"Here," said he, "are the remains of thine enemies."
A stone slab chequered with white and black squares lay in the basket, with a number of figures of alabaster and black marble.
"It is the game of chess," said Sophia; "all war is confined to this slab and to these figures. It is a memento of the olden, mournful times."
Perseus turned to Fable and gave her the spindle. "In thy hands shall this spindle make us eternally rejoice, and out of thyself shalt thou spin an indissoluble, golden thread."
Phoenix flew with melodious rustling to her feet, and spread his wings before her; she placed herself upon them, and hovered over the throne, without again descending. She sang a heavenly song and began to spin, whilst the thread seemed to wind forth from her breast. The people fell into new raptures, and all eyes were fastened on the lovely child. New shouts of exultation came from the door.
The old Moon entered with her wonderful court, and behind her the people bore in triumph Ginnistan and her bridegroom. Garlands of flowers were wound around them; The royal family received them with the most hearty tenderness, and the new royal pair proclaimed them their viceregents upon earth.
"Grant me," said the Moon, "the Kingdom of the Fates, whose wondrous mansions have arisen from the earth, even in the court of the palace. I will delight you therein with spectacles, in which the little Fable will assist me."
The king granted the prayer; the little Fable nodded pleasantly, and the people rejoiced at the novel and entertaining pastime. The Hesperides congratulated them upon the new accession, and prayed that their garden might be protected. The king gave them welcome; and so followed joyful events in rapid succession. In the mean while, the throne had imperceptibly changed to a splendid marriage-bed, over which Phœnix and the little Fable were hovering in the air. Three Caryatides of dark porphyry supported the head, while its foot rested upon a Sphinx of basalt. The king embraced his blushing bride. The people followed his example, and kissed each other. Nothing was heard but tender names and a noise of kisses.
At length Sophia said, "The Mother is among us. Her presence will render us eternally happy. Follow us into our dwelling. In the temple will we dwell forever, and treasure up the secret of the world."
Fable spun diligently, and sang with a clear voice: