"But it is you, my Prince, who have freed me," she concluded; "as soon
as I saw you I knew my troubles were at an end."
They set out forthwith in a splendid carriage. As they drew near the
castle, at the place where the three brothers were to meet, the Queen
entered into a little crystal rock ornamented with precious stones,
and this was carried by richly dressed young men.
The Prince who had remained in the carriage, saw his brothers,
approaching with wondrously beautiful ladies.
On being questioned he told them that all he had brought was a little
White Cat.
[Illustration: "THE BODY OF THE WHITE CAT GREW LARGE AND WAS
TRANSFORMED INTO THAT OF A GIRL."]
They began to laugh at him, and drove on followed by the young Prince,
while after him was brought the crystal rock.
Arrived at the Palace the two elder Princes dismounted with their
marvellous Princesses.
The King received them graciously, and did not know to which to award
the prize.
He looked at his youngest son and said, "This time, then, you have
come alone." "Your Majesty will see in this rock a little White
Cat who mews sweetly and has soft little velvet paws," answered the
Prince.
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