you and cast a mist before your eyes."

Abricotina would not seem to doubt him, though she was otherwise
extremely sensible. And after they had talked for some time of
indifferent things, Leander requested her to tell him her age, her
country, and by what accident she fell into the hands of the ruffians.

"Know then, sir," said she, "there was a certain very great fairy
married to a prince who wearied of her: she therefore banished him from
her presence, and established herself and daughter in the Island of Calm
Delights. The princess, who is my mistress, being very fair, has many
lovers--among others, one named Furibon, whom she detests; he it was
whose ruffians seized me to-day when I was wandering in search of a
stray parrot. Accept, noble prince, my best thanks for your valor, which
I shall never forget."

Leander said how happy he was to have served her, and asked if he could
not obtain admission into the island. Abricotina assured him this was
impossible, and therefore he had better forget all about it. While they
were thus conversing, they came to the bank of a large river. Abricotina
alighted with a nimble jump from the horse.

"Farewell, sir," said she to the prince, making a profound reverence; "I
wish you every happiness."

"And I," said Leander, "wish that I may now and then have a small share
in your remembrance."

So saying, he galloped away and soon entered into the thickest part of
the wood, near a river, where he unbridled and unsaddled Gris-de-line;