 Chapter 20 of THE ROYAL BOOK OF OS This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. THE ROYAL BOOK OF OS by Ruth Plumlee Thompson, Chapter 20. Dorothy upsets the ceremony of the island. A caravan! whistled the comfortable camel lurching to his feet. How nice! I doubt that. The dramatary's eyes flew open and he stared sleepily at the magnificent procession of silver islanders. First came the musicians playing their shining silver trumpets and flutes. The Grand Chuchu and General Mugwump followed, a tired and brilliant silk robes of state. Then came the three princes, glittering with jeweled chains and medals, and the fifteen little princes like so many silver butterflies in their satin kimonos. Next appeared a palakwine bearing the veiled, princess orange blossom, followed by a whole company of splendid courtiers, and after them as many of the everyday silver islanders as the hall would hold. There was a moment of silence. Then the whole assemblage, contrary to the scarecrow's edict, fell upon their faces. My! exclaimed Dorothy, impressed in spite of herself. Are you sure you want to give up all this? Great Emperor, beautiful as the sun, wise as the stars, and radiant as the clouds, the ceremony of restoration is about to begin. Then appeared the Grand Chuchu rising slowly. Then he paused, for he was suddenly confused by the strange company around the scarecrow's throne. Treachery! Hissed the eldest prince to the others. We left him tied to the bean pole. Ancient Papa's scarecrow needs watching. Who are these curious objects he has gathered about him, pray? Now by some magic, which even I cannot explain, the people from Oz found they could understand all that was being said. When Dorothy heard herself call an object and saw the wicked faces of the three princes and the stupid little grandsons, she no longer wondered at the scarecrow's decision. First! He said cheerfully. Let me introduce my friends and visitors from Oz. The silver islanders, who really loved the scarecrow, bowed politely as he called out the names of Dorothy and the others. But the three silver princes scowled and whispered indignantly among themselves. I am growing very wroth. Choked Sir Hocus to the cowardly lion. Let the ceremony proceed. Called the eldest prince harshly before the scarecrow had finished his introductions. Let the proper body of his supreme highness be immediately restored. Way for the grand-gee wizard! Way for the grand-gee wizard! One moment. Put in the scarecrow in a dignified voice. I have something to say. The silver islanders clapped loudly at this and Dorothy felt a bit reassured. Perhaps they would listen to reason after all and let the scarecrow depart peacefully. How they were ever to escape if they didn't the little girl could not see. My dear children! Began the scarecrow in his jolly voice. Nothing could have been more wonderful than my return to this lovely island. But in the years I have been away from you I have changed very much. And I find I no longer care for being Emperor. So with your kind permission I will keep the excellent body I now have and will abdicate in favour of my eldest son and return with my friends to Oz. For in Oz I really belong. A dead silence followed the scarecrow's speech. Then perfect pandemonium. No, no, you are a good Emperor. We will not let you go. Shreaked the people. You are honourable little father. The Prince shall be Emperor after you have peacefully returned to your ancestors. But not now. No, no, we will not have it. I feared this. Quavered happy toko. It is not the Emperor but the scarecrow who speaks. Shrilled the grand chuchu craftily. He knows not what he says. But after the transformation, ah, you shall see. The company calmed down at this. Let the ceremony proceed. Way for the grand G-wizard. They cried exultantly. Chuchu! Wailed the scarecrow. You are off the track. But it was too late. No one would listen. I'll have to think of something else. Muddered the scarecrow, sinking dejectedly back on his throne. Mudder dorthy, clutching the scarecrow. Here he comes. Way for the grand G-wizard. Way for the grand G-wizard. The crowd parted. Hobbling toward the throne came the ugly little G-wizard of the Silver Island, holding a large silver vase high above his head. And after him, when Sir Hocus caught a glimpse of what came after, he leaped clean over the comfortable camel. Uds, daggers! Roared the knight. At last! He rushed forward violently. There was a sharp thrust of his good sword, then an explosion like twenty giant firecrackers in one, and the room became quite black with smoke. Before anyone realized what had happened, Sir Hocus was back, dragging something after him and shouting exuberantly. A dragon! I have slain a dragon! What happiness! Everyone was coughing and spluttering from the smoke, but as it cleared, Dorothy saw that it was indeed a dragon Sir Hocus had slain, the rheumatic dragon of the old