Chapter Four
going to do if Ozma refuses you?" asked the Cottabus, leaning forward breathlessly.
"Are you going to stand talking to this ridiculous creature all day?" grumbled Kabumpo. But Pompadore, perhaps because he was so young, felt flattered that even a curious old Cottahus should take such an interest in his affairs. So beginning at the very beginning he told the whole story of his birthday party.
"Yes, yes," gulped the Cottabus wildly each time the Prince paused for breath. "Yes, yes," fluttering its fan excitedly. When Pompadore had finished the Cottabus leaned back, closed its eyes and put both paws on the arms of the rocker. "I never heard anything more curious in my life," said the curious one. "This will keep me amused for three days!"
"Of course—that's what we're here for—to amuse you!" said Kabumpo scornfully. "Let's be going, Pompa!"
"Perhaps the Curious Cottabus can tell us something of the country ahead. Are there any Princesses living 'round here?" the Prince asked eagerly.
"Never heard of any," said the Cottabus, opening its eyes. "Can you multiply—add—divide and subtract? Are you good at fractions, Prince?"
"Not very," admitted Poinpadore, looking mystified.
59
