As they approached the Queen herself came forth from her crystal palace, followed by many of her subjects.
Stepping up to where Ned lay, she said in a soft voice: "Do not rise, for even now you are much too tall. I myself must pour this magic nectar upon your lips."
So saying, she stepped lightly upon a stone close by and, bending forward, placed the lily to Ned's mouth.
"DO NOT RISE," SAID THE FAIRY QUEEN.
The next moment he felt a strange sensation running through him, and looking down at his hands and feet was delighted to see that they were becoming smaller and smaller.
Though great was his delight, he did not forget his manners, and, turning to the little fairy, said: "How may I ever repay you for your great kindness? Indeed," he added, scarcely able to restrain the tears which came to his eyes, "whatever would my dear mother have thought had I returned to her in the form of a giant?"
"Thank me no more," answered the Fairy Queen, "for gladly will I do any favor for the boy who thinks of his mother first. In the future, should you need my aid, hang this ring about a bluebird's throat and send him to me."
And with these words she placed a slender gold ring upon Ned's little finger.
"But how shall I catch the bird?" asked Ned, his curiosity aroused before he had time to think of thanking her small highness.