Page 99 - СКАЗКИ СНЕЖНОГО ЭЛЬФА

‘ What do you offer?’
At a moment’s notice the cupboard displayed a few sparkling
bowls that floated with pompous dignity to the table. Glasses
followed them, tinkling in crystal clarity; forks and spoons were
trying to overtake the plates in small circles while the napkins
were fluttering under the table like butterflies. Finally things
settled back down. Frost approvingly looked around the table,
now set out with good things, and rose to meet his guest who
was entering the room.
The Snow Queen was stunning. Tall and straight, wrapped
in a silver fur, she was stepping majestically through the room.
Her high head was wearing a shining crown, not even a little
color in her face. Her capriciously twisted lips were shining
pearl-white, long fluffy eyelashes were snow white, her eyes
alone were flashing amazingly natural blue.
‘ You are very welcome, Your Snow Highness,’ Frost said
pleasantly, approaching the visitor. The Queen nodded gra-
ciously and went to the table.
‘The Queen is in the best of spirits today.’ Snowyflake heard
Squir’s voice say.
‘How do you know?’ the girl wondered.
‘ I saw her lips smiling; that’s not so often, you can take it
from me, twice a year at best.’
‘Do you think she will help me?’
‘I’m not sure. The Queen is severe, she isn’t expected to
work for nothing. But she speaks high of Father Frost, he may
convince her to go lightly on you.’
‘Have you been here long, Squir?’
‘For over three years. I used to be a weak little squirrel, and
when winter came I got freezing. Grandpa found me nearly
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