G-wizard himself. Why didn't you get the wizard? Rumbled the cowardly lion angrily. Must have exploded! Said the comfortable camel, sniffing the skin daintily. Treasoned. Yelled the three princes, while the grand G-wizard flung himself on the stone floor and began tearing strand after strand from his silver pigtail. He has killed a little joy of my heart! Screeched the old man. I will turn him to a cap, a miserable yellow cap, and roast him for dinner. Cried Dorothy, looking at Sir Hocus sorrowfully. How could you? The slaying of the dragon had thrown the whole hall into utmost confusion. Sir Hocus turned a little pale under his armor, but faced the angry mob without flinching. Oh, my dear car, unbashi, this is so uncomfortable. Wheezed the camel, glancing back of him with frightened eyes. There's a shiny dagger in my left-hand saddle-sack. I doubt very much whether they would like it. Guilt the doubtful dromedary, pressing close to the night. On with the ceremony. Cried the eldest prince, seeing that the excitement was giving the scarecrow's friends too much time to think. The son of an iron pot shall be punished later. That's right! Cried a voice from the crowd. Let the emperor be restored! I guess it's all over. Guilt the scarecrow. Give my love to Osma, and tell her I tried to come back. In helpless terror the little company watched the Gee Wizard approach. One could fight real enemies, but magic? Even Sir Hocus, brave as he was, felt that nothing could be done. One to move and you shall be so many prunes! Shrilled the angry old man, fixing the people from Oz with his wicked little eyes. The great room was so still you could have heard a pin drop. Even the doubtful dromedary had not the heart to doubt the wizard's power, but stood rigid as a statue. The wizard advanced slowly, holding the sealed vase carefully over his head. The poor scarecrow regarded it with gloomy fascination. One more moment, and he would be an old, old silver man. Better to be lost forever. He held convulsively to Dorothy. As for Dorothy herself, she was trembling with fright and grief. When the grand Gee Wizard raised the vase higher and higher and made ready to hurl it at the scarecrow, disregarding his dire threat, she gave a shrill, scream, and threw up both hands. Great grandmothers! Gasped the scarecrow jumping to his feet. As Dorothy had thrown up her arms, the little parasol swinging at her wrist had jerked open. Up, up, up, and out through the broken skylight in the roof sailed the little princess of Oz. The grand Gee Wizard, startled as anyone, failed to throw the vase. Every neck was craned upward, and everyone was gasping with astonishment. The oldest prince, as usual, was the first to recover. Don't stand staring like an idiot, now's your chance! He hissed angrily in the Gee Wizard's ear. I didn't come here to be hurried and hurried by foreigners. Sobbed the little man. How is one to work magic when interrupted every other minute? I want my little dragon. Oh, come on now, just throw it, I'll get you another dragon. And the prince, his hands trembling with excitement. In the face of this new disaster, the scarecrow had forgotten all about the Gee Wizard. He and the cowardly lion and Sir Hocus were running distractedly around the Great Throne, trying to think up a way to rescue Dorothy. As for the doubtful drama-dairy, he was doubting everything in a loud, bitter voice, while the comfortable camel, fairly snorted with sorrow, There! Now's your chance! whispered the prince. The scarecrow with his back to the crowd was gesturing frantically. Seeing a firm hold on the neck of the vase, and with a long incantation, which there is no use at all in repeating, the Gee Wizard flung the bottle straight at the scarecrow's head. But scarcely had it left his hand before there was a flash and a flutter, and down came Dorothy and the magic parasol right on top of the vase. Zip! The vase flew in quite another direction, and next minute had burst over the luckless heads of the three plotting princes, while Dorothy floated gently to earth. Sir Hocus embraced the scarecrow, and the scarecrow hugged the cowardly lion, and I don't wonder at all. For no sooner had the magic elixir touched the princes than two of them became silver pigs and the eldest a weasel. They had been turned to their true shapes instead of the scarecrow, and while the company hopped about in alarm, they ran squealing from the hall and disappeared in the gardens. Seize the Gee Wizard and take him to his cave! Ordered the scarecrow, asserting his authority for the first time since the proceedings had started. He had noticed the old man making queer signs and passes toward Sir Hocus. A dozen took hold of the struggling Gee Wizard and hurried him out of the hall. Sir Hocus, at the request of the scarecrow, clapped his iron gauntlets for silence. You will agree with me, I'm sure. Said the scarecrow in a slightly unsteady