PR CORNELL UNIVERSITY LIBRARY FROM A'lr s . "m . ■r . i- . ^r/rl cy DATE DUE MrU.-mu Cornell University Library PR 2877.B86 Fairy tales from Shakespeare, 3 1924 013 144 575 Cornell University Library The original of this book is in the Cornell University Library. There are no known copyright restrictions in the United States on the use of the text. http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924013144575 Titania and the Clown FAIRY TALES FROM SHAKESPEARE BY FAY ADAMS ILLUSTRATED BY CLARA POWERS WILSON Publishers The Reilly 6? Britton Co. Chicago P^Ls'jipLl Copyright, 1907 by The Reilly & Britton Co. Fairy Tales from Shakespeare AUTHOR'S NOTE. When a child arrives at the "story age" the fairy tale claims and holds immediate attention. The minds of children dwell in realms of fancy. With magical eyes they see the things which are read or told to them, and retain the "pictures in memory ever after. The retentive age begins when children can understand, and long before they begin to read for themselves. Thus it is that older people remember more of the stories that were told to them in their early years than of those which came to them by their own reading later on. In these stories the purpose has been to introduce in fairy tale fashion plots and characters from several Shakespearian plays, and by so doing familiarize the childish mind with the work of the great English poet. AUTHOR'S NOTE As the child later on comes to read for itself the desire for Shakespeare's plays will have been already established, and the youthful reader will find them full of interest and easier of understanding. F. A. B. CONTENTS. A MiDstTMMEB Night's Dream ... 9 The Merchant of Venice .... 21 King Leab 31 The Winter's Tale .... 49 The Taming of the Shrew .... 63 Macbeth 89 The Tempest 99 Ctmbelinb 117 ILLUSTRATIONS. A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM TiTANiA AND THE Clown . . Frontispiecc Fairies Sometimes Quarrel . . . 11 Puck 16 THE MERCHANT OF VENICE Bassanio Choosing the Casket . . 20 Portia and Her Fairy Godmother . . 25 "We do Pray for Mercy" ... 28 KING LEAR " I Love Your Majesty According to Your Right" 34 The Fairy Guides Lear and Kent . 41 Kent in the Stocks 44 THE WINTER'S TALE King Polixenes Ship 51 Perdita and Florizel 56 Queen Hermione 60 THE TAMING OF THE SHREW Sly Bowed Low to Baptista ... 65 Katherine, the Shrew .... 76 Still no Bridegroom Came .... 82 ILLUSTRATIONS MACBETH The Witches 88 Macbeth Meets the Witches . 92 BiRNAM Wood Comes to Dunsinane 97 THE TEMPEST Miranda . 100 Prospero Releases the Fairies . 104 Prospero Calms the Storm . . 109 CYMBELINE The Fairies Kidnap the Princes . . 120 The Fairy Changes Imogen into a Boy . 135 The Fairy Reunites Imogen and Leon- atus 141 TO MY SONS THIS BOOK IS FONDLY DEDICATED F. A. B. A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM. A long, long time ago, when Fairies, Sprites, and Witches dwelt in the forests, there lived a tiny Fairy King whose name was Oberon, and though a wee mite, he felt very large, and would strut around in a most amusmg manner. His Queen — Titania — was a beautiful fairy, and for so small a body she carried herself with great grace and dignity. Now, we find that fairies sometimes quarrel and do naughty things, just as do little girls and boys — and even grown-ups at times. Fairy Eang Oberon and Queen Titania often quarreled because Titania refused to give a little boy (whom she had reared) to King Oberon for a page. The boy's mother, while she lived, was a firm friend of Titania, and when she [9] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES died gave her child to Titania to bring up as her own. So he grew up in the forest among the fairies, and was the innocent cause of constant trouble between the Fairy King and Queen. King Oberon thought so grand a per- son as himself should be attended by a page, and thus it was that every time he and his Queen would meet, there were angry words, and both would go away with saddened hearts. Finally, the Fairy King grew so angry that he determined to punish his Queen, and thus make her only too glad to give the lad into his service. He sent for Puck, — and now I must tell you who little Puck was: the merriest, maddest elf imagin- able. He had the happiest, j oiliest face in all Fairyland, and would laugh and laugh while all the time playing pranks and jokes. Of course people would not get angry at Puck, because he was such a dear little fellow and never meant any wrong. Every- [10] Fairies Sometimes Quarrel SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES body loved him. He made many a sad heart gay and chased away many tears with his bright and cheerful smile. So King Oberon would always send for little Puck to cheer him when he and Queen Titania disagreed. This time when he sent for Puck it was to be revenged on Titania! "Come hither. Puck," said Oberon to the funny little fellow. "Fetch me a flower that grows which the maids call 'Love-in- idleness.' The juice of this flower squeezed on the eyes of those who sleep will wake them, and when they wake they will love the first thing they see, no matter if it be a cat, a lion, a bear, or a monkey." Fairies, my dears, did not like to be made fun of any more than people do, as you will learn when you hear how King Oberon wished to tease and humble Queen Titania. " Now," continued Oberon to little Puck, "Titania so vexes me that I intend to squeeze the juice of this flower on her eyes [12] A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM as she sleeps, and I will not remove the spell — which I can do with another charm I know — until she gives me the boy for my page." This was great fun for Puck, and he ran off clapping his hands and laughing until his sides ached, thinking how the Queen would act and how angry she would be. While Puck was gone, King Oberon dis- covered in the forest some lovers who seemed to be quarreling. This so distressed him that when Puck returned the King com- manded him to seek the lovers and put some of the juice of the flower in their eyes, so that they should love each other and quarrel no more. Then away went Oberon with his purple flower to punish his Queen. Titania was just retiring for the night. Her couch was a bank of wild thyme, cow- slips, and violets, under a canopy of roses. The King found Titania giving her or- ders to her Fairy attendants. When she was cozily wrapped in her coverlet of [13] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES snake-skin, a chorus of tiny Fairies fanned her and sang her to sleep, and this being done, they hastened away to per- form duties Titania placed upon them. When all had gone, Oberon stole up to the sleeping Queen, squeezed the juice of the flower on her eyelids, and said: "What thou seest when thou dost wake. Do it for thy true-love take; Love and languish for his sake; Be it ounce, or cat, or bear, Pard, or boar with bristling hair. In thy eye that shall appear, When thou wakest, it is thy dear; Wake when some wild thing is near." Then Oberon hurried off into the wood. But to return to our jolly friend Puck. You remember the Fairy King had sent him to squeeze the juice of the wild flower into the eyes of the quarreling lovers. Well, Puck frolicked along, finally meet- ing two young people who seemed to be disputing with each other. He had quite forgotten what the King had told him as to [14] A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM how they would be dressed, and supposed, of course, these were the lovers the King had described. So he waved the purple flower across their eyes. Now, as it happened, they were not the lovers King Oberon had seen, and you may be sure Puck's carelessness made a pretty bad tangle, for which he was sound- ly scolded by the King. However, King Oberon set the other charm to work, which straightened things out joyfully and re- stored his own good humor. As it was about time for Titania to awaken. King Oberon hurried back to her bower, and much to his surprise he saw a clown standing near. A clown, my dears, as you may know, is a very foolish man who does silly things. After staring at the foolish fellow for a moment, the King quickly waved his wand, and behold! the clown's head was that d a donkey. Immediately Queen Titania awakened, 115] A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM and as her eyes fell upon the strange crea- ture she gave an exclamation of delight. The juice of the flower caused her to be- lieve this monstrous being the most beau- tiful thing she had ever seen. She wound her arms around the big, big neck of the donkey, and commanded all her Fairy attendants to wait upon him. To the Fairy Peaseblossom the donkey said in a deep, surly voice: "Peaseblossom, scratch my head!" The wee Fairy shivered with fright, but she scratched, and scratched, and scratched his head. To the Fairy Cobweb he said : "Mr. Cobweb!" " What, sir ? " repHed Cobweb. " Kill me a red bumble-bee yonder, good Mr. Cobweb, bring me the honey-bags." Away ran Cobweb to do his bidding. Then looking around, the donkey said : " Where's Mustardseed ? " "Here, here," replied Mustardseed. "What is your will.?" [17] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES " Nothing," said the donkey, " but help Peaseblossom scratch my head." And so with the Fairies scratching his head, the fooHsh donkey fell asleep, while poor Titania twined a garland of flowers for his neck. Then, lo and behold! King Oberon appeared. You may know the Fairy Queen felt very foolish, and King Oberon teased and made so much fun of her that she told him if he would stop he might have the small boy for his page. This, of course, was just what King Oberon wanted, and he was so happy he immediately removed the spell and Fairy Titania was astonished that she should have loved so ugly a beast as the donkey, and asked King Oberon to drive him away. This the King did, but not until he re- moved the donkey's head and returned to the clown his own, which so pleased the fellow that he just cracked his heels together and scampered out of the wood; and he has never been back to this day. [18] A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM King Oberon and his charming Queen were always happy after that and truly loved each other ever after. And Puck — dear, laughing, little Puck! He continued his merry pranks secure in the friendship of everybody. Now, my dears, what do you think of this story ? It is just a fairy tale — a funny little dream — A Midsummer Night's Dream of a great man who lived long, long years ago, and whose name was — William Shakespeabe. [19] Bassanio Choosing the Casket THE MERCHANT OF VENICE. Many years ago, in the town of Belmont, lived a young and beautiful woman whose name was Portia. Her father was a good and wise man, and when he died he left Portia all his money and lands. But before his death, fearing some one might wish to marry her for her great wealth, he took a very strange way of finding for her a good husband, one that would love her for her- self only. He had three caskets made — one of gold, one of silver, and one of lead. On the golden casket was engraved : "Who choosetk me, shall gain what many men desire." And on the silver: " Who chooseth me, shall get as much as he de- serves." And the leaden casket was lettered : £21] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES "Who chooseth me, must give and hazard all he hath." Then in the leaden box he secretly placed a portrait of Portia, and announced that the wooer who chose the casket which held the picture should have Portia for his wife. Of course Portia had many admirers. They came from the north, south, east, and west to try their fortune by these mysterious caskets. But the golden and silver caskets attracted them all, and they went away again with sad and disappointed hearts. Living in Venice was a young noble by name of Bassanio, who had often visited Portia's home when her father lived, and he had truly loved Portia all these years and felt sure that she loved him. So he longed to try his fortune, but was too poor to make the journey to Belmont. Then he thought of his friend Antonio, who was a rich merchant in Venice, and decided he would go to Antonio and borrow the necessary money. He told Antonio his secret, but Antonio [22] THE MERCHANT OF VENICE thought he could not help his friend. He had ships at sea heavily laden with gold, but they would not reach Venice for two months. At last Antonio thought of Shylock, a money-lender, and told Bassanio he would try to get the money of Shylock. Now, Shylock and Antonio had quarreled many times, and therefore were not good friends. Antonio had called Shylock some very ugly names, and the man hated Antonio and was anxious to be even with him for all his past injuries. So he finally consented to lend the money under one condition — that Antonio should give a bond to Shylock granting him the right, if the debt was not paid at a certain time, to cut a pound of flesh from Antonio's body. Bassanio was greatly shocked at such a condition and refused to accept, but An- tonio only laughed and said: "Fear not, man; I will not forfeit it; Within these two months , — that 's a month before This bond expires, — I do expect return Of thrice three times the value of this bond." [23] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES The bond was signed, and Shylock lent Antonio three thousand ducats, which was to fit Bassanio for his journey to Belmont. All now went smoothly for a short time, and Bassanio went to Belmont and was heartily received by the fair Portia. He tried his fate at the caskets and se- lected the leaden one. When he opened it, behold! it held the portrait of Portia. He thus won her for his wife, and there was great rejoicing in the castle. Preparations for the marriage of Portia and Bassanio began at once, and that event was celebrated three months after Bassanio arrived in Belmont. But on the day of their marriage a great sorrow came to them. Bassanio received a letter from his friend Antonio bidding him farewell, saying his ships had not arrived, and Shylock demanded forfeit on his bond. Bassanio was greatly