so -well to his duties, that the ring, which he again wore, never -once pricked his finger severely enough to draw a single -drop of blood.</p> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_494">[Pg 494]</a></span></p> - - -<h3 class="no-break" id="THE">THE<br /> -WIDOW AND HER TWO DAUGHTERS.</h3> - - -<p>Once upon a time there was a Widow, a very worthy woman, -who had two daughters, both of whom were very amiable; -the eldest was named Blanche, the second Vermeille. They -had been given these names because the first had the fairest -complexion in the world, and the second cheeks and lips as red -as vermilion or the finest coral. One day the good Widow, -sitting at her door spinning, saw a poor old woman, who could -with difficulty walk, even with the aid of a stick. "You seem -very tired," said the good Widow to the old creature; "sit down -a moment and rest," and immediately desired her daughter to -place a chair for her. They both rose directly, but Vermeille -ran quicker than her sister and brought the chair. "Will you -take something to drink?" said the good woman to the old -one. "With all my heart," replied she; "I could even eat -something, if you could give me a morsel to refresh me." -"I will give you all in my power," said the good Widow: -"but I am poor, and it will not be much." At the same -time she told her daughters to attend on the old woman, who -placed herself at the table; and the good Widow told her -eldest daughter to go and gather some plums from a tree -which the young girl had planted herself, and of which she -was very fond.</p> - -<p class="pmb1">Blanche, instead of obeying her mother cheerfully, murmured -against this order, and said to herself, "It was not for -this old greedy creature that I have taken so much care of -my plum-tree." She dared not refuse, however, to gather -some of the plums; but she did so with an ill grace, and unwillingly.</p> - -<div class="figcenter"> - <img src="images/i011.jpg" alt="" /> - <p class="center font08">The Widow and her Two Daughters.—P. 495.</p> -</div> -<p class="pmb2" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_495">[Pg 495]</a></span></p> - -<p>"And you, Vermeille," said the good woman to -her second daughter, "you have no fruit to give this good -lady, for your grapes are not yet ripe." "True," said Vermeille, -"but I hear my hen cluck; she has just laid an egg, -and if madame will like to eat it warm I will give it her -with all my heart." At the same time, without awaiting the -reply of the old woman, she ran to fetch her egg; but at the -same moment that she presented it to the stranger she disappeared, -and they saw in her place a beautiful lady, who -said to the mother, "I am about to reward your two daughters -according to their deserts. The eldest shall become a -great Queen, the second a farmer's wife." At the same time -striking the cottage with her stick, it disappeared, and they -saw in its place a pretty farm. "There is your lot," said she -to Vermeille. "I know that I have given to each that which -she will like best."</p> - -<p>The Fairy departed as she uttered these words, and the -mother, as well as her two daughters, remained struck with -astonishment. They entered the farmhouse, and were -charmed with the style of the furniture. The chairs were -only of wood, but they were so polished that they could see -themselves reflected in them as in a mirror. The bed-linen -was white as snow. In the farmyard there were twenty -rams and as many sheep, four oxen, four cows, and in the -poultry-yard all kinds of fowls, hens, ducks, pigeons, &c. -There was also a pretty garden, filled with fruits and flowers. -Blanche saw without envy the present which had been made to -her sister, and revelled in the delightful anticipations of being -a Queen. Suddenly she heard hunters passing, and going to -the door to see them, she appeared so beautiful in the eyes of -the King, who was returning from the chase, that he resolved -immediately to marry her.</p> - -<p>Blanche having become Queen, said to her sister Vermeille, -"I will not have you remain a farmer; come with me, sister, -and I will give you in marriage to a great lord." "I am -much obliged, sister," replied Vermeille, "but I am accustomed -to the country, and wish to remain there." For the -first few months Queen Blanche was so much occupied with -balls, fine clothes, and plays, that she thought of nothing else. -But she soon became accustomed to such things, and they -amused her no longer; on the contrary, she became very - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_496">[Pg 496]</a></span> -miserable. All the ladies of the Court paid her great respect -in her presence, but she knew that they did not like her, and -that they said amongst themselves, "Look at this little -peasant, how she assumes the fine lady: the King had a very -low taste to choose such a wife." This kind of conversation -made the King reflect. He began to think he had done -wrong in marrying Blanche, and as his love for her declined -he neglected her, and passed his time with the handsomest -ladies of his Court.</p> - -<p>When it was perceived that the King no longer loved his -wife, the courtiers ceased to pay her any respect. She was -very unhappy, for she had not a single real friend to whom -she could relate her griefs. She saw that it was the fashion -at Court to betray friends for interested motives, to appear to -love those whom they hated, and to tell falsehoods every -moment. She was obliged to look serious, because they said -a Queen ought to have a grave and majestic air. She had -several children, and during all this time she had a doctor -continually attending her, who examined everything she ate, -and took from her everything she liked. They put no salt in -her soup; they forbade her to walk when she was inclined to -do so; in a word, she was contradicted from morning till -night. They gave governesses to her children, who brought -them up very improperly, without her having the liberty to find -fault. Poor Blanche was near dying of grief, and she became -so thin that she excited the commiseration of everybody. -She had not seen her sister during the three years that she -had been Queen, because she thought that a person of her -rank would be degraded by visiting a farmer; but being overcome -with melancholy, she resolved at length to go and pass -some days in the country to amuse herself a little. She asked -permission of the King, who willingly granted it, because he -thought it would be a good riddance.</p> - -<p>On her road she came to the farm of Vermeille, and at a -distance she saw before the door a troop of shepherds and -shepherdesses, dancing and amusing themselves with all their -hearts. "Alas!" said the Queen, sighing, "when shall I ever -divert myself like these poor people, with no one to find fault -with me?" As soon as she appeared her sister ran to her to -embrace her. She had such a contented air, she was grown -so stout, that the Queen could not help crying at seeing her. - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_497">[Pg 497]</a></span> -Vermeille had married a young peasant who had no fortune, -but he always remembered that he was indebted to his wife -for all that he possessed, and he sought, by his indulgent -manner, to mark his gratitude for her. Vermeille had not -many servants, but they were as fond of her as if they -had been her children, because she treated them as such. -All her neighbours also loved her, and all sought to give her -proof of it. She had not much money, but she had no need -of it, for she obtained from her land corn, wine, and oil in -sufficiency. Her flocks furnished her with milk, with which -she made butter and cheese. She spun the wool of her sheep -to make clothes for herself, as well as for her husband, and -for two children which she had. They were in wonderfully -good health; and in the evenings, when their work was done, -they amused themselves with all kinds of games. "Alas!" -cried the Queen, "the Fairy has made me an unlucky present -in bestowing on me a crown. Happiness is not to be found -in magnificent palaces, but in the innocent occupations of the -country."</p> - -<p class="pmb3">Hardly had she uttered these words when the Fairy -appeared. "I intended not to reward you but to punish you by -making you a Queen," said the Fairy, "because you begrudged -giving me your plums. In order to be happy, you must, -like your sister, only possess such things as are necessary, and -wish for no more." "Ah! Madam," cried Blanche, "you -are sufficiently revenged. Terminate my misery." "It is -ended," replied the Fairy; "the King, who loves you no -longer, has just repudiated you to marry another wife, and -to-morrow his officers will come to order you, in his name, -not to return to the palace." This occurred as the Fairy -had predicted. Blanche passed the rest of her days with her -sister Vermeille in peace and happiness, and never thought -of the court but to thank the Fairy for having brought her -back to the village.</p> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_498">[Pg 498]</a></span></p> - - -<h3 class="no-break" id="PRINCE_FATAL_AND_PRINCE">PRINCE FATAL AND PRINCE<br /> -FORTUNÉ.</h3> - - -<p>There was once upon a time a Queen who had two little -boys, who were perfectly beautiful. A Fairy, who was a -great friend of the Queen, had been requested to be godmother -to these Princes, and to endow each with some gift. "I -endow the eldest," said she, "with all sorts of misfortunes -until he attains the age of twenty-five, and I name him -Fatal." At these words the Queen uttered piercing cries, -and conjured the Fairy to change her gift. "You know not -what you ask," said she to the Queen. "If he be not unfortunate, -he will be wicked." The Queen dared say no more, -but she begged the Fairy to allow her to choose a gift for her -second son.</p> - -<p>"Perhaps you will make a bad choice," replied the Fairy; -"but never mind—I will agree to give him all that you shall -request of me for him." "I wish," said the Queen, "that he -may succeed always in everything he may desire to do—that -is the way to make him perfect." "You may be deceived," -said the Fairy; "therefore I grant him this gift only for five-and-twenty -years."</p> - -<p>They selected nurses for the two little Princes; but on the -third day the nurse of the eldest Prince caught a fever; they -gave him another, who fell and broke her leg; a third lost her -milk as soon as she was appointed. And the report being -spread that the Prince brought misfortune on all his nurses, -no one would suckle him or approach him. The poor child, -who was famished, cried, and no one pitied him. A fine stout -countrywoman, who had a great number of children whom -she had much trouble in supporting, said that she would take - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_499">[Pg 499]</a></span> -care of him if they would give her a large sum of money; and -as the King and Queen did not like Prince Fatal, they gave -the nurse what she asked, and told her to carry him to her -village.</p> - -<p>The second Prince, whom they had named Fortuné, got on -wonderfully. His papa and mamma loved him passionately, -and never thought of their eldest-born. The wicked woman -to whom they had given him was no sooner in her own house -than she took from him the beautiful clothes in which he was -enveloped, and gave them to her own son, who was the same -age as Fatal; and having wrapped the Prince in an old petticoat, -she carried him into a wood where there was an immense -number of wild beasts, and put him into a hole with three -little lions, in order that he might be devoured. But the -mother of these lions did him no harm; on the contrary, she -suckled him, which made him so strong, that he ran quite -alone at six months. Meanwhile the son of the nurse, -whom she made pass for the Prince, died, and the King -and Queen were charmed to think they had got rid of him.</p> - -<p>Fatal remained in the wood until he was two years old; -and a nobleman of the Court, who went to hunt there, was -astonished to find him in the midst of the beasts. He took -pity on him, carried him to his house, and having learnt that -they sought for a child to keep Fortuné company, he presented -Fatal to the Queen.</p> - -<p>They gave a master to Fortuné to teach him to read, but -they forbad the master to make him cry. The young Prince, -who had overheard this, cried every time that he took up his -book—so that at five years old he did not know his letters, -whilst Fatal read perfectly, and already knew how to write. -To frighten the Prince, they commanded the master to whip -Fatal every time that Fortuné failed in his duties. Thus -Fatal, however good he might be, did not escape being beaten; -whilst Fortuné was so wilful and so naughty, that he always -ill-treated his brother, whom, however, he did not know to -be such. If any one gave Fatal an apple or a toy, Fortuné -snatched it out of his hands; he made him be silent when he -wished to speak; obliged him to speak when he wished to be -silent; in a word, he was a little martyr, on whom no one had -any pity.</p> - -<p>They lived thus till they were ten years old, and the - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_500">[Pg 500]</a></span> -Queen was much surprised at the ignorance of her son. "The -Fairy has deceived me," said she; "I thought that my son -would be the wisest of Princes, because I wished he might -succeed in all that he should desire to undertake." She went -to consult the Fairy on the subject, who said to her, "Madam, -you should have wished your son to have a good disposition -rather than talent. He only desires to be wicked, and he -succeeds in being so, as you see." After having said these -words to the Queen, she turned her back on her. The poor -Princess, much afflicted, returned to the palace. She would -have scolded Fortuné to oblige him to do better; but instead -of promising to correct his faults, he said that if they vexed -him he would starve himself to death. Then the Queen, -quite frightened, took him on her knee, kissed him, gave him -sugar-plums, and told him that he should not study for a -week if he would but eat as usual.</p> - -<p>Meanwhile Prince Fatal became a prodigy of learning and -of gentleness; he was so accustomed to be contradicted, that -he had no will of his own, and devoted himself to forestall -the fancies of Fortuné. But that naughty child, who was -enraged at seeing him more clever than himself, could not -bear him, and the masters, in order to please the young -Prince, beat Fatal every minute. At length the wicked boy -told the Queen that he would not have Fatal any longer in -his sight, and that he would not eat till they had driven him -from the Palace. Thus poor Fatal was turned into the street, -and as they were afraid of displeasing the Prince, no one -would receive him.</p> - -<p>He passed the night under a tree dying with cold, for it -was winter, and having nothing for his supper but a morsel -of bread which some one had given him in charity. The -next morning he said to himself, "I will not remain here -doing nothing; I will work to gain my livelihood until I shall -be big enough to go to the wars. I remember having read -in history that common soldiers have become great captains; -perhaps I may have the same good fortune if I am an honest -man. I have neither father nor mother, but God is the -Father of orphans; He has given me a lioness for my foster-mother; -He will not forsake me." After having said this, -Fatal rose up and said his prayers—for he never failed to - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_501">[Pg 501]</a></span> -pray to God morning and evening—and when he prayed -he cast down his eyes, joined his hands, and did not look -about him. A countryman, who was passing, and saw that -Fatal was praying with all his heart, said to himself, "I -am sure that must be an honest boy; I should like to take -him to keep my sheep; God will bless me for his sake." -The countryman waited till Fatal had finished his prayer, -and then said, "My little friend, will you come and keep -my sheep?—I will feed and take care of you." "I will, -certainly," replied Fatal; "and I will do all in my power to -serve you well."</p> - -<p>This countryman was a large farmer, who had a great -number of servants who robbed him very often, and his wife -and children robbed him also. When they saw Fatal, they -were very well contented. "He is a child," said they; "he -will do all we wish." One day the wife said to him, "My -little friend, my husband is a miser who never gives me any -money; let me take a sheep, and you can say the wolf has -carried it off." "Madam," replied Fatal, "I would render -you a service with all my heart, but I would much rather die -than tell a story or be a thief." "You are a little fool," said -the woman; "no one will know what you have done." "God -will know it, Madam," replied Fatal; "He knows all that we -do, and He will punish liars and those who steal." When the -farmer's wife heard these words, she threw herself on him, -beat him, and tore out a handful of his hair. Fatal cried, and -the farmer hearing him, asked his wife why she beat the child? -"Because," said she, "he is a glutton; I saw him this morning -eat a pot of cream which I was going to take to market." -"Fie! how horrid it is to be greedy," said the farmer; and -immediately called a servant, and bade him whip Fatal.</p> - -<p>It was of no use the poor child saying he had not eaten -the cream; they believed the mistress rather than him. After -this, he went into the fields with his sheep, and the farmer's -wife said to him, "Well! will you now give me a sheep?" -"I should be very sorry to do so," said Fatal; "you can do -what you will with me, but you cannot oblige me to tell a lie." -To revenge herself, the wicked creature then set all the other -servants to treat Fatal ill. He remained in the fields night -and day; and instead of giving the same food to him as to the - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_502">[Pg 502]</a></span> -other servants, she sent him nothing but bread and water, and -when he returned she accused him of all the harm that was -done in the house.</p> - -<p>He passed a year with this farmer, and although he lay on -the bare ground and was so ill-fed, he became so strong that -he appeared to be fifteen when he was only thirteen; besides, -he was become so patient, that he did not mind even when -they scolded him unjustly. One day that he was at the -farm, he heard say that a neighbouring King was engaged in -a great war. He asked his master to discharge him, and went -on foot into the kingdom of this Prince to become a soldier. -He engaged himself to a Captain who was a great lord, but -behaved himself more like a common porter, he was so brutal; -he swore, he beat his soldiers, he robbed them of half the -money which the King gave for their food and clothing; and -under this wicked Captain, Fatal was even more unhappy than -with the farmer. He had engaged himself for ten years, and -although he saw the greater number of his comrades desert, -he would never follow their example, for he said, "I have -received the money to serve ten years; I should rob the King -if I failed in my word." Although the Captain was a wicked -man, and ill-treated Fatal like the others, he could not help -esteeming him because he saw that he always did his duty. -He gave him money to do his commissions, and Fatal had -the key of his chamber when he went to the country, where -he dined with his friends.</p> - -<p>This Captain was not fond of reading; but he had a large -library, to make believe to those who came to his house that -he was a clever man, for in that country they thought that -an officer who did not read history could never be anything -but a fool and an ignoramus. When Fatal had finished his -duties as a soldier, instead of going to drink and gamble with -his comrades, he shut himself up in the Captain's chamber -and tried to learn his profession by reading the lives of great -Generals, and by these means he became capable of commanding -an army.