The Eighth Chapter.
How the Little Company meets with a Joyous Greeting. And how a sly Stranger listens to the Words of the Mayor and watches the Departure.
HEN the little Messenger from Peter Poodle arrived in Toyville, he went at once to the residence of the Mayor.
“You have a message from Mr. Poodle,” said the Mayor, as soon as he had shaken hands with the Messenger. “You are most welcome to our city; and we are glad, indeed, to receive any word our good friend Mr. Poodle has to send us.”
While the Mayor was reading the message he grew very excited. “You must excuse me,” he said to the Messenger. “Just make yourself comfortable, and at home. This is a very important word you have brought me, and I must {56} assemble my councillors. Our city will be greatly honored by a visit from such a renowned toymaker as Mr. Poodle. And, at the same time, to have a visit from the boy and girl who are accompanying Mr. Poodle, that, dear sir, is an occurrence of the utmost importance, and one for which, I am sure, my councillors and the Lords and Ladies of the realm will wish to prepare an exceptional welcome.”
There was now much excitement in the council room, and soon the Heralds were sent speeding here and there throughout the city to warn the people of the approaching visitors. The lack of time to make plans did not prevent their being made thoroughly. What these plans were, we shall see presently.
As for Mr. Poodle and his little companions, when their journey had brought them about half way down the curly road, they came to a place where there was a little lane, or grassy opening in the trees. {57}