"I give thee, my daughter, this emerald ring
(Its colour, you see, is a wonderful green),
And tho' you may lose your detestable king
You still shall be owned as the Pigmy-land queen.
Reign long and be happy—through many bright days,
May all your past troubles your happiness prove,
And would you be safe—hear what godmother says,
Be kind to your people, and govern by love!"
As she said these words the old woman placed the ring upon Ophelia's finger, and smiled upon her in an affectionate manner.
At this moment Famcram's rage grew beyond all bounds. He literally foamed at the mouth with fury—both at the scene which was being enacted before his eyes, and the unwillingness or impotence of his guards to help him. He yelled out to them again at the top of his voice, whilst his red hair seemed to blaze with fury as he whirled his sceptre round his head.