WASSA CAPTURES THE FAIRY PRINCE. 207

wearily on. In afew moments she stood ina
lofty grotto, the sides of which seemed to be of
burnished gold, and a brilliant light, clear and
soft as starlight, but a thousand times brighter,
shone over all.

As Wassa looked admiringly about her, a
light form stood before her, robed in gauzy
dress that shone like the stars, and above her
head glistened a large star that scintillated as
she moved. With akindly smile the beautiful
being spoke : —

‘“* Rough the path, and long the way
Leading to the starlit day.
Eat this fruit, and thou shalt see
Hunger will appeaséd be.”

As the fairy spoke, she held a large and
juicy plum toward Wassa, who seized it
eagerly. No sooner had it touched her lips
than all sense of hunger and thirst vanished,
and she felt as much refreshed as if she had
partaken of a hearty repast.

The fairy, regarding Wassa with the same
kindly smile, continued : —

“Maiden, thou canst not thyself

Catch that sprightly, roguish elf.
Since thy duty is done well,