112
FAIRY BOOK.
key. How safe I shall be in my castle of gems!"
So he stepped out of his hiding-place, and said to the people,—
"None but the good and true can get in."
Then he tried to go in himself; but the gates would not move.
The king bowed his head in shame, and walked back to his old palace.
"Alas!" said he to himself, "wise and great as I am, I thought I could go in. I see it must be because I am filled with pride. Let me hide my face; for what would Blanche say if she knew, that, because my heart is proud, I am shut out of my own castle? I am not worthy that she should love me; but I hope I shall learn of her to be humble and good."
The next day he sailed for the home of his childhood. When Blanche saw him, she
