And in its beak was a very large pear.

The pear was juicy, and as good as a very small drink.

When the meal was over every one felt better, and the question of how to get home was discussed without any disagreeableness.

But no one could think of any way out of the difficulty, or even out of the tower; for the Phoenix, though its beak and claws had fortunately been strong enough to carry food for them, was plainly not equal to flying through the air with four well-nourished children.
'We must stay here, I suppose,' said Robert at last, 'and shout out every now and then, and some one will hear us and bring ropes and ladders, and rescue us like out of mines; and they'll get up a subscription to send us home, like castaways.' 'Yes; but we shan't be home before mother is, and then father'll take away the carpet and say it's dangerous or something,' said Cyril.
'I DO wish we hadn't come,' said Jane.
And every one else said 'Shut up,' except Anthea, who suddenly awoke the Phoenix and said-- 'Look here, I believe YOU can help us.

Oh, I do wish you would!' 'I will help you as far as lies in my power,' said the Phoenix, at once.
'What is it you want now ?' 'Why, we want to get home,' said every one.
'Oh,' said the Phoenix.