L.Frank Baum. The marvelous land of Oz -
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never have gained the Emerald City; for many were the obstacles thrown in
their way by the arts of old Mombi. Yet not one of the obstacles really
existed - all were cleverly contrived deceptions. For when they came to
the banks of a rushing river that threatened to bar their way the little
Queen kept steadily on, passing through the seeming flood in safety; and
our travelers followed her without encountering a single drop of water.
Again, a high wall of granite towered high above their heads and
opposed their advance. But the grey Field Mouse walked straight through
it, and the others did the same, the wall melting into mist as they passed
it.
Afterward, when they had stopped for a moment to allow Tip to rest,
they saw forty roads branching off from their feet in forty different
directions; and soon these forty roads began whirling around like a mighty
wheel, first in one direction and then in the other, completely
bewildering their vision.
But the Queen called for them to follow her and darted off in a
straight line; and when they had gone a few paces the whirling pathways
vanished and were seen no more.
Mombi's last trick was the most fearful of all. She sent a sheet of
crackling flame rushing over the meadow to consume them; and for the first
time the Scarecrow became afraid and turned to fly.
"If that fire reaches me I will be gone in no time!" said he,
trembling until his straw rattled. "It's the most dangerous thing I ever
encountered."
"I'm off, too!" cried the Saw-Horse, turning and prancing with
agitation; "for my wood is so dry it would burn like kindlings."
"Is fire dangerous to pumpkins?" asked Jack, fearfully.
"You'll be baked like a tart - and so will I!" answered the