The King was embarassed, for it was impossible to find a flaw in this
lovely little creature.
However as he did not desire to part with his crown, he declared that
they had succeeded so well in their first quest that now he should
like them to search, by land and sea, for a piece of linen so fine
that it would pass through the eye of a very small needle.
Then the three Princes set out once more, but the youngest mounted his
wooden horse and repaired at once to the White Cat, who was rejoiced
to see him, and the second year passed by as the first had done.
When the day came round appointed by the King for the return of his
sons, the two elder appeared before him, and, without awaiting the
arrival of their brother, displayed their pieces of linen, which were
of a fineness quite astonishing. But although they would pass through
the eye of a large needle, through the small needle the King had
selected they would not go.
There was much murmuring at this, and while the brothers were
disputing the King's decision, a charming sound was heard of trumpets
and other musical instruments.
It was the youngest Prince who arrived in a chariot with out-riders
and numerous attendants, all of which had been provided for him by the
White Cat.
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