PERFECT COMPLEXION DYE
by Fannie Louise Apjohn · from The Enchanted Island
Adapted Version
I have a story about Aunt Sophie and queens.
I found the fake hair and color. I put them in my pocket. I went home very fast.
I showed the fake things to Amy's parents. They were very surprised and sad. They wanted to help Amy.
We told the Prime Minister about the fakes. He called a big meeting. Many people came to talk about the queen.
Bethel did not want to go to meeting. She said she had a bad headache. But she had to go. She looked tired and messy.
The Prime Minister asked about her hair. He said people said it was fake. Bethel was very angry. She said her hair was real.
The Prime Minister showed everyone the fake hair. He showed the color too. Everyone was very surprised. They looked at Bethel.
I told them the truth. Bethel's father made the fake hair. I showed a small doll's wig too. It was the same kind.
Bethel screamed at me. She was very angry. Some people said she should go away. She should not be queen anymore.
Amy's father stood up. He asked everyone to be kind. He said Bethel should just feel sorry. No one should go to jail.
They said Bethel must leave the palace. Amy became the queen that day. I was so happy. Amy made good rules for everyone.
Amy found a big box in the palace. She used it to keep money safe. People could save their money there too.
Amy wore a key on a chain. She used it to open the box. She wore it all the time.
One day, a friend was very sick. Amy went to visit her. She gave me the key to keep safe.
A big wind came and took me away. I woke up on an island. I was all alone. I held the key tight.
I became a bird on the island. I told my story to a friend. I worried about Amy and the key. My friend said I would go home soon.
Truth is important. Good leaders help everyone.
Original Story
PERFECT COMPLEXION DYE
One Application warranted to stand
two washings.
"I could have laughed for joy, but I had no time to waste, and quickly putting both the complexion dye and the hair into my large pocket I crept back to the boudoir.
"Here of course I had no difficulty in unlocking the door and getting out into the hall, and after pushing the key under the door, closing the transom and carefully putting the stepladder back into the linen closet, I left the Palace, saying that I could not wait any longer.
"I flew home and sent for Princess Amy's mother and father. I showed them the wig and the dye. They were speechless with indignation and surprise at the way their daughter had been imposed upon. At my request they agreed to take possession of the articles until we could have arrangements made for settling the matter.
"We then called upon the Prime Minister and told him the whole story, and he called a special meeting for twelve o'clock next day, at which all members of Government were ordered to attend, and it was added that they might bring their wives with them. Somehow or other the news went around that the meeting was to be over the new Queen, and at twelve o'clock next day the long table which ran the whole length of the great assembly room was crowded, and most of the ladies had to sit in groups about the room.
"'Call the Queen,' said the Prime Minister.
"The Queen's mother hurried in in a terrible flutter, and said that the Queen had a frightful headache and begged to be excused.
"The Prime Minister replied that he was sorry, but if she was not able to come down we would have to go upstairs to her and hold the meeting.
"That settled it. In a few moments the Queen appeared, very pale indeed, and with her head tied up in a lace scarf. She looked anything but beautiful without her fine hair and lovely complexion, and her small green eyes flew around the room as if looking for a means of escape. I could see that everybody was shocked at sight of her.
"The Prime Minister came immediately to the point. He told the Queen that reports were circulating to the effect that her beautiful hair was not real. At this she flew into a perfect rage and stamped her foot at him, crying that it was real.
"'Well, well, then,' said the Prime Minister, 'kindly remove your lace scarf and let us see for ourselves.'
"This of course she refused to do, whereupon the Prime Minister held out his hand for a bag which Princess Amy's father was carrying, and drew out first the complexion dye and then the wig, which he passed around for inspection. When he laid the Queen's beautiful hair on the table everybody jumped up with an exclamation of amazement and looked at Bethel, who gave a scream and tried to snatch it, but her mother drew her back.
"'What is it made of?' was the question they all asked. I knew, I had guessed it for quite a long time, but had not felt certain until I had it in my hands.
