The Fairy and the Toad

Beside the sparking burn that flowed,

where Fairies frolicked came a toad, 

who offered to wee Fairy Miss, 

a bouquet, full of scented bliss!

Within his eyes, love seemed at home.

And with bouquet, truth soon was known. 

'Tis courting, that he had in mind,

if Fairy Lass was so inclined!

That tiny Lass was quite surprised

by Toad's intention, realized.

And all the little Elven Lads

could not help think the idea bad!

"I'm sorry, Mr. Toad", she trilled,

"I'm sure, that you hold much appeal

for Lady Toads, who're sure to find

you suitor of most handsome kind!

Your friend, indeed, I'd love to be",

(and she accepted happily,

the posy from the love-struck swain).

"But simply friends, we must remain!

You are earth bound; we're not the same.

And, ever, the sky calls my name!

Sadly, it just won't do, I fear.

Mr. Toad, we're just too different, Dear!"

At that, the toad was so cast down!

(That happy smile became a frown.)

And croaking,  he sought to explain

that "Mr. Toad" was not his name!

"A wicked spell was put on me!

And in this form I'm caught, you see.

The only cure is one sweet kiss

from you, sweet little Fairy Miss!

The spell will not let me proclaim

the truth denied me, (my own name)!"

On hearing this, her heart was torn

and looking at his face, forlorn, 

she generously, with light grace,

stepped up and kissed his homely face.

And right before her eyes, he changed

to Fairy Prince, quite rearranged!

And joy rang out across the land!

Lost Prince was found! Isn't that grand?!

I guess that it just goes to show

appearances can fool, you know!

But kindness, mercy, gentleness,

combined in one sweet little kiss

led on to happiness, e'er since,

for Fairy Princess and her Prince! 

                Donna L. Ferguson Dudley, copyright 2019 1/23/19

Margaret W. Tarrant, "The Tale of a Toad"