grieved, but the good Portia soon removed this sorrow by giving him three times as much money as was needed to pay the money-lender, and [24] Portia and Her Fairy Godmother SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES hastened her husband to the rescue of his friend. Very soon after Bassanio departed, Portia was surprised by a strange creature who announced herself as Portia's Fairy God- mother. To Portia she said: "My dear, your hus- band's friend is in great danger; would you like to be the means of saving his life.?" "Oh, yes, indeed," replied Portia. "Well, then, my dear, listen. Here is a letter which will admit you to the Court of Venice, where you are to try the case of Antonio, Merchant of Venice, and Shylock." Waving her wand over Portia's head, the fair Portia appeared to be dressed like a Doctor of Laws. "Now haste thee," said the Fairy. "Do not fear or be confused. I will be there, invisible to all eyes except your own. I will whisper in your ear wise and proper words for you to say, and you shall win the case for the Merchant of Venice." So Portia hurried away to Venice as the [26] THE MERCHANT OF VENICE Fairy commanded. With her she took Nerissa, a waiting-maid whom the Fairy had dressed as a lawyer's clerk. When they reached Venice the Court was in session, the Duke, seated on his throne, waiting for Bellario, the able lawyer who was to try the case. The letter given Portia by the Fairy told the Duke of Bellario's illness, and com- mended the bearer, Balthazar, who of course was Portia, to his highness. Then the trial began. The good Fairy was there — true to her word — visible only to Portia. By the Fairy's magic, Portia seemed to be dressed as a Doctor of Laws, and even her husband did not know her. First, Portia plead with Shylock to be mer- ciful to Antonio, saying: " The quality of mercy is not strain'd ; It droppeth, as the gentle rain from heaven Upon the place beneath ; it is twice bless'd, — It blesseth him that gives, and him that takes, 'T is mightiest in the mightiest : it becomes The throned monarch better than his crown; [27] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES His sceptre shows the force of temporal power. The attribute to awe and majesty. Wherein doth sit the dread and fear of kings; But mercy is above this sceptred sway; It is enthroned in the hearts of kings, It is an attribute to God himself; And earthly power doth then show likest God's When mercy seasons justice. Therefore, Though justice be thy plea, consider this, — That in the course of justice, none of us Should see salvation: we do pray for mercy; And that same prayer doth teach us all to render The deeds of mercy." But Shylock answered : " My deeds upon my head ! I crave the law. The penalty and forfeit of my bond." Then Bassanio offered Shylock twice the sum of money he had lent to Antonio, but the money-lender refused. Thereupon Por- tia ordered Antonio to prepare his breast for the knife, as Shylock must have the cruel forfeit, a pound of flesh. But wait! As Shylock was about to cut his pound of flesh the young lawyer stepped forward and said : [28] We do Pray for Mercy THE MERCHANT OF VENICE "A pound of that same merchant's flesh is thine; The court awards it, and the law doth give it. Tarry a little : — there is something else. This bond doth give thee here no jot of blood; The words expressly are, a pound of flesh : Take then thy bond, take thou thy pound of flesh; But in the cutting it, if thou dost shed One drop of Christian blood, thy lands and goods Are by the laws of Venice, confiscate Unto the State of Venice." Now, as every one knows, it is impossible to cut a pound of flesh from a living being without causing blood to flow, and it is no wonder that the people in the court-room held their breath, and the eyes of Shylock, the money-lender, fell in dismay at the wise words of the youthful lawyer. Shylock's case was lost. The judge so decided, and at once ordered that, for at- tempting to take the life of a citizen, half of the land, money, and Jewels of the money- lender, Shylock, should be taken by the state, and the other half should be given to Antonio, whose Hfe had been threatened. Now, my dears, of course you feel unkindly [29] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES towards Shylock, but you must remember he had suffered much, and that the poor old man had been called a "dog," and many other ugly names. So I think he was to be pitied some, too. Antonio was set free, and Shy- lock lost all his money because he sought a human life. Poor old Shylock! We must feel sorry for him as he leaves the Court, a broken-hearted old man. The Duke, the Merchant of Venice, Bas- sanio, and many others praised the young lawyer for his able words. But the warning voice of the Fairy told Portia she must hurry home, to be there when Bassanio arrived. And so she was at home to receive Bassanio and his friend Antonio, and extended them a hearty welcome. They told her of the case and the bright young lawyer, and Portia Ustened to all with great interest. Then she laughingly told them the story of the good Fairy, and that she, Portia, was Bal- thazar, the learned counsel who had saved the Ufe of the Merchant of Venice. [30] 1 Love Your Majesty According to Your Right " KING LEAR. Once there lived in Britain, King Lear, who had two wicked daughters and one lovely, sweet daughter, who was also his youngest and most favored. On this account she was much disliked by her two older sisters, who were always try- ing to poison the mind of their father. King Lear, against his youngest daughter. The eldest daughter's name was Goneril, the second one's name was Regan, while the youngest was called Cordeha. Goneril was married to the Duke of Albany. Regan was the wife of Duke of Cornwall. Cordelia was unmarried, though two Princes sued for her heart and hand. She loved her dear old father, and was faithful and worthy of his trust and confidence. Cordelia often grieved over the ill-treat- ment she received from her two wicked sis- [31] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES ters, and the manner in which they tried to deceive their father, but never complained to him of them, as she wanted his decUning years to be most happy. King Lear was growing to be a very old man, and the cares and responsibilities of his throne rested heavy on his shoulders. There- fore he decided to call his court together and divide his kingdom in three portions, one to each daughter, so that when he died there would be nothing for them to quarrel about. Now, I must tell you, King Lear had many queer notions, and so he decided to divide his kingdom after this manner : He would ask each daughter to describe her love for him, and the one who had the greatest love, to her would he give the great- est kingdom. Goneril was first called to tell her love, she being the eldest of the three. Now, King Lear, my dears, did n't really know the wicked hearts of his two eldest daughters, as you will soon see, but he was a great lover of display and extravagant words, [32] KING LEAR and was easily flattered by deceitful tongues. Goneril replied to the King: "Sir, I love you better than all the world knows — more than life, grace, health, beauty, and honor — more than words can tell. Beyond all else, I love you." Poor Cordelia, standing by, marveled that her sister should say so much that was not in her heart, for Cordelia knew Goneril's love was love for self alone, and a desire to own the greater kingdom. But of course this pretty speech pleased King Lear, and so he drew a line on the map, giving Goneril a wide and vast country to rule over, which should descend to her chil- dren and her children's children. Then called he Regan, his second born. "My sister," replied Regan, "falls far short of my love, for I love thee in all she says and more, I find myself an enemy to all that is not love of thee." Cordelia only sighed. She was not so gifted with words, but knew down in her true little heart that her love would outweigh that [33] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES of the others, and yet she knew not what to say for herself. King Lear again drew a line across a cer- tain portion of the kingdom, which was to be reigned over by Regan and her descendants. Then turned he fondly and proudly to Cor- delia and said : "And now, my joy, my youngest and best, in whom both France and Burgundy are in- terested, what more sayest thou than thy sisters ? " To which CordeUa repHed : "Nothing, my lord." Now, dear little Cordelia really did not mean to offend her father, or show him any disrespect, but when words so lavish could come from those so cruel and unkind, she felt there was no more for a true little heart like hers to utter. This reply so startled the old King that he fairly jumped from his throne, as he shouted : "Nothing?" Again the sweetest Uttle voice replied : "Nothing." [34] KING LEAR Then the infuriated King Lear frowned and repUed : " Beware ! Nothing will come of nothing ! " "Unhappy for me," rephed Cordeha, "I cannot put in words the love that lives within my heart. I love your Majesty according to your right — no more, or less." Poor, vain King Lear! He really loved and trusted Cordelia, and remembered how tenderly she had always loved and cared for him. But he could not bear to have any one seem to lack in words of praise for him. So he hesitated, saying : "Come, come, my child, have a thought. You may lose your share in my kingdom." Cordelia was much surprised that her father knew so Httle of his child's heart and devo- tion, and she replied : "My father, you have reared me, loved me, and I return those duties; obey, love, and honor you as is your right. Why did my sis- ters marry if they love you all ? The man whom I shall marry will have half my love, half my care and duty. Surely, I shall never [35] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES marry as my sisters have and love you all." "Do you mean this ?" roared the King. "Yes, my lord," replied CordeUa. The King hung his head and sighed : "So young and so untender." "So young, my lord, and true," corrected Cordelia. Raising his head. King Lear looked his daughter squarely in the face and said : "Very well, so be it. Thy truth is thy dower. For by all the powers that rule the universe, I now disclaim thee, and hold thee a stranger to my heart." You may imagine this decree was just what the two wicked sisters wished for most, and they cast scornful smiles upon their poor, unfortunate little sister. In King Lear's court lived a noble gentle- man, the Earl of Kent. He had always been the King's most trusted friend and adviser. He watched the King's three Httle daughters grow to womanhood, and loved Cordelia very much for all her kind and gentle ways. But Goneril and Regan he never trusted, and [36] KING LEAR often noted with a sad heart the indignities they heaped upon Cordelia. The Earl of Kent was so shocked that he fell upon his knees and begged this unnatural father to recall his harsh words, saying : " I am not afraid to speak, my King, since thy Majesty f aUs to folly, and thy power bows to flattering words. Your youngest child does not love thee least because she cannot dazzle that soul with glittering words which have no real meaning." The King would not hsten, and ordered the poor earl out of his sight and kingdom. So the Earl of Kent bade his king a sad farewell, assuring him of his love and loyalty, and turning to where Cordelia stood weeping, took both her hands in his and said : "May all the inhabitants of Fairyland at- tend thee and shelter thee, sweet maid, that justly think'st and has't most rightly said. Thus, Kent, O princes, bids you adieu. He'll shape his old course in a country new." Then turned he and walked rapidly from the room. [37] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES King Lear then sent a messenger to sum- mon the Duke of Burgundy and the King of France, who both professed love for CordeHa, to tell them of his sentence. They soon appeared, but when the Duke of Burgundy heard of the kingdom Cordelia had lost, his love grew smaller and smaller, and making a foolish, awkward bow to Cor- delia, he assured her he regretted she had lost her father and a husband. CordeHa now smiled for the first time since her father's harsh words, as she answered the foolish duke : "Since the Duke of Burgundy loved my fortune, and not myself, I would not be his wife." The King of France very proudly stepped forward, and taking Cordelia's hands, said : "Fairest CordeHa, thou art rich in being poor. Be it lawful, I take up what is cast away." Then turning to the King he said : "Thy dowerless daughter, King, thrown to my chance, is Queen of us, of ours, and our [38] KING LEAR dear France. Not all the Dukes of waterish Burgundy can buy this unprized, precious maid of me. Bid them farewell, Cordeha, though unkind; thou losest here a home, a better one to find." Turning to her sisters, Cordelia bade them a tearful good-bye. She charged them to take the good care of their father their love pro- fessed, and yet assured them she feared to leave him. Both sisters repUed they cared not for her advice; and so the King of France very proudly, very gently led his sweet Cordeha into happier realms. After Cordelia had departed with the King of France, the wicked sisters persuaded the King to divide her share of the kingdom be- tween them, which he fooHshly did. Thus he remained king only in name and state, keep- ing but his servants to attend his wants. And it was agreed that he should spend his time between his daughters Goneril and Re- gan, they to care for him while he lived. ***** [39] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES When the Earl of Kent left the angered king, he made his way through the forest, not knowing which way he went. He traveled several miles until his feet were sore with walking, and coming to an opening in the forest, he sat down to think over all the miser- able events of the day. Thus he sat, with his face resting in his hands, when a wee voice said : "Have good cheer. The Fairies will de- fend you and the fair Cordelia." Looking up he