"'There is one a-piece, any way,' said Perke, plucking one.
"Small and Elfie did the same.
"'Let us save them until mother returns,' said the sister.
"'It must be a gift from our godmother,' whispered Small, wisely.
"'I shall see what mine contains,' said Perke, boldly.
"He pulled at the folded leaves, but they resisted all his endeavors, and clung firmly together.
"Small concluded to hold his bud under the spring that gurgled into a mossy basin, yet it did not open for the crystal drops that fringed it with fragrant dew.
"Then little Elfie pressed her warm lips gently upon the tulip, and like magic it flew open, disclosing a tiny gold trumpet.
"Her brothers then kissed their flowers as well, and found each to contain a similar gift.
"Within the golden circle now sprang up still another tulip, which opened of its own accord, and forth stepped a quaint little figure. She wore a red-peaked cap, high-heeled shoes, and a tight-laced bodice. Her hair was bright yellow, and the tip of her sharp nose had a blue tinge, which would have been unbecoming to any other person than a fairy. Her carriage consisted of a sweet-pea blossom, drawn by two spirited cockchafers. The children could not but admire the skilful manner in which she handled the ribbons and whip, made of a spider's leg, ornamented with tassels.