</p> - -<p>He had already been seven years a soldier when he went to -the war. His Captain took six soldiers with him, to make a -search in a little wood; and when in this little wood, the -soldiers said quite low, "We must kill this wicked man, who -beats us and steals our bread." Fatal told them they must - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_503">[Pg 503]</a></span> -not do such a wicked action; but, instead of listening to him, -they said they would kill him with the Captain, and all five -drew their swords. Fatal placed himself by the side of the -Captain, and fought with so much valour that he alone killed -four of the soldiers. His Captain, seeing that he owed his -life to him, begged his pardon for all the ill he had done -him; and having reported his conduct to the King, Fatal -was made a Captain, and the King granted him a large -pension.</p> - -<p>Oh, you may be sure the soldiers did not wish to kill -Fatal, for he loved them like his children; and far from -robbing them of what belonged to them, he gave them his -own money when they were wounded, and never took it away -again when in an ill humour. Meanwhile a great battle was -fought, and the General commanding the army having been -killed, all the officers and soldiers were retreating in disorder, -but Fatal cried aloud that he would rather die sword in hand -than fly like a coward. His own men answered that they -would not abandon him, and their good example having -shamed the others, they rallied round Fatal and fought so -well that they routed the enemy, and took the hostile King's -son prisoner. The other King was very pleased when he -heard that he had gained the battle, and said to Fatal that -he would make him General of all the army. He presented -him to the Queen and the Princess his daughter, who gave -him their hands to kiss.</p> - -<p>When Fatal saw the Princess, he remained motionless. -She was so beautiful, that he felt madly in love with her, and -then he was indeed miserable; for he felt that a man like -himself was not fit to marry a great Princess. He resolved, -therefore, carefully to conceal his love, and every day he -suffered the greatest torment; but it was much worse when -he found that Fortuné, having seen a picture of the Princess, -who was named Gracieuse, had fallen in love with her, -and that he had sent ambassadors to demand her hand in -marriage.</p> - -<p>Fatal thought he should die of grief; but the Princess -Gracieuse, who knew that Fortuné was a wicked, cowardly -Prince, begged the King, her father, so hard not to make her -marry him, that he replied to the ambassador that the -Princess did not wish to marry yet. Fortuné, who had never - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_504">[Pg 504]</a></span> -been contradicted, was in a fury when he heard the reply of -the Princess; and his father, who could refuse him nothing, -declared war with the father of Gracieuse, who did not distress -himself much about it, for he said, "So long as I have Fatal -at the head of my army, I do not fear being defeated."</p> - -<p>He sent for his General, and ordered him to prepare for -war; but Fatal, throwing himself at his feet, told him that -he was born in the kingdom of the father of Fortuné, and that -he could not fight against his native Sovereign. The father of -Gracieuse was in a great rage, and told Fatal that he would -put him to death if he refused to obey him; but that, on the -contrary, he would give him his daughter in marriage if he -gained the victory over Fortuné. Poor Fatal, who loved -Gracieuse passionately, was sorely tempted, but in the end -resolved to do his duty.</p> - -<p>Without saying anything to the King, he quitted the -Court, and abandoned all his wealth. Meanwhile, Fortuné -put himself at the head of his troops, and marched to give -the King battle; but at the end of four days he fell ill of -fatigue, for he was very delicate, never having taken any -exercise. The heat, the cold—everything made him ill. However, -the ambassador, who wished to make his court to -Fortuné, told him that he had seen at the Court of Gracieuse -the little boy who had been banished from the Palace, and -that they said the father of Gracieuse had promised him his -daughter. Fortuné at this news put himself in a great -passion, and as soon as he was better, set out again determined -to dethrone the father of Gracieuse, and promised a large -sum of money to any one who would bring Fatal to him dead -or alive.</p> - -<p>Fortuné won a great victory, although he did not fight -himself, for he was afraid of being killed. At length he -besieged the capital city of his enemy, and resolved to take -it by assault. The eve of this day they brought Fatal to -him, bound in chains, for a great number of people had been -tempted by the reward to seek for him. Fortuné, charmed -at being able to revenge himself, resolved, before commencing -the assault, to have Fatal beheaded in sight of the enemy. -That same day he gave a great feast to his officers to celebrate -his birthday, being just twenty-five years old. The soldiers -in the besieged city having learnt that Fatal was taken, and - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_505">[Pg 505]</a></span> -that in an hour he was to be beheaded, resolved to perish -or save him, for they remembered the benefits he had conferred -on them whilst he was their General. They asked -permission of the King to make a sortie, and this time they -were victorious.</p> - -<p>The gift of Fortuné had ceased, and he was killed in endeavouring -to escape. The victorious soldiers ran to take off the -chains of Fatal, and at the same moment they saw two brilliant -chariots appear in the air. The Fairy was in one of -these chariots, and the father and mother of Fatal were in -the other, but asleep. They only awoke as their chariot -touched the ground, and they were very much astonished to -find themselves in the midst of the army.</p> - -<p class="pmb3">The Fairy then addressing the Queen, and presenting Fatal -to her, said, "Madam, behold in this hero your eldest son; -the misfortunes which he has undergone have corrected the -defects of his character, which was violent and passionate. -Fortuné, on the contrary, who was born with good inclinations, -has been entirely spoilt by flattery, and God has not -permitted him to live longer, because he would have become -more wicked every day. He has just been killed; but to console -you for his death, learn that he was on the point of -dethroning his father, because he was tired of waiting to be -King." The King and Queen were very much astonished, -and embraced Fatal with all their heart, of whom they had -heard speak honourably. The Princess Gracieuse and her -father learnt with joy the adventures of Fatal, who married -Gracieuse, with whom he lived a long time in perfect happiness, -because it was founded in virtue.</p> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_506"></a></span></p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_507">[Pg 507]</a></span></p> - - -<h2 class="no-break" id="APPENDIX">APPENDIX.</h2> - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_508"></a></span></p> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_509">[Pg 509]</a></span></p> - - - -<p class="break" /> -<h3 class="no-break">CHARLES PERRAULT.</h3> - - -<p>Member of the Académie Française, and <i>premier commis des -batimens du Roi</i>, was born, as he himself tells us in the -<i>Mémoires</i> he left to his children, in Paris, on the 12th of -January, 1628; and at eight and a half years of age was sent -to the College of Beauvais, where he gave early proof of his -literary abilities. He died in 1703. Although the author of -many creditable compositions, both in prose and verse, he is -indebted for his celebrity to that collection of Fairy tales -which, under the title of <i>Histoires, ou Contes du Tems -passé</i>, were first published in 1697, and speedily obtained -a world-wide popularity as <i>Les Contes de ma Mère l'Oye</i>, -known in England as <i>Mother Goose's Fairy Tales</i>.</p> - -<p>They were published by Perrault, under the name of his -son, Perrault D'Armancour, at that time a child only ten -years old, whose name is appended to the dedication of the -first edition to "Mademoiselle," <i>i.e</i>., Elizabeth Charlotte -d'Orleans, sister of Philippe, Duke of Chartres, and, after the -death of Louis XIV., Regent of France. Mademoiselle was -born 13th September, 1676. The title, <i>Contes de ma Mère -l'Oye</i>, has given rise to much controversy, and a great deal -of paper, not to say learning, has been wasted in the attempt -to discover the original source of the stories, and the reason -of their being called those of "Ma Mère l'Oye." The former -question I shall reserve for discussion in my notices of the -tales themselves. The latter we will dispose of at once. -Monsieur Colin de Plancy, in his valuable edition of the -<i>Œuvres Choisis de Charles Perrault</i>, 8vo, Paris, 1826; and - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_510">[Pg 510]</a></span> -Baron Walkenaër in his <i>Lettres sur les Contes des Fées -attribués à Perrault, &c</i>., Paris, 12mo, same date, have -pretty well exhausted the subject. The three principal derivations -that have been insisted upon, are:—</p> - -<p>Firstly. That in an ancient <i>fabliau</i>, "a goose is represented -telling stories to her goslings, worthy of them and of -her."</p> - -<p>Secondly. That in the frontispiece to the first edition of -Perrault's <i>Fairy Tales</i>, an old woman is represented spinning, -and beside her are three children, one boy and two girls, -whom she is apparently amusing by her stories; and that -as underneath this are the words <i>Contes de ma Mère l'Oye</i>,<a id="FNanchor_47_47"></a><a href="#Footnote_47_47" class="fnanchor">[47]</a> -this old woman is no less a personage than Ma Mère l'Oye -<i>in propria persona</i>.</p> - -<p>Thirdly. That Ma Mère l'Oye is one and the same individual -with La Reine Pédauque, the goose or bird-footed -Queen, a soubriquet applied by some to a Bertha, Queen of -France; and by others to St. Clotilde and the Queen of Saba.</p> - -<p>The first is an assertion without proof. The second a mere -opinion, which is instantly met by another—namely, that the -old woman is repeating to her hearers the stories of Ma Mère -l'Oye. The third is a tangible proposition, and has been -dealt with accordingly.</p> - -<p>At St. Marie de Nesle, in the diocese of Troyes, at -St. Bénigne de Dijon, at St. Pierre de Nevers, St. Pourcain in -Auvergne, and in divers other churches in France, the statue -is to be seen of a queen with a web-foot, and therefore called -La Reine Pied-d'oie, or Pédauque.<a id="FNanchor_48_48"></a><a href="#Footnote_48_48" class="fnanchor">[48]</a> This statue is said by -Mabillon, but without giving any authority for his assertion, -to represent St. Clotilde.</p> - -<p>The Abbé Lebœuf believes that the origin of this name is -to be found at Toulouse. He quotes a passage in Rabelais, -who, speaking of certain large-footed persons, says, "they -were splay-footed, like geese, or Queen Pédauque in her portrait -formerly at Toulouse;" "and the Abbé concludes," says -Monsieur de Plancy, "curiously enough, that the Queen -Pédauque is the Queen of Saba;" supporting his opinion by -the following tale in the <i>Targum of Jerusalem</i>:—</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_511">[Pg 511]</a></span></p> - -<p>"The Queen of Saba was so fond of bathing, that she plunged -every day in the sea. When she went to visit Solomon, he -received her in an apartment of crystal. The Queen of -Saba on entering it, imagined that the Monarch was in the -water, and in order to pass through it to him, she lifted her -robe. The King then seeing her feet, which were hideous, said -to her: 'Your face unites all the charms of the most beautiful -women, but your legs and feet correspond but little to it.'"</p> - -<p>Even if we could suppose Solomon to have been so ungallant, -there does not appear much in this Hebrew story to -bear upon the subject; for what possible reason was there for -attributing these stories to the Queen of Saba? Bullet, <i>doyen</i> -of the University of Besançon, goes back to the eleventh -century, in France, for the source of this epithet. The -Good King Robert had married his relative, Bertha; Gregory -V. compelled him to divorce her, and imposed on him -a penance of seven years. The King, who loved Bertha, -refused obedience, and the Pope excommunicated him. He -was deserted by everybody except two servants. In the -meanwhile, Bertha was said to have been brought to bed of a -monster resembling an ill-formed duck, or, according to others, -a goose. Abbon, Abbot of Fleury, brought the supposed -offspring to the King, who, horrified at the sight of it, repudiated -Bertha, leaving her, however, the title of Queen. The -dreadful story was circulated that she had given birth to a -goose, and that she had herself become goose-footed, as a -punishment for her criminal marriage. Her name of Bertha -gave more authority to this story in the eyes of the people. -They remembered that Bertha or Bertrade, wife of Pepin-le-bref, -was surnamed "Bertha with the Great Foot," because -she had one foot larger than the other; and they called the -repudiated wife of Robert, "Bertha au pied d'Oie." It is -possible also, remarks Mons. de Plancy, that this fable was -invented to flatter Queen Constance, who succeeded her, for -it was the period of credulity and superstition. Constance -went to Toulouse. She was lodged in front of an aqueduct -so narrow that a man could not pass through it. To amuse -the Princess, they told her it was the bridge of Queen Goose, -or of the queen with the goose's foot. This story was afterwards -amplified, and it became a saying that Queen Pédauque -was of Toulouse.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_512">[Pg 512]</a></span></p> - -<p>In the <i>Contes d'Entrapel</i>, by Noël Dufail, published during -the latter half of the sixteenth century, a man is made to -swear by "the spindle of Queen Pédauque;" and therefore -Bullet assumes that she must have been Queen Bertha, because -there is an old French saying, "when Queen Bertha spun,"<a id="FNanchor_49_49"></a><a href="#Footnote_49_49" class="fnanchor">[49]</a> -which is applied to any marvellous story of bygone days, or -to events that are said to have happened "once upon a time." -This is very inconclusive. In the middle ages, spinning was a -favourite occupation of queens and princesses, and Queen -Bertha was by no means an exception.<a id="FNanchor_50_50"></a><a href="#Footnote_50_50" class="fnanchor">[50]</a> There is another -French saying, similarly applied to an incredible tale—"It is -of the time when King Robert sang to the lute," the said -King Robert being the husband of Queen Bertha. This is -all tantamount only to our old English sayings, "When Adam -was a little boy," and "When Adam delved and Eve span," -&c. It is also more than probable that the Bertha of -the proverb is identical with the Frau Berchta of German -superstition. She is said to live in the imaginations of the -upper German races in Austria, Bavaria, Swabia, Alsace, -Switzerland, and some districts of Thuringia and Franconia. -She appears in <i>The Twelve Nights</i> as a woman with shaggy -hair, to inspect the spinners, when fish and porridge are to be -eaten in honour of her, and all the distaffs must be spun off. -This superstition was also common in England:—</p> - -<div class="block2"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">Partly work and partly play</span> -<span class="i0 font09">You must on St. Distaff's day.</span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p>That is, the day after Twelfth Day, and is evidently the relic -of some pagan rite in honour, most probably, of Freya or -Frega, the Venus of the Scandinavians. "Dame Bertha -horned," is one of the characters in<i> Les Evangiles des -Conoilles</i> (Quenouilles), the joint composition of Jean d'Arras -and three other writers, in 1475. It was translated into -English, and printed by Winkyn de Worde, with the title of -<i>The Gospelles of Distaffs</i>.<a id="FNanchor_51_51"></a><a href="#Footnote_51_51" class="fnanchor">[51]</a></p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_513">[Pg 513]</a></span></p> - -<p>A writer who signs himself Philetymus, has acutely pointed -out a more probable origin of the title of<i> Contes de ma</i> (or -<i>de le</i>) <i>Mère l'Oye</i>, which it is clear, from passages in Boileau -and Molière, was applied to a certain collection of old stories, -long before Perrault published his <i>Histoires du Temps Passé</i>. -This writer refers us to the customs of antiquity and the -superstitions of the middle ages. He recals to us that the -ancient Romans confided their dwellings to the care of their -geese. He alludes to the two hundred thousand Crusaders -who, in 1096, directed their march by the flight of a goose -from Hungary to Jerusalem; to the guardian fairies of the -Château de Piron in the Contentin, who, at the time of the -invasion of the Normans, transformed themselves into wild -geese; to the <i>benevolent</i> and <i>protecting</i> dwarfs of the Canton -of Berne, who are said to have been all goose-footed; and -above all, to Marguerite de Navarre, who, in her <i>Heptameron</i>, -calls herself Oisille; and he concludes by saying, "C'est que -la bonne dame Oisille, veuve de grand expérience y représente -la Mère l'Oie; c'est que du conté le moins discret elle sait -tirer toujours une conclusion favorable à la morale.... Contes -de la Mère l'Oie c'est à dire contes de la vieille grand mère, -jaseuse et criande comme l'Oie mais comme l'Oie, surtout -gardienne vigilante de la maison.... J'allais dire de la -Vertu."</p> - -<p>There is, amidst all this suggestion, one fact to repose -upon. It is, that Perrault was not the inventor of the stories -he published; that he merely transmitted to writing, no doubt -with some touches of his own, tales of the nursery which -had descended orally from the earliest ages of the Celtic -occupation of Armorica or Bretagne, to the peculiar superstitions -of which we shall find, as we proceed, they all have more -or less reference, and that the particular stories printed in the -first edition of his <i>Histoires du Temps Passé</i>, had long been -popularly known as <i>Contes de ma Mère l'Oye</i>. In 1678, at -the age of fifty, Perrault retired from his public office to -dedicate himself entirely to literature and the education of -his children. Some ten years afterwards he composed a novel -in verse, founded on a celebrated tale in the <i>Decamerone</i> of -Boccaccio, and well known to us as <i>Patient Grizzel</i>, his title -being <i>La Marquise de Salusses; ou, la Patience de Griselidis</i>. -It was published at Paris, by Jean Baptiste Coignard, in - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_514">[Pg 514]</a></span> -1691. La Fontaine had, as early as 1678, said, in the fourth -Fable of his eighth Book, <i>Le Pouvoir des Fables</i>—</p> - -<div class="pmb2"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i20 font09">——"Et moi même</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Au moment que je fais cette moralité</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Si Peau d'Ane m'etait conté</span> -<span class="i0 font09">J'y prendrais un plaisir extrême."