They were strangely formed creatures, rather round and not
very tall. Their toes were curly and their ears broad and flat.
In time of war every Nome left his forge or mine and became part of
the great army of King Roquat. The soldiers wore rock-colored
uniforms and were excellently drilled.
The King looked upon this tremendous army, which stood silently
arrayed before him, and a cruel smile curled the corners of his mouth,
for he saw that his legions were very powerful. Then he addressed
them from the balcony, saying:
"I have thrown away General Blug, because he did not please me. So I
want another General to command this army. Who is next in command?"
"I am," replied Colonel Crinkle, a dapper-looking Nome, as he stepped
forward to salute his monarch.
The King looked at him carefully and said:
"I want you to march this army through an underground tunnel, which
I am going to bore, to the Emerald City of Oz. When you get there I
want you to conquer the Oz people, destroy them and their city, and
bring all their gold and silver and precious stones back to my cavern.
Also you are to recapture my Magic Belt and return it to me.
Pages:
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49