"
"Oh, do you think so?" she replied. "Well, touch them
yourself, if you like, and see if you can change their
forms."
"No," said the Skeezer, "I don't understand magic and
if I did I would not try to imitate your skill. You are
a wonderful Yookoohoo, while I am only a common
Skeezer."
This confession seemed to please Reera, who liked to
have her witchcraft appreciated.
"Will you go away now?" she asked. "I prefer to be
alone."
"I prefer to stay here," said Ervic.
"In another person's home, where you are not wanted?"
"Yes."
"Is not your curiosity yet satisfied?" demanded
Reera, with a smile.
"I don't know. Is there anything else you can do?"
"Many things. But why should I exhibit my powers to a
stranger?"
"I can think of no reason at all," he replied.
She looked at him curiously.
"You want no power for yourself, you say, and you're
too stupid to be able to steal my secrets. This isn't a
pretty cottage, while outside are sunshine, broad
prairies and beautiful wildflowers. Yet you insist on
sitting on that bench and annoying me with your
unwelcome presence. What have you in that kettle?"
"Three fishes," he answered readily.
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