“There are strangers outside the portcullis, Your Majesty,” said the fairy guard, as she squinted with one eye through the peek-hole.
The banging continued with greater insistence, and, advancing close to the portcullis, Prince Florimel shouted:
“Who are you, and what do you want?”
“We are friends who have come to the wedding,” said a mild, gentle voice from outside, “who have come to the wedding.”
“Well, I like that!” exclaimed the Dude, in great disgust. “Whoever gave them an invitation?”
“We have brought you some fine presents,” the voice hastened to add.
Florimel seemed undecided.
“Shall we admit them?” he asked the rest.
“Avast, messmate!” growled the Sailor. “You’d better have a look at the presents first!”
“There’s nothing to fear,” said Titania sweetly. “Bid the strangers welcome.”