A long time ago and far away there lived a King and a Queen .They were very happy, for their first child, a girl, had been born.
" We must have a grand christening for her," said the King , who was delighted to have a daughter.
"We must invite all the fairies of the kingdom to bless her," said the Queen.
"How many are there now ?" asked the King.
"Twelve or thirteen," said his wife. "Send the invitations . We'll soon find out ."
There were twelve fairies, and they were all sent invitations. A thirteen fairy had not been heard of for so long that it was presumed that she was dead. No invitation was sent. The day of the christening was sunny and bright. The Princes was named Briar Rose, and the fairies began to give their gifts.
"She shall be beautiful, "said the first.