“At last!” gasped Kabumpo, pushing Pompa forward.
If Ozma was startled by their singular appearance, she was too polite to say so, and she returned Pompa’s deep bow with a still deeper curtsey.
“Glinda tells me you have come a long, long way just to help me,” said Ozma anxiously. “Is that so?”
“Princess!” cried Pompa, falling on his knee. “I know you are worried about your palace and your Courtiers and your friends. Two drops of that Triple Trick Tea (he waved at the small kettle) upon Ruggedo’s right foot and three on his left will set everything right!”
“But where did you get it—and why?” Ozma looked doubtfully at the Scarecrow.
“Might as well try it,” advised the Scarecrow.
“We will explain everything later,” puffed the Elegant Elephant. “Trust old Kabumpo, your Highness, and everything will turn out happily.”
“I believe I will,” smiled Ozma. “Will you try the Trick Tea, Glinda?”
Glinda took the kettle and poured it exactly as directed. First Ruggedo gave a gusty sigh that blew the clouds about in every direction.
“Look out!” warned Glinda.