"'It is made of spun looking-glass, colored a delicate yellow,' I said, 'and was made by Princess Bethel's father, who, as you all know, is very clever. See, here is a doll's wig that he made for Princess Amy several years ago. You will note that it is not colored, that it is made of clear glass, and is coarser, but the idea is the same. If you need any further proof I have three witnesses whose testimony I think you will be willing to accept.'
"'Wonderful, wonderful,' they all exclaimed, as they still examined the wig.
"'Who told you anything about it?' screamed the Queen. 'What do you mean prying into my affairs? I'll pay you well for this, Aunt Sophie.'
"But nobody paid any attention to her. The Prime Minister was asking what should be done with her, and various things were suggested. One old Baroness would keep calling out, 'Have her beheaded, have her beheaded,' and several members of Parliament felt that she ought to be imprisoned for life, and also her father and mother.
"No doubt they would have been imprisoned for at least a number of years had not Amy's father risen and said that his daughter asked that for her sake they would not punish either Bethel or her parents, but let them go home, as she thought the shame of all this exposure would certainly be punishment enough. Most of the ladies thought so too, and finally it was agreed to do as Amy had asked.
"So Princess Bethel was ordered to leave the palace at once, and it was said that her father and mother had a dreadful time trying to live with her for many a long day afterwards, but we all agreed that it served them right.
"That very day Princess Amy was crowned Queen, and nobody was more happy than I, for I knew that she would rule wisely and well.
"I was not mistaken, for she soon began to make new laws and change the old ones for the good of her subjects.
"I was one day with her in the cellars under the Palace looking through some old chests of books, when we came upon one very large chest made of solid steel, which stood in a small room alone. The key, a tiny golden one, was in the lock and we opened it. The chest was lined with gold, but had nothing in it but one gold coin in the bottom.
"'Why, what a splendid bank this would make,' said Queen Amy, 'I believe I shall start one.'
"That very day she began saving gold in the big chest, and continued putting by as much as she could spare to use it in a time when the crops might be poor, or war threatened.
"There were very few banks in the kingdom, and it was not long before poor people were bringing their savings to the Palace to be put in the chest. She had a great number of little glass boxes made, which fitted into trays, and each box bore the name of the depositor. The key of the chest she carried on a fine strong chain about her neck night and day.
"One evening word came that the Princess Bethel's mother was very ill and wished to see her niece. The Queen instantly called for her carriage, and ordered a company of guards to accompany her, then as she had to drive through a wood and was a little afraid of highwaymen she took the gold key from her neck and fastened the chain around mine, telling me not to remove it until she returned.
"I watched her drive away, and then went for a walk over the lawn towards the water. I reached the little pier and stood for a few moments looking at a small row boat which was tied there, wondering whether I should go out for a few minutes on the bay, but as the night was rather chilly I turned to go back for a wrap.
"I had not taken six steps before I was seized in a kind of whirlwind which sprang up from the water and almost choked me. In my hurry to get away I turned in the wrong direction and stepped off the pier into the boat, striking my head.
"I can remember clutching the key as I fell, and after that I knew nothing until I awoke and found myself lying on the sands of this island. Here I have been for two years, and in that time who knows what may have happened to my poor Amy, for without this key she cannot open the treasure chest."
Here the dove stopped and heaved a great sigh. "Fear not," said Daimur, "you shall go back in a very short time to your beloved niece if all goes as well as we hope."
Then as it was very late they all settled themselves for the night and were soon fast asleep.
Story DNA
Moral
Truth and integrity will always prevail over deceit, and true leadership is characterized by wisdom, compassion, and a commitment to the welfare of the people.
Plot Summary
Aunt Sophie exposes the deceitful Queen Bethel, revealing her beauty to be artificial and her claim to the throne fraudulent. Princess Amy is then crowned Queen, proving to be a wise and benevolent ruler who establishes a public bank for her subjects. However, when Amy entrusts the key to this bank to Sophie for safekeeping, Sophie is mysteriously whisked away to a deserted island, transformed into a dove, leaving the fate of the bank and Amy's rule uncertain.
