Then his second task was done , and he flew gayly back to the green earth and slumbering Lily-Bell . The silvery moonlight shone upon her , as he came to give his second gift ; and the Brownie spoke more kindly than before . `` One more trial , Thistle , and she will awake . Go bravely forth and win your last and hardest gift . '' Then with a light heart Thistle journeyed away to the brooks and rivers , seeking the Water Spirits . But he looked in vain ; till , wandering through the forest where the Brownies took him captive , he stopped beside the quiet lake . As he stood here he heard a sound of pain , and , looking in the tall grass at his side , he saw the dragon-fly whose kindness he once repayed by pain and sorrow , and who now lay suffering and alone . Thistle bent tenderly beside him , saying , `` Dear Flutter , do not fear me . I will gladly ease your pain , if you will let me ; I am your friend , and long to show you how I grieve for all the wrong I did you , when you were so kind to me . 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 XXXXX 's sake I must not fear or falter now , '' said Thistle .
Brownie Brownies Flutter Lily-Bell Spirits Thistle day dragon-fly feet second