This suggestion found favor in the mind of the king and wakened his desire to see the ship. Accordingly he got into a boat, which was rowed by seven pairs of oarsmen, and, together with the queen, started for the vessel. [[217]]
When the girl-captain saw them coming, she ordered the crew to dress all in yellow, and, as the royal party reached the ship’s ladder, it was met with great honor and conducted to the captain’s stateroom.
Coffee was served, and the captain conversed so agreeably with the king that he was lost in admiration.
Finally, after remaining as long as court etiquette would allow, they returned to the palace, where the report of the visit was related to the prince, with such admiring exclamations that desire seized him to view this wonder with the rest. He hastened to the wharf, stepped into a small boat, and was rowed directly to the ship.
When the princess-captain saw him coming she ordered her crew to dress themselves all in green; which they did, and received their visitor with great honor. They conducted him to the captain’s stateroom, where he began conversing with the unknown princess.
In spite of his delicate and skillful questioning she did not betray herself; and the prince felt the same warmth at his heart which had affected him at sight of the maiden in the window of the crystal kiosk. He remained until evening before he could tear himself away. [[218]]
Let us return to the princess.
Word was sent to the director of the port, and arrangements were made to anchor her ship within the inner harbor. After that, the princess, with her attendants and belongings, went ashore and hired the finest house that could be found. It was situated directly in front of the king’s palace. Here she took up her abode.
Let us return to the prince.
The next day, upon going to the place where he first had seen the ship, upon the day before, he could find no trace of it, and beat his head upon the ground in disappointment.