I am an old maid, or, if you
prefer it, I am a wall-frog, who has nothing to do but creep into my
hole, and, when I have vitality enough, to spit my venom upon the
passers-by. As to my friends, I have nothing to relate; I have no
friends! I hate all mankind, and I am hated by all. I am especially
on my guard with those who pretend to love me; I know that they are
deceitful and traitorous, that they are only actuated by selfish
motives."
"Poor sister," said the king, sadly; "how unhappy must you be to
speak thus! Can I do nothing to alleviate your misfortune?"
Amelia laughed loudly and scornfully. "Forgive me, your majesty, but
your question reminds me of a merry fairy tale I have just read of a
cannibal who is in the act of devouring a young girl. The poor child
pleaded piteously for her life, naturally in vain. 'I cannot, of
course, give you your life,' said the cannibal, 'but I will gladly
grant you any other wish of your heart. Think, then, quickly, of
what you most desire, and be assured I will fulfil your request.'
The pretty maiden, trembling with horror and despair, could not
collect her thoughts. Then, after a short pause, the cannibal said,
'I cannot wait; I am hungry! but in order to grant you a little
longer time to determine upon the favor you will ask, I will not, as
I am accustomed to do, devour the head first, I will commence with
the feet.
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