</span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p>These lines it would seem induced Perrault to versify the old -nursery story of <i>Peau d'Ane</i>, with which Louis XIV., when -an infant, used to be rocked to sleep; and in 1694, on the -publication of the second edition of his <i>Griselidis</i>, he added -to it his metrical version of <i>Peau d'Ane</i>, and <i>Les Souhaits -Ridicules</i>, known to us as <i>The Three Wishes</i>. The success -of these stories led him to publish, in 1697, his collection of -<i>Les Contes de ma Mère l'Oye</i>, under the title of <i>Histoires du -Temps Passé</i>, and in the name of his son, as before stated. -This collection consisted of eight stories only, all in prose: -<i>La Belle au Bois Dormant</i>, <i>Le Petit Chaperon Rouge</i>, <i>Barbe -Bleue</i>, <i>Le Chat Botté</i>, <i>Les Fées</i>, <i>Cendrillon</i>, <i>Riquet à la -Houpe</i>, and <i>Le Petit Poucet</i>—a proof that <i>Peau d'Ane</i> was -not one of the <i>Contes de ma Mère l'Oie</i>, any more than <i>Griselidis -or Les Souhaits Ridicules</i>. The same eight stories -alone appear in the second edition in 1707 (four years after -the death of Perrault), and in the third edition by Nicolas -Gosselin, in 1724. It is not until 1742, when an edition of -the <i>Histoires du Temps Passé</i> was published at the Hague,<a id="FNanchor_52_52"></a><a href="#Footnote_52_52" class="fnanchor">[52]</a> -that we find any addition to the first eight stories, and then -we have for the first time the story of <i>L'Adroite Princesse; -ou, Les Aventures de Finette</i>, presented to us, with a dedication -to the Countess of Murat, as a story by Perrault, although -a story with that title and on that subject was published by -Madlle. Lheritier in 1696, in a work entitled, <i>Œuvres Mêlées, -contenant Nouvelles et autres Ouvrages en Verse et en Prose</i>, -in which also appears a letter from the author to the daughter -of Perrault. But even in the Hague edition of 1742, there is -no <i>Peau d'Ane</i>, and it is only in comparatively modern collections -that a prose version of that story, as well as the one in -verse actually written by Perrault, is, with <i>L'Adroite Princesse</i>, -<i>Griselidis</i>, and <i>Les Souhaits Ridicules</i>, added to the -eight original <i>Contes de ma Mère l'Oie</i>, or <i>Histoires du Temps -Passé</i>.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_515">[Pg 515]</a></span></p> - -<p class="pmb3">From these eight stories I have selected six, omitting only -<i>Le Petit Chaperon Rouge</i>, and <i>Les Fées</i>, so well known in the -nursery as <i>Little Red Riding Hood</i> (why "Riding?") and -<i>Toads and Diamonds</i>, and for the atmosphere of which they are -alone calculated. On the others I shall now offer a few observations -in their order of publication, and in the same spirit as -those appended to the Fairy Tales of the Countess d'Aulnoy.</p> - - -<h4>BLUE BEARD.</h4> - -<p><i>La Barbe Bleue</i> is founded, according to Mons. Colin de -Plancy, on a tradition of Lower Brittany; and he remarks that -Perrault must have heard it from the lips of nurses, or perhaps -peasants, to have written with so much <i>naïveté</i> the scene of -Sister Anne. He states also that it is pretended that Blue -Beard was actually a nobleman of the house of Beaumanoir. -He does not, however, seem to have been aware that the original -of this terrible portrait is also said to have been Gilles de -Laval, Seigneur de Raiz, created Maréchal de France, June 21st, -1429, for his defence of Orleans against the English, but -whose infamous conduct in Brittany so exasperated the public -against him, that in 1440 he was arrested by order of the -Procureur-Général de Bretagne, and having been tried and -found guilty, was condemned to be hanged and burnt, and -underwent that sentence in a field at Nantes, on the 8th of -October (some say 23rd of December) of that same year, -after exhibiting, says the chronicler, great signs of repentance; -his body was taken out of the flames, and buried in the church -of the Carmelites at Nantes. It was, we are told, his taste -for luxury and libertinism which plunged him into all the -crimes for which he was so fearfully punished. He squandered -a revenue of two hundred thousand crowns per annum, -an enormous sum in those days, and which he had inherited -at the age of twenty. He never travelled without being accompanied -by an army of cooks, musicians, dancers of both - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_516">[Pg 516]</a></span> -sexes, packs of hounds, and two hundred saddle horses. Unfortunately -for him, he thought it necessary to include in -his suite of attendants some fortune-tellers and pretended -magicians, which it is possible in those days may have caused -the credulous multitude to impute to him some atrocities -of which he may have been innocent. The whole <i>procès</i> -is said to be still extant: but we are not furnished with -any details which would identify him with the gentleman -who rejoiced in a blue beard, and expiated his offences -by being run through the body with cold iron, instead of being -roasted at a stake like the guilty but penitent Marshal.<a id="FNanchor_53_53"></a><a href="#Footnote_53_53" class="fnanchor">[53]</a> -Whether the line of Beaumanoir or of Laval has the best -claim to the honour of his relationship, may be still a matter -of dispute; but the fact more important to our present -inquiry is, that in either case it is a tradition of Bretagne, -and therefore strengthens the theory of Mons. de Plancy and -the Baron Walkenaër.</p> - -<p>There is no fairy in this story, but there is an enchanted -key. "La clef," says the author, "etait fée." In the old -translations this is rendered "the key was a fairy." "Fée" -is, however, in such instances as these, not a noun substantive, -but an adjective, now obsolete, but to be found in Cotgrave, -spelt with a third e in the feminine. "Fée, m.; éee, f.: Fatall -appointed, destined; also, taken, <i>bewitched</i> or forespoken; also, -<i>charmed</i>, <i>inchanted</i>."—<span class="smcap">Edit.</span> 1650.</p> - -<p>There is another popular passage in this story which requires -a word of remark:—"Je ne vois rien que le soleil qui poudroie -et l'herbe qui verdoie." This has been generally translated, -"I see nothing but the sun which makes a dust, and -the grass which <i>looks</i> green." Mons. de Plancy appends a -note to this passage, as follows:—"1. Poudroyer, darder, -éblouir les yeux. 2. Verdoyer, jeter un éclat vert."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_517">[Pg 517]</a></span></p> - -<p>With great submission to so high an authority, I must -venture to differ with him on this point. "Poudroyer" is an -old French verb, signifying to reduce to powder. "Je poudroie, -tu poudroies, il poudroie," &c. "Un cheval Espagnol <i>poudroyant</i> -tous les champs," J. B. Rouss; and Bescherelle, in his -<i>Dictionnaire National</i>, remarks, quoting the actual passage -from Perrault, "Ce mot sonore poètique, épargnant une périphrase -est a regretter." Verdoyer is also a verb active, signifying -to grow or become green, and I have therefore taken -the liberty to render the above celebrated reply, "I see -nothing but the sun making dust" (that is to say, reducing -the soil to dust by its heat), "and the grass growing green." -It is the flock of sheep that afterwards raise or make <i>a</i> dust. -It may be thought I am "making a dust," to use a familiar -phrase, about a trifle; but I wished to point out that unless -we could say in English, "the sun that <i>dusts</i> and the grass -that <i>greens</i>," we cannot approach the terse and graphic description -of dear Sister Anne.</p> - -<p class="pmb3">Mons. de Plancy observes that the incidents of this story -(excepting, of course, that of the enchanted key) are not -impossible, provided they are supposed to have occurred in -the middle ages; but that Perrault has placed them nearer -his own times, by saying that Blue Beard's widow employed -part of her fortune in purchasing commissions for her two -brothers, as the sale of commissions in the French army was -not known before the reign of Francis I.; but he does not -notice that the mention of dragoons and musqueteers brings -them still nearer. Blue Beard has been a favourite subject -with the dramatists, both French and English. The celebrated -melodrama by George Colman the younger, produced at Drury -Lane Theatre, in 1798, in which the scene was transferred -to the East, was rendered still more popular by the music of -Michael Kelly: the "March in Blue Beard" was perpetrated -on every piano alternately with the "Duke of York's March," -the "Battle of Prague," and the "Overture to Lodoiska."</p> - - -<h4>THE SLEEPING BEAUTY IN THE WOOD.</h4> - -<p>The charming fairy tale of <i>La Belle au Bois dormant</i> is the -gem of the collection. Its popularity is as great at the -present day as it was two hundred years ago. I have called -the reader's attention in a marginal note to the first mention - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_518">[Pg 518]</a></span> -probably of seven league boots,<a id="FNanchor_54_54"></a><a href="#Footnote_54_54" class="fnanchor">[54]</a> but I reserved for the Appendix -some observations upon the earliest mention of Ogres -and Ogresses. The Baron Walkenaër, in his letters already -quoted, has, I think successfully, combated the earlier notion -that the word Ogre was derived from a classical source. He -deduces it from the Oigours or Igours, a Turkish race mentioned -by Procopius in the sixth century. Some tribes of -Oigurs established themselves in the Crimea, and their -language was called "Lingua <i>Ouguresca</i>" by the Italian -merchants who first traded with them. In the twelfth and -thirteenth centuries all Tartars were confounded under the -name of Oigurs. When the Magyars, a Tartar tribe from -the banks of the Wolga, overran Dacia and Pannonia, the -names of the ancient Huns and of the ferocious Oigurs -were united to designate them. They were first called -Hunnie-Gours, and their country Hunnic-Gourie, from whence -Hongrois and Hungary. The atrocities committed by and -attributed to the Oigurs spread horror and alarm throughout -Europe. Their cruelties to infants, in which they have been -only equalled by the barbarous Sepoys in the recent calamitous -events in India, took especial hold of the imaginations of -those to whose care children were specially entrusted, and -the appellation of Oigur or Ogre became synonymous with -that of cannibal, or any other ferocious monster in human -form. In Roquefort's <i>Glossaire de la Langue Romaine</i>, Ogre -is also derived from the same source. That "l'Huorco" -of the Italians, the Orco of Bojardo and Ariosto, may be -derived from the Latin Orcus, according to Minucci, as -Mr. Keightley imagines, I am not prepared to dispute. -Such curious coincidences are common to all who have wandered -in the mazes of etymology; but I will merely suggest -that it is quite as probable that Orco and Huorco were also -derived from Oigur, the name by which the Tartars of the -Crimea were known to the Italians as early as the twelfth -century, as we have already seen. Florio, however (1598), says, -"Orco as Orca, a <i>sea</i> monster," which the Ogre never was.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_519">[Pg 519]</a></span></p> - -<p>Spinning with the distaff is the oldest form. A wheel -appears in illuminations of the fourteenth century, but the -woman hent stood to her work. The more modern spinning-wheel, -at which women sit, was invented in 1530, by a citizen -of Brunswick, named Jurgen. For illustration of the accident -to the Princess, it is perhaps worthy of remark that in -the Pyrenees and western provinces of France the spindle is -sometimes pointed with iron. "It is thus," says Mr. Akerman -(the author of a paper on the Distaff in the <i>Archæologia</i>, vol. -xxxvii.), "rendered a stiletto, with which the woman could -defend herself." The same antiquary informs us that "the -art of spinning in its simplest and most primitive forms is yet -pursued in Italy, where the women of Caià still twirl the -spindle unrestrained by that '<i>ancient rustic law which forbade -its use without doors</i>.'" So that the father of the Sleeping -Beauty had a sort of precedent for his "Must not spin with -spindles Act."</p> - -<p class="pmb3">The Germans have a version of this story called <i>Briar-Rose</i>: -vide Grimm's <i>Kinder und Hausmärchen.</i></p> - - -<h4>MASTER CAT; OR PUSS IN BOOTS.</h4> - -<p><i>Maître Chat; ou, le Chat Botté.</i>—This capital story is -said by Mr. Dunlop and Mr. Keightley to be taken from a -collection of stories by Giovan Francesco Straparola, printed -at Venice in 1550-54, under the titles of <i>Tredici Piacevole -Notte</i>, and translated into French "with considerable embellishments" -in 1585. That the first story of the Eleventh -Night is derived from the same source as Perrault's there -can be little doubt; but I am not by any means prepared to -admit that Perrault was indebted to that or any other -printed collection for this or any one of those eight stories -which it is clear were well known in France as <i>Les Contes de -ma Mère l'Oye</i>. Straparola, who seems to have borrowed -largely from Morlini, and collected stories wherever he could -find them, drew upon the traditions of Brittany as well as on the -fabliaux of Provence. It is indeed notorious that the Italian -novelists were indebted almost entirely to the Trouvères or -Troubadours of Languedoc, whilst they themselves admit -that the plots of their romances were of Armorican origin.</p> - -<div class="block1"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">In Britanie of old time</span> -<span class="i0 font09">These lays were wrought, so saith this rhyme.</span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p>Says the old translator of the <i>Lai le Fraine</i>, the author of - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_520">[Pg 520]</a></span> -which Mr. Dunlop acknowledges "must have been better -informed than any modern writer" (<i>History of Fiction</i>, 8vo, -1845, p. 196). In the second edition of the Countess -D'Aulnoy's <i>Fairy Tales</i>, I took an opportunity of vindicating -that lady from the charge so hastily preferred against -her both by Mr. Dunlop and Mr. Keightley, and I now contest -as strongly the accuracy of the opinions of the same -writers respecting the tales of Charles Perrault. Neither in -the story of Straparola, first of the Eleventh Night, nor in -the <i>Gagliuso</i> of Signor Basile (whose <i>Pentamerone</i>, published -in 1672, is also roundly asserted to have been the -"origin" of the French <i>Contes des Fées</i><a id="FNanchor_55_55"></a><a href="#Footnote_55_55" class="fnanchor">[55]</a>), do we find <i>Puss -in Boots</i>. What would <i>Le Maître Chat</i> be, were he not -also <i>Le Chat Botté</i>? Nor is there an Ogre—that especial -characteristic of a legend of Brittany—nor consequently the -delicious scene between him and Puss, which so dramatically -winds up the French story. The same unmistakeable indications -of its being a veritable <i>Histoire du Temps Passé</i>, -militate against the belief alluded to by M. de Plancy, that -the Marquis de Carabas was intended as a portrait of some -particular nobleman of the time of Louis XIV.; and therefore -that the usurpation of the castle and property of the ogre -might be an allusion to the indelicate seizure by D'Aubigné -of the domains of a Protestant, an exile in consequence of -the religious persecutions at the close of the seventeenth -century, "In which case," he adds, "the Cat would be -Madame de Maintenon!" What a pity so ingenious an idea -should be destitute of foundation. It is more probable that -the wits of the day compared the illustrious individuals to -the Marquis de Carabas and his Cat.</p> - -<p>I have kept the old English title of <i>Puss in Boots</i>, though -it is not literally that of the original. It would have been -an indictable offence to have altered it.</p> - -<p class="pmb3">The tricks of the cat to catch the rats are described almost -in the words of Lafontaine, in his fable of <i>Le Chat et le Vieux -Rat</i>, in which Maître Mitis, "l'Alexandre des chats," a second -Rodillard, "se pend la tête en bas" and "s'enfarine" for the -same purpose.</p> - - -<p class="break" /> -<div class="footnotes"><b>FOOTNOTES:</b> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_47_47"></a><a href="#FNanchor_47_47"><span class="label">[47]</span></a> "Ce qui nous indique que ce receuil contenait les contes vulgairement -connus sous ce titre."—B. W.</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_48_48"></a><a href="#FNanchor_48_48"><span class="label">[48]</span></a> <i>Oie</i> being derived from the Low Latin word <i>Auca</i> (Du Cange <i>in voce</i>).</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_49_49"></a><a href="#FNanchor_49_49"><span class="label">[49]</span></a> The Italians have the same proverb—"Nel tempo ove Bertha filava."</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_50_50"></a><a href="#FNanchor_50_50"><span class="label">[50]</span></a> In the coffin of Jeanne de Bourgogne, the first wife of Philip de Valois, -were found the Queen's ring of silver, her <i>distaff</i> and <i>spindle</i>. The tomb of -Jeanne de Bourbon, Queen of Charles V. of France, also contained part of her -crown, her golden ring, and her distaff of gilt wood (<i>vide</i> Lenoir, <i>Notes Historiques -sur les Exhumations faites en 1793 dans l'Abbaye de St. Denis</i>).</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_51_51"></a><a href="#FNanchor_51_51"><span class="label">[51]</span></a> See a learned and interesting paper on the Distaff and Spindle, by -J. Y. Akerman, Esq., Sec. F.S.A., <i>Archæologia</i>, vol. xxxvii.</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_52_52"></a><a href="#FNanchor_52_52"><span class="label">[52]</span></a> There was another edition, in French and English, published at the -Hague three years afterwards:—<i>Contes de ma Mère l'Oye, en Français et en -Anglais</i>. Par Perrault, avec des figures gravées par Fokke. La Haye: Neaulme, -1745. 12mo. It was a rare book in 1784, when it was sold, at the sale of the -library of the Duc de la Vallière, for twenty-three livres nineteen sous.</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_53_53"></a><a href="#FNanchor_53_53"><span class="label">[53]</span></a> Mr. Dunlop, who alludes to this story, speaks of the murder of his wives. -The author of <i>L'Art de Vérifier des Dates</i>, gives him but one wife, Catharine de -Thouars, daughter and heiress of Mille de Thouars, Seigneur de Chabanais et -Confolent, whom he married December 31st, 1420, and who survived him, and -was re-married to Jean de Vendôme, Vidame d'Amiens. She therefore lived -with him for twenty years, and bore him one daughter, Marie de Laval, Dame -de Raiz, who married twice, and died the 1st of November, 1458. Père Anselme -says he was contracted in 1416 to Jeanne Paynel, daughter and co-heiress of -Fouques, Seigneur de Hambye; but that she died previous to the celebration -of the marriage.</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_54_54"></a><a href="#FNanchor_54_54"><span class="label">[54]</span></a> In the marginal note I have mentioned <i>Jack and the Bean-stalk</i>. This -is an error. There are no seven league boots in that story. It is <i>Jack the -Giant Killer</i> only who is the fortunate proprietor of the "shoes of swiftness," -which either suggested, or were suggested by, the boots aforesaid.</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_55_55"></a><a href="#FNanchor_55_55"><span class="label">[55]</span></a> "Of the <i>ten</i> stories in the <i>Mother Goose's Fairy Tales</i> of Perrault, <i>seven</i> -are to be found in the <i>Pentamerone</i>," says Mr. Keightley, in his <i>Tales and -Fictions</i>, p. 184. I have already shown that there were only eight stories in -the <i>Contes de ma Mère l'Oye</i>, and in the <i>Pentamerone</i> I find but two that -have any similitude to the tales of Perrault—viz., <i>Gagliuso</i> and <i>La Gatta Cenerentola</i>, -both differing widely in many points from the ancient Breton traditions.</p></div></div> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_521">[Pg 521]</a></span></p> - - -<h4>CINDERELLA; OR THE LITTLE GLASS SLIPPER.</h4> - -<p><i>Cendrillon; ou, la Petite Pantoufle de Verre</i>. Here, -again, could it enter the heart of an Englishman to call this -anything but <i>Cinderella</i>? I am proud to say I was not -equal to such a sacrifice to principle. I should have been -afraid to meet the eyes of my grandchildren. There are -persons, however, who have been cruel enough to tamper -with the second title, to destroy "the little glass slipper," -and tell us that in the original story it was not a pantoufle -"de <i>verre</i>," but "de <i>vair</i>"—<i>i.e.