Not even her mother's great saloon, which she had always thought so magnificent, was to be compared with it.

It was not very large, but it was more like Fairyland than anything she had ever dreamt of.

The loveliest flowers were trained against the walls, here and there fountains of delicately scented waters refreshed the air, the floor was covered with carpets of the richest hues and the softest texture.

There were birds singing among the flowers, gold and silver fish sporting in the marble basins--it was a perfect fairy's bower.

The Princess sat up and looked about her.