" Only one wish . Speak , then , my little child , for I am one of that race which delights to give pleasure and to do good . Is there really nothing that you wish , for you shall certainly have it if there is ? " ; " There was nothing , dear fairy , before I saw you , " answered the little girl , in a hesitating tone . " But now there is ? " asked the fairy . " Tell it me , then , and you shall have it . "
" I wish for that pretty little sceptre of yours , " said Hulda , pointing to the fairy's wand . The moment Hulda said this the fairy shuddered and became pale , her brilliant colors faded , and she looked to the children's eyes like a thin white mist standing still in her place . The sceptre , on the contrary , became brighter than ever , and the precious stones glowed like burning c
