The brothers were not very willing to set out again , but the two eldest consented because it gave them another chance , and they started as before . The youngest again mounted the wooden horse , and rode back at full speed to his beloved White Cat . Every door of the castle stood wide open , and every window and turret was illuminated , so it looked more wonderful than before . The hands hastened to meet him , and led the wooden horse off to the stable , while he hurried in to find the White Cat . She was asleep in a little basket on a white satin cushion , but she very soon started up when she heard the Prince , and was overjoyed at seeing him once more . `` How could I hope that you would come back to me King 's son ? '' she said . And then he stroked and petted her , and told her of his successful journey , and how he had come back to ask her help , as he believed that it was impossible to find what the King demanded . The White Cat looked serious , and said she must think what was to be done , but that , luckily , there were some cats in the castle who could spin very well , and if anybody could manage it they could , and she would set them the task herself . And then the hands appeared carrying torches , and conducted the Prince and the White Cat to a long gallery which overlooked the river , from the windows of which they saw a magnificent display of fireworks of all sorts ; after which they had supper , which the Prince liked even better than the fireworks , for it was very late , and he was hungry after his long ride . And so the days passed quickly as before ; it was impossible to feel dull with the White Cat , and she had quite a talent for inventing new amusements -- indeed , she was cleverer than a cat has any right to be . But when the Prince asked her how it was that she was so wise , she only said : `` King 's son , do not ask me ; guess what you please . I may not tell you anything . '' The Prince was so happy that he did not trouble himself at all about the time , but presently the White Cat told him that the year was gone , and that he need not be at all anxious about the piece of muslin , as they had made it very well . `` This time , '' she added , `` I can give you a suitable escort '' ; and on looking out into the courtyard the Prince saw a superb chariot of burnished gold , enameled in flame color with a thousand different devices . It was drawn by twelve snow-white horses , harnessed four abreast ; their trappings were flame-colored velvet , embroidered with diamonds . A hundred chariots followed , each drawn by eight horses , and filled with officers in splendid uniforms , and a thousand guards surrounded the procession . `` Go ! '' said the White Cat , `` and when you appear before the King in such state he surely will not refuse you the crown which you deserve . Take this walnut , but do not open it until you are before him , then you will find in it the piece of stuff you asked me for . ''
`` Lovely Blanchette , '' said the XXXXX , `` how can I thank you properly for all your kindness to me ?
Cat King Prince chariots days muslin right speed uniforms velvet