So saying he would have drawn aside her veil ; but the princess only held it more closely about her . ` Your constancy has overcome me , ' she said ; ' I can no longer oppose your wishes . But believe my words , and suffer this veil still to hide my blushes and tears . ' ` Why tears , beloved one ? ' cried the gnome anxiously ; ` every tear of yours falls upon my heart like a drop of molten gold . Greatly as I desire your love , I do not ask a sacrifice . ' ` Ah ! ' cried the false princess , ` why do you misunderstand my tears ? My heart answers to your tenderness , and yet I am fearful . A wife can not always charm , and though YOU will never alter , the beauty of mortals is as a flower that fades . How can I be sure that you will always be as loving and charming as you are now ? ' ` Ask some proof , sweetheart , ' said he . ` Put my obedience and my patience to some test by which you can judge of my unalterable love . ' ` Be it so , ' answered the crafty maiden . ` Then give me just one proof of your goodness . Go ! count the turnips in yonder meadow . My wedding feast must not lack guests . They shall provide me with bride-maidens too . But beware lest you deceive me , and do not miss a single one .
That shall be the XXXXX of your truth towards me . '
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