In one place was an
aquarium, where strange and beautiful fish swam; at another spot all
the birds of the air gathered daily to a great feast which Ozma's
servants provided for them, and were so fearless of harm that they
would alight upon one's shoulders and eat from one's hand. There was
also the Fountain of the Water of Oblivion, but it was dangerous to
drink of this water, because it made one forget everything he had ever
before known, even to his own name, and therefore Ozma had placed a
sign of warning upon the fountain. But there were also fountains that
were delightfully perfumed, and fountains of delicious nectar, cool
and richly flavored, where all were welcome to refresh themselves.
Around the palace grounds was a great wall, thickly encrusted with
glittering emeralds, but the gates stood open and no one was forbidden
entrance. On holidays the people of the Emerald City often took their
children to see the wonders of Ozma's gardens, and even entered the
Royal Palace, if they felt so inclined, for they knew that they and
their Ruler were friends, and that Ozma delighted to give them pleasure.
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