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PINOCCHIO 81 “IT wish to know from you gentlemen,” said the Fairy, turning to the three doctors who were assembled round Pinocchio’s bed— “ I wish to know from you gentlemen, if this unfortunate puppet is alive or dead! . . .” At this request the Crow, advancing first, felt Pinocchio’s pulse; he then felt his nose, and then the little toe of his foot: and having done this carefully, he pronounced solemnly the following words: “To my belief the puppet is already quite dead; but if unfor tunately . he should not be dead, then it would’ be a sign that he is still alive! is “ I regret,” said the Owl, “ to be obliged to contradict the Crow, my illustrious friend and colleague; but in my opinion the puppet is still alive: but if unfortunately he should not be alive, then it would be a sign that he is dead indeed! ” " And you—have you nothing to say?” asked the Fairy of the Talking-cricket. “ In my opinion the wisest thing a prudent doctor can do, when he does not know what he is talking about, is to be silent. For the rest, that puppet there has a face that is not new to me. I have known him for some time! .. .” Pinocchio, who up to that moment had lain immovable, like a real piece of wood, was seized 6
