"And Egypt? And China? And Arabia?"
"Yes. Your education will—"
"Oh, Phoenix, Phoenix!" David jumped up and began to caper, while the Phoenix beamed. But suddenly he stopped.
"How are we going to travel, Phoenix?"
"I have wings, my boy."
"Yes, but I don't."
"Do not be so dense, my dear fellow. I shall carry you on my back, of course."
"Oh," said David weakly, "on your—on your back. Are you sure that—isn't there some other—I mean, can you do it?"
The Phoenix drew itself up to its full height. "I am hurt—yes, deeply hurt—by your lack of faith. My magnificent build should make it evident that I am an exceedingly powerful flyer. In the heyday of my youth I could fly around the world in five hours. But come along. I shall give you proof positive."
David reluctantly followed the Phoenix to a spot on the edge of the shelf where there was a gap in the bushes. He glanced over the brink. The sheer face of the scarp fell away beneath them, plunging down to the tiny trees and rocks below. He stepped back quickly with a shudder.