Without the slightest question, the
Most useful King alive.”
“Can you suggest any improvement?” he asked when Boy had finished reading the Prospectus.
“No,” replied he, “I think it reads very well indeed, and I hope that you will soon get an engagement.”
“I intend going into trade,” remarked the late Advertiser General from the throne at the other end of the room. “So many of the nobility now open shops that I don’t see why Kings should not do so too. I intend to establish some Stores at Zum, and call it the ‘Royal Service Supply Association for providing Kings and Queens and other members of Royal families with the necessaries of life!’ You see something of the kind must be done or we shall all starve.”
“Yes, I think that is a capital idea,” said Boy. “I will ask King Smith I. to deal with you when I get back to the Palace; but I must be going now. Good-afternoon, Your Majesties,” and Boy bowed politely, and was just going out of the door when he heard both of the Kings hurriedly scrambling down from their thrones. He waited to see what they wanted, and when they reached him, each King caught hold of one of his arms, and whispered in his ear,—
“Would you mind inviting me home to tea?”
“Oh! certainly, come by all means, if you like,” said Boy, remembering that there were lots of things left in the larder.
“Thank you awfully,” said the Advertiser King.
“Much obliged,” echoed the other, and hurrying down the stairs and out into the street the three Kings went arm-in-arm to the Palace.