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[Assistant] Jack and Annie crossed the street and headed into the Frog Creek woods, winding through the shadows of trees.


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[Assistant] Jack took a deep breath, inhaling the scent of warm earth and summer leaves. Hidden birds sang from the tree branches. As Jack and Annie drew closer to the tallest oak, Jack's heart started to pound. This time, something was there, high in the branches of the tree. Woosh, Annie said softly.


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[Assistant] Jack grinned as he looked up at the small wooden house nestled high in the branches.


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[Assistant] Okay, he said. I'm glad we checked. Annie ran to the rope ladder and started up.


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[Assistant] Jack followed. Inside the magic treehouse, the shadows of branches danced on the wooden walls. A piece of paper, a gold ring, a tiny bottle, a small book, and a scroll were waiting on the floor. A new message from Merlin, said Annie.


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[Assistant] She picked up the scroll, unrolled it, and read aloud.


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[Assistant] Dear Jack and Annie, I hope you enjoyed your time with the Houdinis.


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[Assistant] She's amazing. She's one of my heroes, said Annie.


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[Assistant] Yeaah, okay, but what did she do? asked Jack.


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[Assistant] The English army was fighting in this place called the Crimea on the Black Sea, and Florence Nightingale was a nurse there. The soldiers called her the Lady with the Lamp.


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[Assistant] Because after the hospital was quiet and dark at night, she went alone from bed to bed with a lantern. She gave light and comfort and took care of wounds. She was so brave and amazing, she became famous everywhere.


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[Assistant] Okay, you don't have to give your whole report. I get the picture. She sounds cool. Let's go meet her.


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[Assistant] I feel like I already know her, said Annie with a laugh. Oh wow, I can't wait. So let's see where we're going, said Jack.


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[Assistant] Don't worry, the ghost queen was thousands of years in the past, said Annie. Now we're just going to 1850.


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[Assistant] Oh, right, said Jack dryly. I guess all the ancient ghosts were gone by then. Whatever, ready, said Annie. Hold on, said Jack. He picked up the gold ring and gave it to Annie. It's your turn to wear this, he said. Annie slipped the ring onto her finger. They both stared at it for a moment. The ring was magic.


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[Assistant] Just remember to keep checking it when we're talking to Florence, said Jack. Don't worry, I will, said Annie. Here, you carry this.


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[Assistant] She picked up the tiny glass bottle and handed it to Jack.


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[Assistant] Jack Hill the bottle up to the dappled sunlight.


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[Assistant] And looked at the silver vapor swirling inside.


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[Assistant] Good for one hour of great talent, said Annie.


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[Assistant] Jack smiled, remembering their hour as horse trainers and their hour as stage magicians.


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[Assistant] I wonder what will be great at this time, he said. Maybe great nurses, said Annie. We'll see, said Jack. He put the tiny bottle in his backpack, then he picked up the piece of paper from the floor.


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[Assistant] On the paper he had written the two secrets of greatness they'd already learned. Humility. Hard work.


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[Assistant] Ready to find the third secret from Florence Nightingale, he asked. A thousand times yes, said Annie.


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[Assistant] Jack pointed to the picture on the cover of the Traveler's Handbook to Egypt. I wish we could go there, he said. The wind started to blow.


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[Assistant] The treehouse started to spin. It spun faster and faster. Then everything was still. Absolutely still.


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[Assistant] Warm dry air filled the treehouse. Jack wore a helmet-type hat.


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[Assistant] Leather boots, a long sleeved shirt, and a pair of heavy linen pants with a leather belt. A large pouch was attached to the belt.


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[Assistant] I wish I was dressed like you said Annie, making a face. She was wearing a long white dress with frilly lace.


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[Assistant] You look like a cool explorer. I look like I'm going to a tea party.


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[Assistant] Don't feel bad, said Jack. My clothes are really scratchy and heavy. Yeehaw! Is that a donkey? said Annie.


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[Assistant] She and Jack looked out the window of the treehouse. Leaves and branches completely blocked their view.


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[Assistant] I think we landed in the sycamore tree, said Jack, studying the leaves.


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[Assistant] Annie pushed some branches aside. All they could see below were more leaves.


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[Assistant] But straight ahead, in the distance, was a wide plain dotted with sand colored ruins.


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[Assistant] Beyond the plain mountains loomed against the cloudless blue sky.


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[Assistant] The Egyptian sun was blindingly bright. Yeehaw.


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[Assistant] She gathered up her long white dress and started down the rope ladder. Jack stuck the small handbook into his leather pouch.


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[Assistant] Along with some coins that showed images of pharaohs. Hey, we have some Egyptian money, he called down to Annie. Great, come on down, said Annie. She was already on the ground.


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[Assistant] Jack buckled his pouch, then clumsily climbed down the rope ladder in his leather boots.


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[Assistant] As soon as he stepped onto the grass, flies landed on his face. He shook his head and waved his hands trying to brush them away.


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[Assistant] The sycamore tree was surrounded by bushes and other plants on a lush green riverbank.


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[Assistant] Across the river several dozen sailboats were anchored near a temple. Hee haw. The sound came from beyond the bushes.


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[Assistant] Jack and Annie stepped around them and peeked out. Yep, donkeys, two of them, said Jack. And there's a little kid with them. About fifty feet down the river two small donkeys were standing under a cluster of palm trees.


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[Assistant] They were shaking their long furry ears and swishing their tails to keep the flies away.


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[Assistant] A boy was napping in a rowboat on the riverbank. He wore a striped robe. Wanna talk to him? said Annie. Sure, said Jack.


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[Assistant] The small boy scrambled out of the rowboat. He looked to be only six or seven. I did not see you coming, he said.


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[Assistant] Welcome to Thebes. My name is Ollie. Do you need donkeys and a guide? No thanks, said Jack.


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[Assistant] He is returning now with two travelers from England. There he is, on the horse.


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[Assistant] In the distance, a white bearded man wearing a turban was riding a pack horse. He was leading a man and woman on donkeys toward the river.


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[Assistant] After my grandfather rose them across the Nile to their boat, he can guide you to the tombs in the cliffs, said Ali, or the temple of Luxor. He pointed to the temple across the river. Thanks, maybe later, said Jack.


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[Assistant] We are here every day, come back, said Ali, and he ran to meet his grandfather and the travelers from England. We just learned a lot, Jack said to Annie. It seems we landed in Thebes, Egypt.


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[Assistant] Travelers enjoy visiting the area of Thebes in Egypt. Four thousand years ago,


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[Assistant] The Egyptian city was the capital of the known world.


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[Assistant] At that time it was the noisiest and liveliest place on the River Nile. Seriously? said Jack.


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[Assistant] He looked around at the quiet river bank, the donkeys, and the distant bare mountains.


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[Assistant] I guess times have changed for Thebes, said Annie. No kidding, said Jack.


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[Assistant] Nursing, said Annie. She has to be. That's what she's famous for. Maybe those English travelers know something about her.


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[Assistant] Annie pointed to the couple riding with Ollie's grandfather. Remember, Florence was from England too.


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[Assistant] Ollie's grandfather climbed off his pack horse and helped the couple off their donkeys.


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[Assistant] Yes, said the man smiling. Who are you? Where are you from? The man and woman were both stout and middle-aged, but they had a young exuberant air about them.


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[Assistant] I'm Annie and he's my brother Jack, said Annie. We're from Frog Creek, Pennsylvania.


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[Assistant] Americans, wonderful, said the woman. We are from England.


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[Assistant] My name is Celina Bracebridge. I'm traveling with my husband Charles.


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[Assistant] And I am that very Charles, said Charles. With whom are you two travelling?


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[Assistant] Our parents, said Annie, but they left us on our own in Thebes. To visit the ruins, said Jack.


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[Assistant] They said it would be, uhm, a great educational experience.


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[Assistant] Indeed, and where are you brave American children staying? asked Charles. Uh, up the Nile that way? said Annie. She waved her hand vaguely toward the treehouse.


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[Assistant] In a little house, it's sort of like an inn.


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[Assistant] I see, good, good, said Charles. Well, can we do anything to help you with your Thebes educational experience? Jack could tell the man was joking, but Annie answered right away.


