930 THE LAND OF PLUCK

Then the prince and princess wandered into the garden,
and sat down upon a mossy seat.

“Nobody will give us what we have asked for,” said
Francesca. “It is very cruel.”

“Yes, very cruel,” replied Ferdinand, with a sigh.

“ Our parents never refused us before,” resumed Francesca.

“ Never !” echoed Ferdinand.

“Nor the courtiers,” added Francesca.

“Nor the courtiers,” echoed Ferdinand.

“Nor our dear old nurse,” said Francesca, with a strange
feeling in her eyes.

“Nor our dear nurse.”

“Tt is ingratitude !”

“Very great ingratitude !”

“It is cruelty!” finished Francesca, with sobs ; “and my
eyes are all wet! Are yours, Ferdinand ?”

“No, Francesca. But there is a choking in my throat.”

Just then the chief gardener came that way.

“My dear prince and princess!” he exclaimed, throw-
ing himself on his knees before them. “You are sad! are
weeping! Qh, Heaven! to think that these noble and
beautiful children should have so much trouble.”

“Trouble!” echoed Ferdinand and Francesca. “Is this
trouble, Antonio ?”

“Assuredly, I think so,” said Antonio, much puzzled.

Then the prince and princess arose gaily and clapped
their hands, and ran to the palace as happy as two birds.
Their wish had been gratified at last.