When Alidoro, the Magician, discovers (through his 'hidden secrets' book) the location of the destined bride of the Prince, Don Ramiro, he sends this information in a message to the palace by carrier pigeon - with a recommendation that the Prince change places with his valet, Dandini. Following this advice, the Prince meets Cenerentola - and there is an instant attraction between them. Later, Alidoro magically creates beautiful clothes and jewels for Cenerentola, and takes her to the Prince's palace. Dandini (still pretending to be the prince) becomes enamored of her, but Cenerentola rejects his advances, saying that she loves his 'valet'. Overhearing this, the delighted Ramiro asks her to marry him, but Cenerentola says that he must first seek her out, and gives him a bracelet - telling him to look for the companion bracelet on her right arm. The Prince and Dandini resume their true identities, and the Prince sets out on his quest - little realising that Alidoro is, once again, 'pulling the strings'.