"That is very unfortunate." "Why so ?" asked the Ork.
"I hoped you would consent to carry us over those mountains, into the Land of Oz.

My mission here is now finished and I want to get back to the Emerald City." "How did you cross the mountains before ?" inquired the Ork.
"I scaled the cliffs by means of a rope, and crossed the Great Gulf on a strand of spider web.

Of course I can return in the same manner, but it would be a hard journey--and perhaps an impossible one--for Trot and Button-Bright and Cap'n Bill.

So I thought that if you had the time you and your people would carry us over the mountains and land us all safely on the other side, in the Land of Oz." The Ork thoughtfully considered the matter for a while.

Then he said: "I mustn't break my promise to be present at the surprise party; but, tell me, could you go to Oz to-night ?" "What, now ?" exclaimed Trot.
"It is a fine moonlight night," said the Ork, "and I've found in my experience that there's no time so good as right away.