The man refused the price offered and left the hall . The princess informed the queen of what had passed , and the queen approved of all , but added that as she was her own mistress she had made up her mind to abdicate her throne , and to wander through the world till she had found her little dog . The princess was much alarmed by such a resolution , and implored the queen to change her mind . Whilst they were discussing the subject , one of the chamberlains appeared to inform the queen that the bay was covered with ships . The two sisters ran to the balcony , and saw a large fleet in full sail for the port . In a little time they came to the conclusion that the ships must come from a friendly nation , as every vessel was decked with gay flags , streamers , and pennons , and the way was led by a small ship flying a great white flag of peace . The queen sent a special messenger to the harbour , and was soon informed that the fleet belonged to the Prince of the Emerald Isles , who begged leave to land in her kingdom , and to present his humble respects to her . The queen at once sent some of the court dignitaries to receive the prince and bid him welcome . She awaited him seated on her throne , but rose on his appearance , and went a few steps to meet him ; then begged him to be seated , and for about an hour kept him in close conversation . The prince was then conducted to a splendid suite of apartments , and the next day he asked for a private audience . He was admitted to the queen 's own sitting-room , where she was sitting alone with her sister . After the first greetings the prince informed the queen that he had some very strange things to tell her , which she only would know to be true . ` Madam , ' said he , ' I am a neighbour of the Queen of all the Isles ; and a small isthmus connects part of my states with hers . One day , when hunting a stag , I had the misfortune to meet her , and not recognising her , I did not stop to salute her with all proper ceremony . You , Madam , know better than anyone how revengeful she is , and that she is also a mistress of magic . I learnt both facts to my cost . The ground opened under my feet , and I soon found myself in a far distant region transformed into a little dog , under which shape I had the honour to meet your Majesty . After six months , the queen 's vengeance not being yet satisfied , she further changed me into a hideous old man , and in this form I was so afraid of being unpleasant in your eyes , Madam , that I hid myself in the depths of the woods , where I spent three months more . At the end of that time I was so fortunate as to meet a benevolent fairy who delivered me from the proud queen 's power , and told me all your adventures and where to find you . I now come to offer you a heart which has been entirely yours , Madam , since first we met in the desert . '
A few days later a herald was sent through the kingdom to proclaim the joyful news of the marriage XXXXX the Queen of the Flowery Isles with the young prince .
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