"Well, Paz, I am glad you can help me out of my difficulty," said Knops. "I really am
puzzled what to do for Prince Leo's hunger. My breakfast is a wren's egg; for dinner, a sardine with a slice of mushroom is enough for four of us; for supper, a pickled mouse tongue. How long could you live on such fare, Leo?"
"Not long, I fear."
"So I supposed. Well, here is the dormitory; by pushing up a dozen or more beds, you can stretch out awhile. Meanwhile I can attend to some professional duties, after I have despatched Paz for your food. What are you going to do with that turnip, Paz?"
"An elf who can make diamonds from charcoal can perhaps produce beefsteak from a turnip," said Leo.
"Ah! don't remind me of my bitter humiliation, kind sir," said Paz, in a sad tone. "I will do what I can for you. Do you like soup?"
"Immensely."
"And roast quail?"
"Delicious!"
"Apple tart?"