Once again they heard a lot of birds. Once again not one of those birds was Ethel. “I never knew watching and listening could be so tiring,” Sadie said. She and Ms. M both wobbled a bit as they left the park, taking the winding path by the tennis courts. “It’s a good kind of tired,” she added. “Exhausting and exhilarating at the same time,” Ms. M agreed. “Like traveling.” As they ambled along, Sadie thought about how the park really was like another country to her now, full of many languages and exotic inhabitants. In a way, she didn’t even mind that they hadn’t found Ethel. She and Ms. M could go “traveling” again tomorrow, and maybe the next day and the day after that. When they reached the backyard, Sadie said, “I wish I could invite you to come inside—” The witch interrupted. “I know, dear. It’s all right. I enjoy my own company.” “I’ll be out later to say good night.” “I look forward to it.” Sadie watched Ms. M until she was safely at the playhouse.
