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fell. Instantly I seized it and taking a last view of the world--as I then thought-

I ate the berry in a twinkling. Then, to my surprise, I began to grow big again,

until I became of my former stature, and so I have since remained. Needless to

say, I have never eaten again of the lavender fruit, nor do any of the beasts or

birds that live upon this island eat it."

They had all three listened eagerly to this amazing tale, and when it was

finished the Ork exclaimed:

Do you think, then, that the deep purple berry is the antidote for the lavender

one?"

I'm sure of it," answered Pessim.

Then lead me to the tree at once!" begged the Ork, "for this tiny form I now

have terrifies me greatly."

Pessim examined the Ork closely

You are ugly enough as you are," said he. "Were you any larger you might be

dangerous."

Oh, no," Trot assured him; "the Ork has been our good friend. Please take us

to the tree."

Then Pessim consented, although rather reluctantly. He led them to the right,

which was the east side of the island, and in a few minutes brought them near

to the edge of the grove which faced the shore of the ocean. Here stood a small

tree bearing berries of a deep purple color. The fruit looked very enticing and

Cap'n Bill reached up and selected one that seemed especially plump and ripe.

The Ork had remained perched upon Trot's shoulder but now it flew down to

the ground. It was so difficult for Cap'n Bill to kneel down, with his wooden

leg, that the little girl took the berry from him and held it close to the Ork's

head.

It's too big to go into my mouth," said the little creature, looking at the fruit

sidewise.

You'll have to make sev'ral mouthfuls of it, I guess," said Trot; and that is

what the Ork did. He pecked at the soft, ripe fruit with his bill and ate it up

very quickly, because it was good.

The Scarecrow of Oz