CHAPTER LXIX.
The Company Discourse, And Braid-Beard Rehearses A Legend Finding in Valapee no trace of her whom we sought, and but little pleased with the cringing demeanor of the people, and the wayward follies of Peepi their lord, we early withdrew from the isle.
As we glided away, King Media issued a sociable decree.

He declared it his royal pleasure, that throughout the voyage, all stiffness and state etiquette should be suspended: nothing must occur to mar the freedom of the party.

To further this charming plan, he doffed his symbols of royalty, put off his crown, laid aside his scepter, and assured us that he would not wear them again, except when we landed; and not invariably, then.
"Are we not all now friends and companions ?" he said.

"So companions and friends let us be.

I unbend my bow; do ye likewise." "But are we not to be dignified ?" asked Babbalanja.
"If dignity be free and natural, be as dignified as you please; but away with rigidities." "Away they go," said Babbalanja; "and, my lord, now that you mind me of it, I have often thought, that it is all folly and vanity for any man to attempt a dignified carriage.