He had built it in a spruce tree on the front lawn of Hortensia’s estate. It was here that he kept his treasures. These consisted of an emerald brooch, a gold watch set with paste diamonds, a turquoise-and-silver bracelet, a little pearl ring, and Krazo’s favorite piece, a flashy belt buckle studded with amethysts and garnets. Over the years, these prizes had been left behind by party guests. Usually Hortensia was attentive when she collected “the loot,” as she called it, but every so often she overlooked something. That was a lucky day for Krazo. On the day of the garden party, Krazo woke up feeling lucky. More guests than usual would be attending this party, and he had high hopes that Hortensia might overlook something that afternoon. He also felt free for the day; Hortensia always slept late, and she rarely called for him during one of her parties. The magpie spent the morning arranging the treasures he already owned, getting things ready for the new ones he hoped to acquire.
