Every window had bright large panes of clear glass shining in its casement, and a magnificent great door, turning smoothly and noiselessly upon its huge hinges, had superseded the old, worm-eaten one, that used to groan and creak piteously when opened ever so little.

Above it shone the de Sigognac arms--three golden storks upon an azure field, with this noble motto--entirely obliterated of old--"Alta petunt." For a few moments de Sigognac gazed at it all in silence, overcome by astonishment and emotion.

Then he suddenly turned to Isabelle, with joyful surprise written in every line of his speaking countenance, and seizing her hands passionately, and holding them firmly clasped in his, said: "It is to you, my kind, generous fairy, that I owe this marvellous transformation of my poor, dilapidated, old chateau.

You have touched it with your wand and restored its ancient splendour, majesty and youth.
I cannot tell you how enchanted, how gratified I am by this wonderful surprise.

It is unspeakably charming and delightful, like everything that emanates from my good angel.