voice. That magic is a serious matter to meddle with. If you will all return quietly to your homes, I will try to find a way out of our difficulties. The silver islanders listened respectfully and, after a little arguing among themselves, backed out of the throne room. To tell the truth, they were anxious to spread abroad the tale of the morning's happenings. Princess Orange Blossom, however, refused to depart. Magic or no magic, she had come to marry the emperor, and she would not leave till the ceremony had been performed. But, my dear old lady, would you wish to marry a scarecrow? Coaxed the emperor. All men are scarecrows. Then why marry at all? Rumbled the cowardly lion, making a playful leap at her palanquin. This was too much. The princess swooned on the spot, and the scarecrow, taking advantage of her unconscious condition, ordered her chair-bearers to carry her away as far and as fast as they could run. Now! said the scarecrow when the last of the company had disappeared. Let us talk this over. End of Chapter 20. Chapter 21 of THE ROYAL BOOK OF OZ. THE ROYAL BOOK OF OZ by Ruth Plumlee-Thompson. Chapter 21. THE ESCAPE FROM SILVER ISLAND. Well. Gasped, Dorothy, fanning herself with her hat. I was never so surprised in my life. Rye. Exclaimed the scarecrow. The Grand G-Wizard will be suing you for parasalt and battery. But how did it happen? Well. Began, Dorothy. As soon as the parasol opened, I flew up so fast that I could hardly breathe. Then, after I'd gone ever so far, it came to me that if the parasol went up when it was up, it would come down when it was down. I couldn't leave you all in such a fix, so I closed it, and— Came down. Finished the scarecrow with the wave of his hand. You always do the right thing in the right place, my dear. It was lucky I hit the vase, wasn't it? Side, Dorothy. But I'm rather sorry about the princes. Served him right. Growled the cowardly lion. Though make very good picks. But who's to rule the island? Demanded Ser Hocus, turning his gaze reluctantly, from the smoking dragon-skin. This will require thought. Said the scarecrow pensively. Let us all think. I doubt that I can ever think again. The doubtful drama-dairy wagged his head from side to side in a dazed fashion. Just leave it to our dear Karwen Bashi. The comfortable camel nodded complacently at the night and began plucking sly wisps from the scarecrow's boot to top. For a short time there was absolute silence. Then Ser Hocus, who had been thinking tremendously with his elbows on his knees, burst out. Why not, Ser Pudding, here? Why not this honest punster? Who but happy Toko deserves the throne? The very person. Cried the scarecrow, clasping his yellow gloves, and taking off his silver hat, he said it impulsively upon the head of the fat little silver islander. He'll make a lovely emperor, said Dorothy. He's so kind-hearted and jolly, and now the scarecrow can abdicate and come home to us. They all looked triumphantly at the imperial punster, but happy Toko, snatching off the royal hat, burst into tears. Don't leave me behind, Amiable Master. He sobbed, disconsolently. Oh, how I shall miss you. But don't you see? Coaxed Dorothy. The scarecrow needs you here more than any place, and think of all the fine clothes you will have, and how rich you will be. And happy, my dear boy, said the scarecrow, putting his arm around happy Toko. You might not like Oz any more than I like Silver Island. Then think. If everything goes well, you can visit me, just as one emperor visits another. And you won't forget me? Snifftappy, beginning to like the idea of being emperor. Never! Cried the scarecrow with an impressive wave. And if anything goes wrong, will you help me out? Questioned happy, uncertainly. You'll look in the magic picture of Oz every month. Declared Dorothy. And if you need us, we'll surely find some way to help you. And you ever require a trusty sword? Odds Barkens. Exclaimed Sir Hocus, pressing Tappy's hand. I'm your man. All right, dear master. Happy slowly picked up the imperial hat and set it sideways on his head. I'll do my best. I don't doubt it at all. Said the doubtful dromedary to everyone's surprise. Three cheers for the emperor! Long live the emperor of the Silver Island! Rumbled the cowardly lion, and everybody from Oz, even the camel and dromedary, fell upon their knees before happy Toko. You may have a bride too, Tappy. Chuckled the scarecrow with a wink at Dorothy. And happy, he asked, sobering suddenly, will you have my grandsons brought up like real children? Just as soon as I return, I shall send them all the books of Oz. Happy bowed, too confused, and excited for speech. Now, said the scarecrow, seizing Dorothy's hand, I can return to Oz with an easy mind. Said the doubtful dromedary. You needn't. Announced Dorothy. I thought it all out. In a few short sentences, she outlined her plan. Bravo! Roared the cowardly lion, and now the little party began