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[Assistant] Actually, you can help us, she said.


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[Assistant] At the place we're staying, someone said she was in Thebes. Salina's eyes widened in amazement. Charles, did you hear that? They're looking for Flo. Jack looked at Annie then back at Charles and Salina. You know Florence Nightingale? He said. Know her? She's our best friend, said Salina. She's traveling with us, for goodness sake. She pointed at the sailboats anchored along the river.


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[Assistant] For many weeks now she has been sailing up and down the Nile with us in our boat, said Charles. That is amazing, Annie said to Jack. Totally, he said. How do you two know Flo, asked Celina.


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[Assistant] Well we don't exactly know her, said Annie. We just know she's a world famous nurse. A what? Said Celina. A world famous nurse, said Annie. Like a nurse in a hospital? Charles and Celina both laughed. Oh no, said Celina. Not Flo.


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[Assistant] She's helped sick relatives and villagers in their homes, but she's not the least bit famous for that.


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[Assistant] And she certainly never worked in a hospital, said Charles.


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[Assistant] I'm afraid you have found the wrong Florence Nightingale. Oh, said Jack. How many Florence Nightingales can there be, he wondered. But your Flo's a great person, right? Annie said. We certainly think so, said Salina. Well, then we'd still like to meet her, said Annie. Righto, said Salina. Flo is visiting the Temple of Luxor this morning.


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[Assistant] Why don't you come with us to our boat and wait for her to come back? Oh, thank you, said Annie.


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[Assistant] Excellent, said Charles. Mostafa will ferry us across in his rowboat.


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[Assistant] He turned to the bearded guide and his grandson, Mustafa, shall we be off? He called. Goodbye, Ali.


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[Assistant] Mustafa held the rowboat steady as Jack and Annie climbed aboard and sat down.


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[Assistant] Then he helped Charles and Salina aboard and climbed in after them.


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[Assistant] Once everyone was settled, Mustafa pushed offshore with his oars and started rowing across the Nile.


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[Assistant] As the boat glided over the sun's sparkling water, the old Egyptian softly sang a song.


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[Assistant] Now all we have to do is spend time with Florence Nightingale and wait for the ring of truth to glow.


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[Assistant] Yeah, but she's not a great nurse, whispered Jack fanning away the flies. She's not famous for being great at anything. I know. That's a little confusing, Annie whispered back.


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[Assistant] Look children, said Charles, isn't that a magnificent sight.


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[Assistant] He pointed to a huge crocodile sunning itself on a river rock. Whoa said Jack.


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[Assistant] Yikes, said Annie at the same time. The crocodile had a scaly green hide with black spots. Its green eyes glimmered as the rowboat passed by. Don't be alarmed, said Charles.


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[Assistant] In our experience, Nile crocodiles are completely harmless. Harmless? Crocodiles? Thought Jack. I don't think so.


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[Assistant] Mustapha stopped singing as they reached the landing on the opposite river bank. He climbed out of the rowboat and tied it up. Then he helped Annie and Jack onto the bank. Salina and Charles followed. Charles handed some money to the guide. Thank you, Mustapha, he said.


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[Assistant] Please wait on this shore, as I believe Miss Nightingale plans to visit Western Thebes later today, when it's a bit cooler. This way, children.


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[Assistant] Jack and Annie followed Charles and Salina as they walked briskly along the landing, passing the line of sailboats moored at the water's edge. Whose boats are those? asked Annie.


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[Assistant] They're rented by travelers from all over Europe, said Charles, most of whom are hiding from the midday heat right now. I don't blame them, thought Jack. The heat and the flies were almost more than he could bear.


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[Assistant] She and Charles stopped at the largest boat anchored on the river. Home sweet home


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[Assistant] Chapter 3, Beasts on the Nile.


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[Assistant] All aboard, said Charles. The English couple led the way across a short gang plank onto the deck of their sailboat.


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[Assistant] The boat had a long cabin and a tall mast with a furled sail. Two crew members in white clothes were mopping the deck. Miss Celina, one called.


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[Assistant] But while those particular folk are aboard, I believe I shall take a stroll. Pleasure to meet you, Jack and Annie. He tipped his hat, then retreated back down the gang plank. Coward, called Salina. Charles turned and saluted her from the riverbank. Do give my best to the Bickersons, darling. Ta-ta, he said, and took off. Who are the Bickersons? asked Annie.


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[Assistant] Lord and Lady Bickerson are aristocrats from London. She said they're friends of Florence's family.


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[Assistant] Come and meet them brave American children. It might be good for your education.


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[Assistant] The boat rocked gently on the calm water as Jack and Annie followed Celina across the deck. Aristocrats? Annie whispered to Jack. That's like royalty, right? Sort of, said Jack. We have to act proper. No problem, said Annie.


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[Assistant] We've hung out with Empress Maria Theresa of Austria and King Philip II of Macedonia.


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[Assistant] Yeah, well, don't mention that to anyone, said Jack. Duh, said Annie.


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[Assistant] Selina stopped in front of one of the cabin doors and took a deep breath. Are you ready? She asked Jack and Annie. Yes, said Jack.


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[Assistant] Eager to get out of the heat and away from the flies.


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[Assistant] Selina opened the door in motion for Jack and Annie to follow her.


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[Assistant] They walked into a small sitting room with green paneled walls and dark woodwork.


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[Assistant] It took a moment for Jack's eyes to adjust to the shadowy room. It was much cooler inside than outside


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[Assistant] But the red-faced man and woman sitting stiffly on straightback chairs were both fanning themselves frantically.


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[Assistant] Lord and Lady Bickerson, hello. I am sorry that Florence is not here now. I'm sure she will be back soon, said Salina.


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[Assistant] But in the meantime, please meet Jack and Annie from America. Hello, Jack said with a bow. Greetings, my lord. Greetings, my lady, Annie said with a curtsy. The aristocrats barely nodded. They fanned themselves harder. Have a seat, children, said Salina.


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[Assistant] Jack and Annie sat on the edge of the sofa Jack tried to keep his back as straight as he could.


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[Assistant] When he saw Lady Bickerson's scowl at his hat, he quickly pulled it off.


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[Assistant] How are your lordship and ladyship today? Ask Celina. The two aristocrats spoke at once.


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[Assistant] Terrible and wretched, said Lord Bickerson. Burning up, said his wife.


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[Assistant] Oh, I'm so sorry, said Celina. But Jack noticed she didn't sound sorry at all.


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[Assistant] We saw a dreadful beast this morning, said Lady Bickerson. A dreadful beast? Salina repeated.


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[Assistant] Yes, a crocodile, said Lord Bickerson, and a servant told us a hippopotamus was spotted upriver yesterday. Nile hippos kill people, you know.


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[Assistant] And Egyptian jackals have been seen recently too. They come out at night and slay small animals. He looked at Jack and Annie.


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[Assistant] Furthermore, our servants have been telling us about the snakes in Egypt, said Lady Bickerson. The black mamba, for instance. One bite from that monster contains enough poison to kill twenty people. Oh my, let's hope, began Salina.


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[Assistant] Of course, the biggest killer in this land is the vicious little mosquito. Lord Bickerson interrupted.


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[Assistant] Egyptian mosquitoes can carry terrible diseases, malaria for one, fever, coma, death. Oh, such misery, said Salina.


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[Assistant] Yes, aren't we all terribly miserable and frightened in Thebes? said Lady Bickerson.


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[Assistant] We saw a crocodile today too, but it was harmless. She smiled at Lord and Lady Bickerson.


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[Assistant] Suddenly a servant threw open the door, stood at attention and spoke in a loud voice. Countess von Kenske.


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[Assistant] A glamorous looking woman draped in a red silk shawl bustled in. Her dark hair was piled high on her head. On her shoulder was a tiny monkey.


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[Assistant] The monkey looked like a little elf with a wrinkled face, big pointed ears, and bushy eyebrows.


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[Assistant] Countess Von Kensky, I believe you have met Lord and Lady Brickerson? said Salina.


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[Assistant] Oh yes, said the Countess, nodding to the Bickersons.


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[Assistant] But neither Cocoon or I have met these lovely children. Who are you? Jack and Annie from America said Annie.


