This was one of the good fairies.

The moment she saw him she knew quite well who he was and what was going to come of it; but she was not at liberty to interfere with the orderly march of events.

She received him with the kindness she would have shown to any other traveller, and gave him bread and milk, which he thought the most delicious food he had ever tasted, wondering that they did not have it for dinner at the palace sometimes.
The old woman pressed him to stay all night.

When he awoke he was amazed to find how well and strong he felt.

She would not take any of the money he offered, but begged him, if he found occasion of continuing in the neighbourhood, to return and occupy the same quarters.
"Thank you much, good mother," answered the prince; "but there is little chance of that.