The graceful creature led them to the table on which rested the strip of parchment containing the signatures of those who had signed the agreement to stay in the land of Hez forever.
Dick glanced over these, and saw the names of Leo and the rest of his companions, and, consequently, he had little hesitation in taking the oath.
“Now, then,” observed Queen Olive, “you may retire to the company of your friends; I would speak a few words in private to this young man.”
The Yankee at once took his departure, and the fair ruler of Hez led Dick into a handsomely furnished apartment.
She motioned him to a seat on a divan of dyed skins, and then blew a tiny whistle attached to one of her bracelets.
Almost immediately a servant appeared and bowed to the floor.
The queen addressed her in Spanish for a moment, and she retired, only to return five minutes later with a stone tray containing a choice repast, the sight of which made Dick’s mouth water.
“You are hungry, I know—appease your appetite.”
He did not wait for a second invitation, but at once proceeded to eat, all the while wondering why it was that he was treated in such a royal manner.
When he had satisfied his appetite the queen again blew her whistle, and the servant returned, bringing in a decanter and a couple of drinking vessels.