But believing all these pretty things to be provided to please her by the Prince's desire, she endeavoured to amuse herself with them, and found it rather interesting for the first time in her life to have to choose for herself.

Her breakfasts and dinners, and everything conceivable in the shape of delicate and delicious food, appeared whenever she wished for anything of the kind; invisible hands opened the windows and shut the doors, lighted the lamps when the evening closed in, arranged her long fair hair more skilfully than any mortal maid, and brushed it softly when at night she wished to have it unfastened.

Books in every language to interest her, for the Princess had been well taught, appeared on the tables, also materials for painting and for embroidery, in which she was very clever.

Altogether it was impossible to complain, and the next day passed pleasantly enough, though it must be confessed the young Princess often found herself counting the hours till it should be that of sunset.
"Punctual to the moment the Prince made his appearance, but to his guest's distress he seemed careworn and anxious.
"'Has some new misfortune threatened you ?' she asked.
"'No,' replied the Prince, 'but I have to-day scarcely been able to endure my anxiety to learn your decision.

Never in all these terrible years has my suffering been greater, never have I so loathed the hideous disguise in which I am compelled to live.' "Tears filled the Princess's eyes.