Presently the musicians appeared, and the king ordered them to play a waltz. But the chief counselor rushed up and exclaimed:
“Oh, your Majesty! This is against all rule and custom!”
“Silence!” said Bud, angrily. “I’ll make the rules and customs in this kingdom hereafter. We’re going to have a dance.”
“But it’s so dreadful—so unconventional, your Majesty! It’s so—what shall I call it?”
“Here! I’ve had enough of this,” declared Bud. “You go and stand in that corner, with your face to the wall, till I tell you to sit down,” he added, remembering a time when his father, the ferryman, had inflicted a like punishment upon him.
Somewhat to his surprise, Tullydub at once obeyed the command, and then Bud made his first speech to the people.
“We’re going to have a dance,” he said; “so pitch in and have a good time. If there’s anything you want, ask for it. You’re all welcome to stay as long as you please and go home when you get ready.”
This seemed to please the company, for every one applauded the king’s speech. Then the musicians began to play, and the people were soon dancing and enjoying themselves greatly.
Princess Fluff had a good many partners that evening, but Bud did not care to dance—he preferred to look on; and, after a time, he brought old Tullydub out of his corner, and made the chief counselor promise to be good and not annoy him again.
“But it is my duty to counsel the king,” protested the old man, solemnly.