I have only power to regain my natural form for three hours every evening after sunset.

And for three years more must it be so.

Then, if your goodness continues so long, all will indeed be right.

But during that time it will be necessary for you to live alone, except for the three hours I can pass with you, in this enchanted palace of mine.

No harm will befall you, all your wants will be supplied by invisible hands; but for a young and beautiful Princess like you, it will be a sad trial, and one that I feel I have no right to ask your consent to.' "'And can nothing be done ?' said the Princess, 'nothing to shorten your endurance of the spell ?' "'Nothing,' said the Prince, sadly.