Michael was placed next to the eldest sister , and opposite to the youngest . They gave him the most exquisite dishes to eat , and the most delicate wines to drink ; and in order to turn his head more completely , compliments and flattery were heaped on him from every side . But he took care not to be intoxicated , either by the wine or the compliments . XV At last the eldest sister made a sign , and one of the black pages brought in a large golden cup . ` The enchanted castle has no more secrets for you , ' she said to the Star Gazer . ` Let us drink to your triumph . ' He cast a lingering glance at the little Princess , and without hesitation lifted the cup . ` Do n't drink ! ' suddenly cried out the little Princess ; ' I would rather marry a gardener . ' And she burst into tears . Michael flung the contents of the cup behind him , sprang over the table , and fell at Lina 's feet . The rest of the princes fell likewise at the knees of the princesses , each of whom chose a husband and raised him to her side . The charm was broken . The twelve couples embarked in the boats , which crossed back many times in order to carry over the other princes . Then they all went through the three woods , and when they had passed the door of the underground passage a great noise was heard , as if the enchanted castle was crumbling to the earth . They went straight to the room of the Duke of Beloeil , who had just awoke . Michael held in his hand the golden cup , and he revealed the secret of the holes in the shoes . ` Choose , then , ' said the Duke , ` whichever you prefer . ' ` My choice is already made , ' replied the garden boy , and he offered his hand to the youngest Princess , who blushed and lowered her eyes . XVI The Princess Lina did not become a gardener 's wife ; on the contrary , it was the Star Gazer who became a Prince : but before the marriage ceremony the Princess insisted that her lover should tell her how he came to discover the secret .
So he showed her the two laurels which had helped him , and she , like a prudent girl , thinking they gave him too much advantage over his wife , cut them off at the root and threw them XXXXX the fire .
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