How else should it be, when you have been as a fairy prince to her ?" Then I knew for myself that among all the wild life of Athelney and the troubles of the king the thought of Thora had been pleasant to me; but now I was confused, having the matter brought home to me suddenly, and, as it were, before I was ready to shape all my thoughts towards her.

So all that I could say was foolish enough.
"I am a poor sort of fairy prince, lady." "Ay," she said; "I am as good a fairy godmother, maybe.

And perhaps I should have said nothing--at this time.

But, Ranald, the maiden weeps for your danger, for, at the very least, she owes you much." Then I said, humbly as I felt: "That is more honour to me than I deserve." "That is for her to say," answered the fair lady, turning to where Osmund had been.
But he was now in the doorway, looking out again to the hills.

So she was silent, and I thought of somewhat.
"There is none in this land or in any other--of whom I think as I do of Thora," I said; "but my mind has been full of warfare and trouble with the king.