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[Assistant] Delightful, said the Countess. Jack and Annie, this is Cuckoo Von Kensky. I am from Budapest, Hungary, but she is a baby baboon from the Sudan, in Africa. Cuckoo, say hello. As the Countess leaned down toward Jack and Annie.


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[Assistant] The baby baboon grinned as if she thought Jack was funny.


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[Assistant] Said the baboon, looking at Jack with her big eyes.


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[Assistant] Oh, wall yourself, said Annie laughing and reaching out to pet Cuckoo.


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[Assistant] Careful, child, she'll bite you, said Lord Bickerson. Excuse me, my lord.


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[Assistant] But my darling cocoon never bites, said the Countess.


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[Assistant] Cuckoo stared at Annie with bright curious eyes, then let out a shrill screech.


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[Assistant] Annie screeched back at her. Everyone laughed, except of course the aristocrats, who now glared at Annie and Koku as if they were both little mosquitoes.


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[Assistant] Before the Bickersons could speak, the door opened again. A tall, slender woman stepped inside.


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[Assistant] Clutching a notebook, she was breathless, sunburned, and smiling.


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[Assistant] But her smile quickly turned to a look of dismay when she saw all the visitors.


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[Assistant] Florence Nightingale wore a plain gray dress. Her brown hair was parted in the middle. Hello, Florence, my dear, Lord Bickerson said. Please sit down. Florence took a seat then smiled politely. Greetings, my lord, my lady, she said.


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[Assistant] Her eyes softened as they rested on the countess and the baby baboon.


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[Assistant] Hello, Countess. How is our little Koukou today? Very happy, said the Countess.


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[Assistant] She has just made two wonderful new friends from America. She nodded toward Jack and Annie. Oh, hello, said Florence. Hello, said Jack. Annie couldn't speak.


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[Assistant] She just stared at Florence with wide eyes and a big grin. Flow.


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[Assistant] This is Jack and Annie, said Salina. They want to meet you. Florence looked puzzled. But why? she said.


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[Assistant] For some reason, they believe you are a world famous nurse who works in hospitals, said Celina. Florence looked curiously at Jack and Annie. A world famous nurse? She said. How strange.


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[Assistant] Strange indeed, said Lady Bickerson with a snort.


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[Assistant] Your mother and father would certainly find it so, Lord Bickerson said huffily.


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[Assistant] A sad expression crossed Florence's face as she looked back at Jack and Annie. No children, she said. I am not a world famous nurse.


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[Assistant] What Flo really loves is taking notes about the Egyptian ruins, she said to Jack and Annie.


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[Assistant] That's why we make such wonderful traveling companions. She loves to take notes and I love to sketch. Tell our guests about your morning, Flo. I was at the temple of Luxor, said Florence, brightening.


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[Assistant] I studied the paintings, particularly the ones of Anubis. Anubis, said Jack. The jackal god, said Florence. He is on many tomb walls. Ancient Egyptians believed jackals protected the dead. I find that so fascinating. That is fascinating, said Annie. Lady Bickerson shuddered. Ug, I find it gruesome, she said.


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[Assistant] It's not gruesome at all, my lady, said Florence. I find Egyptian mythology to be quite beautiful. I think so too, said Jack. Beautiful, said Lord Bickerson.


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[Assistant] I don't see how one could find anything in this land beautiful, Florence.


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[Assistant] I cannot imagine why you would want to prowl among those ghastly ruins.


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[Assistant] Nor I, said Lady Bickerson. They all stink of rats and decay. Oh, speaking of rats, said the Countess. Cocoa and I saw one in our cabin last night. Neither of us could sleep a wink after that. We never sleep, said Lady Bickerson.


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[Assistant] Not with the rats and flies and fleas.


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[Assistant] And that dreadful singing from our crew hurts my ears.


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[Assistant] I'm sorry you find everything so distasteful in this land, my lady," said Florence.


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[Assistant] It makes me wonder why you and your lordship ever chose to travel to Egypt in the first place. Why?


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[Assistant] Though now Lord Biggerson and I can't possibly understand why. I adore Egypt, Florence said, and I feel I must defend her. Egypt and I quite agree with each other. Indeed, said Lord Biggerson.


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[Assistant] I do not have an excellent opinion of myself, my lord. I have an excellent opinion of you, Annie whispered. An awkward silence filled the room. Forgive me, said Florence.


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[Assistant] I am not feeling well. I must retire to my own cabin. I fear I must. And with that, Florence Nightingale rose from her chair and slipped soundlessly out of the room.


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[Assistant] Chapter 4, Baboon Babysitters. Everyone was silent for a moment after Florence left. The Bickersons were the first to speak. Well, said Lady Bickerson. How utterly rude, said Lord Bickerson. Excuse me for a moment while I check on Flo, said Salina, a worried look on her face. Perhaps the heat was too much for her today. And with that, Salina left the sitting room too.


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[Assistant] I hope I did not offend Miss Nightingale by complaining about the rat, said the Countess.


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[Assistant] You have no idea the trouble she has caused her family.


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[Assistant] It's shocking, said Lady Bickerson. She refuses to behave like a lady. She is full of her own thoughts and opinions. She tells her poor mother she has dreams to leave home so she can work. What's wrong with that? Asked Annie. Uh-oh, thought Jack. Annie sounded angry. No proper lady works out in the world, Lord Bickerson snapped. Why not? Asked Annie.


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[Assistant] I mean, if you wanted to follow your dreams and people wouldn't let you, wouldn't you feel bad too? And what's wrong with having thoughts and opinions? I have thoughts and opinions all the time. What a rude child you are, said Lady Bickerson.


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[Assistant] Is that how your parents taught you to speak to your superiors?" Jack was starting to get angry too. We don't have superiors at home, he said. Lord Bickerson glared at Jack and Annie. It is high time you children left this boat, he said. Miss Nightingale does not even know who you are.


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[Assistant] None of us know who you are, or who your parents are.


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[Assistant] Excuse me, sir, but this is not your boat, is it? Annie said, I thought it belonged to Salina and Charles. Oh, the aristocrats both gasped. Lord Pickerson strode to the door. Begone, he said.


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[Assistant] You children are the very definition of the word impolite. Leave before I send for the local governor. He'd know what to do with you.


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[Assistant] Seriously? What does that mean? said Jack. It means go, said Annie, which I'm happy to do. Me too, said Jack. Jack and Annie stood up.


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[Assistant] As they headed for the door, Annie looked back at the Countess and her baby baboon.


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[Assistant] Goodbye, Countess. Goodbye, Koku. It was great meeting you. Jack nodded in agreement. Must you leave? said the Countess.


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[Assistant] I fear we must, said Annie echoing Florence. She curtsied and Jack bowed, then they both headed out the door.


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[Assistant] Outside the sun was brighter and hotter than ever. Flies buzzed everywhere. Jack put his hat back on.


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[Assistant] Come on, let's get away from these beasts, he said.


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[Assistant] The flies are the aristocrats, asked Annie. Both, said Jack. Jack and Annie headed over the gang plank to the river bank.


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[Assistant] Their behavior was unthinkable, said Annie, the very definition of impolite. Jack laughed, but then he sighed. We blew it, he said. We got sidetracked. How can we complete our mission now?


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[Assistant] Come on, let's wait on that big rock under the trees," said Annie. Jack and Annie headed toward the shady rock. Not far away, Mustafa was sitting next to his rowboat reading a book. The guide looked up, gave them a nod, then went back to his reading. Across the river, Ali was resting with his donkeys.


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[Assistant] Could you believe the way those two talked about Florence? Said Annie. She can't be a nurse. She can't work outside her house. She can't even have her own opinions. How do you become great if people make you feel so bad about yourself?


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[Assistant] Now he was on alert for all the beasts of the Nile. What do black mambas look like? He wondered. Do jackals ever come out during the day?


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[Assistant] Before Jack could answer, he heard a loud call. Wahoo! Jack and Annie jumped up and whirled around. Cuckoo! cried Annie.


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[Assistant] The baby baboon was scrambling toward them on all fours. Countess Von Kensky hurried after her. Koku, wait! she called. Koku leapt into Annie's arms.


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[Assistant] She wanted to find you, the Countess said out of breath.


