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第9章 姓赵的

There were more birds in a room farther on, parrots and cock-atoos that could talk, and they greeted Beauty by name; indeed,she found them so entertaining that she took one or two back toher room, and they talked to her while she was at supper; afterwhich the Beast paid her his usual visit, and asked the samequestions as before, and then with a gruff "good-night" he tookhis departure, and Beauty went to bed to dream of her mysteriousPrince. The days passed swiftly in different amusements, andafter a while Beauty found out another strange thing in the palace,which often pleased her when she was tired of being alone. Therewas one room which she had not noticed particularly; it wasempty, except that under each of the windows stood a verycomfortable chair; and the first time she had looked out of the

"Only be grateful," he answered, "and do not trust too muchto your eyes. And, above all, do not desert me until you havesaved me from my cruel misery."

"How can you ask me, cruel one? Are you not leaving me tomy death perhaps?"

"Yes, dear Beast."

"You are very ready with excuses and flattery," he cried; "butthat will not save you from the death you deserve."

"Oh! Beast, how you frightened me!" she cried. "I never knewhow much I loved you until just now, when I feared I was toolate to save your life."

"Here is what you asked me to bring you; you little know whatit has cost."

This evidently pleased the Beast. After looking at her he said,

"Do not get up to-morrow," he added, "until you see the sunand hear a golden bell ring. Then you will find your breakfastwaiting for you here, and the horse you are to ride will be readyin the courtyard. He will also bring you back again when youcome with your daughter a month hence. Farewell. Take a roseto Beauty, and remember your promise!"