Whispers from Fatryland.

sd Pate

I.
THE LOST PRINCE.

THERE was once a King who ruled over a people
faithful to his dynasty, and contented with his govern-
ment. His country was prosperous, his arms success-
ful, his power great, and the splendour of his court
unrivalled. Nor was this all; his Queen was a lady
of surpassing beauty and amiable disposition ; his
domestic happiness was complete, and he was blessed
with a son and two daughters, who were all that their
parents could desire. Fortune seemed to have smiled
upon that happy family, and nothing was wanting to
render their existence one of unalloyed bliss. At the
birth of each child good fairies had attended with
presents and good wishes, and everything promised a
long and joyful career to the children of those royal
parents.

It was not until the youthful Prince had attained
the age of ten years that the shadow of misfor-
tune first fell upon the King’s house, and dark-
ened an existence which had hitherto been one of
unmitigated joy and tranquillity. The little Prince

B