In a trice the Phoenix had pounced on the Leprechaun and pinned him to the ground.
"Let him up," said David furiously. "I'll punch his head for him."
"I think, my boy," said the Phoenix coldly, "that I shall carry the creature up into the clouds and drop him. Or should we take him back with us and hand him over to the Scientist?"
"Now, don't take offense, Your Honor," said the Leprechaun. "I thought you'd look at it as kind o' comic."
"Exceedingly comic," said the Phoenix severely. "I am quite overcome with mirth and merriment. But perhaps—perhaps—I shall let you off lightly if you tell us where the Banshee lives."
"The—the Banshee of Mare's Nest Wood?"
"The same. Speak!"
A new light of respect and fear came into the Leprechaun's eyes. "She's a terror, she is. What'll you be wanting—"
"None of your business!" roared the Phoenix. "Where is she?"
The Leprechaun had begun to tremble. "Follow the path yonder through the wood until you reach the cave, Your Honor. You're not friends o' hers, are you? You'll not be telling on me? I'm real sorry for those jokes, Your Honor."