saw a lovely little Fairy. "Who are you?" asked Kent. "I am Ariel, Queen of the Fairies." "How will you help us?" questioned the Earl of Kent. "First," replied the Fairy, "I will place on your finger this ring, which holds a magic charm, and no harm shall befall you. I shall disguise you as a peasant, and you must return and approach your king for a place as one of his attendants. He will have sore need of you, now that he dwells with his de- signing daughters." [40] The Fairy Guides Lear and Kent SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES Waving her wand over the earl — behold! He stood a gray-bearded man, but in livery of the court servants. Immediately Kent sought his king and pre- sented himself as one in search of a position ; Uking his gentle manners, King Lear engaged him. Poor old king! The days that followed were sorrowful enough. His daughter Gone- ril and her husband did nothing for his com- fort. Indeed, they not only took from him his own servants, but smiled at all disrespect their own servants showed their aged father. When they learned that he had engaged a new servant, a severe quarrel ensued, which finally ended in poor King Lear quitting his daughter Goneril, and setting forth to seek shelter under Regan's roof. You see, he was beginning to reaUze how insincere his daughters were. Now, Goneril knew her father would hurry to Regan, so she sent a messenger post-haste, informing her of her plans, and asking Regan to uphold her in all that she had done. [42] KING LEAR The Earl of Kent, who could travel faster than King Lear, went on ahead to prepare Regan, and intercede for the King's comfort and welfare. Meeting Goneril's messenger, Kent gave him a good thrashing, for which he was put in the stocks by Regan. Stocks, my dears, are happily not used nowadays. They were heavy wooden frames, with holes into which a person's legs and arms were fastened, so that no movement was possible. It was customary to put law-break- ers in the stocks for hours at a time. Poor Kent! He felt sad indeed, but hear- ing a wee voice saying, "Remember your ring," he looked up and saw Ariel smihng at him. Of course, no one else saw the Fairy, for Fairies make themselves visible only to a chosen few. Kent glanced down at his ring, and imme- diately the stocks fell apart and he was free. Stamping her foot, Regan was about to leave the room when King Lear appeared before her. [431 I ll}lrfi.v. «„»- .C^^^"''"^*^"' Kent in the Stocks KING LEAR She received her father very coldly, and when he told her the sad treatment he re- ceived at Goneril's hands, she laughed at him; called him "foolish" and "childish" ; said he had no mind, and that they must think and act for him. Regan was less kind than Goneril. In despair King Lear beat the air with his hands, and rushed forth into the stormy night, followed only by his servant, Kent. Madly he raved, for grief had darkened his mind, and but for his faithful Kent and the Fairy Ariel, he would surely have died. Ariel guided them to a cave in the wood, and told Kent to care for the poor old man while she hastened to inform Cordelia, who was now Queen of France and more wealthy and powerful than her wicked sisters, but still the same gentle, sweet Cordelia. Cordelia's life in France had been very happy, for she was loved dearly by her hus- band and her subjects. All were loyal to her. She was not unmindful of her father, so [45] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES when the Fairy Ariel appeared before her, and told her of her father's sad phght, she was not surprised, and, like the rare little woman she was, said : "We must succor him; but how, Ariel? How?" "Your father hes ill, very ill. His mind is gone. I will guide you to a cave where the Earl of Kent keeps careful watch. You can nurse him back to health, but before we start, seek your king and implore his aid. Beg him to summon his army and march on Britain and dethrone the usurpers — the Dukes of Albany and Cornwall. King Lear still re- mains king in title. We will yet place him on the throne, and see Britain a happier coun- tiy." Cordeha lost no time in finding her king, who was greatly startled when she rushed into his presence, threw herself on her knees be- fore him, and with tears streaming down her face begged the greatest favor she had ever asked. When he had heard all, he gently raised [46] KING LEAR his Queen, kissed her fair forehead, and repUed : "It shall be as you wish." Now, happy and light of heart,Cordelia and the Fairy Ariel were soon on their way to the cave where lay the poor demented king. About this time the Duke of Albany and the Duke of Cornwall fell to quarreUng, and so violent was the strife, that when the King of France marched his army into Britain they were wholly unable to defend themselves. Fierce battles followed, until Albany and Cornwall sued for peace. To this the King of France would only agree upon condition that they give up much of their land and wealth, to restore the king's palace and crown, and replace King Lear upon his throne. To all this they sorrowfully agreed. The Duke of Cornwall died soon after from a wound received in battle, and when Goneril and Regan realized what their down- fall meant, they poisoned themselves, so that they were no more trouble to their father. CordeUa carefully nursed her father back [47] S,HAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES to health, and joyful were the days and years that followed. Fairy Ariel now restored the Earl of Kent to his normal condition, and you may rest assured that he remained King Lear's most faithful and trusted advisor, even after Cor- delia and her king returned to their home in France, very happy people. The past seemed a fearful dream to the aged King Lear. Yet he was destined to see many happy days, and to entertain the future King of Britain many times when he came with his fond father, the King of France, and his mother, the dearly beloved Cordeha. [48] THE WINTER'S TALE. In a counrty called Sicilia, a long, long time ago, there lived a great king named Leontes. This king had for a wife a kind and beautiful woman, by name Hermione; also a dear little boy, whom he loved very much. The King likewise had a good friend, who was also a king and ruled over Bohemia, his name being Polixenes. These two kings had not seen each other since they were little boys, almost thirty years before. Wasn't that a very long time ? I think so. Now, in order to bring about a meeting with his old friend, the King of Bohemia wrote a letter to King Leontes, telling him he thought of making him a visit. King Leontes was very glad to hear such good news, and at once began planning for his friend's visit. [49] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES One fine morning King Polixenes, with a number of his servants, sailed away in a big ship for Siciha. The trip was pleasant, and Sicilia was reached in safety. King Leontes, with some of the lords and ladies of his court, went to meet him, and escorted him to the palace in great splendor. There he met the beautiful Queen Her- mione, and was given the best rooms in the castle. We always give our company the best of everything, don't we ? Well, so did King Leontes. King Polixenes stayed a long time, riding and hunting, and enjoying the company of his friend. When he was ready to go home. King Leontes begged him to stay even longer, insisted upon it, — which wasn't very polite, was it.'* — but King Polixenes said, "No, my friend, I have been away from home too long, now; I cannot — must not stay." Leontes, unable himself to persuade his friend to remain, turned to his wife and said: [50] King Polixenes Ship SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES "My Queen, what say you? Ask the King to stay." The Queen did so gracefully, but each time Polixenes rephed, "No." Then the Queen said, "If you will not stay as my guest, I will hold you as my prisoner. Which shall it be.''" King Polixenes, being polite, decided to remain as her guest, whereupon King Leontes became angry and jealous, for Polixenes had refused his invita- tion. He scolded his sweet little wife very, very hard, and was so angry that he shut her up in a room by herself, in a lonesome part of the castle, and would let no one see her but the servants who took her meals to her. Don't you think King Leontes was most unkind .'' His rage at his friend, too, was so great that Polixenes soon went home. I am afraid Leontes acted as many spoiled little boys and girls do over imaginary wrongs. King Leontes behaved so badly that he was soon punished, as he well deserved to be. But his punishment was greater and more [52] THE WINTER'S TALE severe than is usually visited upon kings. How lonely the poor Queen must have been, shut in all by herself! Of course she was, and she cried and cried. One day while she was weeping, a bright light shone in the room, and looking up she saw a beau- tiful Fairy. The Fairy had something in her arms, and what do you suppose it was ? A wee baby girl ! Think of that! The Fairy said: " Cheer up, my Queen. You shall not be lonely any more. Take this little babe to the Eang, and see if it does not make him happy. If he is cross and cruel to you I will punish him." Then she disappeared. Very soon the King came to the Queen's room. He was still cross and ugly, and when the Queen gave him the litte babe and said, "My King, a Fairy left this to make us happy," he grew angry and said he would not keep it. He snatched it from the arms of the poor Queen, and calling a servant, he commanded him to take the babe away and leave it in some far-off wood for the bears to [53] / SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES eat. What do. you think of King Leontes now? Then the Fairy appeared again. This time she was frowning and looked stern and angry. She scolded Leontes for his wicked ways and promised to punish him severely. Waving her fairy wand in the air, she said, "Your little son is dead." Having said this, she vanished. The King laughed scorn- fully, but just then a servant rushed in, screaming, " Oh, King, King, your little son has just fallen dead!" The poor Queen fainted, and the King and members of his house thought she, too, would die. But lo! the Fairy again ap- peared, and walking bravely up to Leontes, said, "Unless you find the babe you sent away, you shall never see your Queen again." Before King Leontes could reply, she was gone. He lan after her, searching for her everywhere, but she could not be found. The King cried over the death of his little boy, for he loved him very much. Now poor Leontes, heart-broken, began to seek his [54] THE WINTER'S TALE baby daughter. Every effort was made to bring the missing baby home again safe and well, but the dear Httle creature was not to be found. Wearily he went to see his Queen, to tell her of the useless search. Ah, how sorry he was now that his wicked ways had brought so much misery! He would now beg the Queen to forgive him. When we feel we have been naughty we always want to be forgiven, don't we ? That was the way King Leontes felt. But when he reached the Queen's room and opened the door, what doyou suppose had happened ? The Queen had gone, no one could tell where. He now remembered the words of the Fairy. He would never see the Queen again unless he found the baby daughter. He had laughed at the threat; now he cried when he found it had all come true. He called his servants for miles around to join him in finding his Queen and baby. For years and years the search went on, but no trace of them could ever be found. So he finally gave up looking for them, thinking [55] Perdita and Florizel THE WINTER'S TALE his dear ones were surely dead, so thorough had his search for them been. Leontes never forgot his punishment, and ever after that he Uved a good Ufe, as we shall see. When Camillo, the servant who had carried the baby off, went out the door the Fairy stopped him and gave him a box con- taining precious jewels belonging to the Queen ; also a bag of gold. On the baby's dress was pinned a piece of paper with these words written thereon, "This little one's name is Perdita." The Fairy then said to Camillo: "Take this babe into Bohemia and then leave it at the door of a shepherd's house to which I will direct your steps. Leave the jewels, for they shall one day bring the babe to her parents, and the gold, for it will pay for her keep. You must never return to Sicilia again." Camillo thought he must have been dream- ing, for the Fairy disappeared so suddenly he could not tell which way she went. But he thought he must obey; so he journeyed on until he came to Bohemia, and soon [57] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES found the home of the old shepherd. It was early in the morning — the sun was not yet up — when he reached the place. Putting the babe on the doorstep, he went away, never to be heard of again in Sicilia. When the old shepherd opened the door that morning, just think how surprised he was to find a wee baby on his doorstep. He took the little one in to his wife, and they decided to keep her. They soon came to love her dearly, and so reared her as their own little girl. Little Perdita grew from an infant into a beautiful young woman, and all the lads of the countryside loved her. One day King Pohxenes' son, Prince Florizel, was traveling through the country, and stopping at the shepherd's cottage for a drink of water, he saw the beautiful Perdita. He loved her at once, and often after that came to see the shepherdess Perdita. He would not let the old shepherdess know he was Prince Florizel, King Polixenes' son. And thus it was he won the lovely Perdita for his wife. [58] THE WINTER'S TALE But King Polixenes heard that his son was visiting at the cottage of a shepherd, and he became very angry, teUing him if he went there again he would disown him. The Prince, knowing his father would be true to his word, begged the lovely Perdita to fly with him to another country, and, as she re- turned his love, she agreed. Perdita dearly loved her foster parents, and shed many tears on leaving them. The old shepherd, on finding he must