The Tell-Tale
The narrative follows a mischievous fairy prince named Arphu, who delights in causing harm to innocent creatures, much to the dismay of his benevolent father, the Fairy King. After committing a particularly cruel act against a pair of swallows, Arphu is punished by being transformed into a kitten. This transformation serves as a harsh lesson, forcing him to experience the fear and vulnerability he once inflicted on others. As a kitten, he faces the cruelty of the farmer's children, who torment him and his siblings. Despite his initial suffering, Arphu gradually learns compassion and empathy through his experiences. He witnesses the brutal drowning of his brothers and endures mistreatment at the hands of the farmer's son, Hodge. Ultimately, after a tragic accident leads to his death, Arphu is restored to his fairy form. The Fairy King, pleased with his son's newfound understanding, welcomes him back, and Arphu vows to never again harm others. The story emphasizes themes of empathy, the consequences of cruelty, and the potential for redemption through suffering. It serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of kindness towards all living beings.
By Catharine Parr Strickland Traill · First published 1857 · Genre: Fiction, Short Stories, Historical · 3 chapters
Contents
- ARPHU, OR, THE FAIRY KITTEN
- THE LITTLE WATER-CARRIER; OR, THE REWARD OF INDUSTRY
- THE PRIMROSE GIRL, OR, LITTLE EMMA'S BIRTH-DAY