And he pulled the Enchanted Leaf out of his pocket, and, touching it with the third finger of his left hand, he thought of the old woman who had given it to the Princess, wondering whether it would be of the same use to him as it had been to her.
Instantly it began to grow larger and larger, until it became big enough for the King and Grimaçon to sit upon it. In another moment they were being whirled onward upon the face of the water.
“Now that we are fairly launched,” observed the dwarf, “I am sure that your Majesty has never travelled in this way before and with such a companion.”
“As to the travelling,” answered the King, “I would put up with anything in order to reach Moonflower; and I shall indeed do well if I never start upon an enterprise with a less brave and loyal friend.”
The dwarf was greatly pleased at finding himself so much esteemed by the King, and, as they sailed along, his heart grew lighter, for he felt sure that they would find the lost Princess some day.
They journeyed on, stopping here and there to gather the fruits that grew on the banks, and at night resting at the water-side, for the King, being strong, they were able to stop their boat and pull it ashore. After a weary journey they saw in front of them the same dark spot that Moonflower had remarked at the foot of the Crystal Mountains. When they became aware that it was a deep cavern towards which they were rushing, they were rather startled.
“Well, well,” sighed the King, “if she has perished, let us also perish, and in the same manner.”
When they entered the mouth of the hole and found themselves sliding down, down, down, deeper and deeper, even Grimaçon grew frightened, and held tightly to his Majesty’s doublet.
At last they beheld a tiny speck of light shining far below them.
“Courage, Grimaçon,” exclaimed the King, “For I see a light.”