THE FOREST FAIRIES FLY HOME

"Thank heavens, we're almost home," said Annalisa.  "I am so tired of the ice and snow!"

"I froze the whole time, even in that coat we conjured up.  I love that it is Spring again here in the forest."

"But remember, Sister, because of the spell cast by Enchantress Mama and Papa think it's still Christmas night.  And we must sneak in and put on our nightgowns before they awaken."

"We didn't want Mama and Papa to worry!  We've been gone for ages.  When we finally got Gerda and Kay home they realized they had almost grown up.  Gerda must have been flying around on that reindeer for months.  I can't imagine how she stayed alive.  What in the world did she eat?"

"Well, she spent time with that little robber girl who probably fed her reindeer stew or whatever they eat in Lapland.  And she talked a lot to those birds--ravens, was it?  No, crows"!

"Speaking of eating, I think Annie has gained weight!  She looked plump and rosy cheeked.  And her grandpa is actually quite charming now that he's warm and well fed."

Annalisa smiled at her twin.  "We helped them all; we did!"

"Look," cried Arabella, "That house is made of candy!"

"And there's a little boy heading that way," said Annalisa.

"There's a little girl spreading bread crumbs behind him," said Arabella.  "I wonder why...."

"We can come back tomorrow.  We HAVE to go home."

"I suppose so," said Arabella, wistfully.  "Perhaps they need our help........."