198 THE FAIRY-FOLK OF THE BLUE HILL.

‘CHAPTER XV.
WASSA CAPTURES THE FAIRY PRINCE.

Wassa was certain that the opening in the
mound led to the land of the Starlit Day, but
she hesitated before she could make up her
mind to enter the dark passageway that led
to the underground realms.

The little prairie-dog was certainly not to be
feared, and the owl, although so dignified and
majestic in her bearing, was also harmless ;
but when the little maid thought of meeting
the rattlesnake in the dark, her courage sank,
and she stood irresolute, gazing into the dark-
ness that extended as far as she could see.

“ Fear not, maiden; yon’s the way
Leading to the starlit day :
Boldly enter, have no fear ;
Whom thou seekest, he is near.”

These words, spoken by the well-known
voice, gave Wassa courage, and she boldly
entered the dark hole. At first she could see