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The Scarecrow, although busy with trials in the great courtroom of the

palace, felt that something unusual was in the air. The Princes kept nodding

to one another, and the Grand Chew Chew and General Mugwump had their

heads together at every opportunity.

"Something's going to happen, Tappy. I feel it in my straw," whispered the

Scarecrow as he finished trying the last case. At that very minute, the Grand

Chew Chew arose and held up his hand for silence. Everybody paused in

their way to the exits and looked with surprise at the old Silverman.

I have to announce," said the Grand Chew Chew in a solemn voice, "that

the Great and Imperial Chang Wang Woe will tomorrow be restored to his

own rightful shape. The Grand Gheewizard of the realm has discovered a

magic formula to break the enchantment and free him from this distressing

Scarecrow body. Behold for the last the Scarecrow of Oz. Tomorrow he will

be our old and glorious Emperor!"

Old and glorious?" gasped the Scarecrow, nearly falling from his throne.

Tappy! I forgot to lock up the wizards. Great Cornstarch! Tomorrow I will be

eighty-five years old."

Such cheers greeted the Grand Chew Chew's announcement that no one

even noticed the Scarecrow's distress.

"I, also, have an announcement!" cried the eldest Prince, standing up

proudly. "To make the celebration of my royal Papa's restoration complete,

we have chosen the lovely and charming Orange Blossom for his bride."

"Bride!" gulped the Scarecrow. "But I do not approve of second marriages. I

refuse to--"

No one paid the slightest attention to the Scarecrow's remarks.

Hold my hand, Tappy," sighed the Scarecrow weakly. "It may be your last

chance." Then he sat up and stared in good earnest, for the Prince was

leading forward a tall, richly clad lady.

Orange Blossom!" muttered the Scarecrow under his breath. "He means

Lemon Peel! Silver grandmother, Tappy!" Orange Blossom was a cross-

looking Princess of seventy-five, at least.

The Royal Book of Oz