On the parchment was written the following:
We,
| Karl Hammerstein, | ||
| Norah O'Brian, |
pledge our solemn oath Christmas Tree, that we will not attempt to visit dwarfland again, or molest the dwarfs in any way, by offering them modern inventions for which they have no use, etc., etc., or by revealing their secret chambers to the glaring light of day.
Signed..............................
..............................
"We are willing enough to sign," said Karl, "but what are your terms, old man; we want to know that first. You offered us a bribe, you know."
"All in good time," said Mr Query. "Gentlemen of the Committee, display the treasure!" The dwarf men formed themselves into a ring, in the centre of which Norah and Karl could see masses of what looked like solid gold. "You may take as much of this as you like," they said, "and we warrant you on our solemn word of honour Christmas Tree that it is pure, unalloyed gold."
"We'll sign anything you like, dear little men," said Norah, joyfully, "and I invite you all to my wedding!"
"Three weeks from to-day," said Karl.
But Norah was too excited to notice what he was saying.