Page:Beauty and the Beast-1874.djvu/10

3 can stay here to-night, but must go home on the following morning.” Beauty tried to cheer her father, at parting, by saying that she would try to soften the heart of the Beast, and get him to let her return home soon. After he was gone, she went into a fine room, on the door of which was written, in letters of gold, “Beauty’s Room;” and lying on the table was a portrait of herself, under which were these words: “Beauty is Queen here; all things will obey her.” All her meals were served to the sound of music, and at supper-time the Beast, drawing the curtains aside, would walk in, and talk so pleasantly that she soon lost much of her fear of him. At last, he turned towards her, and said, “Am I so very ugly?” “Yes, indeed you are,” replied Beauty, “but then you are so kind that I don’t mind your looks.” “Will you marry me, then?” asked he. Beauty, looking away, said, “Pray don’t ask me.” He then bade her “Good-night” with a sad voice, and she retired to her bed-chamber.

The palace was full of galleries and apartments, containing the most beautiful works of art. In one room was a cage filled with rare birds. Not far from this room she saw a numerous troop of monkeys of all sizes. They advanced to meet her, making her low bows. Beauty was much pleased with them, and said