Recovering himself in a moment, he told
of his mission, and set forth the good qualities of the King in such
glowing terms that the Princess listened.
"You have argued so eloquently," replied she, "that I regret to deny
you; but I have made a vow not to marry, until the ambassador can
return to me a ring which I lost in the river a month ago. I valued
it more than all my other jewels, and nothing but its recovery can
persuade me to your suit."
Charming could urge no more, but offered an embroidered scarf and his
little dog Frisk as tokens of devotion. These were declined, so bowing
low, he reluctantly took leave of the Princess. He believed that she
had but used this means to put him off, and his disappointment was so
great that he could not sleep.
In the morning he and Frisk were walking by the riverside when the dog
ran to the water's edge, barking furiously. Joining the little animal,
he saw that his excitement was caused by a golden carp which came
swimming swiftly toward them. In its mouth was a beautiful ring which
it laid in Charming's hand.
"You saved my life by the willow-tree," said the carp, "and I now
repay you by giving to you the Princess's ring."
Charming lost no time in presenting it to the Princess and claiming
his reward.
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