1] THE LOST PRINCE. 35

 

at once have somewhat relieved the anxiety of their
parents. Then, why should he zow interfere at all,
and run the risk of bringing Pattle-perry’s vengeance
upon his own devoted head? They pondered deeply
upon these things, but deemed it best to remain silent
under the circumstances. And indeed I think they
were right, for it is impossible for us mortals to know
the ways of dwarfs, giants, and fairies, or to attempt
to fathom the motives by which such creatures are
actuated. So the sisters asked nothing more and
waited patiently until their little friend spoke again,
which he presently did.

‘Now,’ said he, ‘young ladies, we have a journey
to go and had better start at once. First, however,
let me recommend you to eat some of these straw-
berries, which you will find singularly refreshing’

Nothing loth, the sisters consented to this propo-
sal, and found themselves immensely strengthened by
the fruit, which had not only a delicious taste but all
the qualities and virtues of a tonic without any of its
bitterness.

“Now then,’ rejoined Rindelgrover, ‘we must be
off, and as the distance is long, I hope you will consent
to ride.’

The girls looked round, and perceived to their
surprise two pigs standing near, with side-saddles on,
all ready for their reception. They looked at each
other half doubtfully, and greatly inclined to laugh,
but wisely remembering how serious was the business
in which they were engaged, they preserved their
gtavity, mounted their respective pigs, and prepared

to follow their leader. The pigs were of good size,
D2