Page:Tudor Jenks--Imaginotions.djvu/133

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THE WINNING OF VANELLA
115

bit of parchment. I can write you a line that may aid you in time of need."

Convinced that she was a fairy, I obeyed. She wrote a few words in a crabbed hand, and advised me to read them when I was in need of counsel.

"Give you good day, fair youth," said she, courteously.

"'FARE THEE WELL, GENTLE DAME,' I REPLIED."

"Fare thee well, gentle dame," I replied, removing my left slipper, which is a token of respect in my native land.

I met with but one other adventure on my way to the Khan's palace. I rescued an emerald-green parrot from a cat, and seeing no dwelling near carried the pretty creature with me.

On the eighth day after leaving my father's house, I was ushered by two gorgeous guards into the courtyard of the palace where the beautiful Vanella dwelt. My heart beat rapturously, and I felt so