e bracelets which Violette had worn when
her cousin found her sleeping in the wood, and a vial of perfumed oil!

The fairy looked from one to the other, and enjoyed their surprise and
consternation. She took the bracelets and gave them to Violette.

"This is my bridal present, my dear child; every one of these diamonds
has the property of guarding from all evil influences the person who
wears it, and of endowing its wearer with every virtue, enormous riches
and resplendent beauty, with wit, intellect and all desirable happiness.
Use them for the children who will be born of your union with Prince
Marvellous.

"As to this vial of perfumed oil, it is the wedding gift of the prince
your cousin. I know you love perfumes, this has peculiar virtues; use it
to-day. To-morrow I will return to seek you and carry you all to your
kingdom," she said.

"I renounce my kingdom, madam," said Ourson.

"Who will govern your people?" said Agnella.

"You, my mother, if you are willing," replied Ourson.

The queen was about to refuse, when the fairy interfered.

"We will speak of this to-morrow," said she. "You, madam, I know, desire
to accept the crown which you are about to refuse. I forbid you,
however, to accept it before my return. And you, dear and amiable
prince," added she, in a sweet voice, accompanied with an affectionate
glance, "I forbid you to repeat this offer before my return. Adieu till
to-morrow. When you are truly happy, my dear children, think kindly of
your friend the fairy Drolette."

The fairy ascended her chariot. The larks flew like lightning and she
soon disappeared, leaving behind her a delicious perfume.

THE RECOMPENSE

Prince Marvellous looked at Violette and sighed heavily; Violette gazed
at the prince and smiled sweetly.

"How handsome you are, my dear cousin! I am so happy to have it in my
power to restore you your beauty. And now I will pour some of this
perfumed oil upon my hands; since I cannot please your eye, I will at
least embalm you," said she, laughing.

She uncorked the vial, and entreated Marvellous to sprinkle some drops
on her forehead and cheeks. The heart of the prince was too full for
words. He took the vial and obeyed the order of his cousin. Their
surprise and joy were indescribable on seeing that as soon as the oil
touched Violette's forehead the hair disappeared and her skin resumed
its original purity and dazzling whiteness.

The prince and Violette, on seeing the