But what that magic word was the children did not know, though they asked often enough.
And now at last the ark was finished, the scaffolding was removed, and there was the great Noah's ark, firmly planted on the topmost tower.

It was a perfect example of the ark-builder's craft.

Its boat part was painted a dull red, its sides and ends were blue with black windows, and its roof was bright scarlet, painted in lines to imitate tiles.

No least detail was neglected.

Even to the white bird painted on the roof, which you must have noticed in your own Noah's ark.
[Illustration: They loved looking on.] A great festival was held, speeches were made, and every one who had lent a hand in the building, even the humblest M.A., was crowned with a wreath of fresh pink and green seaweed.