Part Two
In which it appears that the white cat was a princess after all, and became the greatest fortune of the youngest son.
The old king did not really wish to give up his kingdom at all, and so he sent his three sons out for a third time, and said to them:
“Go, find the most beautiful woman in the world. I cannot give my kingdom to any son without a queen to help him. Come back at the end of a year.”
The sons set out on their travels again. The youngest went at once to the home of the White Cat and told her what the King demanded. The White Cat said nothing but made the prince very happy and comfortable in her palace for a whole year. Every wish was gratified and he almost forgot the passing of time. At the end of the year the White Cat said:
“Prince, you must now go back to your father; but I wish you would take me with you. I shall be your beautiful princess. All you will have to do will be to cut off my head and tail and throw them into the fire.”
The prince was greatly astonished to hear this, for he did not like to hurt the White Cat, but she begged him again and again. Finally he drew out his sword and with one stroke cut off the cat’s head and tail and threw them into the fire.
What a commotion was created! The White Cat had disappeared and in her place stood a young and beautiful princess. All the other cats were gone and in their places were lords and ladies. The Prince was surrounded by a court and everybody was talking and laughing as though nothing had happened.
The Princess took the Prince by the hand and said:
“You have rid us of the enchantment of a wicked fairy who turned me into a white cat, and all my friends into cats. Now, let us go to your father.”