“That’s just what I was thinking,” said the Policeman.
“In that way,” went on King Stanislaus, “we might be able to get some knowledge of Dragonfel’s real strength, and find out just how we stood. The chance might come to us to spirit away Queen Titania and her companions.”
“Which of us would you choose, Your Majesty?” asked an eager Brownie.
All of them crowded around, each with the hope that King Stanislaus would select him for this task which involved so great a risk.
He looked them over, and finally, with his mind made up, spoke, in slow, measured tones.
“Of course, I’ll be the leader,” he announced. “That will leave just four to go with me, and I’ll take the Policeman, Sailor, German, and Irishman. The rest of you must hide just outside the palace, to be ready instantly in case you are needed.”
There was great delight on the part of the four who were to share with the king the danger, and keen disappointment among all the others. But no one thought of questioning the royal decision.
“I didn’t forget my tin box of disguises, sire,” reminded the Policeman.
“Good, officer!” said King Stanislaus, with an approving nod. “They’ll all come in handy. You’ve got plenty of false noses and moustaches, I suppose.”
