Cinderella was standing near the mantel, lighting the candle, which was
back in its place again. The Masked Lady was seated by the wooden
table, polishing spoons.

"I thought I heard a voice!" mused the mother of Cinderella.

She inspected the outer door. The bar was in its place. She looked at
the closet door. It was locked. The key was on its peg.




CHAPTER XI

SOME ONE PASSES WITH A SONG ON THE ROAD OF TROUBLED CHILDREN

The sun came up and filled the woodland with patches of gold. Birds
began to sing. The forest was awake.

The children began to awaken, one after another: Hansel, first. He got
up and rubbed his eyes morosely and said, "I'm hungry as a wolf!"

His movements aroused Grettel. She said, "No wonder, Hansel. We
really must have something to eat."

Then Everychild stirred; and then Cinderella, who was lying by his
side. Next, the giant, Will o'Dreams, sprang to his feet and viewed
the sun-patches far and near, and lifted his arms in delight. For the
moment he quite forgot the threat which Mr. Literal had made against
him. He was perfectly happy.