Themes
Emotional Arc
injustice to justice | suffering to triumph
Writing Style
Narrative Elements
Cultural Context
Reflects a traditional monarchical structure with a governing body, common in European fairy tales. The idea of a public bank for common people's savings hints at early financial institutions.
Plot Beats (15)
- Aunt Sophie, having gathered evidence (complexion dye and wig), escapes Bethel's boudoir and returns home.
- Sophie shows the evidence to Princess Amy's parents, who are indignant and agree to take possession of the items.
- They inform the Prime Minister, who calls a special government meeting, spreading news that it concerns the new Queen.
- Queen Bethel attempts to avoid the meeting, claiming a headache, but is forced to attend, appearing pale and disheveled.
- The Prime Minister confronts Bethel about her hair, which she furiously denies is fake.
- The Prime Minister reveals the wig and complexion dye, passing them around for inspection, shocking everyone.
- Sophie explains that the wig is made of spun looking-glass by Bethel's father, presenting a doll's wig as further proof.
- Bethel screams at Sophie, but is ignored as the assembly debates her punishment, with some suggesting beheading or imprisonment.
- Princess Amy's father intercedes, requesting that Bethel and her parents be spared imprisonment, believing public shame is sufficient punishment.
- Bethel is banished from the palace, and Amy is crowned Queen, ruling wisely and establishing new laws for her subjects' good.
- Queen Amy discovers a large steel chest in the palace cellars and decides to use it as a public bank for her subjects.
- Amy carries the golden key to the bank chest on a chain around her neck at all times.
- When Bethel's mother falls ill and wishes to see Amy, Amy entrusts the key to Aunt Sophie for safekeeping while she travels.
- Aunt Sophie is suddenly seized by a whirlwind, falls into a boat, hits her head, and awakens on a deserted island, still clutching the key.
- Sophie, now a dove, recounts her story to Daimur, expressing concern for Amy's bank without the key, and Daimur promises her return.
Characters
Aunt Sophie ★ protagonist
Of average height and build, likely with a practical, unassuming appearance that allows her to observe unnoticed. No specific distinguishing features are mentioned, suggesting a commoner's look.
Attire: Practical, comfortable clothing suitable for moving around a palace and conducting investigations, likely made of sturdy, unadorned fabrics in muted colors, reflecting her supporting role before becoming a key player.
Wants: To expose injustice and protect Princess Amy, ensuring the rightful queen is on the throne and later to safeguard the kingdom's wealth and Amy's well-being.
Flaw: Her loyalty to Amy makes her vulnerable to schemes targeting Amy, as seen when she is tricked and stranded.
Starts as a keen observer who uncovers a deception, becomes instrumental in crowning the rightful queen, and then serves as a loyal guardian of the kingdom's treasury, ultimately suffering a temporary setback but maintaining her resolve.
Observant, intelligent, loyal, resourceful, and protective. She is quick-witted in her deductions and actions.
Image Prompt & Upload
An adult woman of average height and build, facing forward, full body visible head to toe. She has a kind, observant face with no specific distinguishing features, and her hair is simply styled. She wears a practical, sturdy linen dress in a muted grey, with a dark blue apron over it, and comfortable leather shoes. She has a large, deep pocket on her dress. Her posture is alert and purposeful. Plain white background, full body visible head to toe, single figure, no watermark, no text, no signature.
Princess Amy ★ protagonist
Initially described as having a 'lovely complexion' and 'fine hair' (though these were artificial for Bethel, Amy is the one who truly possesses these qualities). She is likely graceful and possesses natural beauty.
Attire: As a princess and later queen, she would wear elegant, well-made dresses of fine fabrics like silk or brocade, in rich colors, appropriate for her station. Her attire would be refined but not ostentatious.
Wants: To rule wisely and well, for the good of her subjects, and to ensure the kingdom's prosperity and security.
Flaw: Her trusting nature and compassion, which could be exploited, as seen when she entrusts the key to Aunt Sophie, leading to the latter's abduction.
From an overlooked princess to a wise and beloved queen who implements beneficial social and economic reforms for her kingdom.
