"'Do you realize what that pearl means to us?'"
"Oh, I don't know," said Gub-Gub. "I love circuses. I wouldn't mind traveling, so long as it's in England—and with a circus."
"Well," said Jip, "whatever happens, it's nice the Doctor's got the pearl. He always seems to be in need of money. And, as you say, Dab-Dab, that should make anybody rich for life."
But while the Doctor was still thanking the Chief for the beautiful present, Quip-the-Carrier flew up with a letter for him.
"It was marked 'Urgent,' in red ink, Doctor," said the swallow, "so Speedy thought he had better send it to you by special delivery."
John Dolittle tore open the envelope.
"Who's it from, Doctor?" asked Dab-Dab.