“There are a great many in America,” said Hank. “Are you the only Tiger in Oz?”
“No,” acknowledged the Tiger, “I have many relatives living in the Jungle Country; but I am the only Tiger living in the Emerald City.”
“There are other Lions, too,” said the Sawhorse; “but I am the only horse, of any description, in this favored Land.”
“That is why this Land is favored,” said the Tiger. “You must understand, friend Hank, that the Sawhorse puts on airs because he is shod with plates of gold, and because our beloved Ruler, Ozma of Oz, likes to ride upon his back.”
“Betsy rides upon my back,” declared Hank proudly.
“Who is Betsy?”
“The dearest, sweetest girl in all the world!”
The Sawhorse gave an angry snort and stamped his golden feet. The Tiger crouched and growled. Slowly the great Lion rose to his feet, his mane bristling.
“Friend Hank,” said he, "either you are mistaken in judgment or you are willfully trying to deceive us. The dearest, sweetest girl in the world is our Dorothy, and I will fight anyone—animal or human—who dares to deny it!"
“So will I!” snarled the Tiger, showing two rows of enormous white teeth.