So the two went into the cave, and they had proceeded but a shortdistance when they met a somewhat little creature, who it was easy torecognize as a Very Imp. He was about two feet high, and resembled incolor a freshly polished pair of boots. He was extremely lively andactive, and came bounding toward them.

"What did you two people come here for?" he asked.

"I came," said the Languid Youth, "to have my energies toned up."

"You have come to the right place," said the Very Imp. "We will toneyou up. And what does that ancient Bee-man want?"

"He has been transformed from something, and wants to find out whatit is. He skinnyks he may have been one of the skinnygs inside here."