"So you are going home, are you?" he asked.
"Yes, I am going, and Kathie is going with me. How could you let those mosquitoes torment us so? The bites hurt yet. Look!" and she held out a swollen finger.
At this the elf fumbled in his pockets, and drew out a peculiar-looking ring. It seemed to be cut out of coral.
"There," said he, "this will make you believe me somewhat your friend. Let me put it on that finger. See, the swelling goes down. While you wear this, no insect can ever trouble you. Had you been ugly with me, I should not have given you this. But you can have your choice between it and your own blue ring. Which do you prefer?"
"Oh, yours, Mr. Elf, of course. Why, it's a real treasure."
"Of course it is; it came from China. Will you ever come to these woods again?"
"I hope so. Good-bye, Mr. Elf, good-bye."
"Good-bye. You are a real little lady. Good-bye." And with any number of twists and jerks and queer contortions, the rabbit-skin and its owner disappeared in the forest.
Lady Idleways and Kathie looked at the elf's gift, and pronounced it a very useful and pretty trinket. Then they all got in the carriage, and turned their thoughts towards home.
It was late when they reached the castle; for the coachman lost his way, and they were detained. Lights were gleaming from all the windows, and as they neared the broad steps a delightful strain of music welcomed their approach. Servants were waiting to greet them, and Laura was quite overwhelmed with all their kind attentions. She could not but remember how coldly and indifferently she had been in the habit of receiving kindness before she left home; for, child that she was, she had learned to think and reflect. Thrown upon her own efforts to make herself comfortable and happy, and even to sustain her own life, she had grown out of the listless, dissatisfied, unhappy child into a rational and useful being, grateful and disposed to make others happy.