Front matter
Reading edition
Illustrated by JOHN R. NEILL
The Reilly & Lee Co. CHICAGO
COPYRIGHT, 1935 by The REILLY & LEE CO.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
PRINTED IN THE U.S.A.
[Transcriber's Note: Extensive research did not uncover any evidence that the U.S. copyright on this publication was renewed.]
Dear Boys and Girls:
What could be more interesting than an Oz mystery? What, indeed? "Why," I can almost hear you shout, "Two Oz mysteries." And here you have them in this newest Oz story, two very mysterious mysteries to solve and ponder over and so many new Kingdoms and characters, I can hardly remember the proper spelling for their names.
You will be glad to know that Dorothy has most of the strange adventures in this book and remember Pigasus? Well, I have long suspected Pigasus could be useful as well as poetical, and now that he has so convincingly proved his prowess (how do you like THAT word?) we'll have to treat him with more respect and dignity.
Your letters all year have been grand and if I had the magic necklace mentioned in this story I would wish you three hundred and sixty-five days of happiness.
But after all, I HAVE a magic necklace. Each boy or girl who reads the Oz books is one shining link in the friendly chain that holds us together. All friends and all for Oz.
You believe in Oz and I'll believe in YOU Ho, that's the stuff that's strong enough To make my wish come true.
So, happy year to you, dears. And next year? Ah well, who knows what will happen next year? Another Oz book maybe, if you still want one. Write me if you do, and best of everything wonderful to you all, always!
RUTH PLUMLY THOMPSON.
110 Schoolhouse Lane, Ardmore, Pennsylvania
This book is dedicated with pride and affection
To Mabel Hammer Assheton
Whose gallant and adventurous spirit sweeps like a freshening breeze through my life, touching it again and again with color, vigor, interest and gaiety. To Mabel!!
Ruth Plumly Thompson
