"Tintypes," observed the witch, "catnip promulgating canticles concerning emoluments, producing."
Vance stared; but the Wizard, who was evidently accustomed to this odd sort of talk, answered quietly:
"You are right, as usual, my dear. He must be very careful not to cut them in two with his spade."
The Prince took the spade and began to dig, though not very hopefully. The truth was, he had never been at all successful in finding Greek roots himself; and besides he was longing to ask the Wizard for the charm which should restore his family. However, he dug away bravely and said nothing till the Wizard spoke to him.
"I suppose," said the Wizard, at length, "that, as to your family, you know the rule for simple reduction, don't you?"
"Yes," said the Prince, doubtfully, "I do if that page wasn't torn out of my book. However, I could learn it."
"Learn it, then," said the Wizard; "and when you have learned it, use it."
"But, if you please," ventured the Prince, humbly, "they are already reduced to the lowest terms. I don't wish to reduce them any more."
"All right, then," replied the Wizard, crossly; for the truth was, that, having a variety of affairs on his mind that day, he had forgotten that Vance's Court were pygmies, and was thinking they were giants, and a wizard never likes to find himself mistaken. "All right, then; don't reduce them. I'm sure I don't care what you do."