Despereaux stared up at her in wonder. The Pea, he decided, looked just like the picture of the fair maiden in the book in the library. The princess smiled at Despereaux again, and this time, Despereaux smiled back. And then something incredible happened: The mouse fell in love.
Reader, you may ask this question; in fact, you must ask this question: Is it ridiculous for a very small, sickly, big-eared mouse to fall in love with a beautiful human princess named Pea?
The answer is… yes. Of course, it’s ridiculous. Love is ridiculous.
But love is also wonderful. And powerful. And Despereaux’s love for the Princess Pea would prove, in time, to be all of these things: powerful, wonderful, and ridiculous.
“My name is Despereaux! I honor you!” said Despereaux. “I honor you” was what the knight said to the fair maiden in the story that Despereaux read every day in the book in the library. Despereaux had muttered the phrase often to himself, but he had never before this evening had occasion to use it when speaking to someone else.
“Despereaux,” she said. He saw his name on her lips.
“I honor you,” whispered Despereaux. “I honor you.” He put his paw over his heart. He bowed so low that his whiskers touched the floor.
He was, alas, a mouse deeply in love.
- The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo
I have been LOVING these posts, I love reading an extra special snippet like this from a story. This was so sweet, I couldn't help smiling when he kept repeating "I honor you."
Reply DeleteBrave little guy.
xo marlen
Messages on a Napkin
Awww. Beautiful. I love that little mouse.
Reply DeleteI have so many wonderful memories of reading this book. Despereaux is one charming little mouse. Thank you for reminding me of that today. I need to go find my copy, and snuggle under the covers. Have a beautiful Monday!
Reply DeleteRereading this book would indeed make for a lovely day.
Deletethis is so beautiful. I loved the book. I need to revisit this.
Reply Deletexo,
nancy
It seems rather fitting in its own way for Valentines :)
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