and the procession moved on , three of the soldiers remaining behind to execute the three unfortunate gardeners , who ran to Alice for protection . `` You sha 'n' t be beheaded ! '' said Alice , and she put them into her pocket : the three soldiers marched once round her , looking for them , and then quietly marched off after the others . `` Are their heads off ? '' shouted the Queen . `` Their heads are gone , '' the soldiers shouted in reply , `` if it please your Majesty ! '' `` That 's right ! '' shouted the Queen , `` can you play croquet ? '' The soldiers were silent , and looked at Alice , as the question was evidently meant for her . `` Yes ! '' shouted Alice at the top of her voice . `` Come on then ! '' roared the Queen , and Alice joined the procession , wondering very much what would happen next . `` It 's -- it 's a very fine day ! '' said a timid little voice : she was walking by the white rabbit , who was peeping anxiously into her face . `` Very , '' said Alice , `` where 's the Marchioness ? '' `` Hush , hush ! '' said the rabbit in a low voice , `` she 'll hear you . The Queen 's the Marchioness : did n't you know that ? '' `` No , I did n't , '' said Alice , `` what of ? ''
`` Queen of Hearts , '' said the XXXXX in a whisper , putting its mouth close to her ear , `` and Marchioness of Mock Turtles . ''
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