"But his Majesty has often said that if strangers ever arrived in Jinxland he would see that they had a very exciting time." Cap'n Bill scratched his chin thoughtfully.

He wasn't very favorably impressed by this last remark.

But he decided that as there was no way of escape from Jinxland it would be wise to confront the King boldly and try to win his favor.

So they entered the castle, escorted by one of the soldiers.
It was certainly a fine castle, with many large rooms, all beautifully furnished.

The passages were winding and handsomely decorated, and after following several of these the soldier led them into an open court that occupied the very center of the huge building.