And so when five minutes later the Outlaws cautiously and fearfully peeped over the hedge, they saw what was apparently Mr. Galileo Simpkins metamorphosed by their spell into a donkey lying where they had last seen him still reading his book. No words in the English language could quite describe the Outlaws’ feelings. Not one of them had really expected Joan’s spell to take effect. And here was the incredible spectacle before them—Mr. Galileo Simpkins turned into a donkey before their very eyes by one of his own spells. They all went rather pale. William blinked. Ginger’s jaw dropped open. Henry’s eyes seemed on the point of falling out of his head. Douglas swallowed and held on to the gate for support and Joan gave a little scream. At the sound of the scream Maria turned her head and gave them a reproachful glance.
“Well!” said Joan.
“Crumbs!” said William.
“Gosh!” said Douglas.
“Crikey!” said Henry.
And “Now we’ve done it!” said Ginger.
Maria turned away her head and surveyed the distant landscape, drowsily. “I wonder if he knows,” said William awefully, “or if he thinks he’s still a man.”
“WELL!” SAID JOAN. “NOW WE’VE DONE IT!” SAID
GINGER.
“He must know,” said Ginger. “He’s got eyes. He c’n see his legs ’n tail an’ things.”