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terrified at his horrid form, but she took courage as well as she could, and the monster having asked her if she came willingly, “Y–e–s,” said she, tremblingly. “You are very good, and I am greatly obliged to you. Honest man, go your ways to-morrow morning, but never think of returning here again. Farewell, Beauty.” “Farewell Beast,” answered she sighing, and immediately the monster withdrew. “O daughter,” said the merchant, embracing Beauty, “I am almost frightened to death; believe me, you had better go back, and let me stay here.” “No, father,” said Beauty, in a resolute tone, “you shall set out to-morrow morning, and leave me to the care and protection of Providence.” They went to bed, and thought they should not close their eyes all night; but scarce had they laid down than they fell fast asleep; and Beauty dreamed a fine lady came, and said to her, “I am content, Beauty, with your good will: this good action of yours in giving up your own life to save your father’s shall not go unrewarded.” Beauty waked and told her father her dream, and, though it helped to comfort him a little, yet he could not help crying bitterly when he took leave of his dear child from the uncertainty of again beholding her.
