The ostrich looked very guilty as a fairy named Eglantine explained:
“Your Majesty, he deliberately swallowed a half-dozen of the palace spoons.”
“Why did you do it?” asked Queen Titania of the culprit.
“I don’t know,” he said shamefacedly.
“But I do,” said Queen Titania. “You did it to stir up things. Have you a sweetheart?”
“Yes, I’ve got a bird!”
“Well, now you can go and spoon with her!”
All were quite delighted with the wisdom shown by their tiny sovereign in dispensing justice. But before other important matters could be disposed of a fairy messenger named Pink with her petalled attire all flecked with dust dashed in great excitement into the throne-room. She had ridden many leagues upon a winged steed, and in its terrific speed which was far greater than that of the swiftest aeroplane it had used both wings and feet.
Pink ran toward the throne to impart the news that had brought her in such hot haste, but the unexpected sight of Queen Titania stilled the words upon her frightened lips, and caused them to part instead with wonder and surprise.