He bolted them, shells and all.
I was much pleased with the working of my plan.
The next sentinel, who made his appearance a few moments after the first, was served in the same way. And so on with all the others. Each promised most solemnly never to reveal his good fortune to his comrades.
My plan thus far had worked splendidly.
In about a quarter of an hour I had the supreme satisfaction of seeing all six of them begin to rub their eyes, then yawn, then stretch their little arms up over their heads in the sleepiest manner possible. In less than half an hour they were all stretched out on the greensward, snoring like good fellows.
Now was my time to act!
I sprang toward my bed to empty it of its contents and launch it on the little river which flowed near by, when, to my horror, I heard the princess Hoppâ-Hoppâ calling, “Little Man All Head! Little Man All Head!”
A cold chill crept over me! There she came, hopping toward me like the wind, calling out for me to come and make her laugh!
What was I to do?
Strike her down?