ing combs. Pedlar-woman it is. Green bottle. [She reads.] "Dose, one tablespoonful, with a peppermint after." I haven't got a peppermint, but that was only to take away the taste. [She produces a spoon and uncorks the bottle.]
The Queen. [Hesitating.] Is the taste very bad?
The Witch. Vile. Really, one of the nastiest tastes I ever made. Open your mouth.
The Queen. [Shrinking back.] Er—is being transformed painful?
The Witch. No-o-o-o, but unpleasant. Feels as though you were being turned inside out like a glove. Open your moth.
The Queen. I think on the whole I'll wait till to-morrow. You see I have an important tea-party at Court this afternoon, and . . .
The Witch. Oh, ho! Cowardy, cowardy cus-
