now seems peaceful enough, Inga, and we are happy and
prosperous, but I cannot forget those terrible people of Regos and
Coregos. My constant fear is that they will send a fleet of boats to
search for those of their race whom we defeated many years ago, and
whom the sea afterwards destroyed. If the warriors come in great
numbers we may be unable to oppose them, for my people are little
trained to fighting at best; they surely would cause us much injury and
suffering."

"Are we, then, less powerful than in my grandfather's day?" asked
Prince Inga.

The King shook his head thoughtfully.

"It is not that," said he. "That you may fully understand that
marvelous battle, I must confide to, you a great secret. I have in my
possession three Magic Talismans, which I have ever guarded with utmost
care, keeping the knowledge of their existence from anyone else. But,
lest I should die, and the secret be lost, I have decided to tell you
what these talismans are and where they are hidden. Come with me, my
son."

He led the way through the rooms of the palace until they came to the
great banquet hall. There, stopping in the center of the room, he
stooped down and touched a hidden spring in the tiled floor. At once
one of the tiles sank downward and the King reached within the cavity
and drew out a silken bag.

This bag he proceeded to open, showing Inga that it contained three
great pearls, each one as big around as a marble. One had a blue tint
and one was of a delicate rose color, but the third was pure white.

"These three pearls," said the King, speaking in a solemn, impressive
voice, "are the most wonderful the world has ever known. They were
gifts to one of my ancestors from the Mermaid Queen, a powerful fairy
whom he once had the good fortune to rescue from her enemies. In
gratitude for this favor she presented him with these pearls. Each of
the three possesses an astonishing power, and whoever is their owner
may count himself a fortunate man. This one having the blue tint will
give to the person who carries it a strength so great that no power can
resist him. The one with the pink glow will protect its owner from all
dangers that may threaten him, no matter from what source they may
come. The third pearl--this one of pure white--can speak, and its words
are always wise and helpful."

"What is this, my father!" exclaimed the Prince, amazed; "do you tell
me that a pearl can speak? It sounds impossible."

"Your doubt i