The Magician's Elephant

The snow and the elephant’s scent awaken Iddo. The black dog senses “something wonderful” is about to happen and barks loudly to deliver this important message. Adele hears the dog. Looking out the window, she sees the snow and the elephant, as in her dream. She rushes, unquestioningly, shoeless, downstairs. Opening the orphanage door, she cries, “Here I am!” as the dog barks joyfully around her (176). Sister Marie, startled awake, announces that the door is open. She sees the snow, the elephant, a group of people, and Adele, and then she calls Adele’s name, which astounds Peter. Peter repeats Adele’s name and picks her up, both to protect her from the cold and because of his long-ago promise. Peter tells Adele he is her brother. Adele quickly goes from disbelieving to joyous. Peter announces to the others that he has found his sister. Hans Ickman explains to Madam LaVaughn that the impossible has occurred. Sister Marie believes is it marvelous to have one’s dream of an elephant come true. Bartok Whynn cannot even laugh at the situation. Adele worries that the elephant is cold, and Peter assures her they are taking the elephant home.