"So be it," said the King, "but long will you lament the day. It is easier to go than to return. However, I'm not saying that some day you may not come back to me, for I like you well."
The King gave Shamus the magic goblet and ordered that he be borne from Elfland, and Shamus returned to the world.
With the goblet in his pocket and his harp slung over his shoulder, he made his way to the court of the King and the Princess. On the throne sat an old woman, and the faces of those around were strange to him.
"Who are you?" she asked.
Shamus told her the story of his wanderings and produced the goblet.
"Where is the Princess?" he inquired.
At these words the old Queen upon the throne burst into loud weeping.
"Long have you been gone, Shamus," said she. "It is seven times seven years since you left me. And now I am old, and you are as you were. It is too late!"
To Shamus, the time passed in Elfland had been no more than a year, and his heart was sorrowful as he turned away without a word.
"Belike my father is dead," said he as he bent his steps toward home.