She replied that she was but a simple maiden and no goddess, and would have given an account of herself, had not Prospero interrupted her. He foresaw that these two young people would become much attached to each other, and therefore resolved to throw many difficulties in Ferdinand’s way, that he might prove the strength and constancy of his affection.
“I will bind you hand and foot,” he cried. “Shell-fish, acorns, withered roots shall be your food, and salt sea water your only drink.”
“No,” cried Ferdinand, drawing his sword; “I shall resist such entertainment—at any rate until I am overcome by some more powerful enemy than yourself.”
At this Prospero raised his magic wand, which completely fixed Ferdinand to the spot, so that he could not move!
“O father, be not so unkind,” cried Miranda, clinging to the old man. “Have some pity on him, for indeed it seems to me that he is good and true.”
“Silence, girl. You think much of this youth because you have seen no comelier form than mine: but I tell you there are others who in person excel him as far as he excels in beauty the monster, Caliban.”
Then, turning to the prince, Prospero cried, “Come, young sir; you have no power to disobey me.”
And Ferdinand found himself compelled to follow the old man into the cavern, although he turned once and again to gaze upon Miranda. “In truth this man’s threats would seem as nothing to me,” he sighed, “if only I might from my prison behold this fair maid.”
Ferdinand was not confined very long; he was brought out and set to some laborious task, while Prospero from his study watched both the young man and Miranda.
The prince had been ordered to pile up some heavy logs of wood, and soon the maiden saw him half-fainting beneath his burden. “Pray rest,” she cried; “my father will for three hours be at his studies. I entreat you not to work so hard.”