</i>, a fur much worn in the -middle ages, and from which the charge of vair in heraldry -was taken. I thank the stars that I have not been able to -discover any foundation for this alarming report. Even -should it be unfortunately the fact, it would not affect the -<i>Conte de ma Mère l'Oye</i>, as handed down to us by Perrault. -In that, it is an undeniable "pantoufle de <i>verre</i>," and has -been said to represent allegorically the extreme fragility of -woman's reputation, and the prudence of flight before it is -<i>too late</i>. There appears to be no doubt that this story is -founded on an old Armorican tradition, as in 1826 an alteration -of an ancient Breton chronicle was published by Madame -Piette, entitled <i>Laurette de Karnabas; ou, la Nouvelle Cendrillon</i>, -which is taken from the same source, but divested of -its fairy agency; and the Countess d'Aulnoy had previously -availed herself of some portions of the tale of <i>Cendrillon</i> in -her story of <i>Finette Cendron</i>.</p> - -<p>The trial of the slipper is like that of the ring in the story -of <i>Peau d'Ane</i>, and a "little glass shoe" is the subject of a -German fairy tale. The Germans have also a version of -<i>Cinderella</i>, in which the slipper is of "pure gold."</p> - -<p class="pmb3">At the banquet it will be remembered that the Prince is -said to have given Cinderella both oranges and citrons. -These do not appear to us at present as particularly suggestive -of the magnificence of a royal collation; but in the seventeenth -century, Portugal oranges were considered a present worthy -princes of the blood. "Monsieur, me vint voir," says the -Duchesse de Montpensier, in her <i>Memoirs</i>, "il me donne - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_522">[Pg 522]</a></span> -des oranges de Portugal." Molière, in his description of the -comedy which formed a portion of the famous fêtes given at -Versailles, in 1668, by Louis XIV., tells us that "d'abord -on vit sur le théâtre une colation magnifique d'oranges de -Portugal;" and in his own comedy, <i>L'Avare</i>, when Harpagon -apologises to his mistress for not having prepared a collation -for her, his son replies, "J'y ai pourvu, mon père, et j'ai fait -apporter ici quelques bassins <i>d'oranges de la Chine, de citrons -doux</i>, et de confitures." Also, according to L'Emery (<i>Traités -des Aliments</i>, 1705), the citron was supposed to give a better -colour to the lips, and the ladies of the Court in the 17th -century, therefore, "portoient en main <i>des citrons doux</i>, -quelles mordoient de tems en tems pour avoir les livres vermeilles."—Le -Grand D'Aussi.—<i>Vie Privée des Français</i>, -tom. i. p. 251.</p> - - -<h4>RIQUET WITH THE TUFT.</h4> - -<p><i>Riquet à la Houpe</i> is perhaps the least known of the eight -<i>Contes de ma Mère l'Oye</i>; but although it has not the -attractive qualities which have occasioned the popularity of -the others, it is an excellent story, with a valuable moral, -though, strangely enough, the <i>moralité</i> with which it concludes -takes no notice of it. The object of the story is evidently -to show the superiority of mental to personal qualifications, -and the power of the former not only to compensate -for ugliness and deformity, but even to make one forget them. -The concluding verses, however, point only to the fact that -love can embellish its object, and turn even defects into -beauties, passing over the more important one of the cause of -the love itself.</p> - -<p>Some writers have fancied the hero of this story to have -been a person of distinction at the Court of Louis XIV., forgetting -that, like the rest in the collection, it is a "histoire -du tems passé." But, as Monsieur de Plancy remarks, "On -voit souvent des allusions ou il n'y en a point;" and, as in -the case of <i>Le Chat Botté</i>, the application may have been -made to the man from the story.</p> - -<p>The reader has been referred to this Appendix by a marginal -note at page 32, respecting the <i>Queue de Renard</i>. The - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_523">[Pg 523]</a></span> -explanation offered by the editor of the French edition of -1826 is, that "les cuisiniers élégans se coiffaient dans leur -négligé de travail de la peau de quelqu' animal, dont ils -laissaient pendre la queue;" and he adds, "on voit encore, -dans certaines provinces, des <i>chasseurs</i> coîffé ainsi." That a -huntsman should sport a fox's brush, or wear a cap made of -the fur of any animal, is not in the least remarkable or uncommon; -but I do not see how it can be taken as a fact in -support of the assertion that cooks did so either in the time -of Louis XIV. or at present; and the Editor does not give us -any authority for that assertion. Of all animals, a fox would -be the last I should imagine a French cook would select to -furnish him with a trophy or a sign of company, and that -"twenty or thirty rôtisseurs" should <i>all</i> have "<i>la</i> lardoire à -la main et <i>la</i> queue de renard <i>sur l'oreille</i>," appears to me, if -we are to consider the author to have meant actually the tail -of a fox, a very remarkable circumstance, as the use of the -definitive article in both cases shows the "queue de renard" -must have been as much the mark of a cook as the "lardoire," -or larding-pin. I confess I am not satisfied with this explanation; -and all my own researches and those kindly made for -me by friends both in Paris and London, have hitherto failed -in throwing any light upon this curious passage. "Queue -de Renard" is the name of a plant known by us as foxtail, -and it is also applied to a particular family of flowers; but it -is likewise the name of an implement. "Outil a deux biseaux ou -chanfreins par le bout dont on se <i>sert pour percer</i>."—Bescherelle. -This description looks vastly like some accessory to the -larding-pin.</p> - -<p>The same authority has also: "Queue de renard à étouper. -Le queue de cet animal dont se servent les doreurs pour -appliquer les feuilles d'or ou d'argent." This, as we know, is -not the entire brush, but a portion of the hair. In default -of any positive information, I will merely make three suggestions: -1. A portion of the herb foxtail, dried, which might be -used as a whisk. 2. A small instrument for piercing or -skewering. 3. A portion of the brush, as used by gilders of -wood or metal, and probably by the <i>rôtisseurs</i> of that day, as -we find it was customary to gild the beaks and legs of the -game and poultry served up at the royal banquets. Favin, -amongst other writers, tells us of a grand banquet in which - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_524">[Pg 524]</a></span> -"le quatrième service fut d'oyseaux tans grands que petits, et -<i>tous le service fut doré</i>."</p> - -<p>In the Form of Cury there is a receipt for making "Viande -Riall" (royal), in which the cook is told, after he has dressed -it in "dysshes plate," to "take <i>a barre of golde foyle</i> and -another of <i>silver foyle</i>, and lay hom (them) on, Saint Andrew's -cross wyse, above the potage, and then take sugre plate, or -gynger plate, or paste royale, and kutte hom of lozenges, and -plante hom in the voide places between the barres, and serve -hit forthe." The peacock served in his "hakell,"—<i>i.e.</i>, neck -feathers, or in his "pride"—<i>i.e.</i> with tail displayed, &c.—had -always his bill gilt.</p> - -<p>Whatever, in fine, the "queue de renard" may have been, -I cannot doubt that, worn "sur l'oreille," it was a distinctive -mark of a <i>rôtisseur</i> of that day, as a pen behind the ear has -been of a clerk in ours; and the probability is in favour of -the third interpretation, as <i>rôtisseurs</i> were, as their name -implies, those cooks who prepared the roasted dishes only, -and in all the old accounts it is especially the "rotie" that is -"doré."</p> - -<p class="pmb3"><i>Riquet à la Houpe</i> is supposed to have inspired Madame -de Villeneuve with the idea of the <i>Beauty and the Beast</i>. -In my notice of that story, I shall have a word to say in -refutation of that supposition. <i>Riquet with the Tuft</i> was the -first of those fairy extravaganzas which the public have so -kindly received during twenty years, at the Olympic, Covent -Garden, Drury Lane, the Haymarket, and the Lyceum. It -was written in conjunction with Mr. Charles Dance, and -produced at the Olympic under Madame Vestris's management, -December 26th, 1836.</p> - - -<h4>LITTLE THUMBLING.</h4> - -<p><i>Le Petit Poucet.</i>—This story, under the titles of <i>Hop o' -my Thumb</i>, <i>Little Thumb and his Brothers</i>, &c., has been -continually reprinted amongst our English nursery tales; and -as I have already spoken of ogres and seven-leagued boots, -there is little else in it that calls for observation. The latter -are said to have been "fées"—<i>i.e.</i> enchanted, as the key in - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_525">[Pg 525]</a></span> -<i>Blue Beard</i>. The attempt of the parents to lose the -children in the wood is an incident in Madame d'Aulnoy's -story of <i>Finette Cendron</i>, drawn, no doubt, from the same -source, as Cambry, in his <i>Voyage au Finisterre</i>, bears witness -to <i>Le Petit Poucet</i> having been an "ancien conté populaire," -which has for ages amused "les enfans de la Basse Bretagne." -I think it is quite unnecessary for me to go into the question -of this story being founded on an episode in Homer's -<i>Odyssey</i>, to prove that Perrault was not thinking of Ulysses -in the cave of Polyphemus, or that the pebbles and bread -were not suggested by the clue of Ariadne.</p> - -<p class="pmb3">In Grimm's <i>Kinder und Hausmärchen</i> are several stories -about Thumbling; and I need scarcely remind the reader -that England has her own renowned <i>Thomas Thumb</i>.</p> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_526">[Pg 526]</a></span></p> - - -<h3 class="no-break">THE COUNTESS DE MURAT.</h3> - - -<p><span class="smcap">Henriette Julie de Castelneau</span>, daughter of Michel, second -Marquis de Castelnau, Governor of Brest, and granddaughter -by the mother's side, to the Count d'Angnon, Marshal of -France, was born at Brest in 1670. At the age of sixteen, -she came to Paris in the costume worn by the peasants in -Brittany, the language of which province she spoke very -fluently. Her appearance in this dress caused such a sensation -that the Queen desired her to wear it on her presentation -at Court. She married Nicholas, Count de Murat, Colonel of -Infantry and Brigadier des Armées du Roi, descended from a -family established in Auvergne before 1300, and that afterwards -passed into Dauphiné. Being suspected by Madame -de Maintenon of having been part author of a libel in which -all the persons composing the Court of Louis XIV., in 1694, -were caricatured or insulted, she was banished to Auch, Department -du Gers. After the death of Louis XIV., the Regent -Duke of Orleans, at the request of Madame de Parabere, recalled -Madame de Murat in 1715. She did not, however, long enjoy -her return to Paris, as she died at her Château de la Buzardiere -in Maine the following year (1716), at the early age -of forty-six. She was the author of many works, both in -prose and verse,<a id="FNanchor_56_56"></a><a href="#Footnote_56_56" class="fnanchor">[56]</a> but is best known by her <i>Contes des Fées</i>, -six of the most popular of which are here translated. Four -of these (<i>Le Parfait Amour</i>, <i>Anguillette</i>, <i>Jeune et Belle</i>, and -<i>Le Palais de la Vengeance</i>) were printed in 1766, and again -in 1817, in the collection of Fairy Tales attributed to the -Countess d'Aulnoy, of whom Madame de Murat was the -contemporary, but certainly not the rival. Her stories have -more the character of romances and novels than fairy tales, -with a strong infusion of sentiment, such as is to be found in -the writings of Madame de Scuderi, Madlle. de La Fayette, -the Countess d'Auneuil, and others of that period.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_527">[Pg 527]</a></span></p> - -<p>The plots of them were most probably taken from</p> - -<div class="block1"> -<p>"Les contes ingenus quoique remplis d'addresse -Qu'ont inventés les Troubadours."</p> -</div> - -<p>For to this she is specially invited in the verses at the end of -the prose story of <i>L'Adroite Princesse</i>, which is dedicated to -her, and attributed to Perrault. It has been shown, however, -that if that version of <i>L'Adroite Princesse</i> were really written -by him, it was not published till 1742, thirty-nine years after -the death of the reputed author, and twenty-six after the death -of the lady to whom it is dedicated.</p> - - -<h4>PERFECT LOVE.</h4> - -<p><i>Le Parfait Amour</i> is a story exhibiting considerable -talent, although deficient in those lively sallies, those amusing -whimsicalities and allusions to the manners and dresses -of the period which give so much piquancy to the Fairy -Tales of Perrault, and the more elaborate compositions of -Madame d'Aulnoy. The interest is entirely of a serious -character; but the magic ring, with its power over the four -elements—the value of which is destroyed by the too hasty -wish of the lover—is an ingenious and dramatic idea, and the -fatal lamps a truly affecting situation. This is the first Fairy -Tale that gives us a picture of the Gnomes, and their -subterraneous magnificence—a superstition existing all over -Europe; the Trolls, or underground men of the North; the -little people and ground mannikins of Germany; and the -Korr or Korred of Brittany.</p> - -<div class="block1"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i10 font09">"The wise<br /></span> -<span class="i0 font09">And prudent little people, who keep warm</span> -<span class="i0 font09">By their fine fires, many a fathom down</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Within the inmost rocks. Pure native gold,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">And the rock crystals, shaped like towers, clear,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Transparent, gleam with colours thousand-fold</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Through the fair palace; and the little folks,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">So happy and so gay, amuse themselves</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Sometimes with singing."<a id="FNanchor_57_57"></a><a href="#Footnote_57_57" class="fnanchor">[57]</a></span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p class="pmb3">And accordingly we find them singing the charms of Irolite, -and entertaining the lovers with "une musique fort harmonieuse, -mais un peu barbare."</p> - - -<p class="break" /> -<div class="footnotes"><b>FOOTNOTES:</b> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_56_56"></a><a href="#FNanchor_56_56"><span class="label">[56]</span></a> Her <i>Histoires Sublimes et Allegoriques</i> has been attributed by the Abbé -Langlet du Fresnoy to the Countess d'Aulnoy.</p></div> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_57_57"></a><a href="#FNanchor_57_57"><span class="label">[57]</span></a> Idyllen &c., von J. R. Wyss, translated by Mr. Keightley (<i>Fairy Mythology.</i>)</p></div></div> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_528">[Pg 528]</a></span></p> - - -<h4>ANGUILLETTE.</h4> - -<p class="pmb3"><i>Anguillette</i> is a story of the same character as <i>Le Parfait -Amour</i>. The interest is wholly serious, and the termination -tragical, reminding one, by the transformation of the victims -into trees, of the catastrophe of the <i>Yellow Dwarf</i> of -Madame d'Aulnoy. The inconstancy of Atimir is very -naturally drawn; and there is considerable merit in the -general conduct of the story.</p> - - -<h4>YOUNG AND HANDSOME.</h4> - -<p><i>Jeune et Belle</i> might almost be placed amongst the pastoral -romances of D'Urfey and George de Montemayor. It -is full of Watteau-like tableaux, many of them suggested, -probably, to the writer as to the painter by the Fêtes Champêtre -so much in vogue during the seventeenth and eighteenth -centuries at the Court of Versailles.</p> - -<p>The sudden and unexpected introduction of Zephyr at the -very close of the story as the Deus ex machinâ, is quite in -accordance with the taste of the period, though much out of -place in a fairy tale. It is not, however, for me to find fault -with it, as it afforded me a hint for a character which enabled -Mr. Robson to display the versatility of his genius in the -last of that long series of extravaganzas I have already -alluded to.</p> - -<p class="pmb3">In the "Collection" above mentioned, this tale was substituted -for Madame d'Aulnoy's <i>Serpentin Vert</i>, the <i>dénouement</i> -of which is also produced by the incongruous introduction of -mythological personages.</p> - - -<h4>THE PALACE OF VENGEANCE.</h4> - -<p class="pmb3"><i>Le Palais de la Vengeance</i> was printed in the "Collection" -as Madame d'Aulnoy's, under the title of the <i>Palace of -Revenge</i>. It is principally remarkable for its satirical conclusion—a -very original one for a fairy tale, as the lovers -are married, and do not "live happy ever afterwards."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_529">[Pg 529]</a></span></p> - - -<h4>THE PRINCE OF LEAVES.</h4> - -<p><i>Le Prince des Feuilles</i> is, to the best of my knowledge, -presented for the first time in an English garb. It is more -of a fairy tale than the four preceding it, and appears to me -to have been suggested to Madame de Murat by her residence -at Auch, where, indeed, it is most likely to have been -written.</p> - -<p>The natural history of the turquoise had been newly -popularized by the publications of Chardin and other Oriental -travellers; and more particularly by that of a book by -Boethius de Boot, <i>Le Parfait Joallier</i>; Lyons, 1644. The -turquoise "de la Vieille Roche," that Madame de Murat -speaks of, is a stone found near Nichapour and Carasson, in -Persia—the true Oriental turquoise; whilst those called "de -la Nouvelle Roche," are not stones, but petrified bones, and -are found in Europe, particularly in France, at Auch, (the -very place to which Madame de Murat was exiled;) and near -Simmorre, in the Département du Gers; and in the Nivernais, -according to the account of Reamur in the <i>Mémoires de -l'Académie</i>, 1715.</p> - -<p>Turquoises were formerly very highly prized, and all kinds -of virtues and properties attributed to them, the greater part -of which are fabulous, although detailed gravely by de Boot, -who was physician to Rodolph II., Emperor of Germany. -The jewellers, even in his day, took great pains to distinguish -between those that retained their colour and those that -turned green. A fine unchanging turquoise, the size of a -filbert, sold in that day for two hundred thalers and upwards. -"The turquoise possesses such attractions," says de Boot, -"that men do not think their hands are well adorned, nor -their magnificence sufficiently displayed, if they are not -decked with some of the finest." The name is supposed to -have been derived from Turkey, the country from which they -were probably first imported; but others deduce it from -Turchino, a name given by Italians to a particular blue.</p> - -<p class="pmb3">Even at this day, the discoloration or loss of a turquoise is -considered a prognostication of evil.</p> - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_530">[Pg 530]</a></span></p> - - -<h4>THE FORTUNATE PUNISHMENT.</h4> - -<p class="pmb3"><i>L'Heureuse Peine</i> is also, I believe, new to the English -reader. It is an exceedingly graceful story, and the <i>dénouement</i> -is novel as well as ingenious. The "little animal" into -which the unfortunate Naimée is transformed, is not specified -by the author, but from an allusion to its <i>manière de -marcher</i>, I suppose it to be a crayfish, a favourite with the -writers of fairy tales.</p> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_531">[Pg 531]</a></span></p> - - -<h3 class="no-break"><a id="MADEMOISELLE_DE_LA_FORCE">MADEMOISELLE DE LA FORCE.