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[Assistant] After you left, she screeched at the biggersons. She even shook her little fists. So they ordered her off the boat too. Now the poor couple is sitting there all alone.


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[Assistant] Oh, thank you, Koku, for sticking up for us, said Annie.


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[Assistant] I can see you like Coco and that she likes you, said the Countess. Therefore I have a favor to ask you.


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[Assistant] Could you care for her this afternoon? I must take a ferry down river to see a sick friend. But I cannot take Goku. My friend is afraid of creatures from the wild. Of course we'll take care of her, said Annie. Uh, Annie, you know we have a mission, right? Jack said under his breath.


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[Assistant] Thank you, thank you very much. I trust you to be wonderful caretakers, said the Countess.


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[Assistant] She reached into her purse, brought out a chunk of brown bread, and gave it to Jack.


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[Assistant] Please give her bits of this when she is hungry or sad. I won't be back until nightfall. Where can we rendezvous then? Rendezvous? said Annie. Yes, meet up with each other, said the Countess.


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[Assistant] Oh, how about Salina's boat? said Jack.


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[Assistant] Good, good, you two are angels who dropped from heaven. Thank you so very much, said the Countess. Be good, Cuckoo. And she hurried down the riverbank to catch her ferry. Awaw, said Cuckoo, looking after the Countess. Don't be sad, baby, said Annie, sitting back on the rock. Your mom won't be gone long. Awaw, the baboon said.


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[Assistant] She settled into Annie's lap, and Annie kissed her head. Would Goku like a snack? Jack asked. He broke off a piece of bread and gave it to her. He put the rest in his pouch. Goku held the bread with her two tiny hands. She chewed thoughtfully, looking from Jack to Annie with her bright eyes. She uttered funny little noises between bites. Suddenly she screeched and pointed upriver. Jack and Annie turned to look.


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[Assistant] Florence had left Charles and Celina's boat, carrying a small bag.


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[Assistant] Holding Koku, she hurried with Jack to Florence and the guide.


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[Assistant] I'd like to explore the Valley of the Queens, Florence was saying to Mustafa as Jack and Annie approached. Hi there, said Annie. Florence turned around. She looked startled. Oh, hello, she said. Cuckoo let out another screech. We're babysitting Cuckoo, Annie explained.


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[Assistant] Florence nodded. Jack could tell she didn't really want to talk to them. Are you going to take more notes this afternoon? Annie asked. Yes, I am, Florence answered. You're just like Jack.


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[Assistant] Said Annie, he loves to write in his notebook too. Oh, how nice, said Florence. Jack was embarrassed.


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[Assistant] Mostava helped Florence into the rowboat and took his position as the guide picked up his oars.


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[Assistant] Florence glanced back at Jack, Annie, and Koku. They were all just standing on the bank staring at her. Florence sighed. Do you need a ride to the western shore? She said. Yes, please, said Annie. Then come, Florence said. You are welcome to join us. Thanks, said Annie. Jack didn't say anything. He didn't feel welcome at all.


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[Assistant] Jack and Annie climbed in with Goku and sat behind Florence. Mustafa used his oars to push the boat off the riverbank. As he began rowing across the Nile,


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[Assistant] The white bearded guide sang the same peaceful song he'd sung before. Annie gave Jack a thumbs up sign. Not really, Jack thought.


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[Assistant] Lawrence was sitting with her back to them now, writing in her notebook. How could they ever get her to pay attention to them?


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[Assistant] Look up Valley of the Queens, Annie whispered to him. Jack took the handbook out of the pouch on his belt. Then he and Annie silently read. About 3000 years ago,


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[Assistant] The wives of the pharaohs were buried in the Valley of the Queens near the Valley of the Kings. The tombs were cut out of limestone cliffs.


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[Assistant] Excuse me, Miss Nightingale, Annie said. Have you ever been to the Valley of the Queens? Without looking back, Florence shook her head. We find it fascinating, said Annie. She nudged Jack, letting him know it was his turn to speak.


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[Assistant] Did you know that the wives of the pharaohs were buried there about three thousand years ago? Jack said.


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[Assistant] I believe their tombs were cut out of the limestone cliffs. Florence barely nodded. She didn't say a word or look back at them. Before Jack or Annie could think of another way to get her attention, the rowboat arrived on the western shore.


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[Assistant] Chapter 5. Valley of the Queens.


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[Assistant] Miss Nightingale, your donkey, Ali called out. The small boy stood with a donkey and a larger pack horse. How lovely to see you, Ali, said Florence.


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[Assistant] Mustafa stepped into the shallow water and pulled the rowboat onto the bank. He then helped everyone out of the boat.


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[Assistant] Jack and Annie stood with Koku and watched Florence mount the donkey. Mustafa climbed onto his pack horse. Jack felt helpless. He didn't know how to stop Florence from leaving them. Have a nice afternoon, said Annie. Florence looked back at them. I hope you have a nice afternoon too, she said. I would ask you to join me, but I am, well,


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[Assistant] I'm afraid I need a bit of quiet and solitude right now. We understand, said Annie. Thank you, said Florence. She turned back to the guide. Lead the way, Mustafa. Mustafa and his horse headed away from the river. Florence followed on her donkey.


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[Assistant] Jack, Annie, and Cuckoo watched as they headed up the dirt road toward the distant mountains. Soon they disappeared from view. Darn, breathed Annie. Yeaah, said Jack. Donkeys for you too? Ali asked, coming up behind them. You can travel to the ruins without a guide, you know? Annie looked at Jack. Want to? She asked. How do we get to the Valley of the Queens?


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[Assistant] Very easy, the boy pointed to the road. Travel the same way they went, he said. Follow that road and never turn. That sounds simple, said Annie. Let's go. Wait, said Jack.


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[Assistant] He took all of his Egyptian coins from his pouch and showed them to Ali. Do we have enough to rent two donkeys?


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[Assistant] Oh yes, Ali took only one coin. Good for two donkeys all afternoon, he said. Okay, we'll do it, said Jack. Yay, said Annie.


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[Assistant] Good, I will get them for you, said Ali.


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[Assistant] He headed to the donkeys standing under the trees.


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[Assistant] I wonder if there's anything we need to know about riding donkeys, said Jack. He opened their traveler's handbook again and looked up donkey. He read aloud.


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[Assistant] Donkeys were first trained to carry travelers over six thousand years ago in Egypt. The animals are easy to ride.


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[Assistant] But the traveler must approach them slowly and treat them with kindness and affection.


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[Assistant] Easy, said Annie. That's the way I always treat animals.


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[Assistant] Here they are, said Ali, leading two donkeys toward Jack and Annie.


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[Assistant] Both donkeys were sandy brown with sweet faces. Their saddles were blankets made of heavy cloth.


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[Assistant] Their long furry ears twitch to keep the flies away.


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[Assistant] Hello there, Annie said to one of the donkeys.


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[Assistant] Talk to yours too, Annie Coach Jack. Call her a sweet name, kindness and affection, remember?


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[Assistant] Jack rolled his eyes and scratched the ears of the other donkey. Hi, uhm, honey, wanna go for a ride? he said. The donkey nuzzled her head against Jack's hand. Ali laughed.


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[Assistant] I think my donkeys like you very much, he said.


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[Assistant] Holding Koku, Annie climbed onto the back of Bunny, while Jack climbed onto Honey. You must take water, said Ali.


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[Assistant] He tied tin canteens to the donkey saddles.


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[Assistant] Come back by sundown, there is danger in the hills after dark. Like what kind of danger, asked Jack. Wild jackals, tomb raiders, said Ali. Got it, said Jack. We'll be back before dark, said Annie. Way before dark, said Jack.


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[Assistant] Goodbye Ali, thank you, said Annie. Giddy up, bunny. She led the way with Cuckoo on her shoulder. Follow them, honey, please, said Jack.


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[Assistant] The two donkeys left the lush riverbank and trotted up the same road that Mustafa and Florence had traveled.


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[Assistant] Our donkeys remind me of the camels we rode to Baghdad. Annie called back to Jack. Remember beauty and cutie? Oh brother, said Jack.


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[Assistant] Palm trees, sheep, goats, mud huts, and children playing in the dirt.


