though it is through not
following my advice that you are in this misfortune, for it goes to
my heart to see you thus. I cannot release you altogether from this
enchantment, but I have power to shorten the time, and also to say
that during the night you may regain your rightful form, but by day
again must you run through the forest as a Fawn." The fairy also told
them where they could find a little hut in which to pass the nights.
Then she disappeared. Giroflee and the Fawn walked in the direction
the Fairy had pointed out, and arrived at a neat little cottage where
an old woman showed them a room which they could occupy.

As soon as it was night Desiree came to her rightful form, but when
day appeared she was once more a Fawn and, escaping into the thicket,
commenced to run about in the ordinary way.

You have heard how Prince Guerrier rested in the forest while
Becafigue searched for fruit; quite late in the evening Becafigue
arrived at the cottage of the good woman who had given shelter to
Giroflee and the White Fawn. He addressed her politely and asked for
the things he required for his master. She hastened to fill a basket,
and gave it to him, saying, "I fear that if you pass a night without
shelter some harm may come to you. I can offer you a poor one, but at
any rate it is secure from the lions."

Becafigue went back to the Prince and together they returned to the
cottage, where they were led into the room next to that occupied by
the Princess.

Next morning the Prince arose early and went out; he had not long been
in the forest when he saw a beautiful little Fawn. Hunting had ever
been his favourite pastime, and now he pursued the little creature.
All day long hither and thither he chased, but did not succeed in
capturing her, and as evening fell the Fawn slipped away and gained
the little hut where Giroflee anxiously awaited her, and on hearing
her adventure the Maid of Honour told her she must never again venture
out, but the Princess replied:

"It is no use talking thus, when I am a Fawn this room is stifling to
me and I must depart from it."

The next day the young Prince sought in vain for the White Fawn, and
finally tired out threw himself upon the grass and fell asleep.

While he lay there the little Fawn drew near and looking at him
quietly, to her astonishment she recognised his features as those of
the Prince Guerrier. Coming nearer and nearer she presently touched
him and he awoke.

His sur