The next day , as soon as the sun rose , she made her appearance decked as a bride , in the wonderful robes and jewels which the fond gnome had prepared for her . Her golden hair was braided and crowned with myrtle blossoms , and her flowing veil sparkled with gems . In these magnificent garments she went to meet the gnome upon the great terrace . ` Loveliest of maidens , ' he stammered , bowing low before her , ` let me gaze into your dear eyes , and read in them that you will no longer refuse my love , but will make me the happiest being the sun shines upon . ' So saying he would have drawn aside her veil ; but the princess only held it more closely about her . ` Your constancy has overcome me , ' she said ; ' I can no longer oppose your wishes . But believe my words , and suffer this veil still to hide my blushes and tears . ' ` Why tears , beloved one ? ' cried the gnome anxiously ; ` every tear of yours falls upon my heart like a drop of molten gold . Greatly as I desire your love , I do not ask a sacrifice . ' ` Ah ! ' cried the false princess , ` why do you misunderstand my tears ? My heart answers to your tenderness , and yet I am fearful . A wife can not always charm , and though YOU will never alter , the beauty of mortals is as a flower that fades . How can I be sure that you will always be as loving and charming as you are now ? ' ` Ask some proof , sweetheart , ' said he . ` Put my obedience and my patience to some test by which you can judge of my unalterable love . ' ` Be it so , ' answered the crafty maiden . ` Then give me just one proof of your goodness . Go !
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