give up his daughter, told her how she had been found on his doorstep, and brought forth the jewels and gold that he had stored away these many years. One fine morn the Prince and Perdita set sail for Sicilia, and finally reached there, going at once to the court of King Leontes. The Prince remembered that Leontes had once been a great friend of his father, so he sought his aid and friendship. King Leontes was greatly astonished when his eyes rested upon the jewels that Perdita wore, for he knew that they were the very [59] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES ones he had given his Queen so many years ago. Perdita told him the story of her Uf e, which proved her to be King Leontes' daughter, whom he had cast away when she was a babe. So Perdita was a lovely little Princess after all. Don't you think, my little boys and girls, the King was happy to have found his little daughter at last .? Yes, but he was sad, too, for he now longed for his own lovely Queen more than ever, since he must give his daughter to the Prince. King Polixenes heard where his son and the shepherdess had gone, and at once set out after them, very angry indeed. But when he reached Leontes' court and heard the story of the long-lost Princess, he was quite happy and gave the young people his blessing. Once more the good Fairy came to visit the court of Leontes, and to him she said: "Prepare a great wedding feast and invite all people, high and low, rich and poor, to come, for there shall be great rejoicing. The [60] Queen Hermione THE WINTER'S TALE Princess is found and shall be the bride of Prince Florizel, but there shall be another bride also — the groom shall be Leontes. Come, good people, with me. I have won- ders to show you. King Leontes, you have suffered enough for your cruelty and injus- tice. Come, I will bring you great happi- ness." So King Leontes, his daughter, the Prince, and King Polixenes went with the Fairy to a great art gallery. There she showed them a statue of the Queen, Hermione. The King was amazed at the wonderful lifelikeness to his Queen, and fell in love with the statue. The Fairy was so pleased with this that she said, "Prepare for something still more wonderful." Then with one wave of her sparkhng wand over the statue she said: "Be stone no more. Descend and embrace the King, thy husband, and the Princess, thy daughter." At once the statue came to life, and Queen Hermione stepped down from the pedestal as the Fairy had com- manded. [61] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES How perfectly happy the Bang must have been! For it really was his beloved Queen Hermione. Was not the Fairy very kind to bring her back to life ? This little story proves to us that we must be kind and gentle to those we love, does n't it ? Else some fairy may visit our dear ones and take them away. I know my little readers would be sorry indeed to have that happen. [62] THE TAMING OF THE SHREW. A shrew, my dears, is an exceedingly ill- tempered person who scolds loudly and continuously — a person we all like to keep at a distance. Such a shrew once lived in Padua; the daughter of a wealthy gentleman whose name was Baptista. This daughter he called Katherine, and in spite of her beauty of face and figure, she was known through- out Padua as "Katherine the Shrew." Her moods were as fickle as an April day, and when she was seized with a fit of temper, everybody fled from her sight like bees from a smoked hive. Her poor father was greatly distressed, for he loved his children dearly, and had tried every means in his power to subdue this stormy child. Baptista had one other daughter, Bianca [63] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES by name, who was mild and sweet of dis- position, in striking contrast to her sister. For Bianca's future Baptista never feared, knowing that some day she would be happily married. But for Katherine! He greatly feared no man would care to establish a shrew in his home, and so he worried over what might be Katherine's fate. On the streets of Padua there often ap- peared a funny old man who called himself a "tinker," but who really was an Elf, whom the Fairies called Sly because he always managed to accomplish what he set out to do, either by fair means or foul. If intrusted with a thing to do, it was done at all hazards and with neatness and dispatch. Noting how conscientiously Baptista strove to conquer his willful child, the Fairies sent Sly to Baptista's aid. Finding that worthy gentleman laboring with his daugh- ter, who was screaming and throwing things in all directions. Sly smiled grimly as he thought of the prospect of having a stool or a boot hurled at his own head. [64] Sly Bowed Low to Baptists SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES When Katherine had stormed out of the room, Sly bowed low to Baptista, who stood gazing at his queer appearance. To Bap- tista, Sly appeared in his regular uniform which he wore in Fairyland. This con- sisted of green knee-breeches and a red satin waistcoat, trimmed in brass buttons and bells, a pointed cap of yellow satin with bells, green hose, and red slippers with very pointed toes, at the ends of which were bells. He had the funniest of funny faces — a wee mouth that drew up at the corners, a pug nose, sparkling blue eyes that told of his merry interest in all he under- took, and the reddest of curly hair. This is the Sly that made himself known to Bap- tista. On the streets, however, his dis- guise gave him the appearance of a little old man, withered and bent, who passed as a "tinker." After his astonishment at seeing this strange sprite, Baptista laughed and said: "Well, well, on my eyes! Who have we here?" [66] THE TAMING OF THE SHREW Sly bowed many times before replying. "Your Honor," said he, "I am a messen- ger from Fairyland. Sly is my name. I've come to lend to you a helping hand and change fair Katherine's fame." "But," said Baptista, "how can you help me? No one can stand her fiery tongue." "But, sir, with the help of Master Sly, your difficulties will soon pass by," replied the Elf. "H'm! I hope so. I hope so. But what do you suggest.? " said Baptista. Sitting down on a stool near by, Sly crossed his knees, clasping his hands around them, his brow knitted in deep furrows. Presently he said : "Have you tried to interest the maid in things outside of self.? Have you tried, what art, languages, and music could do .'' " "Nay, nay," said Baptista. "Why, there is no one in all the land who would under- take the task." "Leave that to me," said Sly, "and I will [67] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES promise to give her much to think about, and will furnish a husband in the bargain, who will woo her so desperately there will be no time for tirades." "Yes, but to win her love is a different matter," replied Baptista. "Why," laughed Sly, "that is nothing, for I tell you the lover I shall furnish is as peremptory as she is proud-minded. And when two raging fires meet together they do consume the thing that feeds their fury. Though little fire grows great with little wind, yet extreme gusts will blow out fire entirely. But now I must away and to my task. Here is a magic ring. It will call me to you by giving it three turns to the right." Again bowing low. Sly disappeared, leav- ing Baptista to ponder on the words of cheer he spoke. Hardly could he picture his Katherine with a smile on her face and gentle words on her lips. At such a sugges- tion his mind wandered far in fancy, and he [681 THE TAMING OF THE SHREW sat dreaming idle dreams , from which he was rudely wakened by screams of terror uttered by the gentle Bianca. Stepping into the hall, he saw his youngest child fleeing upstairs with Katherine in hot pursuit, scratching and pulling her sister's hair. Rushing to the rescue of Bianca and seiz- ing Katherine by the arm, Baptista ex- claimed : "For shame! \Miy do you wrong your sister, who has never wronged you ? When did she give you a cross word ? " "Her silence strikes me mad," yelled Katherine, "and I will be revenged." And she struggled to free herself from her father's grasp. "Not in my sight," said Baptista. "So she is your treasure! She must have a husband! I must give in to her and dance barefooted on her wedding-day because you love her best ! Talk not to me ! I will go sit and weep until I can find occa- sion for revenge," screamed Katherine, as she flew up the stairs, stamping, banging, [69] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES and knocking over everything she came near. Tenderly drawing Bianca to him, Bap- tista sighed as he kissed her fair forehead, and said: "Keep well out of your sister's sight, my dear, until the storm passes over." And Bianca returned her father's caresses, telling him how sorry she was to be the cause of distress to him. The present quarrel between the sisters was because of Bianca's many suitors, while Katherine had none. And while Katherine was really not interested in the least in the gentlemen themselves, she had enough feminine nature to wish to be admired. Left to himself, poor Baptista went back to his study, and dropping heavily on the couch he began to wonder if he had only dreamed that the Fairy Sly had visited him. Ah, if it could only be true ! How earnestly he wished it might, for Katherine's sake. A knock at the door aroused him, and a servant ushered in two gentlemen, who [70] THE TAMING OF THE SHREW announced they were Professor Licio, of Mantua, and Professor Cambio, of Rheims ; the former a master of the lute and the latter famed for his knowledge of Greek, Latin, and other languages. A letter from the Fairy Sly told of their ability. Acknowledging the services of Master Sly, Baptista extended a friendly hand, and touched a bell, which was answered at once by a servant. To him Baptista said: "Lead these gentlemen to my daughters, and tell them both that these are their tutors. Bid them use them well." Interested in the outcome of this inter- view, Baptista sat down to await results. Presently the servant reappeared with a gentleman, who bowed low, saying: " Good morrow, my good sir. Pray, have you not a daughter called Katherine .? " " I have a daughter, sir, called Katherine," repHed Baptista. " I am a gentlemen from Verona. Petru- chio is my name; son of Antonio, a man well known throughout all Italy." [71] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES "I knew your father very well, and you are welcome, sir," said Baptista. " My dear sir, I must come to the point at once, as my time in Padua is limited, and I cannot come every day to woo. You knew my father well, and in him me. Left heir to all his lands and goods, which I have bettered rather than decreased, then tell me, if I get your daughter's love, what dowry shall I have with her as my wife? " "Twenty thousand crowns, and after my death, one-half my lands," replied Baptista. "And if I die, and she live, she shall have all my lands and leases whatsoever. So let the marriage contract be drawn between us," said Petruchio. "Ay, when her love is obtained," replied Baptista. "Have no fears for that," laughed Pe- truchio. Hearing a great commotion and stepping into the hall, who should they see but Pro- fessor Licio fleeing in fear from his pupil, [72] THE TAMING OF THE SHREW Katherine, white as a ghost and trembling, his lute hung at his side stripped of every string. "What is the matter? Does not my daughter take kindly to the lute ? " "Kindly, sir! Iron may hold her, but never lutes. I did but tell her she mistook the stops and bent to teach her fingering, when she banged me on the head with my lute, sending my poor pate right through the instrument, and while I stood there with my lute dangling about my neck she called me a 'fiddhng rascal,' a 'twangling jack,' and a dozen more such names." Taking Professor Licio by the hand, Bap- tista said: " Come, we will go to my youngest daugh- ter. She is quick to learn and thankful for good turns." Turning to Petruchio, who seemed greatly amused over Professor Licio's encounter, Baptista said: " Will you go with us, or shall I send my daughter to you ? " [73] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES "Do," said Petruchio. "Oh, how I long to chat with her! " "Yes," he continued, "I will woo her with some spirit when she comes. Say she rails, why, then I will tell her plain she sings as sweetly as a nightingale; if she frowns, I will say she looks as clear as a morning rose; if she will not speak, I will tell her how beautifully she talks; if she bids me to go, then I will thank her as though she asked me to stay a week; if she dechnes to wed me, then I will ask her what day we shall be married." Baptista passed down the hall with Pro- fessor Licio, shaking his head at Petruchio's remarks. Presently Katherine stepped haughtily into the room, scarcely looking at Petruchio, and certainly not recognizing the gentleman. Nothing daunted, Petruchio rushed to her, and bowing gallantly before her, said: " Good morrow, Kate, for that 's your name, I hear." Imagine Katherine's surprise at such [74] THE TAMING OF THE SHREW familiarity. Drawing herself up a little taller, she repUed : "Well, you are a little hard of hearing. They call me Katherine that do talk of me." Laughing, Petruchio said: "Oh, you lie, for you are called plain Kate, and bonny Kate, and sometimes Kate the shrew; but, Kate, you are the prettiest Kate in Christendom, my dainty Kate ; and therefore, Kate, hearing of thy mildness and of thy virtues and beauty, I am moved to woo thee for my wife." "Well, let him who moved you hither move you hence," returned she, fanning herself vigorously and pacing the floor. "Oh, come now, Kate," said Petruchio, following her about the room, "don't look so sour." "It 's my fashion when I see a crab," said she. "Why, there's no crab here," replied Petruchio. "There is, there is," screamed Kath- erine, exasperated. [75] Katherine, the Shrew THE TAMING OF THE SHREW This was, indeed, a new experience for Katherine, and while enraged, it half amused her. "Show me the crab, Kate," said Petru- chio, as he followed her. "Oh, I would if I had a glass." "You mean my face.?" asked Petruchio. " I do," said Katherine. And at this they both laughed heartily. Baptista, coming down the hall, and hearing his daughter's merry laugh, stopped short, listened, and then turned about, fear- ing he would break the spell by entering the room. And so Petruchio went on with his wild wooing. "Nay, nay, hear me, Kate. I find you very gentle. 