in real earnest the preparation for the journey back to Oz. First, Happy brought them a delicious luncheon with plenty of twigs and hay for the camel and dromedary and meat for the cowardly lion. The scarecrow packed into the camel sacks a few little souvenirs for the people of Oz. Then they dressed Happy Toco in the scarecrow's most splendid robe and ordered him to sit upon the throne. Next, the scarecrow rang for one of the palace servants and ordered the people of the Silver Islands to assemble in the hall. Presently, the silver men began to come trooping in, packing the great throne room until it could hold no more. Everyone was chattering excitedly. It was quite a different company that greeted them. The scarecrow, cheerful and witty in his old munchkin suit, Dorothy and Sir Hocus smiling happily, and the three animal members of the party fairly blinking with contentment. This? Said the scarecrow pleasantly when everyone was quiet. Is your new emperor, to whom I ask you, to pledge allegiance? He waved proudly in the direction of Happy Toco, who, to tell the truth, presented a truly royal appearance. It is not possible for me to remain with you, but I shall always watch over this delightful island and with a magic fan, vanquish all its enemies and punish all offenders. Happy Toco bowed to his subjects. The Silver Islanders exchanged startled glances, fenn, as the scarecrow carelessly lifted the fan, they felled prostrate to the earth. Ha-ha! said the scarecrow with a broad wink at Happy. This is delightful! You agree with me, I see. Now then, three cheers for Tappy Oco, Imperial Emperor of the Silver Island! The cheers were given with a will, and Happy in acknowledgement made a speech that has since been written into the Royal Book of State as a masterpiece of eloquence. Being arranged to fare so satisfactorily, the scarecrow embraced Happy Toco with deep emotion. Dorothy and Sir Hocus shook hands with him and wished him every success and happiness. Then the little party from Oz walked deliberately to the beanpole in the center of the hall. The Silver Islanders were still a bit dazed by the turn affairs had taken, and stared in astonishment as the scarecrow and Sir Hocus fastened thick robes around the cowardly lion, the doubtful dromedary, and the comfortable camel. In the robes, they tied around their own wastes and dorthies, and the ends of all were fastened securely to the handle of the magic parasol, which Dorothy held carefully. Good-bye, everybody! called the little girl, suddenly opening the parasol. Good-bye! cried the genial scarecrow, waving his hand. Too stupefied for speech, the assemblage gaped with amazement as the party floated gently upward. Up, up, and out of sight, whirled the entire party. End of Chapter 21 Chapter 22 of the Royal Book of Oz. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. The Royal Book of Oz by Ruth Plumlee Thompson. Chapter 22 The Flight of the Parasol Holding the handle of the parasol, Dorothy steered it with all the skills of an aviator, and in several minutes after their start, the party had entered the deep, black passage down which the scarecrow had fallen. Each one of the adventurers was fastened to the parasol with ropes of different length so that none of them bumped together, but even with all the care in the world, it was not possible to keep them from bumping the sides of the tube. The comfortable camel grunted plaintively from time to time, and Dorothy could hear the doubtful dromedary complaining bitterly in the darkness. It was pitch dark, but by keeping one hand in touch with the beanpole, Dorothy managed to hold the parasol in the center. How long will it take? She called breathlessly to the scarecrow who was dangling just below. Hours. Weased the scarecrow holding fast to his hat. I hope none of the parties on this line hear us. He added nervously, thinking of the midlings. What wrecks it? Blustered Sir Hocus. Hest forgotten my trusty sword. But his words were completely drowned in the rattle of his armor. Warned the scarecrow. Or will be pulled in. So for almost an hour they flew up the dark, chimney-like tube with only an occasional groan as one or another scraped against the rough sides of the passage. Then before they knew what was happening, the parasol crashed into something, half closed, and the whole party started to fall head over heels over helmets. Gasped Dorothy, turning a complete somersault. Get hold of the bean-pole! Somebody! Put up your parasol. Shrieked the scarecrow. Just then Dorothy, finding herself right side up, grasped the pole herself and snapped the parasol wide open. Up, up they soared again faster than ever. We're flying up much faster than I fell down. We must be at the top. Called the scarecrow hoarsely. And somebody has closed the opening. CHAPTER XXIII PANTED Dorothy anxiously. No! By my hilt! Sir Hocus, and setting his foot in a notch of the beanstalk, he cut