“I am the best judge of that,” said the Princess gently; “remember that these are noble volunteers, who are fighting for us of their own free will.”
The Lobster saluted and was silent.
“I cannot send the Lobsters,” said the Princess, “we need them to protect the gate. But the Crabs—”
“Ah, Highness, let us go,” pleaded the Lobster Captain.
“The Crabs cannot keep the gate,” said the Princess kindly. “You know they are not narrow enough. Francis, will you be my aide-de-camp and take a message to the Queen?”
“May I go, too?” asked Mavis.
“Yes. But we must deliver a double assault. If the Crabs attack the Horses, who will deal with the riders?”
“I have an idea about that, too,” said Reuben.
“If we could have some good heavy shoving regiment—and someone sharp to finish them off. The Swordfish, perhaps?”