the middle of an accident! Where would be the use of it? but she did
not say this aloud, for fear of hurting the poor Queen s feeling.
Your Majesty must excuse her, the Red Queen said to Alice, taking one
of the White Queen s hands in her own, and gently stroking it: she
means well, but she can t help saying foolish things, as a general
rule.
The White Queen looked timidly at Alice, who felt she _ought_ to say
something kind, but really couldn t think of anything at the moment.
She never was really well brought up, the Red Queen went on: but
it s amazing how good-tempered she is! Pat her on the head, and see how
pleased she ll be! But this was more than Alice had courage to do.
A little kindness and putting her hair in papers would do wonders with
her
The White Queen gave a deep sigh, and laid her head on Alice s
shoulder. I _am_ so sleepy! she moaned.
She s tired, poor thing! said the Red Queen. Smooth her hair lend
her your nightcap and sing her a soothing lullaby.
I haven t got a nightcap with me, said Alice, as she tried to obey
the first direction: and I don t know any soothing lullabies.
I must do it myself, then, said the Red Queen, and she began:
Hush-a-by lady, in Alice s lap!
Till the feast s ready, we ve time for a nap:
When the feast s over, we ll go to the ball
Red Queen, and White Queen, and Alice, and all!
And now you know the words, she added, as she put her head down on
Alice s other shoulder, just sing it through to _me_. I m getting
sleepy, too. In another moment both Queens were fast asleep, and
snoring loud.
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