Page:Tudor Jenks--Imaginotions.djvu/29

Rh three trials. Paint me the picture of Batta—Batta who puts foes to flight! Three trials shall be thine, and then—"

So ceased Batta. But when the wizard tried to go with me to the hut, Batta forbade him.

Then did I as I saw the wizard do ere he took the box for making a picture, and forth I sallied to do my best.

As I came forth, I pointed the box at the great Batta, and I pushed upon the magic piece, and hurried back to the hut, which had been made dark save for the crimson light which we brought from the cave. Here went I through the washing. But no picture came!

Then strode I forth in sadness.

The wizard pointed an accusing finger at the box, as I came out from the darkness of the hut, and then knew I what I had done! I had not uncovered the eye of the box!

Again I essayed, and fled into the hut, but with careless hand did put the flat into the wrong dish. And behold again no picture came!

Then came I forth in sadness.

The wizard's face was like a dull day when the leaves are falling. But when I again pointed the magic-box, and opened its eye, and set in the proper pieces with all due caution, he smiled again.

With backward step, I betook myself for the last time to the dark hut, and rocked and washed and soaked and washed till I was weary like unto the slaves that row the galley of Batta.

And this time the picture came forth like sunshine after a rain; and it was Batta—Batta upon his throne, and dressed as for war. Then rushed I forth rejoicing with my prize, and the wizard made merry.

Into the warm sun did I set the picture to cook, and when I took it forth it was so like to Batta that I thought it would speak; and I showed it to him proudly.