V4 THE ADVENTURES OF PRINCE HEMPSEED.

of the horizontal bars of a dungeon-window, cooing all the
time. It was the cell in which Prince Hempseed had
languished for six months,

“Hasten up to that dungeon,” cried the king; “I am
resolved to have that white pigeon, and that letter. Ihave
pledged my crown to that effect !”

His Majesty was obeyed: thé letter was brought him;
he opened it, and read these words: —

“ Dear and much loved children,

« We are alive, and in freedom. The King of
Sardinia has become convinced of our innocence. Three
days ago we returned to Orfano-Orfana castle. Where
are you? Should God grant that this letter may reach
you by means of the faithful pigeon Auriol, come to us—
come to us—without delay !

«“ Your affectionate father and mother,
«PRINCE AND PRINCESS ORFANO-ORFANA.”

Surprised by the contents of this letter, the king kindly
made inquiries, and found that Prince Hempseed and
Olympia were themselves the children of Prince and
Princess Orfano-Orfana. ‘The little prince was that mo-
ment set at liberty. The king embraced him, and said
“the day after to-morrow you shall return to Italy with
your sister.”

On the following day the king invited Prince Hemp-
seed and his sister Olympia to a splendid feast, and gave
them many rich presents.

“What else can Ido for you?” he asked, with a gra-
cious smile.

“May it please your Majesty to restore our dear com-
panions to us?” said the two children.

‘Tt shall be done!” cried the king.

A month afterwards, the little prince and his sister
arrived at Orfano-Orfana castle, accompanied by a gentle-