So Glinda beckoned the Diamond Swan, which swam
gracefully to a position near them. Before anyone could
speak Coo-ee-oh called to them in a rasping voice --
for the voice of a swan is always harsh and unpleasant
-- and said with much pride:
"Admire me, Strangers! Admire the lovely Coo-ee-oh,
the handsomest creature in all Oz. Admire me!"
"Handsome is as handsome does," replied the
Scarecrow. "Are your deeds lovely, Coo-ce-oh?"
"Deeds? What deeds can a swan do but swim around and
give pleasure to all beholders?" said the sparkling
bird.
"Have you forgotten your former life? Have you
forgotten your magic and witchcraft?" inquired the
Wizard.
"Magic -- witchcraft? Pshaw, who cares for such silly
things?" retorted Coo-ee-oh. "As for my past life, it
seems like an unpleasant dream. I wouldn't go back to
it if I could. Don't you admire my beauty, Strangers?"
"Tell us, Coo-ee-oh," said Glinda earnestly, "if you
can recall enough of your witchcraft to enable us to
raise the sunken island to the surface of the lake.
Tell us that and I'll give you a string of pearls to
wear around your neck and add to your beauty."
"Nothing can add to my beauty, for I'm the most
beautiful creature anywhere in the whole world.
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