“Uncle Henry needs me,” said Dorothy, simply; and every one except Billina thought it was right that she should go.

All Dorothy’s friends of the Land of Oz—­both old and new—­gathered in a group in front of the palace to bid her a sorrowful good-bye and to wish her long life and happiness.  After much hand shaking, Dorothy kissed Ozma once more, and then handed her the Nome King’s magic belt, saying: 

“Now, dear Princess, when I wave my handkerchief, please wish me with Uncle Henry.  I’m aw’fly sorry to leave you—­and the Scarecrow—­and the Tin Woodman—­and the Cowardly Lion—­and Tiktok—­and—­and everybody—­but I do want my Uncle Henry!  So good-bye, all of you.”

Then the little girl stood on one of the big emeralds which decorated the courtyard, and after looking once again at each of her friends, waved her handkerchief.

“No,” said Dorothy, “I wasn’t drowned at all.  And I’ve come to nurse you and take care of you, Uncle Henry, and you must promise to get well as soon as poss’ble.”

Uncle Henry smiled and cuddled his little niece close in his lap.

“I’m better already, my darling,” said he.