Page:Story of the little white mouse, or, The overthrow of the tyrant king (1).pdf/24

24 the great hall of the castle and harangue the people."

She walked first, with a grave and majestic air, and dressed in splendid robes; next came the queen in robes suitable to her rank; the princess followed, decorated in a splendid habit, which the fairy had brought her for the occasion; but distinguished much more by her native modesty and the lustre of her beauty, which had never before been equalled. They bowed gracefully to every one they met by the way, whether rich or poor, and by this condescension attracted the notice of every one.

When the great hall was full, the good fairy said to the subjects of the deceased tyrant, that she would recommend them to choose for their sovereign the daughter of a neighbouring king, whom she then presented to them. "Under so amiable a queen," said she, "you cannot fail to live in a state of continual happiness and tranquillity." At these words the people cried out with one voice, "Yes! yes! we choose her for our queen, and we trust she will make us amends for the miseries we have so long endured." As soon as the intelligence was generally known, joy spread throughout the city, and every sort of business was laid aside, to give place to feasting and merriment.

FINIS.