Tollydob, attracted by the gorgeous coloring and soft texture of the garment, picked up the cloak and threw it over his shoulders; and then he walked to a mirror and began admiring his reflection.
While thus engaged, Jikki returned, and the valet was so startled at seeing the lord high general that he never noticed the cloak at all.
“His Majesty has asked to see your Highness,” said Jikki; “and I was about to go in search of you.”
“I’ll go to the king at once,” answered Tollydob, and as he walked away Jikki suddenly noticed that he was wearing the cloak. “Oho!” thought the valet, “he has gone off with the Princess Fluff’s pretty cloak; but when he returns from the king’s chamber I’ll get it again and send number one to carry it to its rightful owner.”
Chapter X.
THE COUNSELORS WEAR THE MAGIC CLOAK.
When Tollydob, still wearing the magic cloak, had bowed before the king, Bud asked:
“How many men are there in the royal army, general?”
“Seven thousand seven hundred and seventy-seven, may it please your gracious Majesty,” returned Tollydob—“that is, without counting myself.”
“And do they obey your orders promptly?” inquired Bud, who felt a little doubt on this point.
“Yes, indeed!” answered the general, proudly. “They are terribly afraid of my anger.”