6 The Hall of Wishes

Chapter 6 The Hall of Wishes A few days later, Mabel called with an invitation. "The caretaker has asked us to a picnic by the stream!" "But I promised we'd show Marie Yalding Towers," said Gerald. "You three go," he said. "I'll wait for her." It was a hot day and growing hotter by the minute. When Cathy, Mabel and Jimmy reached the caretaker, they were tired and sticky. "You need a paddle," he observed.

Dipping their hot feet in cool running water was blissful. And, when they came back, plums and gingerbread were waiting. "This is as good as our midnight feast," said Jimmy, describing their night with the statues. The caretaker looked doubtful. "I'll make you believe me," insisted Jimmy. "Cathy, give him the ring! Now, wish for anything you want."

"There's only one thing I want," he said. "I wish my friend was here." As he spoke, Marie and Gerald appeared. "You!" said the caretaker. "You?" said Marie, blushing. "Is she your friend?" asked Cathy. "Oh yes," said the caretaker, with a wide smile. "Will you excuse us? Marie and I are going for a walk." Marie sighed. "Yes... Lord Yalding and I have a lot to talk about."

"He's Lord Yalding?" said Jimmy. "Do you think she's the poor girl he loved?" cried Mabel. "And the ring has brought them together?" There was certainly magic at work. Marie returned from their walk, her eyes sparkling. But Lord Yalding looked a little sad. "I can't afford to keep the castle any more," he was saying. "If you're so poor," Jimmy broke in, "why not sell your treasure?" "Don't be silly," said Lord Yalding. "I don't have any." "Yes you do," said Jimmy obstinately, and dragged him to the treasure room. Lord Yalding's face lit up as the jewels were revealed.

"Are there any more secrets in my castle?" he asked. The children didn't know how to describe the incredible hall, so they took him there too. And, as they stood there, a voice rang out. "You are in the Hall of Wishes," it said. "The ring has one wish left. The last wish. And that wish is..."

"That all the magic it has done, be undone," said Marie, "and the ring be no more than a plain band of gold to bind me to Lord Yalding for evermore."