</a></h3> - - -<p class="pmb3"><span class="smcap">Charlotte Rose de la Force</span> was the daughter of -François de Caumont, Marquis de Castel-Moron, and granddaughter -of Jacques de Caumont, Duc de la Force, whose -escape from the massacre of St. Bartholomew is celebrated in -the <i>Henriade</i> of Voltaire, and who afterwards greatly signalized -himself by his exploits during the reign of Henry IV. -and Louis XIII. She was born in the Castle of Casenove, -near Bazas, in Guienne, about 1650, and died in Paris in 1724. -Her mother, Marguerite de Vicof, was Dame de Casenove, and -daughter of the Baron de Castelnau. Mademoiselle de la -Force would therefore appear to be maternally connected with -Madame de Murat. She is said to have been married, in 1687, -to Charles de Brion; but that the marriage was declared null -and void ten days afterwards. She was the author of several -memoirs and romances, and of an Epistle, in verse, to Madame -de Maintenon; but is best known by her fairy tales, <i>Contes des -Contes</i>, though only one of them has, to my knowledge, -appeared previously in English. That one is—</p> - - -<h4>FAIRER THAN A FAIRY.</h4> - -<p><i>Plus Belle que Fée</i> was published, with the usual abridgments -and alterations, about twenty years ago, in a collection -of nursery tales. The story bears a strong resemblance to -the <i>Gracieuse and Percinet</i> of the Countess d'Aulnoy; and -though the plot is rendered more intricate by the addition of -another pair of lovers, it does not gain in interest as much as -it loses in coherence and simplicity. The fair author has, -however, appended a note to her story called <i>L'Enchanteur</i>, -which forbids us to suppose that she was indebted to any -previous writer for the plot of her story. She says—"This -story (<i>L'Enchanteur</i>) is taken from an ancient romance - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_532">[Pg 532]</a></span> -('ancien livre Gothique') named <i>Perséval</i>, several things -being omitted which were not in accordance with our -modern tastes, and several others added. Some names are -changed. It is the only story that is not entirely the -composition of the author. <i>All the others are purely of -her invention.</i>" After this positive declaration, which we -have no right to question, why should we refuse to give -credit to the Countess d'Aulnoy for the possession of equal -powers of imagination?</p> - -<p class="pmb3">I am by no means impugning the originality of <i>Plus Belle -que Fée</i>, in pointing out that the notion of the <i>Fair of Time</i> -seems to have been suggested by an old fairy legend of -Normandy. "Near the village of Puys, half a league to the -north-east of Dieppe, there is a high plateau, surrounded on -all sides by high entrenchments, except that over the sea, -where the cliffs render it inaccessible. It is named 'La Cité -de Limes,' or 'Le Camp de Cæsar,' or simply 'Le Catel' or -'Castel.' Tradition tells that <i>the Fées used to hold a fair -there, at which all sorts of magic articles from their secret -stores were offered for sale</i>, and the most courteous entreaties -and blandishments were employed to induce those who frequented -it to become purchasers; but the moment any one -did so, and stretched forth his hand to take the article he had -selected, the perfidious Fées seized him, and hurled him down -the cliffs."<a id="FNanchor_58_58"></a><a href="#Footnote_58_58" class="fnanchor">[58]</a> I cannot say that Mademoiselle de la Force has -made the most of this tradition, supposing her to have been -acquainted with it. Her allusion to the entertainments at -Marly, to which alone she says this fair was to be compared, -has reference, I think, to a "Fancy Fair," as we should now -call it, in which the stalls were attended, as in our days, by -the principal personages of the Court. I feel satisfied that I -have somewhere seen an account of that entertainment, but -unfortunately have no note which would enable me to turn to -the authority.</p> - - -<p class="break" /> -<div class="footnotes"><b>FOOTNOTES:</b> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_58_58"></a><a href="#FNanchor_58_58"><span class="label">[58]</span></a> Keightley's <i>Fairy Mythology</i>, 12mo, 1850, p. 474. There was also a -piece, called <i>La Foire des Fées</i>, written by Le Sage, and acted at the Foire -St. Germain.</p></div></div> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_533">[Pg 533]</a></span></p> - - -<h4>THE GOOD WOMAN.</h4> - -<p class="pmb3"><i>La Bonne Femme</i> is far superior to <i>Plus Belle que Fée</i>. It -is indeed worthy of Madame d'Aulnoy, and I cannot account -for its never having previously met with a translator. It will -be recognised by playgoers as the foundation of my Fairy -Extravaganza, <i>The Good Woman in the Wood</i>, in which form -the dramatic incidents of this charming story were first -introduced to a London public. As we are bound, after the -author's declaration, to consider it an original story, we need -not trouble ourselves to hunt after its source. The other -original fairy tales—<i>Percinet</i>, <i>Tourbillon</i>, <i>Vert et Blue</i>, <i>Le -Pays des Délices</i>, and <i>La Puissance d'Amour</i>—bear no comparison -to the two I have selected.</p> - - -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_534">[Pg 534]</a></span></p> - - -<h3>MADAME DE VILLENEUVE.</h3> - - -<p class="pmb3"><span class="smcap">Gabrielle Susanne Barbot</span>, "daughter of a gentleman -of Rochelle," and widow of Monsieur de Gallon, Seigneur de -Villeneuve, Lieutenant-Colonel of Infantry, died at Paris, in -the house of Crebillon, the tragic writer, Dec. 29th, 1755. -Such is the sum of the information afforded us by editors -and biographers, concerning the author of one of the most -popular fairy tales ever written.</p> - - -<h4>THE BEAUTY AND THE BEAST.</h4> - -<p><i>La Belle et la Bête.</i>—Thousands of English readers have -no doubt been all their lives under the impression that they -knew nearly by heart the story of <i>Beauty and the Beast</i>; and -though few, alas! may have taken the trouble to inquire who -was the author of it, those who have, imagine themselves -indebted for it to Madame Leprince de Beaumont. Nay, -there are many, no doubt, in France who are under the same -belief, for "<i>La Belle et la Bête</i>, par Madame Leprince de -Beaumont," is, without a word of explanation, at this moment -circulating as a portion of the French Railway Library, and -was published, with various other stories, in a small edition -of <i>Contes des Fées</i> only last year, under her name, by a bookseller -on the Quai des Augustins, Paris. It is only those who -have read the original story by Madame de Villeneuve, either -in the <i>Contes Marins</i>,<a id="FNanchor_59_59"></a><a href="#Footnote_59_59" class="fnanchor">[59]</a> or in the <i>Cabinet des Fées</i>, who will -not be surprised to find that Madame de Beaumont has -merely the merit of having cut this admirable work down to -the smallest comprehensible dimensions, and made a pretty -little nursery tale of one of the most ingeniously constructed -stories in the whole catalogue of fairy chronicles.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_535">[Pg 535]</a></span></p> - -<p>The story -of the Beast is but alluded to in a few words, and that of the -real parents of Beauty altogether omitted. It is no answer -to say that the version by Madame de Beaumont is an agreeable -story, that the moral is preserved, and that there are portions -of the original tale which required alteration or omission. -In justice to Madame de Villeneuve, it ought never to be -printed without the acknowledgment that it is simply an -abridgment of her composition, adapted to the use of juvenile -readers, by Madame de Beaumont. I have omitted a dozen -lines, and softened one objectionable expression; but, with the -exception of this very slight and indispensable alteration, -Madame de Villeneuve's story is now placed before the English -public in its entirety.</p> - -<p>It was published in 1740, and Mr. Dunlop remarks that -"it surpasses all that has been produced by the lively and -fertile imaginations of France or Arabia;" but in his notice -of the tales of Perrault, he says that it is an expansion -of and adoption from <i>Riquet à la Houpe</i>. I think this -is one of those hasty conclusions of which we are all occasionally -guilty. I cannot, for my part, see any resemblance -between the two stories. In <i>Riquet</i>, an ugly and deformed -prince wins the hand of a lovely princess—the usual triumph -of mind over matter; but in <i>Beauty and the Beast</i>, the -suitor is not merely a repulsive man, but a monster of -the most horrible and tremendous description, and who -is specially prohibited from availing himself of those mental -powers which might in the slightest degree affect the judgment -of the lady. Pity and gratitude are the motives -which influence Beauty to sacrifice her own happiness to -ensure that of the Beast. In the other case, admiration of -the talent of Riquet renders the Princess gradually blind to -the defects of his person. <i>Le Mouton</i> of Madame d'Aulnoy -offers infinitely more points of resemblance. The transformation -of the King into a ram by a jealous and vindictive fairy, -and the permission given by him to Merveilleuse to visit her -family, on her solemnly promising to return by a stated period, -are features too obvious to be overlooked. The despair of -the Ram in consequence of her not fulfilling her promise on -the last occasion, is also like that of the Monster; but - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_536">[Pg 536]</a></span> -Madame de Villeneuve has avoided the tragical catastrophe; -and notwithstanding the similarity I have pointed out, -<i>Beauty and the Beast</i>, taken as a whole, deserves all the -praise that those who are best acquainted with it have unanimously -accorded to it.</p> - -<p class="pmb3">It is a curious circumstance that the <i>Gatta Cennerentola</i> of -Basile, and the German version of <i>Cinderella</i>, both commence -with the departure of the father on a journey, and the requests -of his daughters corresponding exactly in their general character -with those in <i>Beauty and the Beast</i>, while we find -nothing of the sort in Perrault's <i>Cendrillon</i>. I infer from -this that the Italian and German writers have mixed two old -stories together, and that Madame de Villeneuve's is founded -on one of them.</p> - - -<p class="break" /> -<div class="footnotes"><b>FOOTNOTES:</b> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_59_59"></a><a href="#FNanchor_59_59"><span class="label">[59]</span></a> So called from being supposed to be narrated on board a ship bound to -St. Domingo. 4 vols. 12mo. Paris, 1740-41. They were republished under -the title of <i>Le Temps et la Patience</i>, in 1768.</p></div></div> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_537">[Pg 537]</a></span></p> - - -<h3 class="no-break">THE COUNT DE CAYLUS.</h3> - - -<p><span class="smcap">Anne Claude de Tubierre</span>, <span class="smcap">de Grimoad</span>, <span class="smcap">de Pestils</span>, <span class="smcap">de -Levi</span>, <span class="smcap">Comte de Caylus</span>, was born in Paris, in 1692, and -died the 3rd of September, 1765. He entered the French -army early, and distinguished himself in Catalonia and at the -siege of Fribourg. After the Peace of Rastadt he visited -Italy, and in 1717 went to the Levant in the suite of the -Ambassador of France to the Sublime Porte. During this -journey he undertook an adventure which proves his courage -as well as his love of art. On arriving at Smyrna, he was -anxious to profit by the necessary delay of a few days to visit -the ruins of Ephesus, which are about twelve hours' journey -from that place. The neighbourhood was at that time infested -by a band of brigands, the chief of which was the notorious -and terrible Caracayoli. The roads were exceedingly unsafe -for travellers; but the Count de Caylus was not to be daunted. -He provided himself with a dress made simply of sail-cloth, -and carrying nothing about him that could tempt the most -petty thief, he sought out two of the band of Caracayoli, and -bargained with them for a safe conduct from Smyrna to -Ephesus and back again, the money to be paid only on his -return. It being their interest to take care of him, he found -them the most faithful guides in the world. Caracayoli, on -learning the object of his journey, politely offered to assist -his researches. He informed the Count that in the neighbourhood -of his retreat there were some ruins well worthy -his inspection, and to expedite his visit to them, he mounted -him and one of his guides on two fine Arabian horses. The -ruins proved to be those of Colophon. The Count returned -to the retreat of Caracayoli, and passed the night there, and -the next morning proceeded to the site of the ancient city of -Ephesus, from whence he was safely conducted back to Smyrna -by the brigands, each party well satisfied with their bargain.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_538">[Pg 538]</a></span></p> - -<p class="pmb3">After his return to France, in 1717, he made several other -journeys abroad, and paid two visits to London. At Paris he -occupied himself with drawing, music, painting, writing, and -sculpture. He wrote the lives of the most celebrated painters -and sculptors of the Royal Academy, and founded in that -Academy an annual prize for the students who were most -successful in expressing the passions. In 1742 he was elected -an honorary member of "L'Académie des Inscriptions," in -which he founded another prize of five hundred livres for the -best essays on the manners and customs of the ancients. He -formed a splendid collection of Etruscan, Greek, Roman, and -Gaulish antiquities, an account of which was published (seven -vols. 4to, the last in 1767) by Monsieur le Beau. He discovered -the ancient art of encaustic painting, and of tinging -marble, from hints in the works of the elder Pliny. But all -this occupation and study did not prevent this eminent -scholar and antiquary from indulging in the lighter pursuits of -literature. He did not disdain to acknowledge the fascination -of a fairy tale, or to contribute to the number of them. -I have selected three from his <i>Féeries Nouvelles</i>, which are -in my judgment the best, and display the greatest variety of -style and power of imagination. The first,—</p> - - -<h4>PRINCESS MINUTE AND KING FLORIDOR.</h4> - -<p><i>La Princesse Minutie et le Roi Floridor</i> is written in a -spirit of playful satire, which reminds one of those sprightly -caricatures of fairy tales which flowed so pleasantly from -the pen of Count Hamilton; but, unlike <i>Le Belier</i> and -<i>Fleur d'Epine</i> of that accomplished satirist, <i>Princess Minute -and King Floridor</i> presents us with a sound and serious -moral, which at this moment, when the sacrifice of important -interests to routine and etiquette has caused so much animadversion, -is singularly <i>apropos</i>. It also reads a pleasant -lesson to those who neglect or misuse the great means and -opportunities which it has pleased Providence to bestow upon -them, and amidst all its whimsical extravagances, never ceases -to whisper in the words of Solomon—</p> - -<p class="p1 center font09 pmb1">Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways and be wise.</p> - -<p>Floridor was the name of a celebrated French actor of the -seventeenth century. In <i>Le Temple du Destin</i>, written by Le - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_539">[Pg 539]</a></span> -Sage, and acted at the Fair of St. Laurent in 1715, the -High Priest of Destiny observes upon the vanity of an -actor—</p> - -<div class="block2"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">Tout ce qui reluit n'est pas or</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Ils out tous ce génie,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Chacun se croit un Floridor</span> -<span class="i0 font09">La plaisante manie!</span> -</div></div> -</div> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - -<h4>THE IMPOSSIBLE ENCHANTMENT.</h4> - -<p><i>L'Enchantement Impossible</i> is an amusing story with one -blemish, which I have ventured to correct by the omission of -half a dozen lines, and the suppression of an unnecessary -indelicacy. Unlike the last, this is a mere work of fancy, -without any particular object—a sort of illustration of the -old song and saying, <i>Love will find out the way</i>. The Mer-man -and his sister would seem to point out a Breton origin -for this story, as the belief in these marine marvels is strong -upon the coast of Brittany, where the females are called -Morgan (sea-women), or Morver'de (sea-daughters), and are -supposed to draw down to their palaces of gold and crystal, -at the bottom of the ocean, those who venture imprudently -too near the edge of the water; but the Count de Caylus -was too well acquainted with the classical Tritons and Syrens -to render it necessary for him to draw upon the legends of -Armorica for such materials, and it is probable the story is -entirely of his own invention.</p> - -<p class="pmb3">The absurd fashions in hair-dressing, glanced at in this story, -by the introduction of a fairy with her hair dressed <i>en chien -fou</i>, are commented upon in a little volume called <i>Histoires -des Modes Française</i>; Amsterdam and Paris, 1773. "The -number of these <i>frisures</i>," says the writer, "is almost -infinite. Every year, every month, produces new ones. We -have seen, in succession, hair dressed <i>en bequille</i> (crutch -fashion), <i>en graine d'epinards</i> (spinach fashion!), <i>en baton -rompu</i> (broken stick!); yesterday it was <i>en aile de pigeon</i>, -to-day it is <i>en débacle</i>."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_540">[Pg 540]</a></span></p> - - -<h4>BLEUETTE AND COQUELICOT.</h4> - -<p class="pmb3"><i>Bleuette et Coquelicot</i> is a charming fairy tale of the pastoral -order, unexceptionable in its style, and salutary in its -instruction. I have only to add, in further illustration of the -head-dress of Arganto (p. 360), that "Foreign <i>Marshalle</i> -Powder" was advertised in 1781 at sixteen shillings per pound, -by R. Langwine, at the sign of the "Rose," opposite New -Round Court, Strand; and that receipts for making it occur -as late as in Gray's <i>Supplement to the Pharmacopœia</i>, in 1836. -The author of <i>L'Histoire des Modes Française</i>, quoted above, -says he does not "despair of one day seeing rose-coloured hair -powder, blue heads," &c.; and in <i>Plocacosmos</i> (1781), we -actually find receipts for making yellow, <i>rose-pink</i>, and black -hair powder; while Goldsmith, in his <i>Citizen of the World</i>, -Letter III., mentions both black and <i>blue</i>.</p> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_541">[Pg 541]</a></span></p> - - -<h3 class="no-break">MADEMOISELLE DE LUBERT.</h3> - - -<p>Of this lady we have but very meagre information. She -was born about the year 1710, and is said by some writers to -have been the daughter of a President; and by others, of a -"Trésorier de Marine." She appears to have led a studious -and retired life, her love of literature indisposing her to marriage. -Her <i>Contes des Fées</i> were commenced about 1740; -and several have been attributed to her pen which she disavowed. -Those she acknowledged were:—<i>Terserion</i>, <i>La -Princesse Lionette et le Prince Coquerico</i>, <i>Le Prince Glacé -et la Princesse Etincelante</i>,<i> La Princesse Couleur de Rose -et le Prince Celadon</i>, <i>La Princesse Camion</i>, and <i>La Nouvelle -Léonille</i>. She was also the author of a translation of <i>Amadis -des Gaules</i>, <i>Les Hauts Faits d'Esplandian</i>, and <i>Anecdotes -Africaines</i>, published in 1752. Voltaire and Fontenelle -called her "Muse et grace." She was living in 1772, and died -before 1779. She had disappeared from society for some time -previously, and was presumed to be still living at that date; -but a letter written by some one who knew of her decease, -inserted in the <i>Journal de Paris</i> of that year (No. 69), -addressed to the author of <i>L'Almanach des Dames Illustres</i>, -by "l'Ombre de Mademoiselle de Lubert," and dated from the -"Mille et unième Bosquet des Champs Elisées," seems to -have been considered sufficient authority; though as no precise -time or place is mentioned, the letter might have been -written by the lady herself had she wished to deceive the -public. She had, however, reached a very respectable age, -and it is probable that she was dead at that period.