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In time of war every Nome left his forge or mine and became part of the

great army of King Roquat. The soldiers wore rock-colored uniforms and

were excellently drilled.

The King looked upon this tremendous army, which stood silently

arrayed before him, and a cruel smile curled the corners of his mouth,

for he saw that his legions were very powerful. Then he addressed them

from the balcony, saying:

I have thrown away General Blug, because he did not please me. So I

want another General to command this army. Who is next in

command?"

I am," replied Colonel Crinkle, a dapper-looking Nome, as he stepped

forward to salute his monarch.

The King looked at him carefully and said:

I want you to march this army through an underground tunnel, which I

am going to bore, to the Emerald City of Oz. When you get there I want

you to conquer the Oz people, destroy them and their city, and bring all

their gold and silver and precious stones back to my cavern. Also you

are to recapture my Magic Belt and return it to me. Will you do this,

General Crinkle?"

No, your Majesty," replied the Nome; "for it can't be done."

Oh indeed!" exclaimed the King. Then he turned to his servants and

said: "Please take General Crinkle to the torture chamber. There you will

kindly slice him into thin slices. Afterward you may feed him to the

seven-headed dogs."

Anything to oblige your Majesty," replied the servants, politely, and led

the condemned man away.

When they had gone, the King addressed the army again.

Listen!" said he. "The General who is to command my armies must

promise to carry out my orders. If he fails he will share the fate of poor

Crinkle. Now, then, who will volunteer to lead my hosts to the Emerald

City?"

The Emerald City of Oz