Rollo went on a few steps and stood looking at the mysterious cottage. There was not a sound to be heard, not the slightest sign of life about the place; and yet it was all in such perfect order that it was impossible to think it deserted.
'The people must have gone out, I suppose,' said Rollo.
'I wonder if the door is locked,' said Maia. 'I am so thirsty, Rollo.'
'Let's see,' Rollo answered, and together the two children opened the tiny gate and made their way up to the door. Rollo took hold of the latch; it yielded to his touch.
'It's not locked,' he said, looking back at his sister, and he gently pushed the door a little way open. 'Shall I go in?' he said.
Maia came forward, walking on her tiptoes.
'Oh, Rollo,' she whispered, 'suppose it's enchanted, and that we never get out again.'
But all the same she crept nearer and nearer to the tempting half-open door.