This second volume of the "Old French Fairy Tales" by Sophie Rostopchine, Comtesse de Segur (1799-1874) brings us back into the distant realm of the Queen of Fairies and the King of Genii. Luxuriously illustrated by Virginia Frances Sterrett (1900-1931), "The Little Gray Mouse" and "Ourson" keep testifying until today that good old moral values and, above all, love are the best response and the mightiest weapon against all evil, natural or supernatural. In "The Little Gray Mouse," by the power of love, Rosalie is cured of "her greatest fault" curiosity. Also true love, through its gift of seeing beyond the appearances, is the magical key that changes a cruel destiny into a prosperous future for Ourson and his Violette. Not from this world? Not in these times? Maybe. But then again, why not? Along with the first volume of the "Old French Fairy Tales," this book is part of the "Vintage books - restored" collection.