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The golden curtains drew back far enough to make an opening, through which
marched the captain with the others.
The broad, long room they entered was decorated in gold with stained-glass
windows of splendid colors. In the corner of the room upon a richly carved
golden throne, sat the fox-king, surrounded by a group of other foxes, all of
whom wore great spectacles over their eyes, making them look solemn and
important.
Dorothy knew the King at once, because she had seen his head carved on the
arch and over the doorway of the palace. Having met with several other kings
in her travels, she knew what to do, and at once made a low bow before the
throne. The shaggy man bowed, too, and Button-Bright bobbed his head and
said "Hello."
"
Most wise and noble Potentate of Foxville," said the captain, addressing the
King in a pompous voice, "I humbly beg to report that I found these strangers
on the road leading to your Foxy Majesty's dominions, and have therefore
brought them before you, as is my duty."
"
So--so," said the King, looking at them keenly. "What brought you here,
strangers?"
"
"
"
Our legs, may it please your Royal Hairiness," replied the shaggy man.
What is your business here?" was the next question.
To get away as soon as possible," said the shaggy man.
The King didn't know about the Magnet, of course; but it made him love the
shaggy man at once.
"
Do just as you please about going away," he said; "but I'd like to show you
the sights of my city and to entertain your party while you are here. We feel
highly honored to have little Dorothy with us, I assure you, and we appreciate
her kindness in making us a visit. For whatever country Dorothy visits is sure
to become famous."
This speech greatly surprised the little girl, who asked:
"
How did your Majesty know my name?"
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