'T was told me you were rough, and coy, and sullen, but now I find the re- port false. You are pleasant and courteous ; slow in speech, yet sweet as spring-time flowers. You do not frown or bite your lip as people do when angry." "Where did you learn all this goodly [77] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES speech?" interrupted the bewildered Kath- erine. "Setting all chat aside," continued Petru- chio, "your father has consented that you shall be my wife, your dowry agreed on, and whether you will or no, I will marry you, for I am he born to tame you, Kate, and bring you from a wild Kate to a Kate conformable as other household Kates. But here comes your father. Make no denials, for I must and will have you for my wife." And Baptista, smiling as he entered the room, extended one hand to Petruchio and one to Katherine, saying: "How, now, Petruchio.'* How did you and my daughter agree ? " Clasping Baptista's hand, Petruchio said: " How but well, sir ? How but well ? It were impossible we should disagree." Katherine ignored her father's extended hand and stood glaring fiercely upon him. "Why, daughter Katherine, are you in the dumps .?" asked Baptista. [78] THE TAMING OF THE SHREW "Call me your daughter?" said Kather- ine. "You have shown a tender, fatherly interest to wish me to wed this lunatic, this madcap ruffian, this swearing Jack, who thinks to scare me into the matter." Petruchio reassuringly patted Baptista on the shoulder, saying: "Father, yourself and all the world that talked of her have talked wrongly. If she is cross, it is for policy, for she is not for- ward, but modest as a dove; she is not fiery, but calm as a June morning; for patience, she will prove a second Grissel; and to conclude, we have agreed so well together that next Sunday is the wedding- day." Stamping her foot, Katherine fairly screamed : "I'll see thee hanged on Sunday first!" Petruchio seized Katherine's fair hand and kissed it fervently, saying: "And, now, sweet Kate, adieu. I will go to Venice to buy apparel for the wedding- day. Provide the feast, father, and bid the [79] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES guests. We will have rings, and things, and fine array. Now, kiss me once again, sweet Kate, and remember next Sunday is the wedding-day." Never in her life was Katherine so exas- perated, so at a loss to know what to say or do. Seeing nothing within reach to throw, quickly she stooped, unstrapped her slipper, and threw it madly at her retreating lover. Turning to her father she uttered a piercing shriek and fell to the floor in a swoon. Very tenderly Baptista picked up his will- ful child and bore her to her room. The days that followed were full of anxiety and worry for Baptista, and Master Sly was summoned by the magic ring many times for consultation and advice. And now Katherine's temper knew no bonds. She screamed and scolded, and banged and stamped, and kept the house- hold in a general uproar. You may be sure everybody kept a goodly distance from the shrew. Once when poor Professor Cam- [80] THE TAMING OF THE SHREW bio attempted to assist her in her language study, she kept him busy dodging books which she threw, until he was thankful to make his escape from the house. She stoutly refused to take part in the wedding plans, and would not visit a dressmaker. To Master Sly Baptista said : "What are we to do, good Sly, for Kath- erine will have nothing to do with the mar- riage arrangements ? " " Then," said Sly, " we must proceed with- out her assistance. Have no fears, Baptista, everything will be in readiness. And now, as I shall be very busy, perhaps you had best not call me again." And when at last the wedding-day dawned, bright and beautiful, true to his promise Fairy Sly had transformed Bap- tista's palatial residence into a flowery bower. Sweet strains of music floated on the air; liveried footmen waited upon the door and gate; and the coach which stood at the door to bear the bride and groom to the chapel was fit for a queen to ride in. [81] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES Everything was in perfect readiness. Even Katharine, to the amazement of all, was quite pleasant and agreeable. Never had she looked so beautiful as upon this event- ful day. Her gown of silver brocade — but why attempt to describe a trousseau made by Fairy hands .? Everything and everybody seemed under a magic spell. True, Fairy Sly was not present (and Baptista never felt quite safe without his presence, so greatly had he come to depend upon that wee elf) , and, more important yet, the bridegroom was missing. The moments ticked by until the hands of the clock pointed exactly to the hour set for the cere- mony. Still no bridegroom came. There was a feeling of uneasiness. Poor Katherine was in tears and Bianca tried to comfort her, while Baptista watched anx- iously, blaming himself all the while. Suddenly, remembering the magic ring which he wore upon his finger, he gave it three quick turns to the right, and presto! there stood Fairy Sly, and Petruchio too. [82] And Still no Bridegroom Came THE TAMING OF THE SHREW And such a spectacle as Petrucliio was! Dressed in an old dusty suit, one boot laced, the other buckled, a rusty sword strapped to an old worn belt. His hat was the only new article which graced the occasion. His entrance was like the roaring of the winds. Loudly he called for his "bonny bride, his sweet Kate." She, poor girl, stood trembHng, speech- less, beside her father. "But," said Baptista, "surely you will not proceed to the altar in this apparel. Just before your arrival we were sad, fear- ing you were not coming; now we are sad- der that you come at all. Doff this habit. 'T is a disgrace to your estate and to our sacred festival." Petruchio refused, however, saying loudly that Katherine was not wedding his clothes, but himself. Gently taking Katherine by the arm, they headed the procession for the church. And she, poor girl, walked along without a murmur. Why, she knew not. Perhaps it was a part of the magic spell. [83] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES At the church Petruchio behaved worse than ever, knocking the book of services out of the priest's hands, and when that reverend man stooped to pick it up, Petruchio sent him sprawling on the floor. To the marriage vows Petruchio fairly shouted his responses, while Katherine's were scarcely audible. And when the services had ended, Petruchio turned to his bride and gave her such a smack upon the lips it echoed through the room and set everybody laughing. Surely, never was there such a mad marriage. Returning to Baptista's home, where a great feast awaited them, Petruchio said: "Gentlemen and friends, I thank you for your pains. I know you think to dine with us to-day, and have prepared a great wedding feast, but we must hurry home, and mean, now, to take our leave." Baptista and Bianca were greatly pained, and begged and pleaded, but to no avail. The friends present tried their influence, [84] THE TAMING OF THE SHREW but Petruchio remained obstinate. Kath- arine then begged her husband to remain, but he shook his head, saying, "Nay, nay, Kate, we go now." Then the temper that had been pent up so long, burst forth in all its fury, and stamping her foot, she stoutly refused to accompany him, telling him to go hence and never return. But Katherine had met her match this time. Petruchio took her firmly by the arm, and together they started on their journey home. In all this confusion you may be sure that Master Sly was able to depart unnoticed. And where did he go.? To Petruchio's home, there to place the house in great dis- order and confusion. The first days Katherine spent in her new home were full of despair. Loudly did Petruchio rail, cuffing and knocking his servants about. Little would he let her eat, little would he let her sleep. He ordered elegant apparel, jewels, and many [85] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES other lovely things to tempt a young heart, and when Katherine expressed her approval he would say: "Bah! They are not fit for my Queen. Out with them." And all this he did in the name of tenderest love. Do you wonder that Katherine finally settled down into a quiet, submissive little woman with such a man to rule her.? But this change did not come about instantly. In truth, it was very gradual. There were many storming scenes. But when at last Petruchio had Katherine's temper under complete control, and she was master of her emotions, proudly Pet- ruchio returned with her for a visit to Baptista, and to celebrate the marriage of Bianca. And Baptista, whose heart was full of joy, gave Katherine another dowry equal unto the former. "For she is changed," said he, "beyond my expec- tations." And there, before the guests assembled to witness Bianca's marriage, Petruchio tore off his mask, and on bended knees [86] THE TAMING OP THE SHREW before his wife, vowed his eternal love and devotion to the gentlest and most patient of wives. And Katherine's face was radi- ant with joy, peace, and happiness. She soon became as famous for her gentle and tender heart as she was once for her fiery tongue. Nor was Fairy Sly forgotten, but as Fairies cannot accept mortal gifts, he was made happy by the love and appreciation of his efforts in their behalf, and returned to Fairyland, where he received new laurels for his task. [87] The Witches MACBETH. I have told you a great deal about Fairies, but I have not said much about another sort of queer little people who lived at the same time the Fairies lived. Can you guess who they were ? Let me tell you how they looked, and then I am sure you will know them. Their figures were much bent, and they carried long sticks with crooked handles. They wore pointed hats, and their long gray hair was allowed to go uncombed. Their features were sharp and angular, and a deep, ugly scowl constantly rested upon their faces. Their eyes were never stiU: just rolled and rolled like little balls of fire, trying to discover some mischief to get into. They lived in dark, dark caves under the ground, or in the tops of big trees in a thick [89] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES forest. They were always plotting some wrong. Now do you know who they were ? They were Witches! This story tells you of how three ugly witches tempted a very great man to do a wrong that made him the most miserable man of his age. This man's name was Macbeth, My story deals, too, with a worthy king who ruled over Scotland, and was known as Duncan the Meek: so called because of his gentle way of deaUng with people. King Duncan and Macbeth were cousins, and Macbeth was a great favorite of the King, and was given high oflSces because of his skill and bravery in battle. Once, when Macbeth was returning from a victorious battle with one of his friends, whose name was Banquo, and who was also a great soldier, in a lonely pass of the wood they were met by three of the strangest looking witches. They looked like women but for their long [90] MACBETH beards. Their long, skinny fingers pointed at Macbeth and Banquo,and their withered faces wore a ghastly smile as they hailed Mac- beth, whom they called "Thane of Glamis." Don't you think these witches were enough to startle even a soldier? They promised Macbeth great things. They told him he should be king in Dun- can's place. Banquo, they promised, should be the father of a long line of kings. Macbeth was a very ambitious man, and thought a great deal about what the witches said to him; while Banquo, who was a most honest and upright man, knew that these ugly old witches were only trying to plant the seeds of sin in their hearts. So he prayed God night and day to keep his thoughts and heart pure. Now, these witches knew who would listen to them, just as Fairies know things; and when Banquo shut the door of his heart against them, they saw he would be too strong for them. [910 SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES In Macbeth they saw a man not only too ambitious, but a weak, greedy man, and so from that day on they were his constant companions and advisers. Invisible to all eyes, even to Macbeth's, day by day they put wicked, selfish thoughts in his heart. Lady Macbeth, his wife, was a cold- hearted, wicked woman, and even more ambitious than her husband. When Macbeth told her of his meeting with the witches, and what they promised, she was filled with delight. She thought it would be grand to be a queen. King Duncan was so fond of his cousin and general, Macbeth, that he determined to honor him with a visit, and wrote Mac- beth of his intentions. There were great preparations in the castle for this royal guest, and Lady Macbeth was almost beside herself because of the oppor- tunity thus afforded of putting King Duncan out of the way, and placing themselves upon the throne. [92] Macbeth Meets the Witches MACBETH The witches were now always around, whispering wicked things to Lady Macbeth. In due time King Duncan arrived, at- tended by many lords of his court, and a long train of servants. He was cordially received by both Macbeth and his wife. Being tired from his journey, King Dun- can retired early. Then this wicked Lady Macbeth gave his grooms some wine, which put them into such a sound sleep that they did not awake until morn. Then she forced her husband to murder the King. Macbeth's better spirit was trying to rule him, but being under the spell of the wicked Lady Macbeth and the witches, he could not escape. At least, he did not escape them, and allowed himself to be led into a crime for which ever after his soul and body knew no rest or sleep. After putting the King away, Macbeth was filled with fear and grief. Lady Mac- beth laughed him to scorn, and seizing the dagger