Page:Pinocchio;the story of a puppet, (IA pinocchiothestor00coll 1).pdf/228

Pinocchio Is Pulled Up Again "I am that little donkey," replied Pinocchio laughing.

"You?"

"I."

"Oh, you little scamp! Do you think that you can make fun of me like that?"

"Make fun of you? On the contrary, I am entirely serious."

"But how is it that a little while ago you were a donkey, and now, after you have been in the water for an hour, you are a wooden marionette?"

"Oh, that is the effect of sea water. The sea never tells its secrets, but this is one of its little tricks."

"Take care, puppet, take care! Don't think you can pull the wool over my eyes that way. Woe to you if I lose all patience!"

“Very well. Do you want to know the true story? Untie my legs and I will tell you."