</p> - -<p>"Her <i>Contes des Fées</i>," remarks one of her critics, "are -not nearly equal to those of Mademoiselle de Murat and other -ladies who have written in that style. They have less of moral -purpose and allegorical allusion." This is quite true; and - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_542">[Pg 542]</a></span> -my object in publishing the two I have selected is to illustrate, -as I have mentioned in my preface, the decline of the Fairy -tale. Mademoiselle de Lubert is one of the latest of her class. -Her stories are only designed to amuse. The publication of -<i>The Thousand and One Nights</i>, by Galland, and the immense -popularity that work immediately obtained, evidently affected -the composition of fairy tales. Wild, extravagant adventures, -unconnected incidents, transformations without point or object, -a straining after the merely marvellous, and a total abandonment -of the laughing philosophy and the unaffected morality -which distinguish and immortalize the stories of Perrault -and d'Aulnoy, were the first effects of the circulation of the -<i>Arabian Nights Entertainments</i>. The next was the Orientalizing -of every tale of enchantment. Dull Caliphs and -Sultans deposed the merry old Kings who "once upon a -time" ruled in Fairyland. The amours of the seraglio and -the harem were substituted for the innocent courtships of -princes or shepherds. The manners and dresses of the time, -those delicious anachronisms which impart so much pleasantry—ay, -and instruction—to the fairy tale, were carefully -avoided; and the characters, arrayed in what the writers -flattered themselves were Eastern costumes, were seriously -placed in situations compared to which that of Molière's -<i>Monsieur Jourdain</i> as <i>Mamamonchi</i> was a nearer approach to -reality. Even those that had some claim to Oriental origin -were so altered and "manufactured for the European market" -that they were said to appear—</p> - -<div class="block2"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">—en sortant de chez Barbin<a id="FNanchor_60_60"></a><a href="#Footnote_60_60" class="fnanchor">[60]</a></span> -<span class="i0 font09">Plus Arabe qu'en Arabie.</span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p class="pmb3"><i>Le Mercure Galant</i> was flooded with these productions. -<i>Almanzor et Zehra, Conte Arabe</i>; <i>Almerine et Zelima, Conte -Oriental</i>; <i>Balky, Conte Oriental</i>; <i>Zaman, Histoire Oriental</i>, <i>&c.</i> -Then we have <i>Contes Mogol</i>, <i>Contes Turcs</i>, <i>Contes Chinois</i>, -<i>Contes Tartares</i>, <i>Contes Persans</i>, <i>&c.</i>; but we are forgetting -Mademoiselle de Lubert and her</p> - - -<p class="break" /> -<div class="footnotes"><b>FOOTNOTES:</b> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_60_60"></a><a href="#FNanchor_60_60"><span class="label">[60]</span></a> Barbin was the publisher of the <i>Mille et une Nuits</i>.</p></div></div> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_543">[Pg 543]</a></span></p> - - -<h4>PRINCESS CAMION.</h4> - -<p>A translation of <i>La Princesse Camion</i>, much abridged and -altered, was published in the <i>Child's Fairy Library</i> some -twenty years ago, under the title of <i>Princess Minikin.</i> The -plot of this story is intricate without being ingenious. The -persecution of Camion by Marmotte is purely capricious, and -her contrivances are of the clumsiest description. In the -original, Zirphil is commanded to "take off, one by one, the -scales of the whale;" but a whale has no scales that it could -feel the deprivation of. It is skinning the fish alive that -would be a cruel operation, and I have therefore rendered -"<i>écorcher</i>" in that sense, and not to scale, as it had been -previously translated, in accordance with the specific direction -quoted above. The transformation of the unfortunate Princess -into a crayfish, and her being shelled instead of pounded as Marmotte -had decreed, is all of the same character. The long story -told by her in that state to the other crayfish in the plantation -is a lame way of enlightening either Zirphil or the reader, -and has to be continued in as lame a manner by Citronette. -The pounding the crayfish for the King's soup, and the disappearance -of them in flames when they are put into the -mortar, seems to point to an Eastern origin. The latter -portion reminds us of the black man flinging the fish into the -fire, in the story of "The Fisherman and the Genius," in the -<i>Arabian Nights</i>, where there is also a city changed into a lake, -and all its inhabitants into fishes, and re-transformed in the -end and restored to the rightful monarch, the young King of -the Black Island. The crayfish broth may be an allusion to -the well-known <i>Bisque d'Ecrévisse</i>, but it is also an Oriental -dish; for while this book was passing through the press, a -morning journal announced that "the eldest royal son of his -Majesty the First King of Siam," on his arrival at Claridge's -Hotel, "after satisfying himself that due provision had been -made for the comfort of his staff, retired to rest, having first -partaken of a frugal repast, prepared by his own <i>chef-de-cuisine</i>, -consisting of <i>crabfish pounded</i> with various Eastern -condiments."—<i>Morning Post</i>, October 31st, 1857.</p> - -<p>The eagerness with which the nobles of the Court sought -for the servile office of filling the King of the Whiting's bowl - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_544">[Pg 544]</a></span> -with sea-water, is the only stroke of satire in the story, and -evidently levelled at the candle-holding and similar ceremonies -of "le grand et le petit coucher." To stand and hold a -"bougeoir allumé," while Louis XIV. undressed himself, -was, says St. Simon, "une distinction et une faveur qui se -comptait, tant le Roi avait l'art de donner l'être à des riens."</p> - -<p class="pmb3">In a note to the expression, "shrieks like Melusine's," -page 398, I have suggested that some portion of <i>Princess -Camion</i> might have been founded on the romance of <i>Melusine</i>. -This romance was composed towards the end of the fourteenth -century, by Jean d'Arras, at the desire of the Duke de Berri, -son of John, King of France, and was founded on an incident -recorded in the archives of the family of Lusignan, which were -in possession of the Duke. It is briefly as follows:—</p> - - -<h4>THE LEGEND OF MELUSINE.</h4> - -<p>A King of Albania, named Elinas, had married the beautiful -Fay Pressine, by whom he had three daughters at a -birth, Melusine, Melior, and Palatine. Fay had stipulated -that he should never enter her chamber during the -period of her confinement; but the King having broken his -promise in his anxiety to embrace his newly-born children, -the Queen cried out that she was compelled to leave him, and -immediately disappeared with her three daughters. She -retired to the Court of her sister, the Queen of the "Isle -Perdue," and as her children grew up, instructed them in the -art of sorcery. Melusine having learned from her mother the -conduct of her father, determined to be revenged on him, and -proceeding to Albania, by means of her newly-acquired art -carried off the King and shut him up in a mountain called -Brandelois. The Queen, who still retained some affection for -her husband, on becoming acquainted with this unnatural -act, punished Melusine by sentencing her to become every -Saturday a serpent from the waist downwards, till she should -meet with a lover who would marry her on condition of never -intruding on her during the time of her transformation, when -she was ordered to bathe; with a promise that if she strictly -attended to this injunction, she might eventually be relieved -from her weekly disgrace and punishment. Melusine was -excessively beautiful, and Raimondin, son of the Count de - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_545">[Pg 545]</a></span> -Forez, having met with her in the forest of Colombiers,<a id="FNanchor_61_61"></a><a href="#Footnote_61_61" class="fnanchor">[61]</a> fell -in love with her so deeply that he married her without hesitation -on the prescribed conditions. She built for him, near -the spot where they had met, the Castle of Lusignan, and -bore him several children; but her husband's jealousy being -excited by a cousin, who suggested to him that Melusine had -a criminal object in secreting herself on a Saturday, he made -a hole with his sword in the door of the chamber to which -she was wont to retire, and perceived her in her state of -transformation. The various versions of this legend differ in -the details of the consequences; but all agree in stating that -Melusine, reproaching him with the breach of his word, disappeared, -and left him to end his days as a hermit on Montserrat. -The popular belief was, that she appeared on what -was called the Tower of Melusine when any of the lords of -Lusignan were about to die; and Mezeray assures us, on the -faith "of people who were not by any means credulous," that -previous to the death of a Lusignan, or of a king of France, -she was seen on this tower in a mourning dress, and uttered -for a long time the most heart-piercing lamentations. The -Duke de Montpensier destroyed the castle in 1574, on account -of the resistance made to his arms in it by the Huguenots; -but the family of Lusignan, till it merged in that of Montmorency-Luxembourg, -continued to bear for its crest a woman -bathing, in allusion to the story of Melusine.</p> - -<p class="p1 center font09 pmb3">Ange par la figure, et serpent par la reste.—<i>Delisle.</i></p> - - -<h4>PRINCESS LIONETTE AND PRINCE COQUERICO.</h4> - -<p><i>La Princesse Lionette et le Prince Coquerico</i> is an infinitely -better story than <i>La Princesse Camion</i>: but, like -that, its aim is no higher than to excite the interest and -awaken the wonder of its readers. As a work of fancy, however, -it is one of the best of its class, and I believe is now -for the first time translated into English.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_546">[Pg 546]</a></span></p> - -<p>I do not recollect any story on which it could be said to be -founded; but at the end of <i>La Tyranine des Fées détruite</i>, -by the Countess d'Anneuil, is a story, entitled <i>La Princesse -Lionne</i>, in which a princess is changed into a lioness, and -persecuted by a fairy called La Rancune; but there the similarity -ends. Mademoiselle de Lubert edited an edition of the -<i>Nouveaux Contes des Fées</i> of the Countess d'Anneuil, and -may have taken an idea from that particular incident.</p> - -<p>The model of the globe in which Prince Coquerico saw and -heard all that passed in the universe, and witnessed the opera, -the play, and the orations at the <i>Académie Française</i>, reminds -one of the room in the Palace of the Beast, the various -windows of which afforded Beauty similar entertainment.</p> - -<p class="pmb3">The Fairy Tigreline's employments of spinning and threading -pearls, is in strict accordance with the manners of the -sixteenth century. "Passons avec les dames," says Rabelais, -"nostres vie et nostres temps <i>à enfiler les perles ou à filer</i>, -comme Sardanapalus."—Livre i. chap. 33. I have mentioned -(p. 438) that the opera of <i>Armide</i> was considered the <i>chef-d'œuvre</i> -of Quinnault. The music was composed by Lulli, -and it is reported that he made Quinnault write the last act -over again five times, which so disgusted the poet that he -ceased to write for the stage from that period. The incident -of the shield is that in which Ubaldo holds before Rinaldo -his adamant or diamond shield, in which the latter sees -himself reflected in his effeminate attire, is awakened to a -sense of his degraded situation, and abandons the enchanted -gardens of Armida.—Book xvi.</p> - - -<p class="break" /> -<div class="footnotes"><b>FOOTNOTES:</b> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_61_61"></a><a href="#FNanchor_61_61"><span class="label">[61]</span></a> At a spring called the Fountain of Thirst, or the Fountain of the Fays, -"corruptly called 'La Font des <i>Sees'</i>" (says a writer in 1698), and every year, -in the month of May, a fair is held in the neighbouring mead, when the -pastrycooks sell figures of women '<i>bien coiffées,</i>' called 'Merlusines.'</p></div></div> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_547">[Pg 547]</a></span></p> - - -<h3 class="no-break">MADAME LEPRINCE DE BEAUMONT.</h3> - - -<p class="pmb3"><span class="smcap">Jeanne Leprince de Beaumont</span> was born at Rouen, in -1711, and commenced her literary career in 1748, by the -production of a romance, called <i>La Triomphe de la Vérité</i>; -shortly after which she came to England, and resided in -London for a considerable time, occupying herself as a -governess, and in writing works for the instruction as well as -the amusement of youth. That which acquired the most -popularity was <i>Le Magazin des Enfans</i>, in which appeared -her abridgment of <i>Beauty and the Beast</i>, and her original -<i>Fairy Tales</i>. She was twice married. Her first was an -unfortunate union, annulled almost immediately afterwards. -Her second marriage took place in England, but to a -Frenchman; and in 1762 she returned to France for the -benefit of her native air. In 1768, she purchased a small -estate, called Chenavoi, and died in 1780. Her miscellaneous -works amount to seventy volumes; but even <i>Le Magazin des -Enfans</i> is scarcely remembered in the present day, and the -four short fairy tales which terminate this volume are, with -the abridgment of <i>Beauty and the Beast</i>, the only effusions -by which she is popularly known in England. The best of -them is</p> - - -<h4>PRINCE DÉSIR AND PRINCESS MIGNONE.</h4> - -<p class="pmb3">It is more like one of the good old Breton stories—pleasant, -short, and with a sound moral.</p> - - -<h4>PRINCE CHÉRI,</h4> - -<p class="pmb3">Corrupted into "Prince Cherry" in our children's books, -exhibits the influence of the importations from the East. -But that it has so manifest a moral, it might pass for a - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_548">[Pg 548]</a></span> -French alteration of an Oriental tale. The names of Suliman -and Zélie would encourage the suspicion.</p> - - -<h4>THE WIDOW AND HER TWO DAUGHTERS.</h4> - -<p class="pmb3"><i>La Veuve et ses Deux Filles</i> is better known by the title -of <i>Blanche and Vermillion</i>, under which it has been frequently -printed, and was also produced on the French stage by Mons. -Florian, in March, 1781. The moral of the story is declared -by the Fairy to be that excessively trite and common-place -axiom, that happiness consists in content, or, in the words of -the author, the possession of things only that are necessary -without wishing for more; but the author forgot to show us -that Blanche was discontented. It does not appear that she -wished for superfluities, or to be a "great Queen," or that -such an idea ever entered her head till the Fairy promised -her she should become one, "not to reward," but "to punish," -her for begrudging to give away her plums. Poor Blanche -is therefore made an <i>unhappy</i> queen; her low birth renders -her an object of contempt at Court; the King is a worthless -person, who neglects the innocent girl his passion induced him -to place upon his throne, and who is the mother of his -children; and at length the miserable wife exclaims that -"happiness is not to be found in magnificent palaces but in -the innocent occupations of the country." Now this is -foolish—it is worse, for it is false and injurious. There is -as much happiness in palaces and on thrones, thank God, as -there is in cottages. The occupations of a virtuous sovereign -are as innocent as those of a husbandman, while the power to -do good, existing with the will, must make the balance of -happiness greatly in favour of the former. The cares of State -are burdensome enough, no doubt, and the more conscientious -the monarch, the weightier the sense of responsibility; but -has the countryman no cares, no sorrows, no <i>vices</i>? The legal -occupations of all classes are "innocent." Is it only kings -and nobles who yield to temptations or indulge in the evil -propensities of our common nature? There has been too -much of this fallacy infused into what are called moral stories, -and at the risk of being accused of breaking a butterfly on the - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_549">[Pg 549]</a></span> -wheel, I have singled out this particular instance, as <i>Blanche -and Vermillion</i> is to be found in almost every child's story-book. -That the author's intention was laudable, I do not -doubt; but to read a wholesome lesson, she should have shown -Blanche to have been discontented with the lot assigned to -her by Providence, pining to mix in society for which she -was neither fitted by birth nor education, and dreaming that -happiness consisted solely in rank, wealth, and luxury. The -moral should have been, not that such possessions were incompatible -with virtue and happiness, but that their owners were -not exempted from the frailties and sufferings of humanity, and -that unequal marriages were rarely fortunate ones. All this, -it will be said, she might mean, but it is not evident; and the -only impression made upon a child's mind by this story, if -any impression can be made by it whatever, is the very absurd -and objectionable one, that all kings and queens are wicked -and unhappy, and all farmers and dairy-maids virtuous and -contented.</p> - - -<h4>PRINCE FATAL AND PRINCE FORTUNÉ.</h4> - -<p>This is another of the moral Fairy Tales of Madame de -Beaumont, and, as <i>Fatal and Fortuné</i>, a great favourite with -the compilers of children's story-books. It is healthier in -tone than the preceding: the value of adversity is difficult to -impress on a young mind, and it is pointed out in this little -tale as well, perhaps, as it could be; but there is one observation -I must venture to make in reference to a point of taste. -The writers of the old Fairy Tales never mix up the Almighty -with fairies and enchanters. The superior powers are invariably -the mythological divinities of ancient Greece and Rome. -Their heroes and heroines pray to "the gods," not to "God." -The introduction of the sacred name is, I am well aware, too -frequent in familiar French conversation, to render it a matter -of criticism in the original language; and I fully acquit Madame -de Beaumont of any intentional irreverence; but it is a fact -worthy of remark, that in an age and at a Court which are -described as particularly licentious, the writers for youth or -entertainment carefully abstained from an unnecessary profanity -of which they had examples enough in the older -fabliaux and romances, not only of their own country, but - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_550">[Pg 550]</a></span> -throughout Europe; and that although the majority of these -authors were in the highest ranks of society—members of the -circle that surrounded the throne of one of the most despotic -monarchs in the civilized world—they never spared the foibles -or the crimes of princes, or the hypocrisy and treachery of -their parasites.</p> - -<p>The fearless frankness, indeed, with which they satirized -the follies and inveighed against the vices of the great, is as -honourable to them as their perfect freedom from that questionable -morality which would deny in any class the existence -of virtue and the enjoyment of happiness founded upon it. -Madame de Beaumont's admission that such may be the case -concludes her story of <i>Fatal and Fortuné</i> more satisfactorily -than her insinuation to the contrary does that of <i>The Widow -and her Two Daughters</i>.