"I cannot say for sure," replied Ozana. "Something has taken place in Oz of which I was not aware. I can feel the change now that we are actually over the Land of Oz. I am trying to discover what has happened by means of my fairy powers. I am afraid, too, that the journey is taking longer than I expected, and we shall not be able to arrive before Ozma and Glinda."
At a signal from their mistress the three swans quickened their already swift flight.
Again and again Ozana consulted the sun, and her appearance became more grave and worried as they approached the Emerald City.
Suddenly the Fairy Princess's expression changed. A look of anger and dismay clouded her face, and the next instant she cried out beseechingly:
"Forgive me, my friends! I now understand all that has happened. The Mimics have cunningly outwitted me!"