Page 35 - The She-Bear

slipped out of Preziosa's mouth, and she
remained in the arms of the Prince, the most
beautiful creature in the world; and pressing
her to his heart, he said, "I have caught you, my
little rogue! You shall not escape from me again
without a good reason." At these words
Preziosa, adding the color of modesty to the
picture of her natural beauty, said to him, "I am
indeed in your hands--only guard me safely, and
marry me when you will."
Then the Queen inquired who the beautiful
maiden was, and what had brought her to this
savage life; and Preziosa related the whole story
of her misfortunes, at which the Queen,
praising her as a good and virtuous girl, told
her son that she was content that Preziosa
should be his wife. Then the Prince, who
desired nothing else in life, forthwith pledged
her his faith; and the mother giving them her
blessing, this happy marriage was celebrated
with great feasting and illuminations, and
Preziosa experienced the truth of the saying
that,

One who acts well may always expect good.

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