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_551">[Pg 551]</a></span></p> - -<p class="pmb3">So much has been said in this Appendix about <i>Peau d'Ane</i> -and <i>L'Adroite Princesse</i>, that although, as in the case of -<i>Prince Marcassin</i> and <i>Le Dauphin</i>, in my former volume, I -have not included them in the body of the work, I think it -may be as well, as in the above instance, to give in this place -an analysis of their plots, they being undoubtedly two of the -oldest fairy tales of their class on record.</p> - - -<h4>PEAU D'ANE.</h4> - -<p>A Princess, in order to escape the persecution of the King, -her father, on a point of conscience, consults a fairy, who is -her godmother, and by her advice successively requests her -father to give her three dresses—the first of the colour of the -sky, the second of the colour of the moon, and the third of -the colour of the sun, believing he will be unable to fulfil his -promises. He succeeds, however, in procuring for her the -three dresses; and she is then instructed to ask him for the -skin of a marvellous ass in the royal stables, which supplies -the King daily with an ample quantity of gold coin, under -the impression that his Majesty will never consent to such a -sacrifice. The infatuated Monarch, however, does cause the -ass to be killed and flayed, and the Princess, on the receipt -of the skin she has requested, is reduced to flight. The Fairy -tells her to put the three fine dresses and all her jewellery, &c. -in a large trunk, which by magical power is to follow her -underground, and appear whenever she needs it; and begriming -her face and hands, and wrapping herself up in the -ass's skin, the Princess escapes from the palace, and travels -into the dominions of a neighbouring monarch. She there -obtains employment in a farm as a scullion and keeper of the -pigs and poultry, her only pleasure consisting in occasionally -locking herself up in her miserable room, and putting on her - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_552">[Pg 552]</a></span> -fine dresses and jewellery, which appear at her wish, as the -Fairy promised her.</p> - -<p>The son of the King of this country happens to visit this -farm occasionally as he returns from hunting, and one day -peeps through the keyhole of the door, and sees Peau d'Ane -(as the Princess is called, from the only dress she wears in -public) arrayed in one of her richest robes. He is dazzled -with her beauty, and believing her to be some divinity, he is -afraid to burst open the door, and returns to the palace, -where he falls perfectly love-sick, refusing to eat, drink, or -take any amusement. He inquires who lives in that wretched -room at the farm, and is told an ugly, dirty, kitchen wench, -called Peau d'Ane, for the reason aforesaid. He declares -that nothing can cure him but a cake made by her hands. -After all sorts of expostulations, they yield to his wishes, and -Peau d'Ane is ordered to make a cake for the Prince. She -has seen him on his visits to the farm, and is equally in love -with him. She makes the cake, and drops, by accident or -design, a magnificent emerald ring into it. The Prince devours -the cake, and finds the ring. He immediately declares that -he will marry no one but the woman who owns that ring. -On this determination being made public, all the unmarried -ladies in the Court and kingdom endeavour to fit on the ring, -but it is too small for any one to pretend to the ownership. -At length Peau d'Ane is sent for at the Prince's wish, and -dropping her hideous ass's skin, appears in magnificent attire, -and places the ring easily on her finger. Everybody is astonished, -the Prince and his parents delighted, and the nuptials -take place, being honoured by the presence of Kings and -Fairies from all quarters, and specially by the father of the -Princess, who has recovered from his infatuation.</p> - -<p>This story, founded originally on the legend of St. Dipne, -was a favourite in France from an exceedingly early period, -and was versified by Perrault, and published with <i>Les Souhaits -Ridicules</i>, as I have already stated, in 1694. He alludes to -the original nursery tale in his <i>Parallele des Anciens et des -Modernes</i>, 1689, in which he makes the partisan of the -ancients say, "Les fables Milesiennes sont si puériles, que -c'est leur faire assez d'honneur que de leur opposer nos Contes -de <i>Peau d'Ane</i> et de <i>la Mère l'Oye</i>." The prose version of -this tale was not published until many years after his death, - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_553">[Pg 553]</a></span> -and is supposed by Baron Walkenäer not to have been his -composition; and I think there is a point unnoticed by the -Baron which supports that opinion. The story is dedicated -to Mademoiselle Eleanore de Lubert.<a id="FNanchor_62_62"></a><a href="#Footnote_62_62" class="fnanchor">[62]</a> Now, if this be Mademoiselle -de Lubert, author of <i>La Princesse Camion</i>, &c., she -was not born till some years after the death of Perrault; and -as in the dedication we find the lines</p> - -<div class="block2"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">"Quoique vous soyez à l'aurore,</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Du printemps de vos jeunes ans,"</span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p>the dedication itself could not have been written much before -1720, Mademoiselle de Lubert having been born about 1710.</p> - -<p>There is another story in the <i>Contes ou Joyeux Devises de -Bonaventure Desperiers</i>, Novel 130, of a young girl named -"Peau d'Ane," and "how she got married by the means -furnished her by the Ants." A gentleman fell in love with -a merchant's daughter, named Pernette. The father and -mother, not daring flatly to refuse their consent, attached to -it what they considered an impossible condition—namely, -that for a given period previous to her marriage the girl -should wear no other apparel than the skin of an ass. -Pernette, returning the gentleman's affection, was not to be -discouraged by this obstacle, and cheerfully wore the skin of -an ass for the appointed time. Foiled in this matter, they set -their wits to work to invent something more impracticable. -They insisted that she should lick up, grain by grain, a bushel -of barley, which they spilt for that purpose on the ground. -Nothing daunted, she applied herself to this task; but the -ants repaired to the same spot, and took away all the barley -by degrees, without being noticed, so that it appeared as if -Pernette had done it; and her parents considering further -opposition useless, the girl obtained her husband. The story -concludes with the assertion that "Vray est que tant quelle -vesquit le sobriquet de Peau d'Ane lui demeura."</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_554">[Pg 554]</a></span></p> - -<p class="pmb3">There is nothing whatever in this story to remind one of -the last, beyond the simple circumstance of the skin; nor have -we any clue as to which may be the oldest: but both were -called <i>Peau d'Ane</i>, and it may be just possible that one furnished -a hint for the other, or, indeed, that there was a -collection of stories so entitled; for La Porte, the valet of -Louis XIV., tells us, in his <i>Mémoires</i>, that when that monarch -was still a child, but had passed from the hands of females -into those of men, he could not go to sleep "parcequ'on ne -lui contait plus <i>les contes</i> de Peau d'Ane ainsi que les femmes -qui le gardaient avaient coutume de le faire."</p> - - -<h4>L'ADROITE PRINCESSE; OU, LES AVENTURES DE FINETTE.</h4> - -<p>A King departing for the Crusades commits to a Fairy the -charge of his three daughters—Nonchalante, Babillarde, and -Finette, names descriptive of their characters. They are -shut up in a tower without a door, and furnished with three -enchanted distaffs of glass, which they are told will break on -the commission of any indiscretion. They were to be provided -with everything they might properly require by means of a -basket let up and down by a crane and pulley fixed on the -top of the tower. The two eldest Princesses soon become -weary of solitude, and one day pull up in the basket an old -beggar woman, Nonchalante hoping she will be her servant, -and Babillarde being anxious to have somebody else to talk -to. The beggar woman proves to be a Prince disguised, the -son of a neighbouring King who is a bitter enemy of the -father of the three Princesses, and who has had recourse to -this expedient in order to revenge himself for some insult or -injury he has sustained. By flattering the foibles of the two -Princesses who introduced him into the tower, he succeeds in -causing them to break both their distaffs, but all his artifices -are foiled by Finette (L'Adroite Princesse), who gets rid of -him by making him fall through a trap door into the ditch -under the tower. Enraged at his defeat, he has recourse to -another scheme, and succeeds in inducing Finette to descend -in the basket to procure assistance for her sisters, who are -suffering from the consequences of their indiscretions. He -seizes Finette, and is about to have her rolled down a precipice -in a tub filled with spikes, when she adroitly flings him -into it, and he suffers the fate he had projected for the -Princess. Mortally hurt, he bequeaths his vengeance to his -brother, who swears to him that he will marry Finette, and -murder her on the night of his nuptials. She, however, - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_555">[Pg 555]</a></span> -places a figure of straw in the bed, which the Prince unwillingly -stabs, and is only too delighted to find he is not guilty -of murdering a woman he loves, and who becomes his happy -Queen.</p> - -<p>This story was not published till 1742, when it was printed -as Perrault's, although it was well known that Mademoiselle -Lheritier, who had read Perrault's <i>Histoires du Temps Passé</i> -in manuscript, had conceived from them the idea of trying -her hand at the same sort of composition, and had actually -published, in 1695-6, this very story, under the title of <i>Les -Aventures de Finette</i> in her <i>Œuvres Meslées</i>, with a letter to -the daughter of Perrault.</p> - -<p>Speaking of that very story she says—"vous savez que -dans le <i>Conte de Finette</i>, les deux sœurs sont très eloignées -d'être aussi vertueuses que je les fais, on ne parle point de -mariage: ce sont deux indignés personnes de qui on raconte -des faiblesses odieuses avec les circonstances choquantes;" and -she also observes, "j'ai pour moi la tradition qui met ce -Conte de <i>Finette</i>; au Temps des Croisades."</p> - -<p>There cannot surely be more evidence required to refute -the assertion of Mr. Dunlop, that <i>L'Adroite Princesse</i> (be it -written by Perrault or Mademoiselle Lheritier) is taken from -the <i>Pentamerone</i>, with little variation of machinery or incident. -The story he alludes to is the fourth of the third day, -and is entitled <i>Sapia Liccarda</i>. There is no such name as -Finette in it, and it is well known, independently of Mademoiselle -Lheritier's declaration, that <i>Le Conte de Finette</i> -was one of the oldest of the French nursery tales.</p> - -<p>Nor can we desire clearer evidence of the way in which -these stories were written than that which is afforded to us by -the repeated acknowledgments of Mademoiselle Lheritier:—</p> - -<div class="block2"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">"Ce que je viens de vous dire</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Est toujours au fond bien naïvement</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Tel qu'on ma conté quand j'etais enfant."</span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p>And, again,—</p> - -<div class="block2"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">"Cent fois ma nourrice on ma mie</span> -<span class="i0 font09">M'ont fait ce beau recit pres des tissons</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Je n'ai fait qu'adjouter un peu de broderie."</span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p>Let any one compare these lines with those of the concluding -portion of the story of <i>L'Adroite Princesse</i> commencing -"Voila Madame," &c., and they must be struck by -the singular resemblance.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_556">[Pg 556]</a></span></p> - -<hr class="tb" /> - -<p>There will be many general readers, and perhaps some -critics, who may think I have been unnecessarily minute in -my notes and humble attempts at illustration; but whilst I -feel that the fairy tales I have selected contain in themselves -nothing that may not afford innocent entertainment to -children, I certainly hope that the little information I have -been able to collect respecting some hitherto obscure and disputed -points may give both this and the book that preceded -it an interest in the eyes of elder readers, who may meet, where -they least expect it, some fact or suggestion, trifling in itself, -but furnishing a clue to more important matter.</p> - -<p>My principal object has been, however, in this volume, -to disabuse the minds of those who have taken for granted -the assertions of our historians of fiction concerning the -original sources from whence Perrault and Madame d'Aulnoy -in particular derived the plots of their fairy tales—assertions -which I confess I had not thought necessary to notice -until, in a kind and complimentary review of my former -volume, it was publicly regretted as an omission. I trust I -have now made it perfectly clear that whether or not the -writers of those tales were cognizant of the existence in the -collections of Straparola and Basile of some half-dozen meagre -and garbled versions of stories told for ages in all the -tongues of Europe and Asia, that the real foundation of those -of Perrault were the old Breton <i>Contes de ma Mère l'Oye</i>, -which in company</p> - -<div class="block2"> -<div class="poem"><div class="stanza"> -<span class="i0 font09">"De Peau d'Ane et de Fier à bras</span> -<span class="i0 font09">Et de cent autres vieux fatras,"</span> -</div></div> -</div> - -<p>he had heard in his own nursery, and with which Louis XIV. -had been rocked to sleep when a child, as well as all the rest -of the children in his dominions; and that Madame d'Aulnoy, -when not indebted to similar recollections, drew upon her -own fertile and lively imagination, introducing occasionally an -incident from one of the old Trouvères of Languedoc, or some -of those Oriental stories which were circulated in manuscript -long before their publication by Galland, or picked up by - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_557">[Pg 557]</a></span> -herself during her residence in Spain from the Moorish and -Turkish slaves around her, nay, from her own little servant -Zayde, who, though she could speak no language but her own -at the time her mistress so pleasantly describes her, might -have eventually acquired sufficient French or Spanish for such -a purpose.</p> - -<p>Her account of this child is so interesting that I shall not -apologise for quoting it:—</p> - -<p>"They have here great numbers of slaves who are bought -and sold at high prices. They are Moors and Turks, some of -them worth four or five hundred crowns a piece.... -You are extremely well served by these unhappy wretches, -they are far more diligent, laborious, and humble than other -servants.... I have one that is not above nine years -old. She is as black as jet, and would be reckoned in her -own country a wonderful beauty, for her nose is quite flat, her -lips prodigiously thick, her eyes of a red and white colour, and -her teeth admirable in Europe as well as in Africa. She -understands not a word of any language than her own. Her -name is Zayde; we have got her baptized.... Those -who sold her to me told me she was a girl of quality; and the -poor child will come often and fall down on her knees before -me, clasp her hands, cry, and point towards her country. I -would willingly send her thither if she could there be a -Christian; but this impossibility obliges me to keep her. <i>I -would fain understand her, for I believe her to be intelligent</i>—all -her actions show it. She dances after her fashion, and -so pleasantly that she affords us much entertainment. I -make her wear white patches, with which she is mightily -taken. She is dressed as they are at Morocco, that is, in a -short gown almost without any plaits, large shift sleeves of -fine cloth striped with different colours like those of our -Bohemians and gipseys. A pair of stays made of merely a -strip of crimson velvet on a gold ground, and fastened at the -sides with silver buckles and buttons, and a mantle of exceedingly -fine woollen stuff, very long and very large, in -which she wraps herself, and with one corner of it covers her -head.</p> - -<p>"This dress is very handsome; her short hair, which looks -like wool, is cut in several places, on each side like a half-moon, -on the crown in a circle, and in front like a heart. She cost - <span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_558">[Pg 558]</a></span> -me twenty pistoles. My daughter has made her governess of -her Marmoset, the little monkey given to her by the Archbishop -of Burgos. I assure you Zayde and the Marmoset -are capitally matched, and understand each other extremely -well."—<i>Relation du Voyage en Espagne.</i></p> - -<p class="pmb3 pmb2">With this characteristic and suggestive extract from a -book deserving to be better known, I leave a subject to which -it is not likely I shall return in print, though it will never -cease to interest me in the study.</p> - - -<p class="p3 center font12 pmb3">THE END.</p> - - -<p class="break" /> -<div class="footnotes"><b>FOOTNOTES:</b> - -<div class="footnote"> -<p><a id="Footnote_62_62"></a><a href="#FNanchor_62_62"><span class="label">[62]</span></a> In the <i>Cabinet des Fées</i>, 1785, it is printed "de Huber," quite a different -name; but the edition of the works of Perrault, 1826, by M. Collin de Plancy, -is more carefully printed, and there it is distinctly de Lubert.</p></div></div> -<p class="pmb3" /> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_a1">[Pg A-1]</a></span></p> - - -<div class="block05"> - -<p class="right font11"><span class="smcap">London: Farringdon Street.</span></p> -<p class="right font09 pmb2"><i>December</i>, 1857. </p> - -<p class="center font13 pmb1">GEORGE ROUTLEDGE & CO.'S</p> - -<p class="center font18 pmb1"><span class="antiqua">New List of Illustrated Books</span></p> - -<p class="center font12 pmb1">SUITABLE FOR PRESENTS.</p> - -<hr class="r15" /> - -<p class="center font09 pmb1"><b>THE FAVOURITE GIFT BOOKS OF THE SEASON.</b></p> -<p class="center font09">Price <b>21</b>s., elegantly bound, gilt edges, with Steel Plates from Birket<br /> -Foster's designs,</p> - -<p class="pmb1"><span class="font11">THE UPPER RHINE</span>, from Mayenz to the Lake of -Constanz. 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Mr. Longfellow ought to -feel proud of this proof of his popularity in England."—<i>Athenæum.</i></p> -</blockquote> - - -<p class="center font11">NEW WORK ON SOUTH AFRICAN FIELD SPORTS.</p> - -<p class="center">In 1 vol., price <b>10</b>s. <b>6</b>d., 8vo, cloth gilt,</p> - -<p><span class="font11">SPORTING SCENES AMONG THE KAFFIRS OF -SOUTH AFRICA.</span> By Captain <span class="smcap">Drayson</span>, R.A. With Eight -Large Illustrations, printed in Colours, from Sketches by the Author.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p class="font09 pmb2">This work is the result of the genuine experiences of a practical sportsman. -It is especially valuable from the fact that Captain Drayson is -skilled in the Kaffir language, and was therefore enabled to travel among -the natives, and to communicate with them directly, without the encumbrance -of an interpreter. In it will be found many interesting details of -seeking, tracking, and slaying the various South African game; together -with curious anecdotes illustrative of the native Kaffir character.