with which he did the deed, she crept [93] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES into the chamber of the dead king, and smeared the faces and hands of the sleeping grooms with blood, so that they might seem to have done the murder. The next morn the castle was in great alarm, and Macbeth and his wife mourned with great show the death of the King. They sent swift punishment on his supposed murderers. King Duncan's two sons, Malcolm and Donalbain, who accompanied him to Mac- beth's, guessed at the truth of the case; but to have hinted such a thing concerning Macbeth, who was held in high favor, would have been dangerous. They did not feel safe in Macbeth's home, so they fled in fear of their lives. This one crime caused Macbeth to do many others. He thought of the words the witches used to Banquo, that Banquo should be the father of a long line of kings. This Macbeth did not like, so he deter- mined to put Banquo out of the way. On the night of their coronation, Macbeth [94] MACBETH and Lady Macbeth gave a great banquet. Banquo and his son were to start that evening on a long journey, and Macbeth hired three ruffians to kill them just after they left the castle. The ruffians murdered poor Banquo, but his son escaped. About the time Banquo was murdered, Macbeth and Lady Macbeth with their friends were just sitting down to supper. Macbeth had addressed his guests with a few words of welcome and was about to take his seat when — What do you suppose he thought he saw.? A ghost — and it looked like Banquo ! It really was not a ghost, my dears. Mac- beth's heart was so guilty and full of sin, that it pictured a ghost. He screamed and be- came so violent that Lady Macbeth bade the guests to depart and the party broke up. Macbeth and his lady were now King and Queen, but they did not find Ufe as happy as they expected. Their reign was not a peaceful one. Their subjects did not like them, and as [95] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES Bang and Queen they proved very cruel. When Malcolm and Donalbain, the sons of King Duncan, fled from Scotland, one went to England and the other to Ireland. Later they formed a large army to march against Macbeth. There was another great general, by the name of Macduff, who began to suspect Macbeth of the murder of King Duncan, and became a great enemy of Macbeth. Macbeth was greatly afraid of Macduff, and with a large number of his men went to Macduff's home to murder him. Macduff was not at home, but Macduff's wife and little boy were cruelly killed by Macbeth and his retainers. Did you ever hear of such a wicked man ? Well, his wicked deeds were to come to an end, as all such wicked things do. Macbeth now sought the witches more than ever to learn of his future. They as- sured him he would never be conquered until "Birnam Wood should come to Dun- sinane." Macbeth found great comfort in [96] Bimam Wood Comes to Dunsinane SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES this thought, because every one knows that trees do not walk or move. But I'll tell you how Birnam Wood did come to Dunsinane. The men of the big army that Malcolm, Donalbain, and Macduff had formed, each carried a bough cut from the trees known as Birnam Wood, which forest was in sight of Macbeth's castle of Dunsinane. These tree branches they carried to hide them- selves, so Macbeth would not notice, them. But a servant saw the moving trees and reported to Macbeth. He called his sol- diers together, but it was too late. The army was upon them ; after a fierce struggle, Macbeth was overpowered, and killed by Macduff. What became of Lady Macbeth ? W^ell, nights she could not sleep. All her wicked deeds gnawed at her heart until she lost her reason and died. Malcolm was now placed upon the throne of which Macbeth had so long deprived him, and there was great rejoicing in Scotland. [98] THE TEMPEST. A great many years ago, in the days of Sprites and Fairies, there lived upon a desert island an old witch by the name of Sycorax. Her home was in a deep, dark cave, hewn out of solid rock, under the earth; and here she lived for ages and ages. Very queer little people lived on this island ; very much like the funny little Imps Rip Van Winkle found upon a mountain in his day. Now, over these Imps, Sprites and Fairies, the witch Sycorax had reigned for years. Sycorax was a cruel ruler, too, and when her subjects refused to obey her wicked commands she would imprison them in the trunks of giant trees. There they would cry for mercy, but the revengeful Sycorax was heartless and would not open the doors of their prisons. [99] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES One day the cruel witch fell ill and died, and then there was no one who could free the unfortunate Fairies, for Sycorax had not given her secrets away to any of the Sprites of the island. The poor Fairies gave up all hopes of ever being released and thought they must surely starve to death. Just at this point something good hap- pened — what do you suppose it was ? A great storm at sea had driven a rude boat to this island for shelter, and in that boat was a great, good man — Prospero — and with him his baby daughter, Miranda. They had been so long at sea and suffered so from cold and exposure that even this lonely island seemed a perfect heaven to them. Prospero was wandering around the island in search of some place to rest and something to eat, when suddenly he came to a great hole in the ground ! This was the entrance to the cave, where Sycorax had lived and died. Prospero, carrying his baby daughter, entered the great cavern, wonderingly, and [100] Miranda THE TEMPEST soon found that it was partitioned into a number of rooms or cells. Passing from room to room he finally discovered a secret passage, which led him to a very large chamber where were chairs, table, bed and everything necessary for comfort. He found books, too, which he thought very strange, as no one could be seen about the cave. Little Miranda soon fell asleep after he had given her some good, warm food, and while she was resting he took up one of the books to read, and what do you think was written in it ? It told him all the secrets of the cave, described the deeds of the wicked Sycorax and mentioned a glittering wand which was said to be hidden in the cave. Prospero immediately began to search for this wand. Without much trouble he found it in a closet near by. And, oh, such a beau- tiful wand as it was ! studded with sparkling gems all over its polished surface, causing it to dazzle the eye. By accident he touched one of the walls with it, when behold! a secret door flew open and out stepped a [101] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES lovely little Fairy, dressed in white, with sparkling jewels gleaming about her. Prospero was much astonished, and I do not doubt but that at first he was a little star- tled to see so lovely a creature in this dark, dismal home. The Fairy smiled and said: "Good morrow, Prospero. You see I know your name. The Fairies know all such things. My name is Ariel, and I am the light and wisdom of the Fairies. The wand you hold in your hand is mine; but I am going to give it to you, as you have saved my life, also the lives of all my brothers and sisters. "Before you came here there lived in this place a powerful and wicked witch, who had dominion over this island and all its in- habitants. "I suppose you know you are on Fairy Isle.'' Well, this witch Sycorax was very wicked, and used to treat us badly and make us work very hard, and when we displeased her, often she would imprison us in walls, trees and stumps. [102] THE TEMPEST " "We grew very tired of this, and secretly planned to kill Sycorax and her wicked son, Caliban. But somehow she found it out. She hid Caliban, and imprisoned all my brother and sister Fairies. Then she told me she had discovered the plot to destroy her life. I was so filled with rage and grief over the fate of the Fairies that I touched Sycorax with my wand, and said: 'Be filled with many pains! Be sick unto death.' "In the last moment of her strength, however, she snatched my dear little wand from me and pushed me into this wall that you have just touched with this same magic wand. So, you see, you have saved my life, and now I know you will save the lives of my brothers and sisters, if they be yet alive. I think that will be, as Fairies can endure much suflFering and we've only been shut in a few days. Will you follow and set my brothers and sisters free.?" Prospero, remembering how he had lately suffered at the hands of a powerful enemy [103] Prospero Releases the Fairies THE TEMPEST (he had been put to sea in a shell of a boat with little hope of a better fate than drown- ing or starvation), was only too glad to help the little Fairies out of prison. He believed in the Divine Father who had brought him- self and his baby daughter safely to land, and in the thankfulness of his heart, Pros- pero had vowed that whenever he met the sorrowful and distressed he would help them. Now was his time. The Fairy Ariel led the way through narrow passages, down steep steps until they came to an open court filled with the stumps of trees. "These," said Ariel, "are the prisons of the Fairies. With one wave of my magic wand, Prospero, you can open the doors and set my brothers and sisters free. Wave the wand, Prospero." Prospero did so, and immediately from out the trees sprang legions of Sprites and Fairies. Ariel's brow darkened when she found Caliban was among the Fairies released. [105] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES Caliban, you must know, my little readers, was a son of the wicked Sycorax and had inherited his mother's evil heart and power. He was a dwarf, short and misshapen, but exceedingly strong and powerful. He could not speak, and when addressed would answer only by signs, although when angry he would roar loudly. Ariel well knew that Caliban would never rest until he had revenge upon the Fairies, and herself par- ticularly, for the death of his mother. Henceforth Caliban and Ariel would be at war. Don't you think the Fairies were glad to be released from their prisons in the trees ? Indeed they were. Ariel cried : " Peace, brothers ! One moment. You have been set free by Prospero. It was he who found my magic wand and released me. So thankful to him was I that I have given him that wand and have told him the story of our lives, of the wicked Queen Sycorax, and of your fate. Now Prospero has come to make his home among us, so let us make [106 THE TEMPEST him our king and do service to him while he shall live on this island." The Fairies all gladly assented. Caliban, coward that he was, crept off into darkness, and no one heard of him for a long time. The Fairies gave a great feast when they made Prospero their king, and all went merrily for years. Prospero found many beautiful things on the island, and his little girl, Miranda, grew into a bright, sweet child. The Fairies loved her dearly and guarded her in her play, in her walks and in her sleep. Prospero took great pleasure in instructing his little daughter. She learned many won- derful things about the birds, rocks and flowers of the island. One day when exploring the island Pros- pero found Caliban and brought him back to the cave. He was taught to speak, but owing to his perverted nature little good could be accomplished in trying to instruct him. So Prospero made him do such work as carrying wood and water. [107] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES Caliban was a very sulky and lazy Sprite, so Prospero appointed Ariel to see that he attended to his work, and, when necessary, to punish him. This, of course, made Caliban hate Ariel more than ever. Thus they lived for years and years. Prospero grew to be an old man and ac- cumulated bags and bags of gold. He was well loved by all the Fairies except Caliban and a few ugly Sprites, who were jealous of Ariel's position and Prospero's wealth. Miranda grew into a beautiful young ,woman. A child of nature surely, for she and her father had never left the island since they took refuge there. Nevertheless she was happy and contented. One day Ariel came hastily in, and said: "Prospero, a vessel sails the sea which holds the King of Naples and your wicked brother. Let us raise a tempest and bring them to this isle, where they will be at your mercy, and then you can do unto them as you think best." "Very good," said Prospero. "Hurry [108] r , 'K '■*■ '■'* --" ^ ' Prospero Calms the Storm SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES back to the sea and there raise such a tempest as was never heard of before." "Aye, sir," replied Ariel and quickly sped away to the waters, as commanded. Prospero called his daughter, and to- gether they went down to the seashore. Here Prospero showed Miranda a large ship, which he told her was full of human beings like themselves, at the mercy of this fearful tempest. Miranda had never seen such a pitiful picture as this storm-tossed ship, and begged her father to have mercy on their lives, saying: "If by your art, my dearest father, you have put the wild waters in this roar, allay them. Poor souls, they must not perish." Prospero soothed his daughter, replying: "No harm shall come to them. For thy dear sake, not a soul shall perish." Then drawing her close to him, he said : "My precious child, you know not from whence 1 am, or who I was. The time has come when I should tell you all. Listen [110] THE TEMPEST carefully. Do you remember a time before we came to this island ? I do not think you can, for then you were but three years old." "Yes, but I can," replied Miranda. " 'T is far off, and seems but a dream. Did not four or five women once attend me ?" "Yes, but can you remember more, my daughter.?" To which Miranda replied, "No." "Then," continued her father, "listen. I was once Prince of Milan, and you a prin- cess and my only heir. My youngest brother, whose name is Antonio, I trusted with all my affairs of state and spent all my time in study. My brother, ambitious for power and riches, with the aid of the King of Naples, a powerful prince