THE INVISIBLE PRINCE, 825

him fast to a tree, before he had time or strength to defend
himself, Leander having diverted himself awhile with his cries,
went to the second, and taking*him by both arms, bound him in
the same manner to another tree. In the mean time Abricotina
made the best of her good fortune, and betook herself to her heels,
not knowing which way she went. But Leander missing her,
called outtohishorse Gris-de-line three times; who findinga force
upon him to obey his master’s call, by two kicks with his hoof rid
himself of the two ruffians who had pursued him ; one of them
had his head broken, and the other three of his ribs. And now
Leander only wanted to overtake Abricotina ; for he had thought
her so handsome, that he wished to see her again, and presently
overtook her. But he found her so weary that she was forced to
Jean against a tree, not being able to support herself. When she
saw Gris-de-line coming towards her, “ How lucky am I!” cried
she; this pretty little horse will
carry me to the palace of pleasure.”
Leander heard her, though she
saw him not: he rode up to her:
Gris-de-line stopped, and Abri-
cotina mounted him. Leander
clasped her in his arms and placed
her gently before him. Oh, how
great was Abricotina’s fear to feel
herself fast embraced, and yet see nobody! She durst not
stir; and shut her eyes for fear of seeing a spirit. But
Leander taking off his little cap, “ How comes it, fair Abrico-
tina,” said he, “ that you are afraid of me, who delivered you
out of the hands of the ruffians?” With that she opened her
eyes, and knowing him again, “Oh, sir,” said she, “ I am infi-
nitely obliged to you; but I was afraid I had been with
an invisible,” —“ I am not invisible,” replied Leander; “ but
the danger you have been in has disturbed you, and cast a mist