It happened one day , when he was out hunting , that a little white rabbit , which his dogs were chasing , sprang into his arms for shelter . The King stroked it gently , and said to it : `` Well , bunny , as you have come to me for protection I will see that nobody hurts you . '' And he took it home to his palace and had it put in a pretty little house , with all sorts of nice things to eat . That night , when he was alone in his room , a beautiful lady suddenly appeared before him ; her long dress was as white as snow , and she had a crown of white roses upon her head . The good King was very much surprised to see her , for he knew his door had been tightly shut , and he could not think how she had got in . But she said to him : `` I am the Fairy Truth . I was passing through the wood when you were out hunting , and I wished to find out if you were really good , as everybody said you were , so I took the shape of a little rabbit and came to your arms for shelter , for I know that those who are merciful to animals will be still kinder to their fellow-men . If you had refused to help me I should have been certain that you were wicked . I thank you for the kindness you have shown me , which has made me your friend for ever . You have only to ask me for anything you want and I promise that I will give it to you . '' `` Madam , '' said the good King , `` since you are a fairy you no doubt know all my wishes . I have but one son whom I love very dearly , that is why he is called Prince Darling . If you are really good enough to wish to do me a favor , I beg that you will become his friend . '' `` With all my heart , '' answered the Fairy . `` I can make your son the handsomest prince in the world , or the richest , or the most powerful ; choose whichever you like for him . '' `` I do not ask either of these things for my son , '' replied the good King ; `` but if you will make him the best of princes , I shall indeed be grateful to you . What good would it do him to be rich , or handsome , or to possess all the kingdoms of the world if he were wicked ? You know well he would still be unhappy . Only a good man can be really contented . '' `` You are quite right , '' answered the Fairy ; `` but it is not in my power to make Prince Darling a good man unless he will help me ; he must himself try hard to become good , I can only promise to give him good advice , to scold him for his faults , and to punish him if he will not correct and punish himself . ''
The good XXXXX was quite satisfied with this promise ; and very soon afterward he died .
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