The Magic of Oz

CHAPTER 12. Kiki Uses His Magic

Then arose a great confusion of sounds as all the animals began

talking to their fellows. The monkeys chattered and the bears growled and

the voices of the jaguars and lions rumbled, and the wolves yelped and the

elephants had to trumpet loudly to make their voices heard. Such a hubbub

had never been known in the forest before, and each beast argued with his

neighbor until it seemed the noise would never cease.

Ruggedo the Nome waved his arms and fluttered his wings to try to

make them listen to him again, but the beasts paid no attention. Some

wanted to fight the Oz people, some wanted to be transformed, and some

wanted to do nothing at all.

The growling and confusion had grown greater than ever when in a

flash silence fell on all the beasts present, the arguments were hushed, and

all gazed in astonishment at a strange sight.

For into the circle strode a great Lion--bigger and more powerful than

any other lion there--and on his back rode a little girl who smiled

fearlessly at the multitude of beasts. And behind the Lion and the little girl

came another beast--a monstrous Tiger, who bore upon his back a funny

little man carrying a black bag. Right past the rows of wondering beasts

the strange animals walked, advancing until they stood just before the rock

throne of Gugu.

Then the little girl and the funny little man dismounted, and the great

Lion demanded in a loud voice:

Who is King in this forest?"

I am!" answered Gugu, looking steadily at the other. "I am Gugu the

Leopard, and I am King of this forest."

Then I greet Your Majesty with great respect," said the Lion.

Perhaps you have heard of me, Gugu. I am called the 'Cowardly Lion,'

and I am King of all Beasts, the world over."

Gugu's eyes flashed angrily. "Yes," said he, "I have heard of you. You

have long claimed to be King of Beasts, but no beast who is a coward can