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Now the white snake was an enchanted princess; and she was very

glad to see him, and said, 'Are you at last come to set me free?

Twelve long years have I waited here for the fairy to bring you

hither as she promised, for you alone can save me. This night

twelve men will come: their faces will be black, and they will be

dressed in chain armour. They will ask what you do here, but give

no answer; and let them do what they will--beat, whip, pinch,

prick, or torment you--bear all; only speak not a word, and at

twelve o'clock they must go away. The second night twelve others

will come: and the third night twenty-four, who will even cut off

your head; but at the twelfth hour of that night their power is

gone, and I shall be free, and will come and bring you the Water

of Life, and will wash you with it, and bring you back to life

and health.' And all came to pass as she had said; Heinel bore

all, and spoke not a word; and the third night the princess came,

and fell on his neck and kissed him.