Once more we were left alone, but my attention was attracted by hearing a whimper near me. On looking round I saw the woman who had just missed the throne. Plucritus looked as well. And when he saw her he called out, “What’s the matter?”
“She’s got my place, and it isn’t fair.”
“You should have made more haste.”
“I did. But they pulled me back.”
“Well, never mind. You got there last time, didn’t you?”
“Yes.” And she fell to crying louder.
“Cheer up,” said he, patting her head. “Go and get dressed and you shall be the prettiest.”
At this she dried her eyes.
“Will the queen be jealous of me?”
“Yes, if you like.”