A handsome young man, actually a Vampire, deceives an old woman into allowing him to marry her oldest daughter, whom he subsequently kills after luring her to his underground lair. He repeats this with the second daughter, leading to her demise as well. The youngest daughter, however, is resourceful and escapes the Vampire's clutches by praying for help and finding a locked chest to hide in. While living in the woods, she attracts the attention of a prince during his hunting expedition. He discovers her presence when his huntsmen bring the chest to his palace, where she continues to hide. The prince, intrigued by the mysterious disappearance of his meals, eventually catches her when he hides to observe her. He expresses his love and they plan to marry, but the Chamberlain, envious of the girl, plots to have her killed. The Chamberlain employs a Blackamoor to kidnap her, and she is left for dead in a field of nettles. An old woman finds her and nurses her back to health. The girl, wishing to help the prince who is grieving her absence, cooks a special dish of beans and sends it to him, including a lock of her hair as a sign. The prince, recognizing the hair, eagerly consumes the dish and seeks out the girl. When the prince visits the old woman, the girl hides in a bread trough to avoid being seen. However, the prince discovers her, and they share their love. She reveals the plot against her life, and they decide to inform the king. The king, upon hearing her story, punishes the Chamberlain and the Blackamoor, ensuring justice is served. The girl and the prince marry, living happily ever after, celebrated for her bravery and goodness.
By Parker Fillmore · First published 1920 · Genre: Fairy Tale, Fantasy, Adventure