“And afterward I will gladly lend it to you also; I promise now to lend it to you,” said Fluff, turning to the queen; “and your wish will be fulfilled, after all—whatever it may be.”
“‘BECAUSE IT WAS STOLEN!’ CRIED THE GIRL, EAGERLY.”
This expression of kindness and good will brought great joy to Zixi, and she seized the generous child in her arms and kissed her with real gratitude.
“We will start for the lilac-grove to-morrow morning,” she exclaimed delightedly; “and before night both King Bud and I will have our wishes fulfilled!”
Then the witch-queen led them to her royal banquet-hall, where a most delightful dinner was served. And all the courtiers and officers of Zixi bowed low, first before the King of Noland and then before his sweet little sister, and promised them the friendship of the entire kingdom of Ix.
Quavo the wandering minstrel chanced to be present that evening, and he sang a complimentary song about King Bud; and a wonderful song about the “Flying Lady,” meaning Aunt Rivette; and a beautiful song about the lovely Princess Fluff.
So every one was happy and contented, as they all looked forward to the morrow to regain the magic cloak, and by its means to bring an end to all their worries.
“‘NO, INDEED,’ ANSWERED THE GRAY OWL. ‘I BELIEVE I AM SAFER IN A TREE.’”