Kind, wise, forgiving, just, and forward-thinking. She demonstrates compassion by asking for leniency for Bethel and her parents, and wisdom in establishing a public bank.
Image Prompt & Upload
A young adult woman of regal bearing, facing forward, full body visible head to toe. She has a naturally beautiful face with a kind expression, clear eyes, and fine, long, dark brown hair styled elegantly. She wears a flowing gown of deep blue silk, with subtle gold embroidery along the neckline and cuffs, and a delicate gold chain around her neck from which hangs a tiny golden key. Her posture is graceful and confident. Plain white background, full body visible head to toe, single figure, no watermark, no text, no signature.
Princess Bethel ⚔ antagonist
Initially appearing beautiful with 'fine hair and lovely complexion' (which were artificial). Without them, she is described as 'very pale indeed' and 'anything but beautiful,' suggesting a less striking natural appearance. Her small green eyes are a distinguishing feature.
Attire: As a queen, she would have worn elaborate, luxurious gowns, but when exposed, she appears with her 'head tied up in a lace scarf,' suggesting an attempt to conceal her true appearance.
Wants: To maintain her position as queen and the illusion of her beauty, driven by vanity and a desire for power.
Flaw: Her vanity and reliance on deception for her perceived beauty and status.
From a deceptive queen to a disgraced princess, forced to leave the palace and live with the shame of her exposure.
Deceptive, vain, arrogant, short-tempered, and entitled. She reacts with rage when confronted and shows no remorse.
Image Prompt & Upload
A young adult woman, facing forward, full body visible head to toe. She has a very pale complexion, a somewhat sharp face, and small, darting green eyes. Her head is tied up in a delicate white lace scarf, concealing her hair. She wears a simple, unadorned pale grey dress, suggesting her diminished status. Her posture is hunched and nervous, with a resentful expression. Plain white background, full body visible head to toe, single figure, no watermark, no text, no signature.
Prime Minister ◆ supporting
No specific details, but his role suggests a dignified and authoritative presence. Likely of average to tall height and a commanding build.
Attire: Formal court attire, likely a dark, well-tailored suit or robes with some insignia of office, made of fine wool or velvet, signifying his high rank.
Wants: To uphold justice and ensure the rightful ruler is on the throne, maintaining order and integrity in the government.
Flaw: None explicitly shown, but perhaps a reliance on formal procedures which could be manipulated by clever individuals.
Remains a steadfast figure of authority, ensuring the transition of power is handled properly and justly.
Authoritative, decisive, fair-minded, and direct. He handles the delicate situation with firmness and ensures justice is served.
Image Prompt & Upload
An adult man of dignified and authoritative bearing, facing forward, full body visible head to toe. He has a serious, intelligent face with a neatly trimmed dark beard and well-kept, slightly greying hair. He wears a formal, dark blue velvet coat with silver buttons, a crisp white cravat, and dark trousers. His posture is upright and commanding. Plain white background, full body visible head to toe, single figure, no watermark, no text, no signature.
Princess Bethel's Father ◆ supporting
Described as 'very clever,' implying an intelligent, perhaps scholarly, appearance. No specific physical details are given, but he might have the lean build of an inventor or scholar.
Attire: As a clever inventor and father of a queen (albeit a false one), he would wear fine, but perhaps slightly practical, clothing that allows for movement and work, possibly with ink stains or smudges from his craft. Perhaps a tailored coat over a waistcoat.
Wants: To use his cleverness to elevate his daughter's status, likely driven by ambition or a desire for his family's advancement.
Flaw: His willingness to use his talents for deceit and his complicity in his daughter's scheme.
From a respected inventor who enabled a deception to a disgraced parent, forced to live with the difficult consequences of his daughter's actions.
Clever, inventive, but morally compromised, as he aids in his daughter's deception. He is complicit in the fraud.
Image Prompt & Upload
An adult man with an intelligent, slightly furrowed brow and keen eyes, facing forward, full body visible head to toe. He has a lean build and slightly disheveled dark hair. He wears a practical, dark brown wool coat over a cream linen shirt, with a few smudges of unknown material on his hands. He holds a small, intricate object made of clear glass in his right hand, examining it intently. Plain white background, full body visible head to toe, single figure, no watermark, no text, no signature.
