Off flew the bird to the great tall pine and touched it with the magic ring. In an instant it changed into a giant, who stretched forth one of his great hands, and catching up the dwarf, hurled him headlong down the side of the ravine close by. The dwarf maiden, with a cry, rushed after him, climbing down the sides with wonderful agility. The giant now turned to Ned, saying: "Little Master, I owe it to you that I am once more my natural self. An evil spirit transformed me into yonder tree, but the magic of your ring has restored me once more to my natural shape. I will henceforth serve you while the occasion lasts," and with these words he knelt before Ned most humbly. At the same time the bluebird handed Ned his magic ring, and with this faithful little friend, his gold ring, and the giant for a servant, Ned felt that he had nothing further to fear while traveling in Gnomeland. "Thank you, my good friend," said Ned, placing his hand upon the bowed head of the giant. "You are certainly grateful for what I have done for you, which is more than can be said of many mortals. But had I not had the magic ring and the assistance of my little companion, the bluebird, you would still be the tree you were. Let us, therefore, the three of us, pledge allegiance to one another and set out upon our journey of adventure." As he finished speaking the giant arose and carefully placing Ned upon his shoulder, started off at a rapid stride. The little bluebird flew ahead, and in a short time the three comrades emerged from the forest. In the distance could be seen the turrets of a stately castle, which looked down from a high point of land upon a beautiful river that wound in and out like a silver ribbon through the meadow. "Who lives in yonder castle?" asked Ned, unconsciously adopting the style of language of Gnomeland. "I know not," answered the giant, "but with a few more steps we will be able to inquire at the postern gates." It was indeed a stately castle, and upon reaching the drawbridge Ned was surprised to find that it was not lowered for them to cross over, although they waited for some time. "I think I'll blow upon my policeman's whistle," said Ned, hunting through his pockets. "I certainly had it when I left home." "Blow hard," advised the giant as Ned brought it forth, "blow hard, that those within may think us worthy of admittance." Upon which Ned let out a blast that would do justice to any Knight of the Round Table. He was himself surprised at the volume of sound, but was too much interested in what was about to happen to realize that the touch of his magic ring had made it possible for the small nickel-plated whistle to create such a sound.