with his sword the rope that bound him to the parasol. Put the parasol down half way, and I'll climb ahead and cut an opening. With great difficulty, Dorothy partially lowered the parasol, and instantly their speed diminished. Indeed, they barely moved at all, and the knight had soon passed them on his climb to the top. Are you there? Rumbled the cowardly lion anxiously. A great cloud of earth landed on his head, filling his eyes and mouth with mud. Rored the lion. It's getting light! It's getting light! Screamed Dorothy, and in her excitement snapped the parasol up. Sir Hocus, having cut with his sword a large circular hole in the thin crust of earth covering the tube, was about to step out when the parasol, hurling up from below, caught him neatly on its top, and outburst the whole party and sailed up almost to the clouds. Welcome to Oz! cried Dorothy, looking down happily on the dear, familiar Munchkin landscape. Home at last! exalted the scarecrow, wafting a kiss downward. Let's get down to earth before we knock the sun into a cocked hat. Gasped, the cowardly lion, for Dorothy and her excitement, had forgotten to lower the parasol. Now the little girl lowered the parasol carefully at first, then faster and faster, and finally shut it all together. Sir Hocus took a high dive from the top. Down tumbled the others over and over, but fortunately for all there was a great haystack below, and upon this they landed in a jumbled heap close to the magic beanpole. As it happened there was no one in sight. Up they jumped in a trice, and while the comfortable camel and doubtful dromedary munched contentedly at the hay, Sir Hocus and the scarecrow placed some loose boards over the opening around the beanpole and covered them with dirt and corn stalks. I will get Osma to close it properly with the magic belt. Said the scarecrow gravely. It wouldn't do to have people sliding down my family tree and scaring poor Tappy. As for me, I shall never leave Os again. I hope not, growled the cowardly lion, tenderly examining his scratched hide. But if you hadn't, I'd never had such lovely adventures, or found Sir Hocus and the comfortable camel and the doubtful dromedary. Said Dorothy. And what a lot I have to tell Osma. Let's go straight to the Emerald City. It's quite a journey. Explained the scarecrow to Sir Hocus who was cleaning off his armor with a handful of straw. I go where Lady Dot goes. Replied the night, smiling affectionately at the little girl and straightening the ragged hair ribbon, which he still wore on his arm. Don't forget me, dear Carwin Boschie. Wheezed the comfortable camel, putting his head on the knight's shoulder. You're a sentimental dunce, Cammie. I doubt whether they'll take us at all. The doubtful dromedary looked wistfully at Dorothy. Go to now. Cried Sir Hocus putting an arm around each neck. You're just like two of the family. It will be very comfortable to go now. Side the camel. We're all a big jolly family here. Said the scarecrow, smiling brightly. And Os is the friendliest country in the world. Right. Said the cowardly lion. But let's get started. He stretched his tired muscles and began limping stiffly toward the Yellowbrook Road. Wait! Cried Dorothy. Have you forgotten the parasol? I wish I could. Grown to the cowardly lion, rolling his eyes, Sir Hocus with folded arms was gazing regretfully at the beanpole. It has been a brave quest. He sighed. But now I take it our adventures are over. Absolutely the knight felt in his boot-top and drawing out a small red bean popped it into his mouth. Just before reaching the top of the tube he had pulled a handful of them from the beanstalk, but the others had fallen out when he dove into the hay. Shall we use the parasol again, Lady Dot? He asked, still staring pensively at the beanpole. Shall— He got no farther, nor did Dorothy answer his question. Instead she gave a loud scream and clutched the scarecrow's arm. The scarecrow, taken by surprise, fell over backward and the comfortable camel, raising his head inquiringly, gave a bellow of terror. From the knight's shoulder a green branthead sprung, and while the company gazed in round-eyed amazement it stretched toward the beanpole, attached itself firmly, and then shot straight up into the air, the knight kicking and struggling on the end. In another second he was out of sight. Screamed the comfortable camel, running around distractedly. I doubt we'll ever see him again. Growned the doubtful dromedary, craning his neck upward. Do something! Do something! Begged Dorothy, at which the scarecrow jumped up and dashed toward the little farmhouse. I'll get an axe. He called over his shoulder. And chopped down the beanpole. No! Don't do that! Roared the cowardly lion, starting after him. Do you want to break him to pieces? Oh! Oh! Can't you think of something else? cried Dorothy. And hurry! Or he'll be up to the moun! The scarecrow put both hands to his head