THE ADVENTURES OF PRINCE HEMPSEED. 45

there are in Italy,—the cedar, for instance, with its thick
shade, and its branches spreading like a parasol. The
prince and princess then allowed their companions to enjoy
a little freedom; for they were certain, thanks to the ex-
perience of the first few days, that this kindness would not
meet with an ungrateful return. Chatterbox perched her-

 

 

 

 

 

   

eon Ss

self on the top of her cage, and gossipped like a true
magpie as she was, crying joyously, “ A half-penny ! a half-
penny!” Counsellor, hopping from branch to branch, ex-
claimed, “ Walk in, sir! walk in, madam!” Zug ran,
clambered, and skipped from place to place more nimbly
than a squirrel; and Topaz and Emerald also enjoyed their
liberty in their own way. They ran about upon the grass,
pecking at the fresh leaves, the sweet smelling moss-roses,
and those tiny shining particles which seem to fall from
the sky, but which really escape from the very hearts of
the flowers. Perhaps you think that Turnspit and Coco
slept all this time? No such thing! As for Patience—the