left her without waiting for an answer.

When the satin slippers were worn through the fiddles stopped,
and the negro boys set the table. Michael was placed next to the
eldest sister, and opposite to the youngest.

They gave him the most exquisite dishes to eat, and the most
delicate wines to drink; and in order to turn his head more
completely, compliments and flattery were heaped on him from every
side.

But he took care not to be intoxicated, either by the wine or the
compliments.


XV


At last the eldest sister made a sign, and one of the black pages
brought in a large golden cup.

`The enchanted castle has no more secrets for you,' she said to
the Star Gazer. `Let us drink to your triumph.'

He cast a lingering glance at the little Princess, and without
hesitation lifted the cup.

`Don't drink!' suddenly cried out the little Princess; `I would
rather marry a gardener.'