“Of course I’m sure,” said the girl; “it is neither the shape nor the color of the missing patch.”
Bud turned to the now trembling sailor.
“Why have you tried to deceive us?” he asked sternly.
“Oh, your Majesty!” returned the man, wringing his hands miserably, “I lost the necktie in a gale at sea, for I knew nothing of its value. And when I came home my mother told me of all the gold you had offered for its return, and advised me to deceive you by wearing another necktie. She said you would never know the difference.”
“Your mother is a foolish woman, as well as dishonest,” answered Bud; “and you shall both be severely punished. Tellydeb,” he continued, addressing the lord high executioner, “take this man to prison, and see that he is fed on bread and water until further orders.”
“Not so!” exclaimed a sweet voice near the king; and then all looked up to see the beautiful Lulea, queen of the fairies, standing beside the throne.
Chapter XXV.
THE FAIRY QUEEN.
Every eye was now fixed upon the exquisite form of the fairy queen, which shed a glorious radiance throughout the room, and filled every heart with an awe and admiration not unmingled with fear.
“The magic cloak was woven by my band,” said the fairy, speaking so distinctly that all could hear the words; “and our object was to bring relief to suffering mortal—not to add to their worries. Some good the cloak has accomplished, I am sure; but also has it been used foolishly, and to no serious purpose. Therefore I, who gave the cloak, shall now take it away. The good that has been done shall remain; but the foolish wishes granted shall now be canceled.” With these words, she turned and lightly lifted the shimmering magic garment from the lap of the princess.
