Gilliflower and the white hind threw themselves at her feet--the
latter licking her hands, and caressing her as prettily as a deer
could--the former imploring her to take pity on the princess, and
restore her to her natural shape.
"I cannot do that," said the fairy; "her enemy has too much power; but
I can shorten her term of punishment, and soften it a little, by
granting that during every night she becomes a woman, though as soon
as day breaks she must again wander about as a hind of the forest."
It was a great comfort to be a woman every night; and the hind showed
her joy by innumerable leaps and bounds, which delighted the good
Tulip.
"Follow this by-path," said she, "and you will find a hut that will
serve you as a quiet home. Farewell."
She disappeared, and Gilliflower, with the hind trotting after her,
went on and on, till she came to a little hut, before which sat an old
woman, making a basket of osiers.
"My good woman," said she, "have you a room to let, for me and my pet
here?"
"Yes, truly," replied the old woman; and took them into a room where
were two little beds, hung with white dimity, with fine white sheets,
and everything as neat and comfortable as possible. As soon as it grew
dark, the princess recovered her own shape, and kissed and embraced a
thousand times her dear Gilliflower, who, on her part, was full of
delight and thankfulness.
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