20
said she, "the piece of fine linen I promised you; do not break the shell until you arc in the presence of the king your father."
The princes hastened to present to the king the curious presents he had required them to procure. The eldest produced a piece of linen so exquisitely fine, that his friends had no doubt but that it would pass through the small ring.
The ring, which had been preserved ever since by the royal treasurer, was now produced; but although almost every person thought that the eldest prince would succeed, yet when the king tried to draw it through the ring, it would not pass.
The second prince now advanced, who made as sure of obtaining the crown as his elder brother had done. But, alas! with no better success; for, though his piece of linen was extremely fine, yet it could not be drawn through so small a ring.
It was now the youngest prince's turn, who accordingly came forward, and opening an elegant little box inlaid with jewels, he took out a nut.
He cracked the shell, expecting that he should immediately perceive his piece of linen. But what was his astonishment to perceive only a smaller nut! The prince cracked this, which was filled with a kernel. He divided the kernel, and found in the middle of it a grain of wheat. He opened the grain of wheat, and discovered a millet-seed. And having opened the grain of millet-seed, to the astonishment of all who were present, he drew from it a piece of linen, four hundred yards long, and fine enough not only to be drawn through the ring, but even through the eye of the smallest needle.
"My sons," said he, "it is so gratifying to the heart of a father, to receive proofs of his children's love and obedience, that I cannot deny myself the satisfaction of requiring one effort more.
"I must request you to undertake another expedition; and whichever, by the end of a year, shall bring me the most beautiful lady, shall marry her, and receive my crown." The youngest prince, within twelve hours, again arrived at the palace of his dear white cat.
Every kind of entertainment occupied the time, as it had done before.
At last only one day remained of the third year!
The white cat then addressed him: "To-morrow, my prince, you must present yourself at the palace of your father, and give him the remaining proof of your obedience.
"It depends on yourself alone, whether you succeed this
