The Under Folk
"This is the Iswater," said Ulfin as they touched bottom, "and yonder is the King." And indeed a stately figure in long robes was coming toward them.
"But this," said the Princess, trembling, "is just like our garden at home, only smaller."
"It was made as it is," said Ulfin, "by wish of the captive King. Majesty is Majesty, be it never so conquered."
The advancing figure was now quite near them. It saluted them with royal courtesy.
"We wanted to know," said Mavis, "please, your Majesty, if we might have lessons from you."
The King answered, but the Princess did not hear. She was speaking with Ulfin, apart.
"Ulfin," she said, "this captive King is my Father."
"Yes, Princess," said Ulfin.
"And he does not know me—"
"He will," said Ulfin strongly.
"Did you know?"
"Yes."
"But the people of your land will punish you for bringing us here, if they find out that he is my Father and that you have brought us together. They will kill you. Why did you do it, Ulfin?"
"Because you wished it, Princess," he said, "and because I would rather die for you than live without you."
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