and deadly foe of mine, effected my downfall. "Knowing that they durst not destroy us because my people loved me very much, they carried us on board a big ship, and when we were a long way out at sea, Anto- nio, my brother and your uncle, child, forced us into a small boat without sail or mast. [Ill] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES But a faithful lord of my court, named Gonzalo, had secreetly hidden water and provisions in the boat, and also plenty of good books to read. Our food lasted until we reached this island. You see, my dear, the Lord was very good to us, bringing us safely to land and providing us plenty to eat and drink." Poor little Miranda had never known sorrow before, and her little heart was near breaking as her father told her all the suffer- ing he had passed through. Prospero still held his daughter near him, and continuing, said: "It has been the pleasure of my life to teach my little girl all I knew. This dread- ful tempest I have raised, my dear, is to bring the King of Naples and your bad, bad uncle to this shore." Having concluded his story, he touched Miranda with his magic wand and she fell into a deep sleep. At this instant the Fairy Ariel appeared and told Prospero of the great tempest she had raised at sea, [112] THE TEMPEST "Of the ship's crew not a soul has perished, and the vessel is safely moored in the harbor," said she. "Very good," replied Prospero, "and now haste thee and bring Ferdinand, the Duke's son, to this place. It is my will that he shall meet and love my daughter. The Duke shall think his son is lost, and Ferdinand in turn shall think his father and party have perished." So the Fairy disappeared again for a short time and Prospero now awakened his daughter, for he knew the Fairy would soon return. So she did, presently, and this time there were many Fairies with her. Oh, what a beautiful sight! Fairies dressed in pink. Fairies in blue. Fairies in all the rain- bow hues. There was low, sweet music, too. Prospero waved his wand, and there stood Ferdinand. Poor Ferdinand! He did not know what to make of this strange cave. Seeing Prospero, he said: "Kind sir, do tell me where I am and how I came here. My father and friends I've [113] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES lost in this great tempest. I was sitting by the sea, bemoaning their fate, when music strange and sweet caught my ear. I fol- lowed where it led me, and now it is gone, and here I stand. Tell me, good sir, where I am." Prospero only smiled and brought for- ward his beautiful daughter, Miranda, to answer any question Ferdinand might ask. Ferdinand was much surprised to meet such a lovely creature on this lonely island, and Miranda was astonished to see such a handsome young man. Well, my dear httle readers, to make this story short, Ferdinand and Miranda came to love each other deeply, and Ferdinand asked Miranda to be his princess and go back with him to Naples. Miranda spent many happy days prepar- ing for her marriage with Prince Ferdinand, and you may imagine how the Fairies helped her! Such lovely dresses they made for her, and such lovely presents they brought to her! Prospero now bade the Fairy Ariel bring [114] THE TEMPEST the King of Naples and his party to the cave. This she did. The King was very- happy to find his son. As for Prospero, when he saw his brother Antonio, all un- kind thoughts fled from his heart and he threw his arms around him, crying: "My brother, my brother! " Was not Prospero kind and good to for- give Antonio ? I think he was, and Antonio thought so, too, for he told Prospero if he would return to his own country his birth- right should be returned to him, and they would live happily in the future. Prospero was very glad at the thought of returning to his old home, but he said : "My stay on Fairy Island has been a happy one, and the Fairies have all been faithful, good subjects. I cannot leave them without a farewell party. So we will cele- brate the marriage of my dear daughter and Prince Ferdinand before we leave." The Fairies were all delighted with the idea, and worked hard getting ready for the wedding. [115] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES All the funny little folk of the island wanted to do something for their beloved Princess Miranda. They built her a beau- tiful ship to carry her to Naples, They made all her lovely clothes. Busy little feet ran hither and thither, and I assure you, my dears, there never was such a glori- ous wedding before or after on Fairy Isle. Was this not a pleasant ending of so fearful a tempest ? Prospero and Miranda bade all the Fairies an affectionate farewell. Then to the Fairy Ariel, Prospero returned the magic wand and made her Queen of Fairy Isle. About this time the ugly Caliban died* and so the Fairies had a happy future be- fore them. And now we leave Prince Prospero of Milan, his brother Antonio, and the King of Naples, with the happy Prince and Princess, sailing in their beautiful vessel of pearl and gold on a calm, smooth sea, with all the blessings of Fairyland attending them. [116] CYMBELINE, In the early days of Great Britain there lived a mighty King whose name was Cymbeline. His palace was patterened after the Ro- man art, and had the appearance of a pearl and golden castle. His charming Queen was loved by all his subjects; his two small sons, Guiderius and Arviragus, were the pride and joy of the good King's life. One day while these sons were playing in the park surrounding their palace they were mysteriously kidnapped. No one, not even their attendants who had watched them faithfully, could account for their where- abouts. Their disappearance was such a mystery that the King trembled in fear, for he believed it must have been the work of the Fairies or Elfs. This the Queen could not [117] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES believe, for the Fairies had always befriend- ed her. A long and tedious search began, but with no results. They were gone as com- pletely as though the earth had opened and swallowed them. Finally, the poor Queen grew ill with pining and died, but when she died she left the King a dear little baby daughter to comfort his aching heart. This little babe he immediately christened Imogen, in memory of his beloved Queen. Little Imogen was carefully and tenderly watched in her infancy, and her baby prattle did much to cheer poor King Cym- beline in the early days of his grief. Like a beautiful flower she grew from babyhood to childhood and from childhood to young womanhood; always the delight of her father's heart, — beautiful, bright, winsome and pure. In the woods and dells of Britain there dwelt a band of Fairies, who not only danced and frolicked in the moonlight, but had their little serious life as well, each having his [118] CYMBELINE individual cares and duties. These little Fairies were the guardians of Britain's people. The Queen of this company, who was naturally blithe and merry, had suddenly become thoughtful and quiet, as though she had weighty matters in mind. And her Fairy subjects wondered what their good Queen was worrying about and what would be her commands to them. And, what do you suppose ? One evening when the stars had just begun their twinkling this dainty Queen called her subjects around her. " Listen, sister Fairies," said she. "King Cymbeline's good Queen is not strong. Soon she will fall ill and die, and then, woe is Britain's fate, for Britain and Britain's ruler and his household will eventually fall into the clutches of a mighty and powerful Witch. Now, we must resort to a painful duty. We must kidnap the King's sons." " But," spoke up one tender-hearted little Fairy, "will it not grieve the good Queen beyond her strength ? " [119] y SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES "Perhaps," said the Queen, "but in doing this we are serving her best. We must educate and train them to become mighty soldiers, for in their hands will rest Britain's future." And this is why the King's sons were stolen so strangely, and by unseen hands. The Fairies, you know, are very particular to whom they make themselves visible. Now, when the poor Queen died and left this little daughter to fill her place, the Fairy Queen appointed her favorite Fairy, Myriel by name, to watch over the child Princess and see that she was tenderly cared for and safe from harm. So, the Princess' life glided along very happily until her sixteenth year, and then a most unfortunate event occurred. Her father, the King, took another wife, and she was no other than this powerful, cruel Witch who the Fairies prophesied would bring sorrow to Britain. She was a beautiful woman, with a great abundance of personal magnetism (which was due to her [120] The Fairies Kidnap the Princes CYMBELINE witchcraft), gifted in art, and a rare con- versationalist. With all these charming attributes it was no great wonder that the King and many others fell an easy victim to her wiles. But she had a very, very wicked and cruel heart, which made her go to desperate ends to accomplish her purposes. This wicked Queen had one son by a former marriage. His name was Cloten, and such an insipid weakling as he was! But he was the "apple" of his mother's eyes. No sooner had they taken their places in the castle when everything and everybody seemed out of tune. To Imogen, the Queen always appeared afiFectionate and kind, but nevertheless used her cunning to place the poor child in embarrassing posi- tions, to vex her kind and indulgent father. Once his delight, now Imogen often worried and vexed him, and this knowledge grieved the Princess greatly. Often Fairy Myriel would find the little Princess tucked away in some cozy nook in [121] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES the garden, weeping, and would cheer and advise her what was best to do. The wicked Queen knew that when King Cymbeline died (and she did not intend he should live long, for she did not love him and only married him for his wealth) there must be some one to succeed him on the throne, and also knew that Imogen was next in line. So, she began laying snares to win Imogen for her son Cloten; then her future, and her son's, would be assured. In Cymbeline's palace there lived a noble lord whom the King had reared as his own son and whom he called Leonatus. Cym- beline had bestowed his wealth lavishly on the education and learning of the youth, who in turn had made the most of his oppor- tunities, and showered the King with a modest love and devotion, always obedient to the King's will and desires. Leonatus and Imogen were fast friends in childhood, and the King, smiling upon them in their childhood days, unwittingly allowed them to form a deep affection which grew [122] CYMBELINE with their years, and ripened in a love so pure and devoted it did not deserve the cruel awakening that it met. The wicked Queen was very quick to note the affection of these lovers, and determined to end it. So she set about with sly words and artful wiles to transfer Imogen's love from Leonatus to her son Cloten. But Imogen only loved her noble Leonatus all the more deeply. Cloten urged his suit desperately, and for his trouble soon earned Imogen's pro- found disgust. The presents, flowers, and dainty sweets he sent were quickly returned by the same messenger who delivered them. Meanwhile, the Queen nagged and nagged the King, and was stirring up such a feeling of unrest that the entire dominion was in an unsettled state. The King she had transformed from a generous, good-natured monarch into a selfish, cross, and peevish ruler. He became a weak king, too, and was ruled entirely by the mind of his Witch-Queen. [123] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES One bright morning the castle was in a great state of excitement, for the Princess Imogen and Leonatus had evaded the busy- eyes of the Queen, made good their escape, been lawfully married, and returned to the castle, Imogen feeling sure of her father's forgiveness, and desiring his blessings. But, to her sorrow, the King's wrath knew no bounds. He banished Lord Leonatus not only from his court, but from Britain, and ordered the poor little Princess locked in her room, making the wicked Queen her jailer. The Queen very graciously allowed Leo- natus to see his little bride before he left Britain, and as they bade each other a fond good-bye, plighting their love anew, he placed a beautiful bracelet, which sparkled with costly gems, on the arm of the fair Imogen, saying: "Wear this, dear, for my sake; it is a manacle of love; I place it upon this fairest prisoner." [1240 CYMBELINE Now, all the while Imogen and Leonatus were saying good-bye, the wicked Queen was near by, listening to all they said. She managed that the King should suddenly come upon them, and a lively scene ensued. Poor Leonatus was driven from the castle and Imogen locked in her room, after having her first severe quarrel with her father. Leonatus now being out of the way, there were two things uppermost in the mind of the Queen; to get possession of Imogen's bracelet, and to make Imogen her friend, by kindness and sympathy. So the Queen was very devoted in her attentions to the poor little Princess. But the Fairy Myriel knew the Queen's deceitful heart, and constantly warned Imogen to beware of the Queen. Cloten now renewed his attentions to Imogen, being advised to do so by the Queen, and this forced Imogen to order him out of sight, telling him how much she despised him. Thereupon Cloten and the Queen became more than ever determined [125] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES to carry out their plans. Cloten vowed he would marry her, even though he hated her pretty face. The Queen was ever watchful, making frequent visits to Imogen's apartments in a friendly pretense, but in truth only watching and waiting for an opportunity to steal Imogen's jeweled bracelet; but that jewel was always on the arm of Imogen. When Leonatus left Cymbeline's court he left behind a faithful servant, Pisanio, tell- ing him to watch carefully over the Princess and do her commands. Through this servant Leonatus and