Mombi's last trick was the most fearful of all. She sent a sheet of
crackling flame rushing over the meadow to consume them; and for the first
time the Scarecrow became afraid and turned to fly.
"If that fire reaches me I will be gone in no time!" said he, trembling
until his straw rattled. "It's the most dangerous thing I ever encountered."
"I'm off, too!" cried the Saw-Horse, turning and
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prancing with agitation; "for my wood is so dry it would burn like
kindlings."
"Is fire dangerous to pumpkins?" asked Jack, fearfully.
"You'll be baked like a tart -- and so will I!"
Line-Art Drawing
answered the Woggle-Bug, getting down on all fours so he could run the
faster.
But the Tin Woodman, having no fear of fire, averted the stampede by a few
sensible words.
"Look at the Field Mouse!" he shouted. "The fire does not burn her in the
least. In fact, it is no fire at all, but only a deception."
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Indeed, to watch the little Queen march calmly through the advancing flames
restored courage to every member of the party, and they followed her without
being even scorched.
"This is surely a most extraordinary adventure," said the Woggle-Bug, who
was greatly amazed; "for it upsets all the Natural Laws that I heard
Professor Nowitall teach in the school-house.
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