Page:The Royal Book of Oz.djvu/276

 The Royal Book of Oz fly at the magnificent procession of Silver Islanders. First came the musicians, playing their shining silver trumpets and flutes. The Grand Chew CYhew and General Mugwump followed, attired in brilliant silk robes of state. Then came the three Princes, glittering with jewelled chains and medals and the fifteen little Princes, like so many silver butterflies in their satin kimonas. Next appeared a palanquin, bearing the veiled Princess Orange Blossom, followed by a whole company of splendid courtiers and after them as many of the every day Silver Islanders as the hail would hold. There was a moment of silence. Then the whole assemblage, contrary to the Scarecrow’s edict, fell upon their faces. “My!” exclaimed Dorothy, impressed in spite of herself. “Are you sure you want to give up all this?” “Great Emperor, beautiful as the sun, wise as the stars and radiant as the clouds, the Ceremony of Restoration is about to begin!” quavered the Grand Chew Chew, rising slowly. Then he paused, for he was suddenly confused by the strange company around the Scarecrow’s throne. “Treachery!” hissed the eldest Prince to the others. “We left him tied to the bean pole. Ancient Papa Scarecrow needs watching! Who are these 254 Go gle