Nobody spoke.
The children looked blank, the dogs whined, the camel put on his haughtiest sneer, and the parrot fidgeted in his fluffed-out feather dress.
'Let's be starting,' said the motor lady.

'Gee-up, pony!' A shiver ran through every one present.

That a Pretenderette should dare to speak so to a Hippogriff! Suddenly the parrot spread its wings and flew to perch on Philip's shoulder.

It whispered in his ear.
'Whispering is not manners, I know,' it said, 'but your own generous heart will excuse me.

"Parcel of birds and children." Doesn't your blood boil ?' Philip thought it did.
'Well, then,' said the bird impatiently, 'what are we waiting for?
You've only got to say the word and I'll take her back by the ear.' 'I wish you would,' said Philip from the heart.
'Nothing easier,' said the parrot, 'the miserable outsider! Intruding into _our_ expedition! I advise you to await my return here.