Hath rarely seen
Creature of earthly mould
Within her door
On pearly floor
Inlaid with shining gold!
Mortal, all thou seest is fair!
Quick! Thy purposes declare!”
As she concluded, the song was taken up and thrice repeated by a multitude of soft voices in the distance. It seemed as if birds and insects joined in the chorus; and ever and anon between the pauses, the sound of a cascade was heard, whose waters fell in music.
All these delightful sounds died away, and the Queen of the Fairies stood patiently awaiting Marion’s answer. Curtsying low, and with a trembling voice, the little maiden said:—
“Will it please Your Majesty to make me as handsome as my sister Rose?”