smooth. Come, then, Papa. Follow me and we shall soon be outside.”
No sooner said than done. They mounted the throat of the huge sea monster and, arriving in the immense mouth, began to walk on the tips of their toes along the tongue. Suddenly the Dogfish sneezed. The candle was blown out, and both Geppetto and Pinocchio were given a violent shake and found themselves back once more in the Dogfish’s stomach.
“Now we are truly lost,” said Geppetto.
“Give me your hand, and be careful not to slip.”
“Where are you leading me?”
“Come along and do not be afraid.”
Thus saying, Pinocchio took his papa’s hand and again they mounted the throat of the monster, always going on tiptoe. Then passing along the tongue and the three rows of teeth, they found themselves out in the air.
“Get on my back,” said Pinocchio, “and hold on tight.”
Scarcely had Geppetto placed his arms around Pinocchio’s neck when the brave marionette began to swim. The sea was as smooth as oil, the moon was resplendent, and the Dogfish continued to sleep so soundly that not even a cannon shot would have awakened him.
