and princes are not always the happiest persons in the world. "Who in all this kingdom would believe that I am a fugitive, that my father without cause or reason seeks my life, and that to save it I must disguise myself?"
Whilst making these reflections, she advanced towards the spot from whence the bleating proceeded. What was her surprise, on arriving in an open space surrounded by trees, to see a large Ram, whiter than snow, whose horns were gilt, who had a garland of flowers round his neck, his legs entwined with ropes of pearls of prodigious size, and chains of diamonds hung about him, and who was reposing on a couch of orange blossoms. A pavilion of cloth of gold suspended in the air sheltered him from the rays of the sun. A hundred gaily-decked sheep were around him, who in lieu of browzing on the grass, were taking, some, coffee, sherbet, ices, and lemonade; others, strawberries and cream, and sweetmeats. Some were playing at basset, others at lansquenet. Several wore collars of gold, ornamented with gallant devices, earrings, and ribands, and flowers in profusion. Merveilleuse was so astonished that she remained almost motionless. Her eyes wandered in search of the shepherd who had the care of this extraordinary flock, when the beautiful Ram came bounding and frisking up to her. "Approach, divine Princess," said he to her, "and fear nothing from such gentle and peaceful animals as we are." "What prodigy is this?—a talking Ram!" exclaimed the Princess. "Eh, Madam," rejoined the Ram, "your ape and your little dog spoke very prettily. Had you less cause to be surprised at that?" "A Fairy," replied Merveilleuse, "had bestowed the gift of speech on them, which made the matter less wonderful." "A similar adventure may perchance have befallen ourselves," answered the Ram, smiling in a sheepish manner. "But what caused you to turn your steps this way, my Princess?" "A thousand misfortunes, my lord Ram," said she to him; "I am the most unhappy person in the world. I seek an asylum from the fury of my father." "Come, Madam," replied the Ram; "come with me. I offer you one which can be known only to yourself, and you shall be absolute mistress in it." "It is impossible for me to follow you," said Merveilleuse; "I am dying with fatigue."
The Ram with the golden horns ordered his chariot to be
