In the very center stood a house built of stone and very neatly constructed.

No one was in sight, but smoke was coming from the chimney, so with one accord all three began walking toward the house.
"I wonder," said Trot, "in what country we are, and if it's very far from my home in California." "Can't say as to that, partner," answered Cap'n Bill, "but I'm mighty certain we've come a long way since we struck that whirlpool." "Yes," she agreed, with a sigh, "it must be miles and miles!" "Distance means nothing," said the Ork.

"I have flown pretty much all over the world, trying to find my home, and it is astonishing how many little countries there are, hidden away in the cracks and corners of this big globe of Earth.

If one travels, he may find some new country at every turn, and a good many of them have never yet been put upon the maps." "P'raps this is one of them," suggested Trot.
They reached the house after a brisk walk and Cap'n Bill knocked upon the door.

It was at once opened by a rugged looking man who had "bumps all over him," as Trot afterward declared.