the aged king, however, was standing outside by the pipe of the stove, and was listening to what she said, and heard it. then he came back again, and bade her come out of the stove. and royal garments were placed on her, and it was marvellous how beautiful she was! the aged king summoned his son, and revealed to him that he had got the false bride who was only a waiting-maid, but that the true one was standing there, as the sometime goose-girl. the young king rejoiced with all his heart when he saw her beauty and youth, and a great feast was made ready to which all the people and all good friends were invited. at the head of the table sat the bridegroom with the king’s daughter at one side of him, and the waiting-maid on the other, but the waiting-maid was blinded, and did not recognize the princess in her dazzling array.