Page:On a pincushion.djvu/130

The bird gave a scornful laugh. “You couldn’t shoot me,” he said; “you can try if you like. Why, if it were not for the magic fruit in your pocket, you wouldn’t be here now. It is only that which has protected you from my spells. Well, perhaps I will do what you want, and tell you how to find your way to the Hair Tree; only, you must promise faithfully to give me the nuts when you return.”

The sailor promised again, and the bird continued,—

“When you reach land you can go on shore at any place—it doesn’t matter where—and walk straight on. You will find that all the animals can speak; but I advise you not to speak to any of them. And, whatever you do, beware of the plants and flowers; for they all have hands and arms, and will try to seize you, and if once they get you nothing can save you—no, not even your magic nuts. You must go on till you come to a high wall, in which is a heavy iron door, over which is written,—