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[Assistant] When the children saw Jack and Annie, they laughed and pointed at the baboon riding on Annie's shoulder.


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[Assistant] Soon the dirt road opened onto a wider, rougher road that crossed a flat plain.


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[Assistant] The plane was bordered by the sand-colored mountains.


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[Assistant] Hot breezes blew clouds of dust as the donkeys clomped side by side over the dry, cracked earth.


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[Assistant] Through the gritty haze, Jack could see ruins scattered about the plane.


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[Assistant] Broken columns in chunks of ancient walls half buried in sand. Look, said Annie. Two gigantic statues loomed ahead against the blue sky.


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[Assistant] Enormous pharaohs on thrones as tall as five story buildings.


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[Assistant] Let's stop for a minute, Jack called. He pulled on his donkey's reins and took out the traveler's handbook.


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[Assistant] He found a picture of the statues and read aloud.


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[Assistant] More than 3,000 years old, the colossi of Memnon once guarded the temple of a pharaoh.


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[Assistant] Jack took out his notebook and pencil and wrote memnon equals ruler of the dawn. He looked at the ruins again. The Pharaoh's temple had vanished with time.


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[Assistant] The statues were faceless, their bodies broken and worn away by thousands of years of wind and sand.


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[Assistant] The wounded giant still looked amazingly powerful though.


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[Assistant] Through the dry heat, Jack could imagine their ancient song. Yeehaw. Jack jumped. What's that?


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[Assistant] A donkey up ahead somewhere, said Annie. Past those temple ruins. I'll bet it's Florence's donkey. Hurry, let's go. Jack put away his notebook and pencil and the handbook. Giddy up, he said, and his donkey started walking again.


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[Assistant] Annie, when we find Florence, try to act surprised so she won't think we're following her. Be cool.


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[Assistant] The only problem is, I'm having trouble seeing what makes her so great, he said. He thought Florence seemed unhappy and unfriendly. But she is great, said Annie. I know she is.


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[Assistant] Jack and Annie kept riding their donkeys through the heat and dust when they stopped at the ruins of an ancient temple.


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[Assistant] There were no signs of Florence or Mustafa among the broken columns and crumbling walls. There were no signs of any living things. I don't see them, said Jack. We must have lost them somewhere. He shivered despite the heat. The quiet felt spooky to him.


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[Assistant] He grabbed his canteen and took a long drink of water. Annie did the same. Then she poured a little bit of water into her cupped hand and offered it to Koku.


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[Assistant] Do you think we should keep going to the Valley of the Queens? asked Annie. I guess so, said Jack.


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[Assistant] Florent and Mustafa are probably already there, said Annie. Giddy up, bunny.


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[Assistant] As the donkeys walked toward the cliffs, Jack couldn't shake his uneasy feeling. Everything was the color of mud and sand.


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[Assistant] Those must be the tombs of the Pharaoh's wives, said Annie. She pointed to several huge square holes carved into the limestone walls of the cliffs. Yeah, Jack shuddered. You know, I think I'd like to go back. This place gives me the creeps. Are you afraid of ghosts? Said Annie. Jack shook his head. I don't know, maybe. Let's just go, he said.


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[Assistant] We can wait for Florence back at Charles and Salina's boat.


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[Assistant] But if I don't take a look, I'll always wonder what I missed. Cuckoo and I will be right back. No Annie, let's leave this place, said Jack. Just one teeny minute, said Annie.


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[Assistant] Holding on to the baby baboon, she climbed off her donkey.


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[Assistant] We'll just take a quick look in that one." She pointed to the nearest tomb cut into the mountain.


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[Assistant] I promise we won't go inside. We'll hurry back.


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[Assistant] With Koku sitting on her shoulder, Annie took off toward the tomb.


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[Assistant] Annie's donkey started acting strangely too. She brayed loudly and turned away from the cliffs.


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[Assistant] Calm down bunny, said Jack, trying to speak in a soothing voice. It's okay, it's okay. Something was clearly bothering both animals. Jack's donkey tried to turn around.


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[Assistant] And Annie's donkey began trotting back the way they'd come.


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[Assistant] Wait, Bunny! Jack called as Annie's donkey sped away.


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[Assistant] Annie! he shouted. Come back now! Bunny's running off!


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[Assistant] Annie was standing at the entrance of the tomb. She turned around. What? She called.


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[Assistant] Cuckoo let out a bone-chilling shriek. From behind a pile of rocks, near the tomb, came two dirty, gray, wolf-like animals. The two creatures looked at Annie, then loped in her direction. Oh, man! said Jack. Jackals!


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[Assistant] Koku leapt from Annie's arms and bounded across the dry, cracked ground. When the jackals saw the baby baboon, they stopped.


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[Assistant] Then cackling and yelping, they took off after her.


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[Assistant] Annie! Jack yelled. He jumped off his donkey and ran after her.


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[Assistant] From a distance, Jack saw the baby baboon disappear into a crack between two cliffs.


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[Assistant] Howling and cackling, the jackals followed Koku. They slipped into the crack and vanished from sight.


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[Assistant] Annie was racing to catch up. Jack was far behind. When he finally reached her Annie was desperately trying to squeeze through the narrow opening.


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[Assistant] We can't fit through there, said Jack. We have to save Cuckoo, Annie cried.


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[Assistant] They heard shrieking, yelping, and cackling above them. Then gradually the sounds faded away. Coo coo, screamed Annie. Dead silence.


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[Assistant] Cuckoo, cuckoo, she repeated sobbing. Jack didn't know what to say. Everything had happened so fast. Then suddenly he heard another sound. Wahoo.


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[Assistant] Koku was at the very top, jumping up and down, screeching at them.


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[Assistant] I'll bet it's too steep for them to climb up after her," said Annie.


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[Assistant] The baby baboon pace back and forth along the edge of the cliff, crying.


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[Assistant] We can't climb up there, said Jack. It's too steep. We have to try, said Annie.


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[Assistant] We're not rock climbers, said Jack, looking up at the steep wall of limestone.


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[Assistant] Only the best rock climbers in the world could get up there.


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[Assistant] We can do that said Annie. We can be great rock climbers. You can't just be one said Jack.


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[Assistant] But when he looked up at the baby baboon crying and waving her arms,


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[Assistant] Saving Koku seemed more important than anything. Okay, said Jack. We'll use the mist to get her down.


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[Assistant] But we might have to walk back. I'll bet both our donkeys have run far away by now.


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[Assistant] No problem, we can do that, said Annie. Hurry, before the jackals come back.


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[Assistant] Jack reached into his leather pouch and pulled out the tiny bottle. He uncorked the top. Here goes, Jack said. I wish to be a great rock climber. He slowly inhaled the magic mist.


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[Assistant] His nostrils filled with the scent of mountain air and cold moving water.


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[Assistant] The fresh, clean smell filled him with strength and energy. Jack handed the bottle to Annie. I wish to be a great rock climber, she exclaimed. Annie inhaled the mist too. Then she gave the bottle back to Jack. He corked it and put it away.


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[Assistant] Jack and Annie looked up at the steep wall of the limestone cliff. No big deal said Jack. Easy said Annie. She called up to the baby baboon.


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[Assistant] We have one hour to climb up and back down, said Jack.


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[Assistant] First, we need to take off our boots so our toes can fit in the cracks. Right-o, said Annie.


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[Assistant] She and Jack coolly slipped off their boots and stockings. Okay?


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[Assistant] Jack looked for cracks, ledges, bumps, and holes. After he charted his route in his mind, he took a long deep breath.


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[Assistant] He lodged the toes of his left foot into a crack in the limestone.


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[Assistant] He reached high and gripped two tiny bumps on the wall with his fingers Then he pulled himself up


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[Assistant] Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Annie doing the same thing.


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[Assistant] Jack and Annie climbed higher and higher up the wall.


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[Assistant] Jack took his time to find new cracks for his toes. He slowly ran his hands over the rock face to find bumps and ledges to grab with his fingers.


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[Assistant] As an expert rock climber, Jack knew exactly how to shift his body weight and when to relax his grip.


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[Assistant] He knew exactly how to push with his legs and when to pull with his hands. Annie was silently climbing up the cliff at the same time, but Jack didn't look at her or think of her.


