But the prince was blinded by love and saw nothing impossible which would bring the object of his affection nearer. He caused the bridge to be builded—as she had desired—the borders of roses planted, and a seat prepared at the farther end. Then, after sending respectful assurance that all was according to her requirement, he hastened to the place of waiting.
Thereupon the princess caused herself to be arrayed beautifully and, accompanied by her maidens, went to the bridge. But, in some way, as she was crossing it, a branch from one of the rosebushes was blown out by the wind and pricked her in the face. Upon that she complained of being hurt, turned, and went back to her home.
Now, the prince had been waiting, in great eagerness, to see her, and was heartstricken when she turned back. Returning to his mother, he exclaimed:
“Everything was done according to her command; but, alas! she went away before I could fix my eyes upon her face. I need not put into words that which my mother can read upon my heart.”
Thereupon the queen became indignant and [[226]]hastened, of her own will, to the house of their neighbor, where, after she had been greeted, she asked why, with one half of the agreement fulfilled, a prince should be made to wait in vain for a simple glance at a maiden’s face.
“Ai, queen mother! I cannot go where thorns are placed to prevent my passing. I release all claim to the bridge as well as to the prince. Henceforth he need not vex his soul concerning me.”
“Ai, my girl!” exclaimed the distressed queen, “why will you put us so to shame? There must be some reason for these ruses. Be gracious! Unburden yourself to me.”
Then came this answer: “Verily, queen mother, since you seem to believe the matter unintentional, I will speak the truth with you. Make a golden bridge. Upon one side of it place golden and upon the other silver candlesticks. Then let the prince die and be buried in a tomb at one end of the bridge. Afterward I will stand beside his head and his eyes may fix themselves upon me.”
Then the queen arose and hastened away in great anger.
“My son,” cried she, “the maiden, because of whom we are so put about, went home because a thorn pricked her cheek!”