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"I know, I know, my dear Queen, and it was very good of you," replied Anko. "But

still it was an unwise act, for earth people are as constantly in danger under

water as we would be upon the land. So having won the right to command you

all, I order you to take little Mayre and Cap'n Bill straight home, and there restore

them to their natural forms. It's a dreadful condition, I know, and they must each

have two stumbling legs instead of a strong, beautiful fish tail, but it is the fate of

earth dwellers, and they cannot escape it."

"In my case, your Majesty, make it ONE leg," suggested Cap'n Bill.

Ah yes, I remember. One leg and a wooden stick to keep it company. I issue this

order, dear friends, not because I am not fond of your society, but to keep you

from getting into more trouble in a country where all is strange and unnatural to

you. Am I right, or do you think I am wrong?"

"You're quite correct, sir," said Cap'n Bill, nodding his head in approval.

"Well, I'm ready to go home," said Trot. "But in spite of Zog, I've enjoyed my visit,

and I shall always love the mermaids for being so good to me." That speech

pleased Aquareine and Clia, who smiled upon the child and kissed her

affectionately.

We shall escort you home at once," announced the Queen.

But before you go," said King Anko, "I will give you a rare treat. It is one you will

remember as long as you live. You shall see every inch of the mightiest sea

serpent in the world, all at one time!"

As he spoke, the purple and gold cloth was lifted by unseen hands and

disappeared from view. And now Cap'n Bill and Trot looked down upon

thousands and thousands of coils of the sea serpent's body, which filled all of the

space at the bottom of the immense circular room. It reminded them of a great

coil of garden hose, only it was so much bigger around and very much longer.

Except for the astonishing size of the Ocean King, the sight was not an especially

interesting one, but they told old Anko that they were pleased to see him, because

it was evident he was very fond of his figure. Then the cloth descended again and

covered all but the head, after which they bade the king goodbye and thanked

him for all his kindness to them.

"I used to think sea serpents were horrid creatures," said Trot, "but now I know

they are good and--and--and--"

And big," added Cap'n Bill, realizing his little friend could not find another word

that was complimentary.

107

The Sea Fairies