es.

Blondine was also engaged in thought. The cunning words of the Parrot
made her look upon the kindness of Bonne-Biche and Beau-Minon in a
totally different light.

In place of saying to herself that a hind which had the power to speak,
to make wild beasts intelligent, to put an infant to sleep for seven
years, to dedicate seven years to a tiresome and ignorant little girl,
in short, a hind lodged and served like a queen, could be no ordinary
criminal; in place of cherishing a sentiment of gratitude for all that
Bonne-Biche had done for her, Blondine, alas! believed blindly in the
Parrot, the unknown bird of whose character and veracity she had no
proof. She did not remember that the Parrot could have no possible
motive for risking its life to render her a service. Blondine believed
it though, implicitly, because of the flattery which the Parrot had
lavished upon her. She did not even recall with gratitude the sweet and
happy existence which Bonne-Biche and Beau-Minon had secured to her. She
resolved to follow implicitly the counsels of the Parrot. During the
course of the day she said to Bonne-Biche:--

"Why, madam, do I not see among your flowers the most lovely and
charming of all flowers--the fragrant Rose?"

Bonne-Biche was greatly agitated and said in a trembling voice:--

"Blondine! Blondine! do not ask for this most perfidious flower, which
pierces all who touch it! Never speak to me of the Rose, Blondine. You
cannot know what fatal danger this flower contains for you!"

The expression of Bonne-Biche was so stern and severe that Blondine
dared not question her further.

The day passed away sadly enough. Bonne-Biche was unhappy and Beau-Minon
very sad.

Early in the morning, Blondine ran to her window and the Parrot entered
the moment she opened it.

"Well, my dear Blondine, did you notice the agitation of Bonne-Biche,
when you mentioned the Rose? I promised you to point out the means by
which you could obtain one of these charming flowers. Listen now to my
counsel. You will leave this park and enter the forest. I will accompany
you and I will conduct you to a garden where you will find the most
beautiful Rose in the world!"

"But how is it possible for me to leave the park? Beau-Minon always
accompanies me in my walks."

"Try to get rid of him," said the Parrot; "but if that is impossible, go
in spite of him."

"If this Rose is at a distance, will not my absence be perceived?"

"It is about a