Page:Stories of Prince Lupin.pdf/5

5 of these ornaments was greatly heightened by a number of lights, that hung from the ceiling in glass sconces of exquisite workmanship.

After having passed through sixty apartments, a fine easy chair moved towards him of its own accord; the fire lighted itself, and the hands pulled off his clothes, which had been drench’d in the storm, and dressed him in others so extraordinarily fine and rich, that it dazzled his sight to behold himself. While the prince was in the utmost astonishment at this uncommon adventure, he saw a multitude of cats enter the room, and seat themselves on the bench. One held a music-book, and some played on instruments while others beat time. In the midst of this concert, a small figure came forward in a mourning veil, led by two cats in black cloaks, and followed by a long train at cats, some with rats, and others with mice in their mouths. The young prince was so surprised, that he had not power to move; when the little figure lifting up its veil, discovered the prettiest white cat that ever was seen. "Prince,” said she, “be not afraid, but give me your company with cheerfulness. It shall be the ambition of me and all my mewing attendants to give you pleasure."

On a signal given, supper was brought in; but the prince at first declined eating,