Chapter Nine
cave; then he dashed to the magic casket and scrambled the bottles, the Trick Tea Set and the flasks back into place and started for the door that led to the secret passage as fast as his crooked little legs would carry him.
But he was not fast enough, for Peg heard and like a flash was after him.
"Stop! Go away!" screamed Ruggedo.
"Why, it's the old gnome!" cried the Wooden Doll in surprise. "The wicked old gnome who used to shake me all the time. Why, how small he is! I could pick him up with one hand!" She made a snatch at Ruggedo.
"Go away!" shrieked Ruggedo, ducking behind a rock. "Go away—there's a dear girl," he added coaxingly. "I didn't shake you much—not too much, you know!"
Peg Amy put a wooden finger to her forehead and regarded him attentively.
"I remember," she murmured thoughtfully. "You found a magic box, and you're going to harm Ozma and try to conquer Oz. I must get that box!"
Reaching around the rock she seized Ruggedo by the arm.
In a panic, he jerked away. "Help! Help!" cried
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