</p> -</blockquote> - - -<p class="center">In royal 8vo, price <b>18</b>s., cloth gilt, Vol. I. of</p> - -<p><span class="font11">ROUTLEDGE'S SHAKSPEARE.</span> Edited by <span class="smcap">Howard -Staunton</span> and Illustrated by <span class="smcap">John Gilbert</span>.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p class="font09 pmb2">"The first volume of this superbly illustrated edition is now ready. Some of the -illustrations are perfect gems of modern art, and have been warmly and repeatedly -eulogized by the leading organs of the public press; whilst the notes, emendations, -and comments are just of the kind required by the general reader. It is, in all -respects, a popular edition of the great national dramatist's works; and such a book, -at the price that it is published, must make Shakspeare's writings as well known as -his name."</p> -</blockquote> - -<p class="center">Imperial 8vo, price <b>21</b>s.,</p> - -<p><span class="font11">THE LOWER RHINE,</span> from Rotterdam to Mayenz. -Its Picturesque Scenery and Historical Associations. Illustrated -by <span class="smcap">Birket Foster</span>, and Described by <span class="smcap">Henry Mayhew</span>. Twenty Line -Engravings, executed in the highest style of art, from <span class="smcap">Birket Foster's</span> -drawings.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p class="font09 pmb3">"Here we have been hanging delighted over 'The Rhine and its Picturesque -Scenery,' as illustrated by Mr. Birket Foster, and described by Mr. Henry Mayhew, -just as if it were an unknown stream, and its history and legends were a fresh contribution -to romantic literature. Altogether a tempting book."—<i>Athenæum.</i></p> -</blockquote> - -</div> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_a3">[Pg A-3]</a></span></p> - - -<div class="block05"> - -<p><b>History.</b></p> - -<p class="center">In 3 vols, post 8vo, price <b>15</b>s. cloth lettered.</p> - -<p><span class="font11">MICHAUD'S HISTORY OF THE CRUSADES.</span> -The First English Edition translated from the French; with -Notes. Memoir and Preface by <span class="smcap">W. Robson</span>.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p class="font09">"Michaud is faithful, accurate, and learned: his mind is lofty and generous, and -exactly suitable to the proper filling up of a history of the Crusades."—<span class="smcap">Alison.</span> -(<i>Blackwood's Magazine.</i>)</p> - -<p class="font09 pmb2">"Mr. Robson has done a great service in making Michaud's admirable work -accessible to the general reader."—<i>The Spectator.</i></p> -</blockquote> - - -<p class="center">In 1 vol. 8vo, price <b>14</b>s. cloth lettered.</p> - -<p><span class="font11">THE BRITISH EXPEDITION TO THE CRIMEA</span> -By <span class="smcap">W. H. Russell</span>, <i>The Times'</i> "Special Correspondent." Being -a Revised Edition of "The War," with additions and corrections. Illustrated -with Plans of the Battles, Woodcuts, and Steel Portrait of -Author.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p class="font09 pmb2">"It is not surprising if I avail myself of my brief leisure to revise, for the first -time, and re-write portions of my work, which relate to the most critical actions of -the war. From the day the Guards landed at Malta, down to the fall of Sebastopol, -and the virtual conclusion of the war, I have had but one short interval of repose. -My sincere desire has been, and is, to tell the truth, as far as I know it, respecting -all I have witnessed. Many incidents in the war, from various hands (many of them -now cold for ever), I have availed myself of; but the matter of the work is chiefly -composed of the facts and materials accumulated in my letters."</p> -</blockquote> - - -<p class="center">In post 8vo, price <b>5</b>s. cloth gilt.</p> - -<p><span class="font11">A HISTORY OF BRITISH INDIA,</span> from the Earliest -Period of English Intercourse to the Present Time. By <span class="smcap">Charles -MacFarlane</span>. With Additions to the year 1858. Illustrated with -numerous Engravings.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p class="font09 pmb2">"This admirable aid to the study of British India we particularly recommend, -as one of the best epitomes that our literature possesses."—<i>North Wales Chronicle.</i></p> -</blockquote> - - -<p class="center">In fcap. 8vo, price <b>1</b>s. <b>6</b>d., or <b>2</b>s. cloth gilt.</p> - -<p><span class="font11">LANDMARKS OF THE HISTORY OF GREECE.</span> -By the Rev. <span class="smcap">James White</span>.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p class="font09 pmb2">"This book, with its companion volume, deserves to have a place in every house -where there are young readers, and in many a house where there are none but -elder ones, able to appreciate the genial writings of a man, who having taste and -knowledge at command, sits down to write in the simplest way the story of a people -for a people's reading."—<i>Examiner.</i></p> -</blockquote> - - -<p class="center">In fcap. 8vo, price <b>2</b>s. cloth, or <b>2</b>s. <b>6</b>d. roan lettered.</p> - -<p><span class="font11">GOLDSMITH'S HISTORY OF ENGLAND.</span> A New -Edition, with Continuation to the Death of Wellington. With -Portraits of all the Sovereigns.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p class="font09">"In this edition, the editor has added some facts which had been overlooked by -the author, and preceded the original work by a short notice of the earlier history, -gathered from the old chroniclers, and continued to the present time. To each -chapter is appended a series of questions, by means of which the tutor will readily -be enabled to examine the pupil as to the impressions the facts have made on his -memory."</p> -</blockquote> - -<blockquote> -<p>⁂ Is placed on the list of School Books of the Educational Committee of the -Privy Council.</p> -</blockquote> - -</div> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_a4">[Pg A-4]</a></span></p> - - -<div class="block05"> - -<p><b>History.</b></p> - -<p class="center"> -New Edition, brought down to the Peace of Paris, 1856.<br /> - -In 4 vols. 8vo. price £<b>1</b> <b>10</b>s. cloth lettered.<br /> -</p> - -<p><span class="font11">RUSSELL'S MODERN EUROPE,</span> with a View of the -Progress of Society from the Rise of the Modern Kingdoms. New -Edition, continued to the Peace of Paris, 1856, to which is added a compendious -Index compiled expressly for this Edition.</p> - -<p>The <span class="smcap">Fourth Volume</span>, from the year 1802 to 1856, is sold separately, -price 10s. 6d.; it forms the best handbook of General History for the -last half-century that can be had. All the Candidates for the Government -Civil Service are examined in "Russell's Modern Europe," as to -their knowledge of General History.</p> - - -<p class="center"> -In 2 vols, crown 8vo, cloth, price <b>5</b>s., or in 1 vol. cloth gilt, <b>5</b>s. <b>6</b>d. -</p> - -<p><span class="font11">THE HISTORY OF EXTRAORDINARY POPULAR -DELUSIONS.</span> By <span class="smcap">Charles Mackay</span>, LL.D. The Third Edition. -Illustrated with One Hundred and Twenty Engravings, from scarce -Prints and other authentic sources.</p> - -<p class="font09">Among which will be found the following interesting subjects:—The -<span class="smcap">South Sea Bubble</span>, The <span class="smcap">Tulipomania</span>, <span class="smcap">Relics</span>, <span class="smcap">Modern Prophecies</span>, -<span class="smcap">Duels</span> and <span class="smcap">Ordeals</span>, <span class="smcap">Love of the Marvellous</span>, The <span class="smcap">O. P. Mania</span>, The -<span class="smcap">Crusades</span>, The <span class="smcap">Witch Mania</span>, The <span class="smcap">Slow Poisoners</span>, <span class="smcap">Haunted Houses</span>, -The <span class="smcap">Alchymists</span>,—<span class="smcap">Pretended Antiquity of the Art</span>, <span class="smcap">Avicenna</span>, <span class="smcap">Albertus -Magnus</span>, <span class="smcap">Thomas Aquinas</span>, <span class="smcap">Raymond Lulli</span>, <span class="smcap">Roger Bacon</span>, <span class="smcap">Pope -John</span> XXII., <span class="smcap">Cornelius Agrippa</span>, <span class="smcap">Paracelsus</span>, <span class="smcap">Dr. Dee</span> and <span class="smcap">Edward -Kelly</span>, The <span class="smcap">Cosmopolite</span>, <span class="smcap">Sendivogius</span>, The <span class="smcap">Rosicrucians</span>, Alchymical -Writers of the Seventeenth Century, <span class="smcap">De Lisle</span>, <span class="smcap">Albert Aluys</span>, <span class="smcap">Count -de St. Germains</span>, <span class="smcap">Cagliostro</span>, Present State of the Sciences, &c.—<span class="smcap">Fortune-telling</span>, -The <span class="smcap">Magnetisers</span>, &c.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p class="font09 pmb2">"These volumes will captivate the attention of readers who, according to their -various tempers, feel either inclined to laugh at or sigh over the follies of mankind."—<i>Times.</i></p> -</blockquote> - - -<p class="center"> -In 1 vol. post 8vo, price <b>5</b>s. cloth lettered.<br /> -</p> - -<p><span class="font11">BONNECHOSE'S HISTORY OF FRANCE.</span> The first -English Edition. Translated by <span class="smcap">W. Robson</span>, Esq., Translator of -Michaud's "History of the Crusades," &c. With Illustrations and Index.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p class="font09 pmb2">"It is a cleverly written volume, the translation also being easy and flowing; and -there is no English manual of French history at once so portable and authentic as -this."—<i>The Guardian.</i></p> -</blockquote> - - -<p class="center"> -In 1 vol. post 8vo, price <b>5</b>s. cloth lettered.<br /> -</p> - -<p><span class="font11">FELICE'S HISTORY OF THE PROTESTANTS OF -FRANCE,</span> from the Commencement of the Reformation to the Present -Time. Translated from the Revised and Corrected Edition.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p class="font09 pmb2">"We recommend this work to our readers as one of the most interesting of -Religious History that we have met with after Merle d'Aubigné's 'Reformation;' -and perhaps, to the reading public generally, more interesting and more novel than -even that very popular work."—<i>Atlas.</i></p> -</blockquote> - -</div> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_a5">[Pg A-5]</a></span></p> - - -<div class="block05"> - -<p><b>History.</b></p> - -<p class="center">In 1 vol. royal 8vo, price <b>6</b>s. <b>6</b>d. cloth extra.</p> - -<p><span class="font11">HISTORY OF THE POPES.</span> By <span class="smcap">Leopold Ranke</span>. -Including their Church and State, the Re-organization of the -Inquisition, the Rise, Progress, and Consolidation of the Jesuits, and -the means taken to effect the Counter-reformation in Germany, to revive -Romanism in France, and to suppress Protestant Principles in the South -of Europe. Translated from the last edition of the German by <span class="smcap">Walter -K. Kelly</span>, of Trinity College, Dublin.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p class="font09 pmb2">"This translation of Ranke we consider to be very superior to any other in the -English language."—<i>Dublin Review.</i></p> -</blockquote> - - -<p class="center">In small post 8vo, price <b>5</b>s. cloth extra.</p> - -<p><span class="font11">EMBASSIES AND FOREIGN COURTS.</span> A History -of Diplomacy. By <span class="smcap">The Roving Englishman</span>. The Second -Edition.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p class="font09 pmb2">"The 'Roving Englishman' is a satirical chronicler. His style is not less lively -than severe—not subtle enough for irony, but caustic, free, and full of earnest -meaning. This volume is also an admirable manual, skilfully adapted to the purpose -of diffusing a general knowledge of history and the working of diplomacy."<i>—The Athenæum.</i></p> -</blockquote> - - -<p class="center">In small post 8vo, price <b>5</b>s. cloth extra, gilt.</p> - -<p><span class="font11">PICTURES FROM THE BATTLE FIELDS.</span> By <span class="smcap">The -Roving Englishman</span>. The Third Edition, with Illustrations from -Sketches taken on the spot, and Chapters respecting—</p> - -<blockquote> -<table border="0" cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" class="tdl" summary="List of illustrators 1"> - <colgroup> <col width="30%" /> <col width="30%" /> <col width="30%" /> </colgroup> - <tr> - <td valign="top">Scutari and its Hospitals.</td> - <td valign="top">The Commissariat again.</td> - <td valign="top">The Bashi-Bazouk.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td valign="top">Miss Nightingale.</td> - <td valign="top">A Camp Dinner.</td> - <td valign="top">Russian Officers and Soldiers.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td valign="top">Balaklava.</td> - <td valign="top">The Heights before Sebastopol.</td> - <td valign="top">The French Officer.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td valign="top">A Snow Storm.</td> - <td valign="top"> </td> - <td valign="top">The Zouave.</td> - </tr> -</table> -</blockquote> - -<blockquote> -<p class="font09 pmb2">"Who is unfamiliar with those brilliant little sketches of travel—particularly the -pictures of Turkish life and manners—from the pen of the 'Roving Englishman,' -that were, week after week, the very tit-bits of 'Household Words?'—Who did not -hail their collection into a companionable-sized volume?—and who will not thank -our truly 'fast' friend—the friend of almost everything and everybody but foreign -noodles—the 'Roving Englishman,' for this new book of sketches?"</p> -</blockquote> - - -<p class="center"> -In fcap. 8vo, price <b>1</b>s. <b>8</b>d. strongly bound, or in cloth gilt, <b>2</b>s.,<br /> -or with the Questions and Coloured Map, red sheep, <b>3</b>s. -</p> - -<p><span class="font11">LANDMARKS OF THE HISTORY OF ENGLAND.</span> -By the Rev. <span class="smcap">James White</span>. (The Twenty-second Thousand.)</p> - -<blockquote> -<p class="font09">"We hold this to be a pattern volume of cheap literature. It is so written that it -cannot fail to amuse and enlighten the more ignorant; yet it is a book that may be -read with pleasure and profit, too, by the most polished scholar. In a word, excellent -gifts are applied to the advantage of the people—a poetical instinct and a full -knowledge of English History. It has nothing about it of common-place compilation. -It is the work of a man of remarkable ability, having as such a style of its own, and -a grace that cannot fail to exercise its refining influence upon uneducated people. -The amount of solid information it compresses in a small compass excites in the -reader's mind repeated surprise."—<i>The Examiner.</i></p> - -<p>⁂ Is placed on the list of School Books of the Educational Committee of the -Privy Council.</p> -</blockquote> - -</div> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a id="Page_a6">[Pg A-6]</a></span></p> - - - -<div class="block05"> - -<p class="center"><b>BIOGRAPHY.</b></p> - - -<p class="p1 center">In 4 vols, crown 8vo, price <b>10</b>s., or in 2 vols, cloth gilt, <b>10</b>s.</p> - -<p><span class="font11">BOSWELL'S LIFE OF DR. JOHNSON,</span> with numerous -Portraits, Views, and Characteristic Designs, engraved from -authentic sources.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p class="font09 pmb2">"Homer is not more decidedly the first of heroic poets, Shakspeare is not more -decidedly the first of dramatists, Demosthenes is not more decidedly the first of -orators, than Boswell is the first of biographers. Many of the greatest men that -have ever lived have written biography. Boswell was one of the smallest men that -ever lived, and he has beaten them all. His was talent, and uncommon talent, and to -Jemmy Boswell we indeed owe many hours of supreme delight."—<i>Macaulay.</i></p> -</blockquote> - - -<p class="center">In crown 8vo, price <b>2</b>s. <b>6</b>d. cloth extra, gilt.</p> - -<p><span class="font11">THE LIFE, PUBLIC AND DOMESTIC, OF THE -RIGHT HON. EDMUND BURKE.</span> By <span class="smcap">Peter Burke</span>, Esq. -(of the Inner Temple and the Northern Circuit). Profusely illustrated -with Portraits, Scenes of Events, and Landscape Views, relating to the -great Orator and the other noted persons of his time and areer.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p class="font09 pmb2">"This volume attempts to relate the biography of Edmund Burke as a private -person and a public character in an easily intelligible shape. The author's aim has -been to furnish a plain and popular biography, in which he trusts he has succeeded."</p> -</blockquote> - - -<p class="center">In fcap. 8vo, <b>3</b>s. boards, or <b>3</b>s. <b>6</b>d. cloth gilt.</p> - -<p><span class="font11">ELLISTON'S LIFE and ENTERPRISES.</span> By <span class="smcap">George -Raymond</span>. Illustrated with Portrait and Engravings on steel, -from designs by Phiz, Cruikshank, &c.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p class="font09 pmb2">"This is a very entertaining memoir of one of the most gentlemanly, accomplished, -and versatile actors who adorned the English stage. The life of R. W. Elliston, -unlike that of the majority of his professional brethren, affords ample materials for a -readable book, and this volume presents indubitable testimony in proof of that -fact."—<i>Morning Post.</i></p> -</blockquote> - - -<p class="center">In 1 vol. crown 8vo, price <b>2</b>s. <b>6</b>d. cloth extra.</p> - -<p><span class="font11">EXTRAORDINARY MEN:</span> their Boyhood and Early -Youth. By <span class="smcap">William Russell</span>, Esq. The Sixth Edition, illustrated -with 50 Engravings of Portraits, Birthplaces, Incidents, &c. &c.</p> - -<blockquote> -<p class="font09 pmb2">"What a title to interest the youth of this nation! It teaches in every page -lessons of prudence, frugality, industry, and perseverance; and how difficulties, -moral and physical, have been successfully overcome."</p> -</blockquote> - - -<p class="center">In 1 vol. crown 8vo, price <b>2</b>s. <b>6</b>d. cloth extra, gilt.</p> - -<p><span class="font11">Extraordinary women:</span> their Girlhood and -Early Years. By <span class="smcap">William Russell</span>, Esq. Illustrated with -numerous Engravings designed and executed by Messrs. Dalziel.</p> - -<p class="font09 pmb2">This volume contains the lives of the Empress Josephine, Christina -Queen of Sweden, Catherine Empress of Russia, Mrs. Fry, Madame -Roland, Mrs. Hutchinson, Isabella of Castile, Marie Antoinette, Lady -Stanhope, Madame de Genlis, Mrs. Opie, &c. &c.</p> - -<hr class="r15" /> -<p class="p2 center font11 pmb3"><span class="smcap">London: George Routledge & Co., Farringdon Street.</span></p> - -</div> - - -<p class="break" /> -<hr class="chap" /> - -<div class="transnote"> -<b><a id="Transcribers_notes">Transcriber's notes:</a></b> - -<p>Differences in accents/spelling are results of the usage of -English and French texts.</p> - -<p>Obvious typographical errors have been silently corrected, but other -variations in spelling and punctuation remain unchanged.</p> -</div> - - - - - - - - - -<pre> - - - - - -End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Four and Twenty Fairy Tales, by Various - -*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK FOUR AND TWENTY FAIRY TALES *** - -***** This file should be named 52719-h.htm or 52719-h.zip ***** -This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: - http://www.gutenberg.org/5/2/7/1/52719/ - -Produced by David Edwards, Matthias Grammel and the Online -Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This -file was produced from images generously made available -by The Internet Archive) - -Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions will -be renamed. - -Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright -law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works, -so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United -States without permission and without paying copyright -royalties. 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