Princess Amy's Father ◆ supporting
No specific details, but as a royal father, he would likely be of noble bearing. Perhaps a strong, protective figure.
Attire: Fine, formal attire befitting a royal father, likely a tailored suit or robes of quality fabric in rich colors, but not as ostentatious as a reigning monarch.
Wants: To protect his daughter's honor and ensure justice is served, and later to show mercy.
Flaw: His compassion, which leads him to ask for leniency for his daughter's tormentors.
From an indignant father seeking justice to a compassionate advocate for mercy.
Indignant at the deception against his daughter, supportive of justice, and ultimately compassionate, advocating for leniency for Bethel.
Image Prompt & Upload
An adult man of noble bearing, facing forward, full body visible head to toe. He has a dignified face with a serious yet kind expression, and neatly combed grey hair. He wears a formal dark green velvet coat with gold trim, a white ruffled shirt, and dark breeches. He holds a small, plain leather bag in his hand. His posture is upright and composed. Plain white background, full body visible head to toe, single figure, no watermark, no text, no signature.
Locations
The Queen's Boudoir (Princess Bethel's)
A private dressing room within the palace, likely opulent but now a scene of hurried deception. It has a door that can be locked from the inside, a transom window above the door, and a stepladder used to reach it.
Mood: tense, secretive, hurried
Aunt Sophie retrieves the wig and dye, then escapes after locking the door and pushing the key back under.
Image Prompt & Upload
An opulent, dimly lit boudoir in a German-style palace, with heavy velvet drapes pulled across tall windows and a large, ornate wooden door with a small transom above it. A small, carved wooden stepladder leans against a wall near the door. The room is furnished with a dressing table and a plush armchair, reflecting the soft glow of a hidden lantern. no border, no frame, no watermark, no text, no signature, edge-to-edge illustration.
The Great Assembly Room of the Palace
A very large hall within the palace, dominated by a long table running its entire length. It is crowded with government members and their wives, with ladies sitting in groups around the room.
Mood: formal, expectant, tense, dramatic
The public exposure of Princess Bethel's fake hair and complexion dye, leading to her dethronement.
Image Prompt & Upload
A vast, high-ceilinged assembly room within a German Baroque palace, featuring elaborate stucco work and large arched windows letting in bright afternoon light. A very long, polished dark wood table stretches down the center, surrounded by numerous chairs. Groups of elegantly dressed ladies are seated on upholstered benches and chairs along the walls, observing the proceedings. no border, no frame, no watermark, no text, no signature, edge-to-edge illustration.
The Palace Cellars
Underground rooms beneath the palace, used for storage. One small, isolated room contains a large chest made of solid steel.
Mood: musty, mysterious, discovery
Queen Amy discovers the steel chest and decides to use it as the kingdom's first bank.
Image Prompt & Upload
A cool, dimly lit stone cellar beneath a German palace, with rough-hewn stone walls and a low vaulted ceiling. Scattered wooden crates and dusty shelves filled with old books line the main passage. In a small, isolated alcove, a massive, dark grey solid steel chest with heavy iron bands sits on the flagstone floor. A single ray of light filters from a high, small window, illuminating dust motes. no border, no frame, no watermark, no text, no signature, edge-to-edge illustration.
The Palace Lawn and Pier
A grassy area extending from the palace towards a body of water, with a small pier where a rowboat is tied.
Mood: peaceful, then suddenly chaotic and dangerous
Aunt Sophie is abducted by a whirlwind from the water, falling into the boat and being carried away.
Image Prompt & Upload
A moonlit, expansive green lawn sloping gently down to a calm bay under a chilly night sky. A rustic wooden pier extends a short distance into the water, where a small, dark rowboat is loosely tied. The water reflects the faint moonlight, and the distant silhouette of a grand German palace is visible against the horizon. no border, no frame, no watermark, no text, no signature, edge-to-edge illustration.