t
was the last existing.... But I will have a rope of fine silk, woven
with a certain spell, laid round the Pavilion, and no snake, magic or
otherwise, will be able to cross _that_. It's quite unnecessary, and
will be extremely exhausting to me, still I'll do it, just to set your
mind at ease. And I'll tell her not to go about alone in future.... But
I can't have you going in there whenever you choose in future. The Head
Gardener was complaining to me that you are neglecting your work, and it
won't do to excite his suspicion. You must not attempt to see her till
the close of the day, which will leave you ample time for your
lovemaking.... No, she is not going to be sent back to England. _I_
shall take care of that. So you can keep a good heart, Mirliflor. I
consider you have made an excellent beginning!"

He was far from sure of it himself, but at least Daphne would be better
protected henceforth, and even if he could no longer look after her by
day, which he fully intended to do when he found an opportunity, he
could at least see her every evening. It was some comfort, too, to feel
that he could rely on her remaining in Maerchenland.

On her next visit to the Pavilion the Court Godmother heard Daphne's
version of the meeting with Girofle. "I take an interest in the young
man," she said. "Indeed I got him his place here. He seems to have
behaved very creditably--for a mere gardener. Though I dare say you
think him beneath your notice."

"After he had saved my life!" said Daphne indignantly. "As if I
_could_--whoever he was! But, as you take an interest in him, Court
Godmother, you must know as well as I do that he isn't really a gardener
at all."

"Oh, indeed," said the Fairy suspiciously. "And how did you find _that_
out? From _him_?"

"No, I guessed. And then he had to admit it."

"And what did he admit?"

"Well, that he is a student and has had to go into hiding because he was
suspected of being mixed up in some plot or other. He didn't tell me any
more than that."

"Ah," said the Fairy, concealing her relief, "he told you more than was
prudent as it was. But I suppose he thought he could trust you with his
secret."

"And don't _you_, Court Godmother?" flashed Daphne.

"Oh, I don't think you would betray him. You mustn't go and lose your
heart to him, though. That would never do!"

Daphne laughed. "Court Godmother!" she said, "you're not really afraid
of my falling in love with him, are you?"

"Well,