L.Frank Baum. The marvelous land of Oz -
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Winkies had the yellow strip in front, and the Gillikin girls wore the
purple strip in front. All had green waists, representing the Emerald City
they intended to conquer, and the top button on each waist indicated by
its color which country the wearer came from. The uniforms were Jaunty and
becoming, and quite effective when massed together.
Tip thought this strange Army bore no weapons whatever; but in this
he was wrong. For each girl had stuck through the knot of her back hair
two long, glittering knitting-needles.
General Jinjur immediately mounted the stump of a tree and addressed
her army.
"Friends, fellow-citizens, and girls!" she said; "we are about to
begin our great Revolt against the men of Oz! We march to conquer the
Emerald City - to dethrone the Scarecrow King - to acquire thousands of
gorgeous gems - to rifle the royal treasury - and to obtain power over our
former oppressors!"
"Hurrah!" said those who had listened; but Tip thought most of the
Army was too much engaged in chattering to pay attention to the words of
the General.
The command to march was now given, and the girls formed themselves
into four bands, or companies, and set off with eager strides toward the
Emerald City.
The boy followed after them, carrying several baskets and wraps and
packages which various members of the Army of Revolt had placed in his
care. It was not long before they came to the green granite walls of the
City and halted before the gateway.
The Guardian of the Gate at once came out and looked at them
curiously, as if a circus had come to town. He carried a bunch of keys
swung round his neck by a golden chain; his hands were thrust carelessly
into his pockets, and he seemed to have no idea at all that the City was