at work. She was much troubled about
it, but could not help it; and the Kobolds only laughed, slyly felt of
her shoulders, and told her to sleep away, for their work was nearly
done and they did not need her.

One morning Bud did not wake up at all, and when the little men peeped
at her there she lay rolled up in her hammock very like a chrysalis in
its shell.

"All right," laughed the imps, nodding at one another; "let her sleep
while the wings grow, and in May she will wake up to a prettier surprise
than the one she gave us."

So they finished their work, packed up the silk, and as soon as the snow
was gone they hid their wheels, had a farewell feast with Dart, and
departed, begging him to watch over Bud, and have their house ready for
them next year.

Day after day the grass grew greener, the buds larger, the air warmer,
and the world more beautiful as spring flew over it; but Bud still lay
asleep in her little bed, and the faithful squirrel went every morning
to see that she was safe. May came at last, and the pink flowers under
the leaves pushed out their rosy faces; birds sang among the green
bushes, and the sun shone brightly as the little wood creatures
ventured out one by one for another happy summer.

Then Bud woke from her long sleep, stretched her small arms and legs
like a baby after its nap, looked about her to see where she was, and
sprang up, fearing it was too late to get the Kobolds' breakfast. But
the house was empty, the fire was out, the wheels gone, and nothing to
be seen but a lovely white silk dress lying on the table with her name
woven in tiny buds all over it. While she was looking at it with
delight, Dart came in, and skipped for joy to see her awake again and
prettier than ever; for while she slept she had grown very beautiful.
Her winter gown was withered up, and fell off as she got out of bed,
leaving her all ready for the new silver-white gown, which she gladly
put on.

"Pull away my old hood that lies there on my shoulders, and let me tie
my pretty dress with this fine belt," said Bud, feeling something on her
back.

Dart's black eyes sparkled as he answered with a gay whisk,--

"Shake yourself and see what happens. But don't go till I have time to
admire the splendid princess ready for Fairyland."

Bud shook; and, lo! a pair of blue and silver wings unfolded from her
little shoulders, and there she stood, a shining creature, gay as a
butterfly, delicate as an elf, lovely as