The kings of every country in the earth were invited, including,
of course, the princess's adopted father (who by this time had
married a widow), and not one refused.

But what a strange assembly it was! Each monarch travelled in the
way he thought most impressive; and some came borne in litters,
others had carriages of every shape and kind, while the rest were
mounted on elephants, tigers, and even upon eagles. So splendid a
wedding had never been seen before; and when it was over the king
announced that it was to be followed by a coronation, for he and
the queen were tired of reigning, and the young couple must take
their place. The rejoicings lasted for three whole months, then
the new sovereigns settled down to govern their kingdom, and made
themselves so much beloved by their subjects, that when they
died, a hundred years later, each man mourned them as his own
father and mother.

[From le Cabinet de Fees.]





The Goblin Pony



‘Don't stir from the fireplace to-night,' said old Peggy, ‘for
the wind is blowing so violently that the house shakes; besides,