Forgive , and let me help and comfort you . '' Then he bound up the broken wing , and spoke so tenderly that Flutter doubted him no longer , and was his friend again . Day by day did Thistle watch beside him , making little beds of cool , fresh moss for him to rest upon , fanning him when he slept , and singing sweet songs to cheer him when awake . And often when poor Flutter longed to be dancing once again over the blue waves , the Fairy bore him in his arms to the lake , and on a broad leaf , with a green flag for a sail , they floated on the still water ; while the dragon-fly 's companions flew about them , playing merry games . At length the broken wing was well , and Thistle said he must again seek the Water Spirits . `` I can tell you where to find them , '' said Flutter ; `` you must follow yonder little brook , and it will lead you to the sea , where the Spirits dwell . I would gladly do more for you , dear Thistle , but I can not , for they live deep beneath the waves . You will find some kind friend to aid you on your way ; and so farewell . '' Thistle followed the little brook , as it flowed through field and valley , growing ever larger , till it reached the sea . Here the wind blew freshly , and the great waves rolled and broke at Thistle 's feet , as he stood upon the shore , watching the billows dancing and sparkling in the sun . `` How shall I find the Spirits in this great sea , with none to help or guide me ? Yet it is my last task , and for Lily-Bell 's sake I must not fear or falter now , '' said Thistle . So he flew hither and thither over the sea , looking through the waves . Soon he saw , far below , the branches of the coral tree . `` They must be here , '' thought he , and , folding his wings , he plunged into the deep , cold sea . But he saw only fearful monsters and dark shapes that gathered round him ; and , trembling with fear , he struggled up again . The great waves tossed him to and fro , and cast him bruised and faint upon the shore . Here he lay weeping bitterly , till a voice beside him said , `` Poor little Elf , what has befallen you ? These rough waves are not fit playmates for so delicate a thing as you . Tell me your sorrow , and I will comfort you . ''
And XXXXX , looking up , saw a white sea-bird at his side , who tried with friendly words to cheer him .
Elf Flutter Lily-Bell Poor Spirits Thistle day dragon-fly fro sea