As the tree said “How do you do?” it tried its best to nod its head and reach out a limb to shake hands.
The fairy had done as the tree promised, and Jacob heard. He clapped his hands in glee. Thinking that Jacob meant to play with him, Rover showed that he was ready for a frolic. But Jacob curtly said, “Get down, Rover! Listen—the pine tree is talking again.”
Rover could not hear the tree, but he sat still and looked at his master in surprise.
“Good old tree,” said Jacob in a gentle voice. “I could scarcely wait until today. You promised to tell me of your relations.”
“Certainly, I shall be pleased to do so,” said the pine, who never tired of talking of the good traits of its family and friends. “Where is the little limb you had the other day?”
“Here it is,” picking it up.
“Look closely at my leaves. Did you ever notice anything peculiar about the way they grow?”
“No. Oh, I see. The needles grow in pairs. Two seem to be wrapped together at the stem end.”
“That is it. I have a cousin who stands just on the other side of that great elm tree. Under it is a rustic bench. See if by standing on it you cannot reach a twig. If you can, bring it here.”
Jacob did as directed.