N quick response to Tommy’s command, the whole company started. First, of all, walked Mr. Poodle; next, came Tommy and Helen riding their beautiful horses; then, Captain Noddle Poddle, who rode at the head of his company of cavalry; and after him, came Captain Hinkle Pinkle leading his brave command of infantry. Next, in line, was the express wagon; and last of all rode Rolie Polie, sitting astride a funny little donkey.
At first, Mr. Poodle hesitated about having the little clown accompanying them; he thought Rolie Polie was such a tricky fellow he would be sure to get into no end of mischief. But he finally yielded to the wishes of Helen and Tommy, much to their delight. {30}
Presently, Mr. Poodle spoke earnestly with Captain Pinkle and Captain Poddle, cautioning them to keep their soldiers near at hand and be ready in case of any attack from pirates, or bandits, or ruffians.
Tommy jumped when Mr. Poodle said that. “Why, Mr. Poodle,” he asked, “are there pirates and bandits in Toyville?”
“Well,” said Mr. Poodle, “I don’t think we will find any in Toyville, but there may be some lurking in the hills by the way. The crusty King of Grumbletown does not like the people of Toyville very well; he is always threatening to make war on them and keeps his ruffians and bandits spying around to see what is happening in Toyville. I suppose when he hears that visitors are on the road, he will be more angry than ever, for he will not want a boy and girl to go to Toyville and teach the Toy people new tricks.”
“Is Grumbletown near Toyville, Mr. Poodle?” inquired Tommy.
“Oh yes,” said Mr. Poodle, “Toyville is at the lower end of the valley, and Grumbletown is at the other end, but the valley bends about a big hill which lies between the two realms.”
“I do not think Grumbletown is a pretty name,” said Helen. “Why is it called Grumbletown, Mr. Poodle?”
“Well dear,” said Mr. Poodle, “the name came about in this way: one time it fell to the luck of some toys to go and live with boys and girls who were always complaining or fault finding, and who never were contented and happy. Of course, when this happened, the toys were sure to learn all manner of disagreeable ways, and became {31} ill behaved and grumbly. Then, by and by, they ran away to the Hills of Troubleland, and in place of going on to the happy and prosperous city of Toyville, went further up the valley and founded a new realm, which, because of all its subjects being grumble toys was given the name of Grumbletown.”
“Are there many people living in Grumbletown, Mr. Poodle?” asked Tommy.