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[Assistant] He kept all his attention focused on finding new places to grip the face of the cliff with his fingers and toes.


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[Assistant] Slowly and calmly, Jack gripped.


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[Assistant] Pulled and pushed his way up the face of the cliff.


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[Assistant] He climbed and climbed until he was only a few feet from the top.


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[Assistant] Koku poked her head over the edge of the cliff, breaking Jack's concentration. She reached down and grabbed his ear. Ow! Jack yelled.


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[Assistant] His left hand lost its grip. His right foot slipped. Then his left foot slipped.


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[Assistant] Jack was hanging onto the ledge with just one hand, and that hand was slipping. Annie! he yelled.


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[Assistant] Just as Jack was about to lose his grip and fall, he felt a hand clamp down on his right wrist. Hold on! Annie cried.


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[Assistant] She'd reached the top ahead of him, Jack's fingers slipped from the ledge, but Annie held onto his wrists with both hands as he dangled high above the stony ground below. The baby baboon shrieked, the vultures cawed in the cloudless sky. You're still a great rock climber, Jack, Annie shouted. You know how to do this.


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[Assistant] Annie released Jack's hand. He quickly gripped a small bump on the rock face. He was very still for a moment. Blocking out all sounds and thoughts, he waited for his breathing to slow down.


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[Assistant] He lifted his leg over the rim of the limestone cliff.


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[Assistant] Cuckoo shrieked and jumped up and down. Annie slapped Jack on the back. You did it, she cried. We did it, Jack said, breathing hard. Thanks for saving me when I lost my grip. He shook his finger at the baby baboon.


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[Assistant] Bad time for an ear grab, Koku Von Kenski.


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[Assistant] Koku pressed her lips against Jack's cheek and gave him a kiss.


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[Assistant] Ew, gross, said Jack, laughing.


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[Assistant] Jack glanced down at the ground below the cliffs to make sure the jackals hadn't returned. Okay, let's rest a minute, he said.


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[Assistant] The sun was setting behind the honey-colored mountains, and the river Nile glimmered with golden light.


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[Assistant] The corn fields were golden too, as herds of sheep and goats headed home. Jack felt the same calm feeling he'd felt during his climb. He felt free of all his fears and worries. As the sky turned from gold to red,


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[Assistant] To dark purple, the wind began to blow. The air grew cooler.


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[Assistant] Sand swirled around the two colossi of Memnon. Jack imagined


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[Assistant] That the giant's breath was stirring the sands.


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[Assistant] She pointed to the fallen temple near the road to the river. Do you see two people?


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[Assistant] Sure enough, in the distance two people were riding a horse and a donkey.


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[Assistant] Florence and Mustafa. Maybe they can help us get back since we don't have donkeys anymore. He stood up and waved his arms. Hello! Annie joined him. Hello! She yelled.


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[Assistant] But Florence and Mustafa didn't seem to hear them as they rode back toward the Nile.


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[Assistant] Hello! Annie called once more, but it was no use.


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[Assistant] Well, we'll just walk fast and catch up with him at the boat, said Jack.


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[Assistant] The sun had sunk below the horizon and the sky was quickly growing dark. We have to hurry said Jack.


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[Assistant] Before our hour runs out, before we lose our rock climbing skills, before it gets darker, before the hills become more dangerous. Relax, Jack, said Annie. Remember, rock climbers go slowly. We look, we think, we move. Right, said Jack. Right, okay. He took a deep breath and tried to slow his racing heart. He tried not to think.


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[Assistant] Jack realized he still knew exactly what to do. No big deal, he said. No big deal, echoed Annie. Jack mapped out his route to the ground. He located bumps, ledges, holes, ridges, cracks, until he had a good plan. I'll carry Cuckoo on my back. She's not heavy, said Annie. I'll start down over there. She moved about 20 feet away from Jack.


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[Assistant] When he felt a perfect balance between calm and alertness, he started down the cliff wall.


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[Assistant] Jack inched smoothly along the face of the rock, shifting his weight and keeping his eyes on his feet.


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[Assistant] He reached down to lower ledges with his toes and lodged his fingertips in the cracks above. He kept his body straight and didn't lean too closely into the rock. Jack knew exactly what to do until he was halfway down. Then suddenly he didn't know anything.


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[Assistant] Jack froze. His body started to shake. His toes slipped from the cracks they were in.


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[Assistant] His hand slipped from the ridge he was gripping. He fell.


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[Assistant] Jack hit the ground so hard he couldn't breathe. His whole body screamed with pain, especially his right shoulder and arm. Jack! Annie cried out from above him. Then there was a terrible thud.


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[Assistant] Jack heard Koku shriek. He wanted desperately to help Annie and the baby baboon.


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[Assistant] But he was still struggling to breathe. He couldn't stand up. He couldn't move at all. Jackals started howling.


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[Assistant] Made loud whistling sounds through the limestone cliffs. Jack was cold and scared. He worried that his bones were broken. He worried that Annie was hurt. Or worse, maybe not alive. Cuckoo made whining, weepy sounds. Then Jack heard a moan. Jack. Annie, Jack said hoarsely. In spite of the pain, he forced himself to sit up.


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[Assistant] Hold on, don't move, said Jack.


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[Assistant] As he struggled to a standing position, he discovered that he couldn't lift his right arm at all. It just hung limply from his shoulder at a strange angle. Jack took a deep breath.


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[Assistant] He clutched his bad arm and walked barefoot to Annie.


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[Assistant] Said Jack, you can lean on me and hop on one foot. Are you sure you're not too badly hurt? Asked Annie. No big deal, Jack said. Just lean on my left side, we'll be fine. Okay, Annie placed her arm on Jack's shoulder. Here, Coco, hold my hand tight, said Annie.


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[Assistant] She held out her left hand and the baby baboon grabbed it. Ready everyone? Jack asked. Ready said Annie. Good said Jack. Let's give it a try.


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[Assistant] Jack took halting steps supporting much of Annie's weight as she hopped on her left foot. His shoulder hurt terribly, but he tried to hide his pain from Annie. The Valley of the Queens felt spookier than ever.


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[Assistant] The Jackals must be close by, Jack thought.


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[Assistant] And what about those tomb raiders that Ali had mentioned? Do we know the way back? Annie asked.


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[Assistant] From the top of the cliff we could see the moon rising over the Nile, said Jack.


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[Assistant] Annie said softly, with each hop she took. Annie's hopping jostled Jack's body, sending pain through his shoulder and arm.


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[Assistant] But he gritted his teeth and tried not to make a sound.


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[Assistant] Jack knew he couldn't support Annie's wait much longer. Okay, let's stop for a minute and rest, he said. Cuckoo screeched. She let go of Annie's hand and bounded away. Cuckoo, cried Annie, come back.


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[Assistant] Oh no, not again, thought Jack. Did she hear jackals? Look, there's a light, said Annie.


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[Assistant] She pointed at a flickering light moving toward them. We have to be quiet, Jack whispered. It could be tomb raiders.


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[Assistant] Tomb readers? said Annie, peering into the dark. I don't think so. She called out. We're here. We're over here. Help us. Children? A woman called. We're here. Annie cried again.


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[Assistant] Koku screeched and came running back toward Annie and Jack. She chattered and jumped up and down.


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[Assistant] Out of the dark, Florence Nightingale appeared on her donkey.


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[Assistant] She was wearing a shawl and holding a lantern. Mustafa followed behind her on his pack horse.


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[Assistant] When we arrived at the river Ali reported that your donkeys had returned without you.


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[Assistant] We were trying to save Cuckoo from Jackals, said Annie. She escaped from them and then got stuck on top of a cliff.


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[Assistant] We got up there okay, but we fell coming down.


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[Assistant] You poor things, cried Florence, climbing off her donkey. Please bring water for them, Mustafa.


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[Assistant] Mustapha dismounted and untied two canteens from his saddle. Florence carried her lamp over to Jack and Annie.


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[Assistant] Are you hurt, my dears? She asked in a soft, comforting voice. Yes, I hurt my ankle, said Annie, but I think Jack's in worse shape, even though he says it's no big deal. It's just my shoulder and my arm, Jack said to Florence.


