“How?”
“I will tell you upon one condition,” replied the fairy parrot, rubbing its beak reflectively. [[79]]
“What condition?” asked Tim.
“That you set me free as soon as you have completed your task to-morrow.”
“It’s a bargain,” replied little Tim readily. “I can easily get the farmer another parrot—a real bird, you know—and then there will be no harm done.”
“Very good. Now listen. On the gable of this house there grows a creeper with a pale blue flower. In the morning, when they call you, go and gather a small wreath of this plant, and when the wicked cow is bailed up ready for milking, place the vine around her horns, and you may take the word of an Australian fairy that Peggy will stand as quiet as a mouse until you have drained her teats as dry as a corn cob.”
“Lor! how simple!” replied Tim.
“All knowledge is simple, boy, when you once acquire it. You’ll not forget my instructions?”
“No, I thank you. I shall remember.”
“Kiss Cockie, then, say your prayers like a good boy, and go to bed. Good-night.”