hands on, and got patterns of all the court fashions. From thence he
flew to Siam, where he did the same; in three days he traveled over
all the four parts of the world, and from time to time brought what
he bought to the Palace of Calm Delights, and hid it all in a chamber,
which he kept always locked. When he had thus collected together all the
rarities he could meet with--for he never wanted money, his rose always
supplying him--he went and bought five or six dozen of dolls, which he
caused to be dressed at Paris, the place in the world where most
regard is paid to fashions. They were all dressed differently, and as
magnificent as could be, and Leander placed them all in the princess'
closet. When she entered it, she was agreeably surprised to see such
company of little mutes, every one decked with watches bracelets,
diamond buckles, or necklaces; and the most remarkable of them held a
picture box in its hand, which the princess opening, found it contained
Leander's portrait. She gave a loud shriek, and looking upon Abricotina,
"There have appeared of late," said she, "so many wonders in this place,
that I know not what to think of them: my birds are all grown witty; I
cannot so much as wish, but presently I have my desires; twice have I
now seen the portrait of him who rescued thee from the ruffians; and
here are silks of all sorts, diamonds, embroideries, laces, and an
infinite number of other rarities. What fairy is it that takes such care
to pay me these agreeable civilities?"

Leander was overjoyed to hear and see her so much interested about his
picture, and calling to mind that there was in a grotto which she often
frequented a certain pedestal, on which a Diana, not yet finished, was
to be erected, on this pedestal he resolved to place himself, crowned
with laurel, and holding a lyre in his hand, on which he played like
another Apollo. He most anxiously waited the princess' retiring to the
grotto, which she did every day since her thoughts had taken up with