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"Now," said the Scarecrow, seizing Dorothy's hand, "I can return to Oz with

an easy mind."

Doubt that," said the Doubtful Dromedary.

You needn't!" announced Dorothy. "I've thought it all out." In a few short

sentences she outlined her plan.

"Bravo!" roared the Cowardly Lion, and now the little party began in real

earnest the preparation for the journey back to Oz.

First, Happy brought them a delicious luncheon, with plenty of twigs and

hay for the camel and dromedary and meat for the Cowardly Lion. The

Scarecrow packed into the camel's sacks a few little souvenirs for the people

of Oz. Then they dressed Happy Toko in the Scarecrow's most splendid robe

and ordered him to sit upon the throne. Next, the Scarecrow rang for one of

the palace servants and ordered the people of the Silver Islands to assemble

in the hall.

Presently the Silvermen began to come trooping in, packing the great throne

room until it could hold no more. Everyone was chattering excitedly.

It was quite a different company that greeted them. The Scarecrow, cheerful

and witty in his old Munchkin suit, Dorothy and Sir Hokus smiling happily,

and the three animal members of the party fairly blinking with contentment.

This," said the Scarecrow pleasantly when everyone was quiet, "is your new

Emperor, to whom I ask you to pledge allegiance." He waved proudly in the

direction of Happy Toko, who, to tell the truth, presented a truly royal

appearance. "It is not possible for me to remain with you, but I shall always

watch over this delightful island and with the magic fan vanquish all its

enemies and punish all offenders."

Happy Toko bowed to his subjects.

The Silver Islanders exchanged startled glances, then, as the Scarecrow

carelessly lifted the fan, they fell prostrate to the earth.

"Ah!" said the Scarecrow with a broad wink at Happy. "This is delightful. You

agree with me, I see. Now then, three cheers for Tappy Oko, Imperial

Emperor of the Silver Island."

The cheers were given with a will, and Happy in acknowledgement made a

speech that has since been written into the Royal Book of state as a

masterpiece of eloquence.

119

The Royal Book of Oz