and stared around wildly. Then, with a triumphant wave of his hat, declared himself ready to act. The parasol! cried the late Emperor of Silver Island. Quick! Dorothy! Put up the parasol! Statching the parasol, which lay at the foot of the beanpole, Dorothy snapped it open, and the scarecrow just had time to make a flying leap and seize the handle before it soared upward, and in a trice they too had disappeared. Daughty! Daughty! Wailed the comfortable camel, crowding up to his humpbacked friend. We're having a pack of trouble. Mine ears are all a tremble. Now, don't you worry. Advised the cowardly lion, sitting down residedly. I'm frightened myself, but that's because I'm so cowardly. Queer things happen in Oz, but they usually turn out all right. Why? Hocus is just growing up with the country, that's all. Just growing up with the country. I doubt that. Sniffed the doubtful dromedary, faintly. He was grown up in the beginning. But think of the scarecrow's brains. You leave things to the scarecrow. But it was no use. Both beasts began to roar dismally. I don't want a plant. I want my car when bashy. Sobbed the comfortable camel, broken heartedly. Well, don't drown me. Sobbed the cowardly lion, moving out of the way of the camel's tears. Say, what's that draught? What indeed. In the trees overhead a very cyclone whistled, and before the three had even time to catch their breath they were blown high into the air, and the next instant were hurtling toward the emerald city like three furry cannonballs, faster and faster. End of Chapter 23 Chapter 24 of the Royal Book of Oz. Dorothy and the scarecrow, clinging fast to the magic parasol, had followed the night almost to the clouds. At first it looked as if they would never catch up with him, so swiftly was the branch growing, but it was not long before the little umbrella began to gain, and in several minutes more they were beside Sir Hocus himself. Be shrew me now! Gasped the knight, stretching out his hand toward Dorothy. Can't stop this reckless plant. Give me your sword! Commanded the scarecrow. And I'll cut you off. Dorothy, with great difficulty, kept the parasol close to the knight while the scarecrow reached for the sword, but Sir Hocus backed away in alarm. Tis part of me, and you cut it off. I will be cut off, too, tis rooted in my back. He puffed. What shall we do? cried Dorothy in distress. Maybe if we take hold of his hands we can keep him from going any higher. The scarecrow jamming down his hat so it wouldn't blow off knotted approvingly, and each holding the parasol with one hand gave the other to the knight. And when Dorothy pointed the parasol down, to her great delight Sir Hocus came also, the thin green branch growing just about as fast as they moved. Just then the little fan, which had been rolling around merrily in Dorothy's pocket, slipped out and fell straight down toward the three unsuspecting beasts below. Draft. No wonder. But Dorothy never missed it, and quite unconscious of such a calamity anxiously talked over the knight's predicament with the scarecrow. They both decided the best plan was to fly straight to the emerald city and have Osma release the knight from the enchanted beanstalk. I'm sorry you got tangled up in my family tree, old fellow. Said the scarecrow after they had flown some time in silence. But this makes us relations, doesn't it? He winked broadly at the knight. So it does. Said Sir Hocus jovially. I'm a branch of your family now. My family thinks I should not have swallowed that bean. Bean? Question Dorothy. What bean? The knight carefully explained how he had plucked a handful of red beans from the beanstalk just before reaching the top of the tube and how he had eaten one. So that's what started you growing? Exclaimed Dorothy in surprise. Alas, yes. Admitted the knight. I've never felt more grown up in my life. He finished solemnly. An adventurous country, this Oz. I should say it was. Chuckled the scarecrow. But isn't it almost time we were reaching the emerald city, Dorothy? I think I'm going in the right direction. Answered the little girl. But I'll fly a little lower just to be sure. Not too fast, not too fast. Sir Hocus looking nervously over his shoulder at his long, wriggling stem. There's Osma's palace. Cried the scarecrow all at once. And there's Osma. Screamed Dorothy, peering down delightedly. And scraps, and TikTok, and everybody. She pointed the parasol straight down when a sharp tug from Sir Hocus jerked them all back. They were going faster than the poor knight was growing, so Dorothy lowered the parasol halfway, and slowly they floated toward the earth, landing gently in one of the flowerbeds of Osma's lovely garden. Come along and meet the folks. Said the scarecrow as Dorothy closed the parasol. But Sir Hocus clutched him in alarm. Hold, hold. Gasped the knight. I've stopped growing. But if you leave me, I'll shoot up into the air again. The scarecrow