This was so unexpected that the prince 's arm fell helplessly to his side at the sound , and he stood motionless . But the magpie in the tree , who , like all the rest of his family , was not happy unless he could be for ever chattering , began to repeat the message the princess had taught him ; and as soon as he understood it , Prince Ratibor 's heart was filed with joy . All his gloom and misery vanished in a moment , and he anxiously questioned the welcome messenger as to the fate of the princess . But the magpie knew no more than the lesson he had learnt , so he soon fluttered away ; while the prince hurried back to his castle to gather together a troop of horsemen , full of courage for whatever might befall . The princess meanwhile was craftily pursuing her plan of escape . She left off treating the gnome with coldness and indifference ; indeed , there was a look in her eyes which encouraged him to hope that she might some day return his love , and the idea pleased him mightily . 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 XXXXX you are now ? '
as before for like of so that though to upon