The New World Fairy Homes. 41

has given us quite as beautiful homes as those of our sisters
across the seas; we can hold revels in the heart of forests
where man seldom comes; we may wrap ourselves in the
rainbow mist of the waterfall; and if we wish to live in water
mansions, there are plenty of majestic rivers. What sprite
could desire a more beautiful home than our dear Hudson
yonder? People are stupid, and will not see us.”

“ They are too busy, I guess,” said Nip. “Many a time a
farmer has all but crushed me beneath his foot in my beauti-
ful yellow coat, or I have peeped out of a flower-cup under the
very nose of a man who was too busy thinking about money-
making to see either the flower or Nip. These are the sort
of people who tell the world that there are no fairies.”

The Laurel Queen said she had a story to tell.