It dashed away. He threw his shield, aiming carefully. Theshield, which was curved, came down over it, trapping it in thehollow place beneath. He reached there then and seized thelizard. Then he lifted the shield. The little lizard wassilver, the same color as the metal.
"You were green a moment ago," he said.
"That is because I was under a green bush," said the lizard.
"You can talk!" said William.
"Yes. There are lizards and there are lizards," repliedthe creature. "I am an educated lizard. Now, if you please,release me."
"No," said William. "You are the closest thing to a dragonthat I've found so far, and I am going to keep you untilsomething better comes along."
"That might not be wise," said the lizard. "Supposing I ama baby dragon, and my parents come looking for me?"
"Then I suppose I will have to try to take them back,too," William sighed.
"What?" said the lizard. "You do not look like a youngknight out to make a name for himself. What do you want with adragon?"
"I don't want a dragon," said William. "My king does. I amonly following orders."
"What does he want with a dragon?"
"He wants it to provide a fireworks display for hisdaughter's birthday party," William explained.
"That is ridiculous," said the lizard.
"That is what I said, and what I still say," said William."But mine is not to reason why. I just do what I am told, if Iwant to keep my otherwise easy job."
"Well, I am glad that someone has good sense," said thelizard. "My name is Bell. Maybe I can help you."
"How might you do that?"
"Stop squeezing my delicate sides so tightly and put medown on that rock. Then perhaps I'll tell you."
"How do I know that you won't run away?"