Now that, to be sure, was a different sort of husband to the son of the ugly toad, or the tiresome mole with the costly fur! So Ellie said “Yes” to the little prince; and then a lady appeared, and then a gentleman, out of all the other flowers, so lovely, that it was quite a pleasure to see them, and each of them brought a present to Ellie. The best gift that was offered her was a pair of beautiful white wings, which were fastened on her shoulders immediately; and now she too could fly from flower to flower—that was such a delight!
The joy was universal. The little swallow sat on high in his nest, and sang as well as he could, though he was very sad; for he had a great affection for Ellie, and did not wish to part from her.
“You shall not be called Ellie any longer,” said the sylph; “for that is not a pretty name, and you are so very beautiful. Henceforward we will call you Maia.”[1]
“Farewell, farewell!” cried then the little swallow, and flew away again from the
- ↑ Maria.