his bride exchanged letters. The Queen was very suspicious of Pisanio and determined to be rid of him by some means. So she brewed a deadly poison and put it in a little vial. One day when he was in her presence she pretended to drop it and as he stooped to pick it up the Queen told him to keep it, and when he felt ill to use it, as it contained a magic power and would cure all ills. [126] CYMBELINE Pisanio thanked Her Majesty, and greatly valued this deadly drug which was intended to put an end to him. The Queen felt it would only be a matter of time until she would be freed from Pisanio. About this time there arrived at the Court of Cymbeline one lachimo, an Italian, who came from Rome and claimed to be a friend of Leonatus. Meeting the wicked Queen, he fell an easy victim to her charms. She told him of the beautiful Princess, her hasty marriage (which she deplored), and promised him great things if he would assist her in bringing this wilful child to her senses. Yes, she would even promise him the hand of the Princess in marriage. Of course, the Queen did not intend to keep her promise. She only wanted to use lachimo as a tool. At the Queen's suggestion, when he met and talked with Imogen he laughed about Lord Leonatus' merry, easy-going life, and added that Leonatus had once loved a little girl in King Cymbeline's Court (meaning Imogen), but had forgotten her. [127] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES The Queen and lachimo did not know Imogen's staunch little heart if they thought she would believe such tales. Imogen indignantly ordered lachimo from her presence, whereupon he fell on his knees and begged her forgiveness, and praised her lord in glowing terms. Tender of heart and rejoicing in praise of her husband, Imogen readily forgave the deceitful lachimo. Failing in this interview, lachimo again sought the Witch-Queen, and together they conceived a plot to capture the jeweled bracelet and place poor Imogen at their mercy. The following day, meeting Imogen, lachimo asked her where he could find a safe place for a trunk which contained a costly gift for his emperor, adding that Lord Leonatus was interested in the gift. Immediately Imogen replied : " If Leonatus is interested in the gift, you may have the trunk sent to my apartments, and I will vouch for its safety." "Thank you, my fair Princess," replied [128] CYMBELINE lachimo. "I will only trouble you with its safety for one night, as I leave for Rome to-morrow. And let me add that any mes- sage you care to send Lord Leonatus I will gladly deliver." For this Imogen thanked him, and late that evening a trunk was set in Imogen's apartments. Little did she dream as she looked upon it, that a cruel plot was hanging over her which was to sadden and darken her Ufe. The Queen was fairly jubilant with joy over the smoothness with which her schemes were working. And, where was the Fairy Myriel all this while .'' Consulting and planning with the Queen of the Fairies to meet this wicked plot and save the Princess at the proper moment. That night, while the little Princess was sleeping peacefully, dreaming of her ban- ished lord, while all the castle was wrapped in darkness and quiet, the villain lachimo stole noiselessly out of the trunk, and [129] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES approaching cautiously Imogen's couch, he slipped the coveted bracelet from her fair arm. Very quietly he left the room to seek the Queen, who repaid his efforts with a well filled purse, and now commanded him to return to Rome and there exhibit the jewel and claim he had won the Princess Imogen. This lachimo lost no time in doing. Wakening next morning, the Princess dis- covered she had been robbed, and was greatly distressed over her loss. She offered a large reward, and every one, except the Queen and Cloten, searched diligently (and Cloten pre- tended to search in hopes of gaining favor in the Princess' eyes), but the bracelet was not returned, and the Princess found a new cause for grief. On reaching Rome, lachimo made it a point to find Leonatus and thanked him for telling him of the beautiful Imogen, whom he hoped soon to wed, saying that the Princess was quite willing to have her marriage with Leonatus set aside. [130] CYMBELINE At first Leonatus was loath to believe lachimo, but when the latter displayed Imogen's bracelet and said, "Imogen gave it to me," Leonatus was heart broken. Immediately Leonatus dispatched his servant Pisanio to persuade Imogen to go to Milford Haven, where Pisanio would mur- der her, and send him some sign of the deed. To the Princess he wrote: "Take note, I will be at Milford Haven. Do what your love prompts you to do." Milford Haven was not far distant, and, oh, how happy was the Princess at the thought of seeing her husband and having his protection ! Calling Pisanio, she at once began pre- paring for their journey, but, noticing Pisano's doleful countenance, she said: " Why, Pisano, are you not delighted that we shall so soon be reunited, and that then you shall remain with us and be our faith- ful servant?" But poor Pisanio's heart was too sorely burdened to be light and merry. [131] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES Early next morning, before anyone was astir in the castle, Imogen and Pisanio rode forth to meet Leonatus. Remembering the little magic vial the Queen had once given him, Pisanio took it with him, hoping by its use to restore little Imogen to life after he had murdered her. The poor old servant muttered his prayers all the way, asking the Lord to save him from this wicked deed. After journeying for some time (although it did not seem long to Imogen, so happy was her heart), they came to a dense forest, where, suddenly, they were commanded to halt. Looking up, whom, should they see but the Fairy Myriel. To Pisanio she said : " My good man, thou shalt not damn thy hand with this deed." Then, turning to Imogen, she explained the wicked, cruel schemes of the Queen, and villain lachimo; how they had plotted to ruin the lives of Imogen and her husband; of Leonatus' agony at being forgotten by his little wife, and of his desperate revenge. [132] CYMBELINE Poor little Imogen sat motionless as in a trance, so great was her grief. She gave herself over quite willingly to the Fairy to do with as she thought best. Turning to Pisanio, Fairy Myriel con- tinued : "Speed your way back quickly to the castle before you are missed, show this letter of Leonatus' and say Imogen rode forth to meet her husband. Further, you know nothing. As a token of the deed, here is a kerchief, blood-stained. Send it to Leonatus. It will satisfy him." Then to Imogen: "Come, my child." As Pisanio turned to go, he gave the Princess the little vial of poison the Queen had given him and said : "If ill befalls you take this, my Princess." The Fairy, seeing Imogen's hesitation, said: "Take it. Princess, for I have blessed it and it will now bring only deep, sweet, peaceful slumber." After Pisanio had passed out of sight, [133] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES Fairy Myriel touched Imogen with her wand, and behold! We have standing be- fore us a slim, fragile youth, whom the Fairy christened Fidele, and from now on we must remember that Fidele is Imogen, and Imogen Fidele. Placing a glittering sword in Fidele's hand, the Fairy said: "In this disguise shalt thou live until the Witch-Queen lives no more." Then the Fairy Myriel escorted Fidele to a deep cave, which was to be her home for a while, and before this cave we will leave Fidele for a moment, while we return to the castle and see all that has been transpiring there since Imogen's de- parture. Before the Princess was missed from her apartments another cloud darkened the skies of Britain. King Cymbeline's uncle, who was once King of Britain, had paid tribute of two thousand pounds yearly to Julius Caesar. This tribute King Cymbeline had been [134] The Fairy Changes Imogen into a Boy SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES neglecting, and so Caesar sent an ambassador to the King, demanding payment. This the King (whose mind now worked entirely under that of the wicked Queen's) refused to grant, although the representative from Rome expostulated and warned them it would mean war. War being more to the Queen's taste, she influenced the King to be firm, and after much worry and fretting the King decided on war. Being bodily and spiritually weary, the King sent for his daughter, wishing to gain a little cheer and comfort from her gentle soul. But the servant soon returned to say he could not find the Princess, and that her maids said she had ridden forth at break of day. The King turned pale with fear, and ordered every room in the palace searched, and every highway. The Queen, too, and Cloten were greatly excited, for the thought of losing the throne was a terrible blow to their well-laid plans. [136] CYMBELINE Cloten was beside himself with rage, and blamed every one he came near for Imogen's escape; especially did he blame Pisanio, whom no one could find. The Queen soon quieted his mind in regard to Pisanio, telling Cloten of the deadly drug she had given him, and that his body would probably be found some place, cold and stiff. But, what was her surprise when Pisanio appeared before them, and bowing low said : "Your Majesty, I have to report that the Princess has gone to Milford Haven to join her husband." "Fool!" yelled Cloten. "Why did you not report it immediately?" "My Lord, the Princess ordered me to ride with her before breakfast this morning, and, knowing of the freedom Her Majesty has allowed her, I rode. When we had gone quite a distance she ordered me to turn about. Giving her own horse a quick rein, she said she was bound for Milford Haven to join her husband, and would not return." "Quick, Pisanio, a horse for Milford [137] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES Haven, and if thou tellest me false thy life shall answer for it," said Cloten. "I will kill this hated Leonatus, and then she shall see who is greatest." "Aye, Aye," responded Pisanio as he went to order the horse. "And pray Heaven she is safe where this villain will not find her." You remember we left Imogen (or Fidele, I mean) before the great cave. She felt most lonely after the Fairy had disappeared, and it seemed queer to be dressed as a boy. Drawing forth her magic sword, she said with a little shiver: "If mine enemies fear the sword as I do, they '11 scarcely look on 't." Now, I must tell you something of the people who lived in this cave. They were hunters, strong, sturdy and brave, well skilled in military tactics and thoroughly educated. Men with a love for truth; brave men who would fight valiantly for a good cause. Now, who do you suppose these youths were ? [138] CYMBELINE I will tell you. They were Guiderius and Arviragus, the King's sons who were kid- napped by the Fairies. The third person was an elderly man, Belarius, whom King Cymbeline had ban- ished from his court. A wise and learned man and just the man to have charge of these princely boys. The cave was very spacious and provided with everything for comfort. When Fidele entered it she found it entirely deserted, for the hunters had gone in search of game. She discovered a well filled cupboard, and soon refreshed herself with a substan- tial lunch, if not as dainty a one as she had been used to. After eating she threw her- self down on a couch and was soon fast asleep. Presently the hunters returned with their game, and you can imagine their surprise when they found this fair youth asleep in their home. Their entrance wakened Imo- gen, and at first she felt great alarm and un- [139] SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES easiness for fear they were angry with her for being there, but the hunters simply thought she was a Httle runaway boy, and sought to know her name and where she was going. " Fidele is my name, sirs, and I am bound for Milford Haven." Guiderius and Arviragus felt strangely drawn to this wee body, and were very anxious for Fidele's comfort. Was it not a strange meeting for this sister and brothers ? Leaving her to rest while they dressed their game, they promised Fidele a rare feast. Left to herself, the poor little Princess began reflecting on her sad life, and drawing forth the little vial of poison drank the con- tents, and very soon she felt a queer, cold, creepy sensation, and before she could call for help lay stretched still and cold as though she were dead. Outside the cave the hunters skinned their game with greater zest than usual, for it was seldom indeed that they were honored with [140] The Fairy Reunites Imogen and Leonatus SHAKESPEARIAN FAIRY TALES a guest, and surely never had so fair a lad called upon them before. Guiderius wandered far into the forest to bring wood for fire to roast the game, and suddenly hearing horses' hoofs and look- ing up, he had scarcely time to see that a man stood before him when Cloten (who was on his way to Milford Haven and had taken Guiderius for a robber) began to attack him. You see, Cloten was something of a coward, after all. Guiderius, who was used to a wild life, quickly drew his sword and ran Cloten through, which put an end to the Witch- Queen's son. All the while since Imogen's departure a fierce battle raged between Rome and Britain, and the Queen, fearing defeat and learning of the violent death of her son, killed herself with the poison she had in- tended for the King. She died screaming for Cloten, and telling the King how she hated him. I doubt if you could find a more dejected, [142] CYMBELINE sadder man than King Cymbeline. But with the Queen's death the spell of witch- craft passed over Britain, and Fairy Myriel restored the King's sons to him, and reunited the Princess Imogen and Lord Leonatus, and they all dwelt in this castle a very happy family for many years. lachimo was severely punished for his wicked deeds. The noble Belarius was restored to the King's court. Faithful Pisanio was awarded a medal for his devotion to the Princess Imogen, and over Britain once more ruled a happy and wise king. [143] ■3 I:: u '1^ i