and Dorothy looked at each other in dismay. After enough, the knight had stopped growing, and it was all they could do to hold him down to earth, for the stubborn branch of beanstalk was trying to straighten up. They had fallen quite a distance from the palace itself, and all the people of Osma had their backs turned, so had not seen their singular arrival. Hello. Called the scarecrow loudly. Then— Help! Help! As the knight jerked him twice into the air. But Osma, Trot, Jack Pumpkinhead, and all the rest were staring upward and talking so busily among themselves that they did not hear either Dorothy's or the scarecrow's cries. First one, then the other, was snatched off his feet, and although Sir Hocus, with tears in his eyes, begged them to leave him to his fate, they held on with all their might. Just as it looked as if they all three would fly into the air again, the little wizard of Oz happened to turn around. Look! Look! He cried, tugging Osma's sleeve. Why? It's Dorothy! Gasp'd Osma, rubbing her eyes. It's Dorothy, and— Help! Help! Scream'd the scarecrow, waving one arm wildly. Without waiting another second, all the celebrities of Oz came running toward the three adventurers. Somebody heavy—come take hold! Puffed Dorothy out of breath with her efforts to keep Sir Hocus on the ground. The Ozites, seeing that help was needed at once, suppressed their curiosity. I'm heavy! said TikTok solemnly, clasping the knight's arm. The tin woodsman seized his other hand, and Dorothy sank down exhausted on the grass. Princess Osma pressed forward. What does it all mean? Where did you come from? Asked the little queen of Oz, staring in amazement at the strange spectacle before her. And who is this medieval person? Asked Professor Wogglebug, pushing forward importantly. He had returned to the palace to collect more data for the Royal Book of Oz. He doesn't look evil to me. Giggled scraps, dancing up to Sir Hocus, her suspender-button eyes, snapping with fun. He isn't! said Dorothy indignantly, for Sir Hocus was too shaken about to answer. Ah, I see! replied Professor Wogglebug. A case of where knighthood was in flower. And would you believe it? The beanstalk at that minute burst into a perfect shower of red blossoms that came tumbling down over everyone. Before they had recovered from their surprise, the branch snapped off close to the knight's armor, and TikTok, the tin woodsman, and Sir Hocus rolled over in a heap. The branch itself whistled through the air and disappeared. Oh! cried Dorothy, hugging the knight impulsively. I'm so glad! Are you all right? asked the scarecrow anxiously. Good as ever! announced Sir Hocus, and indeed all traces of the magic stalk had disappeared from his shoulders. Dorothy! cried Asma again. What does it all mean? Merely that I slid down my family tree, and that Dorothy and this knight rescued me. said the scarecrow calmly. And he's a real royalty. So there! cried Dorothy with a wave at the scarecrow, and making a little face at Professor Wogglebug. Meet his supreme highness, Chang Wangbo of Silver Island, who had abdicated his throne and returned to be a plain scarecrow in Oz. Then as the eminent educator of Oz stood gaping at the scarecrow. Oh! Asma, I've so much to tell you! Begin! Begin! cried the little wizard. For everything's mighty mysterious. First the cowardly lion and two unknown beasts shoot through the air and stop just outside the third-storey windows. And there they hang, although I've tried all my magic to get them down. Then you and the scarecrow drop in with a strange knight. Oh! The poor cowardly lion! gasped Dorothy as a wizard finished speaking. The magic fan! She felt hurdly in her pocket. It's gone! It must have slipped out of your pocket and blown them here. Then they'll never come down till that fan is closed. cried the scarecrow in an agitated voice. All of this was Greek to Ozma and the others, but when Dorothy begged the little queen to send for her magic belt, she did it without question. This belt Dorothy had captured from the Gnome King and it enabled the wearer to wish people and objects wherever one wanted them. I wish the magic fan to close and to come safely back to me. said Dorothy as soon as she had clasped the belt around her waist. The sooner were the words out before there was a loud crash and a series of roars and groans. Everybody started on a run for the palace, Sir Hocus, ahead of all the rest. The fan had mysteriously returned to Dorothy's pocket. The three animals had fallen into a huge cluster of rose bushes and though badly scratched and frightened, were really unhurt. I doubt that I'll like Oz. Quavered the doubtful drama-dairy, lurching toward Sir Hocus. You might have been more careful of that fan. Growled the cowardly lion, reproachfully plucking thorns from his hide. The comfortable camel was so overjoyed to see the knight that he rested his head on Sir Hocus's shoulder and began