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LABOULAYE’S FAIRY BOOK This indifference surprised Charming. He addressed her with warmth, she replied coldly; he prayed her so urgently to listen to him that she finally consented to do so, not in the ball-room, where the heat was overpowering and the curlosity indiscreet, but in the long elm-walk, where a few promenaders were seeking silence and fresh air. The night was advancing, and the gipsy had already spoken several times of retiring, to the great regret of the prince, who vainly entreated her to unmask. The stranger made no reply. " You drive me to despair,” cried he, inspired with strange respect and admiration for this mysterious figure. ‘Why this cruel silence?" “Because I know you, my lord,” replied the stranger, with emotion. "Your voice, which goes to the heart, your language, your grace, all tell me who you are. Let me go, Prince Charming.” "No, madam," cried the prince, delighted at so much wit, "you alone have recognized me, you alone have understood me, to you belong my heart and kingdom. Throw off that suspicious mask; this very instant we will return to the ball-room and I will present to the ignorant crowd the woman whom I have had the happiness not to displease. Say but one word, and all my people shall be at your feet." "My lord,” replied the stranger, sadly, "permit me to 168