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[Assistant] Oh my goodness, you are lucky, both of you, to be alive, said Florence. She gently felt Jack's shoulder and arm. He winced with pain and groaned. Can you move it dear, she asked him. No, he said.


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[Assistant] While Jack and Annie gulped down water, Florence spoke softly to Mustafa. Let's take them straight to the boat, she said. Jack can ride my donkey.


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[Assistant] Thank you, said Jack. He was relieved to have someone else in charge.


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[Assistant] Mustafa tied it to the saddle of the packhorse along with the canteens.


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[Assistant] By the light of the moon, Mustafa led the animals through the chilly nights.


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[Assistant] Florence walked beside the donkey staying close to Jack.


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[Assistant] The giants look like faceless gray ghosts in the moonlight.


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[Assistant] Jack did his best to sit up straight on the donkey's back, but every step the animal took brought Jack more pain. Once or twice he couldn't help crying out. Jack? Annie called to him in a soft voice.


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[Assistant] Though the words might have sounded strange to Mustafa and Florence, Jack knew exactly what Annie meant. Yes, he breathed.


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[Assistant] By closing his eyes and concentrating on the sounds of the night.


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[Assistant] Jack heard Goku making her baby baboon noises. He heard the corn stalks whispering in the wind. He heard the baaing of sheep, then bleeding of goats.


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[Assistant] As they came closer to the Nile, he heard the rustling of reeds and croaking of frogs. He heard the hee haw of donkeys. Jack's eyes shot open. Honey? He said. Bunny? Annie called out. Is that you?


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[Assistant] Hello, I have your two donkeys here, Ali called, rushing toward the travelers. They are safe. I am so glad that you are safe too. Can you please help us, Ali, said Florence.


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[Assistant] We must get Jack and Annie back to the brace bridge's boat.


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[Assistant] Ali quickly took the reins of the Pakhorus and donkey.


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[Assistant] Mustafa and Florence helped Jack, Annie, and Koku dismount. With Florence's help, Jack climbed into the rowboat.


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[Assistant] Mustafa picked up Annie and Koku and set them down next to Jack.


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[Assistant] Good night, Ali, said Florence as she and Mustafa finally climbed into the rowboat too. Your grandfather will be back soon to take you home. Good night, Miss Nightingale, said the small boy. Mustafa's oars dipped into the water and the boat started gliding across the river. As he rowed, the guide sang his rowing song in time to the splashing of the oars.


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[Assistant] The Nile water sparkled, reflecting the moonlight.


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[Assistant] Jack loved the peaceful mysterious feel of the ancient river.


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[Assistant] When they reached the opposite shore, Mustafa tied up the rowboat at the water's edge. Please help the children out of the boat, said Florence. Then you must hurry back to Ali. It is surely past his bedtime. Mustafa nodded. Florence turned to Jack and Annie. I will be back in a moment with Charles and Salina, she said. She climbed out of the rowboat and hurried away.


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[Assistant] Mustafa helped Jack, Annie, and Koku onto the grass. Thank you, said Annie. The old Egyptian nodded again. Then he got into his boat and began rowing across the glimmering Nile, heading back to his grandson. Are you okay? Annie asked Jack. Fine, he breathed. He was in too much pain to say anything else. Jack heard voices coming toward them.


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[Assistant] Florence was hurrying down the riverbank with Celina and Charles.


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[Assistant] Oh, my poor dears, cried Salina, and Koku, there you are.


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[Assistant] Did the Countess come looking for her? said Annie.


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[Assistant] No, she sent word asking us to keep Koku for the night, said Salina. Oh, good. And


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[Assistant] And can we stay too? Annie asked shyly. We'll meet up with our parents tomorrow morning.


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[Assistant] Of course. Here, let me help you," said Charles, leaning down. Put your arm around my shoulder. Annie did as Charles said. He lifted her and carried her back toward the moored sailboat. We'll follow them, Jack, said Florence kindly. Florence and Salina walked on either side of Jack up the riverbank.


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[Assistant] And Koku clamored behind, shrieking and making noises.


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[Assistant] Jack imagined she was talking about their scary adventure in the dark hills. Finally the group arrived at the large sailboat.


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[Assistant] Home sweet home, said Salina. Into my cabin, said Florence.


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[Assistant] Charles and Salina help Jack and Annie into the middle door of the long cabin.


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[Assistant] Koku followed and leapt onto a tall bed.


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[Assistant] Florence helped Jack take off his heavy long-sleeved shirt, his belt, and his hat.


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[Assistant] Now make room for the children, Koku, Florence said to the baby baboon. Jack and Annie climbed onto the large bed.


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[Assistant] And Florent gently covered them with blankets.


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[Assistant] It gets quite cold at night, she explained softly. She draped mosquito netting around the bed posts as Celina lit kerosene lamps. Jack could smell the kerosene as the flames flickered and shadows danced on the green-paneled walls.


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[Assistant] The boat rocked on the Nile and a soft breeze came through an open porthole.


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[Assistant] Through the gauze of the delicate mosquito netting.


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[Assistant] Florence, Charles, and Celina looked like dream figures or angels to Jack. He closed his eyes and finally he felt safe.


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[Assistant] The baby baboon was perched on the headboard of the bed. She grabbed Jack's ear and tugged. He started to push her away.


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[Assistant] But to his surprise, his right arm was pinned across his chest.


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[Assistant] Said Annie. She pushed the baby baboon away from Jack.


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[Assistant] I maneuvered your arm into it while you were in a deep sleep. Thanks, he said. I'm afraid you dislocated your shoulder, said Florence. It will be less painful if you wear the sling. As soon as you get to a city you must see a doctor. I will, thanks, said Jack.


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[Assistant] Your ankle will heal as well but you must go very slowly for a while, she said. She looked at Jack.


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[Assistant] Then he realized that Florence had thought he meant that he was cold when he said cool. He started to laugh, but it hurt his arm too much.


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[Assistant] Miss Nightingale, you really are a great nurse, said Annie. What's your secret?


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[Assistant] I have no secret, said Florence. I have only taken care of friends and relatives. As you heard from Lord Bickerson, my family does not allow me to work. But I would love to be a nurse. That is my greatest dream in life.


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[Assistant] It is why I found it so strange that you two thought I was a nurse.


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[Assistant] And now, through entirely unpredictable circumstances, I have been a nurse to you both. Is that not a remarkable coincidence? Florence shook her head with wonder. Well, please excuse me and I will pour your tea.


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[Assistant] Lauren stepped over to a small kerosene stove and poured water from a tea kettle into two cups. Good try, Jack whispered to Annie. She still doesn't have a clue that she's great. So how can she share her secret of greatness with us? I don't know, said Annie. This is tricky.


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[Assistant] Here you are," said Florence, returning with two cups of tea. She handed Annie one cup and then helped Jack take the other in his left hand. Jack carefully brought it to his lips. The hot tea and honey tasted wonderful.


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[Assistant] So allow me to understand what you told me last night, said Florence. You both risked your lives to save Koku? Jack and Annie nodded. Florence smiled and turned to the baby baboon. Little one.


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[Assistant] I believe your two friends are great heroes, she said. Not really, said Annie. We're not like you. You are the great hero.


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[Assistant] I know you're not a real nurse yet, but someday you're going to be the greatest nurse of all time." Florence looked at Jack. Did you actually see your sister fall from the cliff? She said under her breath. No, why? Jack whispered. I worry she might have hit her head, said Florence. She does not seem in her right mind. Jack laughed.


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[Assistant] Perhaps you both fell on your heads, said Florence.


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[Assistant] I appreciate your gratitude, children, but an ankle bandage and a simple arm sling should not convince you I will be a great nurse.


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[Assistant] Well, what do you think makes a great nurse? asked Annie. I, I have thought about that actually, said Florence. I would have to say discipline, quickness, and kindness. Annie slipped her hand out from under the blanket. She and Jack glanced at the ring of truth. It wasn't glowing. Good try, Jack whispered again.


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[Assistant] It seems like you definitely have those qualities, Annie said to Florence. So why won't your family let you be a nurse? They mean no harm, Florence said with a sigh. They only want me to be a proper lady. They will allow me to care for sick relatives and even some of the villagers. But they would never permit me to work in a hospital. That's so unfair, said Annie.


