e him in his
desperate errand was more than she was equal to just then. The Court
Godmother hitched up her quilted skirts, and went off at a hobbling run
in the direction of the Palace Gardens.

* * * * *

The Baron had led Mirliflor through the Gardens, and then round to a
Courtyard at the back of the Palace in which stood a massive round tower
pierced with many pigeon-holes. Here he brought out a small shell-shaped
car on two wheels, and at his whistle a flock of white doves fluttered
down from the tower, and permitted him to attach them by collars and
traces to the car. "The most gracious the Court Godmother is nowhere to
be found," he explained as he did so, "but assuredly she would not
grudge lending her car for such a purpose as yours, since by no other
means could you hope to get over the walls of Drachenstolz. Once within
them you will find the sword of inestimable service, and I doubt not
that you will wield it to better effect than would its owner. I would
willingly lend you this," he added, fingering the cap, "only maybe your
Royal Highness would not deign to employ means which I understood you
are pleased to consider discreditable?"

"Don't be an ass, Baron!" said Mirliflor, seizing the cap and stepping
into the car. "Where _her_ life is at stake I have no scruples in using
anything whatever. But I've no experience in driving doves--how do I
guide them?"

"They need no guidance, Sire. You have but to utter the words 'To
Drachenstolz,' and they will carry you straight to the Castle and set
you down within its walls. God speed you!" cried the Court Chamberlain,
as the Prince gave the direction, and the birds ascended with the car.
"Heaven grant you bring back your Princess unharmed!"

"Heaven grant I reach her in time!" came the answer from the
dove-chariot, which, after making a few preliminary circles, flew away,
to all appearances unoccupied.

It had scarcely disappeared when the Court Godmother arrived on the
scene. "Where is Girofle?" she demanded breathlessly.

"His Royal Highness Prince Mirliflor of Clairdelune," replied the Baron,
"has just departed for Drachenstolz in the dove-car, which I knew you
would wish to be at his disposal."

"And pray," said the old Fairy, "what made you think I should wish him
to throw away his life for Princess Edna?"

"He will not fail to rescue her, never fear, Madam. No Prince ever
_does_ fail in these enterprises. And if he succ