The Magic of Oz

or cobble-stones."

You're not supposed to understand that," retorted the Lonesome Duck.

But I might tell you, as a matter of education, that a home of any sort

should be beautiful to those who live in it, and should not be intended to

please strangers. The Diamond Palace is my home, and I like it. So I don't

care a quack whether YOU like it or not."

Oh, but I do!" exclaimed Dorothy. "It's lovely on the outside, but--"

Then she stopped speaking, for the Lonesome Duck had entered his palace

through the little door without even saying good-bye. So Dorothy returned

to her friends and they resumed their journey.

Do you think, Wizard, the Duck was right in saying no magic can

rescue Trot and Cap'n Bill?" asked the girl in a worried tone of voice.

No, I don't think the Lonesome Duck was right in saying that,"

answered the Wizard, gravely, "but it is possible that their enchantment

will be harder to overcome than I expected. I'll do my best, of course, and

no one can do more than his best."

That didn't entirely relieve Dorothy's anxiety, but she said nothing

more, and soon, on turning the bend in the river, they came in sight of the

Magic Isle.

There they are!" exclaimed Dorothy eagerly.

Yes, I see them," replied the Wizard, nodding. "They are sitting on

two big toadstools."

That's queer," remarked the Glass Cat. "There were no toadstools

there when I left them."

What a lovely flower!" cried Dorothy in rapture, as her gaze fell on

the Magic Plant.

Never mind the Flower, just now," advised the Wizard. "The most

important thing is to rescue our friends."

By this time they had arrived at a place just opposite the Magic Isle,

and now both Trot and Cap'n Bill saw the arrival of their friends and

called to them for help.

How are you?" shouted the Wizard, putting his hands to his mouth so

they could hear him better across the water.