But Dorothy was a mortal, nevertheless, and might possibly be destroyed, or hidden where none of her friends could ever find her.

She could, for instance be cut into pieces, and the pieces, while still alive and free from pain, could be widely scattered; or she might be buried deep underground or "destroyed" in other ways by evil magicians, were she not properly protected.

These facts Glinda was considering while she paced with stately tread her marble hall.
Finally the good Sorceress paused and drew a ring from her finger, handing it to Dorothy.
"Wear this ring constantly until your return," she said to the girl.
"If serious danger threatens you, turn the ring around on your finger once to the right and another turn to the left.

That will ring the alarm bell in my palace and I will at once come to your rescue.

But do not use the ring unless you are actually in danger of destruction.
While you remain with Princess Ozma I believe she will be able to protect you from all lesser ills." "Thank you, Glinda," responded Dorothy gratefully, as she placed the ring on her finger.