weeping down his armor. And now that their adventures seemed really over, what explanations were to be made? Sitting on the top step of the palace with all of them around her, Dorothy told the whole wonderful story of the Scarecrow's family tree. When her breath gave out, the Scarecrow took up the tale himself and as they all realized how nearly they had lost their jolly comrade, many of the parties shed real tears. Indeed, Nick Chopper hugged the Scarecrow till there was not a whole straw in his body. Never leave us again. Begged Osma and the Scarecrow crossing Nick Chopper's heart, he had none of his own, promised that he never would. And what a welcome they gave Sir Hocus, the doubtful drama-dairy and the comfortable camel. Only Professor Wogglebug seemed disturbed. During the strange recital, he had grown quieter and quieter and finally, with an embarrassed cough, had excused himself and hurried into the palace. He went directly to the study and seating himself at a desk opened a large book, none other than the Royal Book of Oz. Dipping an emerald pen in the ink, he began a new chapter headed thus, His Imperial Majesty, the Scarecrow, late emperor and imperial sovereign of Silver Island. Then flipping over several pages to a chapter headed Princess Dorothy, he wrote carefully at the end. Dorothy, Princess and Royal Discoverer of Oz. Meanwhile, below stairs, the Scarecrow was distributing his gifts. There were silver chains for everyone in the palace and shining silver slippers for Osma, Betsy Bobbin, Trot and Dorothy, and a bottle of silver polish for Nick Chopper. Dorothy presented Osma with the magic fan and parasol, and they were safely put away by Jelia Jam with the other magic treasures of Oz. Next, because they were all curious to see the Scarecrow's wonderful kingdom, they hurried upstairs to look in the magic picture. Show us the Emperor of Silver Island. Commanded Osma, immediately the beautiful silver throne room appeared. Happy Toko had removed his Imperial hat and was standing on his head to the great delight of the whole court, and a host of little Silver Islander boys were peeking in at the windows. Now doesn't that look cheerful? Asked the Scarecrow delightedly. I knew he'd make a good Emperor. I wish we could hear what he's saying, said Dorothy. Oh, do look at Chuchu. The Grand Chuchu was standing beside the throne scowling horribly. I think I can arrange for you to hear, muttered the Wizard of Oz, and taking in queer magic instrument from his pocket he whispered. Bye-bye. Instantly they heard the jolly voice of Happy Toko singing. Oh, shine his shoes of silver and brush his silver cue, for I am but an Emperor, and he's the Grand Chuchu. Osma laughed heartily as the picture faded away, and so did the others. Indeed, there was so much to ask and wonder about that it seemed as if they never would finish talking. An Old-Fashioned Oz Party Proposed Osma when the excitement had calmed down a bit, and an Old-Fashioned Party it was, with places for everybody and a special table for the Cowardly Lion, the Hungry Tiger, Toto, the Glass Cat, the Comfortable Camel, the Doubtful Dramadary, and all the other dear creatures of that amazing kingdom. Sir Hocus insisted upon stirring up a huge pasty for the occasion, and there were songs, speeches, and cheers for everyone, not forgetting the Doubtful Dramadary. At the cheering he rose with an embarrassed jerk of his long neck. In my left-hand saddle-sack. He said gruffly, There is a quantity of silken shawls and jewels. I doubt whether they are good enough, but I would like Dorothy and Queen Osma to have them. Hear, hear! cried the scarecrow, pounding on the table with his knife. Then everything grew quiet as Osma told Hashi, with the help of Glinda the Good Sorceress, had stopped the war between the Horners and the Hoppers. When she had finished, Sir Hocus sprang up impulsively. I pray thee, lovely lady, never trouble your royal head about wars again. From now on, I will do battle for you and little Dorothy and Oz, and I will be your good night every day. At this the applause was tremendous. The good night of Oz, full of courage and vim, will do battle for us and will take care of him. Shouted scraps, who was becoming more excited every minute. I'll lend you some of my polish for your armor, old fellow. Said Nick Chopper, as the night sat down, beaming with pleasure. Well, said Osma with a smile, when everyone had feasted and talked to heart's content. Is everybody happy? I am, cried the comfortable camel. For here I am perfectly comfortable. I am, cried Dorothy, putting her armor on the Scarecrow, who sat next to her. For I have found my old friend and made some new ones. I'm happy, cried the Scarecrow, waving his glass. Because there is no wage in Oz, and I am still my old, Oz-ish self. As for me, said the night, I am happy. For I have served a lady, gone on a quest, and slain a dragon. Osma, an Oz forever!