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again. The scarlet monster made a snap at the Nome's left foot, but

missed it by fully an inch.

Ah ha!" laughed the General, who was now on the mountain path. "I

fooled you that time."

So you did; and perhaps you fooled yourself," retorted the alligator. "Go

up the mountain, if you dare, and find out what the First and Foremost

will do to you!"

I will," declared Guph, boldly; and on he went up the path.

At first the scene was wild enough, but gradually it grew more and more

awful in appearance. All the rocks had the shapes of frightful beings and

even the tree trunks were gnarled and twisted like serpents.

Suddenly there appeared before the Nome a man with the head of an owl.

His body was hairy like that of an ape, and his only clothing was a

scarlet scarf twisted around his waist. He bore a huge club in his hand

and his round owl eyes blinked fiercely upon the intruder.

What are you doing here?" he demanded, threatening Guph with his

club.

I've come to see the First and Foremost Phanfasm of Phantastico,"

replied the General, who did not like the way this creature looked at him,

but still was not afraid.

Ah; you shall see him!" the man said, with a sneering laugh. "The First

and Foremost shall decide upon the best way to punish you."

He will not punish me," returned Guph, calmly, "for I have come here to

do him and his people a rare favor. Lead on, fellow, and take me directly

to your master."

The owl-man raised his club with a threatening gesture.

If you try to escape," he said, "beware--"

But here the General interrupted him.

Spare your threats," said he, "and do not be impertinent, or I will have

you severely punished. Lead on, and keep silent!"

The Emerald City of Oz