Some indefinite charm discern’d only by love.
“That is delightful, but it is much too short,” said Titania smilingly.
“It is better too short than too long,” answered Oberon, “but perhaps the pretty little story-teller has another one for us?”
“If your Majesties wish it,” replied the dainty creature.
“Let it be a longer one this time,” said Titania, “and let it be another tale of true love, please.”
The French Fay considered for a moment, and then said, as if to herself, “I do know another story of true love rewarded after strange adventures, but I’m afraid it will be too long for his Majesty’s taste.”
“This one is for me,” said Titania, turning smilingly to the King, “and my Oberon need not listen if he does not wish to.”
“Be it as my Queen wishes,” said Oberon, who was really excited by the promise of hearing of strange adventures.
Then there was a sort of dainty rustling as of the breeze toying with the summer leaves while all the fairies about the circle settled comfortably down to listen to the long story which the French Fay named