When he spoke, his voice sounded sweet and clear, and its tones were very gentle.

He had given them a few moments to stare at him, for he was examining them in turn with considerable curiosity.

"Well," said he, "do you not find me the most hateful creature you have ever beheld ?" The queen refrained from answering, but Trot said promptly, "We do.
Nothing could be more horrider or more disgustin' than you are, it seems to me." "Very good, very good indeed," declared the monster, lifting his lashes to flash his glowing eyes upon them.

Then he turned toward Cap'n Bill.

"Man-fish," he continued, "what do YOU think of me ?" "Mighty little," the sailor replied.