I cannot hurt the rascally old sea serpent himself, but through you I can make him feel my vengeance." "The mermaids have existed thousands of years," said the Queen in a tone of pride.

"Do you imagine the despised and conquered Zog has power to destroy them ?" "I do not know," was the quiet answer.

"It will be interesting to discover which is the more powerful." "I challenge you to begin the test at once, vile magician!" exclaimed Aquareine.
"There is no hurry, fair Queen," answered Zog in his softest tones.
"I have been so many years in accomplishing your capture that it is foolish to act hastily now.

Besides, I am lonely.

Here in my forced retirement I see only those uninteresting earth mortals whom I have made my slaves, for all sea dwellers are forbidden to serve me save the sea devils, and they dare not enter my castle.