828 THE INVISIBLE PRINCE.

and the princess’s presence-chamber was one entire mirror, with
the panes so artificially closed together, that it was impossible to
be discerned, and everywhere exposed the charming object.
‘The throne was one single pearl, hollowed like a shell; whereon
she sat, environed by her maids of honour, glittering with rubies
and diamonds ; but all this was nothing in comparison with the
princess's incomparable beauty. Her air had all the innocence
and sweetness of the most youthful, joined with the superior
dignity of riper years. Nothing could equal the vivacity of her
eyes ; it was impossible to find any defect in her; she smiled in
the most gracious manner upon her maids of honour, who were
that day dressed like nymphs, for her diversion. Now as she did
not see Abricotina among the rest, she asked where she was. The
nymphs replied that they had sought for her, but in vain. Upon
that, Leander, being very desirous to speak, assumed the tone of
a parrot, for there were many in the room ; and addressing him-
self invisibly to the princess, “ Most charming princess,” said he,
“ Abricotina will return immediately. She was in great danger
of being carried away from this palace, but for a young prince
‘who rescued her.” The princess was surprised at the parrot, his
answer was so extremely pertinent: “ Youare very pert, little
parrot,” said the princess, “and Abricotina, when she comes,
shall chastise you for it.’”"—* I shall not be chastised,” answered
Leander, still counterfeiting the parrot's voice ; “ moreover she
will let you know the great desire that stranger had to be ad-
mitted into this palace, that he might convince you of the false-
hood of those ideas which you have conceived against his sex.” —
“Tn truth, pretty parrot,” cried the princess, “it is a pity you
are not every day so diverting, I should love you dearly.”—
« Ah, if prattling will please you, madam,” replied Leander, “I
will prate from morning till night.’ —* But,” continued the prin-
cess, how shall I be sure my parrot is not a sorcerer ?”—“ He