"I have no idea who this Wul-Takim is," he said, "for I know nothing
at all of the ways of men outside the forest in which I have always
dwelt. But thieves are bad people, I am quite sure, and since
Wul-Takim is the king of thieves he must be by far the worst man on
this island."

Then he saw, through the bars of the gate, that a great cavern lay
beyond, in which were stacked treasures of all sorts: rich cloths,
golden dishes and ornaments, gemmed coronets and bracelets, cleverly
forged armor, shields and battle-axes. Also there were casks and
bales of merchandise of every sort.

The gate appeared to have no lock, so Prince Marvel opened it and
walked in. Then he perceived, perched on the very top of a pyramid of
casks, the form of a boy, who sat very still and watched him with a
look of astonishment upon his face.

"What are you doing up there?" asked the prince.

"Nothing," said the boy. "If I moved the least little bit this pile
of casks would topple over, and I should be thrown to the ground."

"Well," returned the prince, "what of it?"

But just then he glanced at the ground and saw why the boy did not
care to tumble down. For in the earth were planted many swords, with
their sharp blades pointing upward, and to fall upon these meant
serious wounds and perhaps death.