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[Assistant] I don't believe the world needs me, Florence said, laughing. But then her expression grew more serious. I do believe, though, that I need the world. What do you mean? asked Jack.


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[Assistant] I just feel that I must do something good for the world, for the poor and the sick. Florence's voice became strong and passionate.


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[Assistant] I must lift the load of pain from the suffering. I must do more than walk around the garden, write meaningless letters, sit in drawing rooms, gossip about the neighbors, arrange flowers, and go to dances. I must. One's work must be for the greater good of all, not just for one's self. I feel I must do something useful for the world, or I will go stark raving mad. Florence's eyes shone.


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[Assistant] Annie and Jack glanced down at the ring. It wasn't glowing brightly yet, but it was glimmering a little.


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[Assistant] Could you explain all that again in just a few simple words? He said. Let's see, said Florence. How to say it simply. She stared out the window at the Nile. Then she spoke very clearly. I truly believe, deep in my heart, that one's life must have meaning and purpose. Jack and Annie looked at the ring of truth. It glimmered more and more.


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[Assistant] And we know you'll find a way to do it, said Annie. Trust us. A rooster crowed, then another and another. The first light of dawn crept through the window. Listen to them all, said Florence. It's a brand new day. Yes, agreed Annie. The door to the cabin swung open.


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[Assistant] Countess Von Kensky stood at the threshold, wrapped in her red shawl, her dark hair falling in curls around her shoulders.


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[Assistant] Bounded off the bed and leapt into the Countess's arms.


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[Assistant] The two of them waltzed around the room, the countess's long curls swirling through the air. Jack, Annie, and Florence all laughed at the sight.


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[Assistant] Finally the Countess put Koku on her shoulder and looked at Jack and Annie. Oh my! She cried. What happened to you?


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[Assistant] Cuckoo ran away from Jackals, said Florence, and they rescued her from the top of a cliff. My dear children, thank you, said the Countess.


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[Assistant] Coo coo, you little rascal, causing these nice children to suffer so. We'll be fine, said Annie.


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[Assistant] Ms. Nightingale has taken really good care of us. Well...


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[Assistant] Said the Countess, I would love to stay and admire you all day.


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[Assistant] But we must hurry away. Our boat is leaving for Cairo. Say goodbye, Cuckoo. Say thank you to your wonderful friends. Cuckoo looked at Jack and Annie. Her dark eyes were soft and grateful. Oh, whoa, she said. Oh, whoa, Annie answered.


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[Assistant] Goodbye, Koku Von Kensky, said Jack, waving with his left hand. Farewell, said the Countess. Then she and the baby baboon headed out the door.


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[Assistant] Chapter 10 Goodbye, Thebes.


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[Assistant] I'm afraid we should leave too, said Annie. It's almost time for us to meet up with our parents. Oh yes, of course, said Florence. Where do you need to go? Across the Nile, said Jack, by the Sycamore. We'll rendezvous there. Jack put on his shirt, his belt, and his hat.


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[Assistant] Good, said Florence. No doubt Mustafa and Ali are already sitting by the river waiting to help travelers. We will shout for him to row across and pick you up. Thanks, said Jack. And you will need this, Annie, said Florence.


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[Assistant] She went to a small closet and took out a wooden crutch.


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[Assistant] I always travel with a few medical supplies. It's not much, but it should help you a bit. Great said Annie. She took the crutch from Florence and used it to help herself down from the bed. Jack climbed down too, careful not to jostle his right arm. As they followed Florence out of her cabin,


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[Assistant] Dawn was spreading its rosy glow across the temple of Luxor.


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[Assistant] Good morning, they both exclaimed when they saw Jack, Annie, and Florence.


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[Assistant] Say good morning and goodbye to our new friends, said Florence. Jack and Annie are leaving Thebes soon. Oh dear, we will miss these brave American children, said Salina.


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[Assistant] Goodbye, old chap, said Charles, shaking Jack's left hand.


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[Assistant] Said Jack, pointing to Mustafa and Ali on the western bank. They are already up and ready for work, said Charles.


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[Assistant] The Englishman stepped across the boat deck, faced the Nile, and shouted, Mustafa! He waved for the guide to come across the river.


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[Assistant] Mustafa climbed into his rowboat, pushed off the bank, and started rowing across.


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[Assistant] Come, said Florence, I'll accompany you to the water's edge.


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[Assistant] Thanks again, said Annie waving goodbye to Charles and Salina. Charles tipped his hat as Salina waved back.


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[Assistant] He looks like me said Annie hopping on one foot. Florence smiled.


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[Assistant] There is more activity here in the first hour of cool morning than at any other time of day, she said.


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[Assistant] Men in robes and turbans were sitting under a palm tree, smoking a water pipe.


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[Assistant] some girls were spreading wet clothes over rocks to dry jack heard someone shouting


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[Assistant] He and Annie in Florence turned to look back at the sailboats anchored offshore.


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[Assistant] Lord and Lady Bickerson were on the deck of one of the boats. They were swatting and yelling at the flies. Poor souls.


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[Assistant] Breathed Florence. The flies? Asked Annie. Florence laughed.


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[Assistant] I like you both very much, she said. I think we could be good friends. I think so too, said Annie. Me too, Jack added. His whole opinion of Florence had changed.


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[Assistant] Since she had tended to their injuries so kindly, and yet heard her speak about her dreams.


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[Assistant] Then he and Florence helped Annie and Jack climb aboard and take their seats.


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[Assistant] Goodbye, Jack and Annie, Florence said, standing on the river bank. You must visit me if you ever come to England.


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[Assistant] Jack was sad to leave her and even sadder to think they would probably never see her again.


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[Assistant] Good luck with everything, he said. Hold on to your dreams. We'll miss you, said Annie.


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[Assistant] Florence smiled her most radiant smile and waved. Then she turned and walked away.


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[Assistant] Mustafa used his oars to push off and began rowing back across the river Nile. Geese flew overhead. A pelican was perched on the crocodile's rock. The old Egyptians sang his song. The words were still impossible to understand, but Jack felt he knew what they meant now.


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[Assistant] They celebrated the Nile and all the life around it, ancient and new, beasts and birds. When they came to the other side of the river, Mustafa pulled the rowboat up onto the bank and helped Jack and Annie climb out.


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[Assistant] Nearby Ali was talking to some travelers who wanted donkeys. He called to his grandfather. Wait please said Jack.


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[Assistant] He fumbled in his pouch for their Egyptian money.


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[Assistant] These are all for you, please. You helped us a lot. You saved us, actually." The guide shook his head. No, he said. It was the first word Jacket heard him speak. I helped you not for money, but because you needed help.


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[Assistant] It would be wrong for me to accept payment for a simple good deed. Oh, yes, I understand, said Jack. He put away his coins. Thank you very much. Yes, thank you, said Annie. And please tell Ali goodbye from us. The old man nodded.


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[Assistant] Silent again and headed toward his grandson and the new travelers. Day after day, Mustafa and Ali help people, Jack thought, in all ways with gentleness and dignity.


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[Assistant] Come on, let's go quick, Annie said, while no one's looking. Right-o, said Jack.


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[Assistant] At least the sycamore tree isn't as tall as the oak tree in Frog Creek, he thought. Keeping his right arm still, he slowly pulled himself up.


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[Assistant] Teetering this way and that on the rope ladder.


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[Assistant] Finally he painfully heaved himself into the treehouse too. He was exhausted. He had no idea how they were going to climb back down. Ready to go? Annie asked.


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[Assistant] She had already opened the Pennsylvania book to the picture of Frog Creek. Jack sighed, yeah.


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[Assistant] But I don't know how we're going to explain your ankle in my shoulder to mom and dad. We'll solve that problem when we get home, said Annie. She pointed at the picture. I wish we could go there. Goodbye, Thebes. The wind started to blow. The treehouse started to spin. It spun faster and faster. Then everything was still, absolutely still.


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[Assistant] Jack's arm sling was gone. He moved his shoulder carefully. The pain was gone too.


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[Assistant] He breathed a huge sigh of relief. He was happy to be wearing his own clothes again, and even happier that his arm and shoulder were perfectly fine. No more bandage, said Annie. No more sprained ankle. Jack and Annie looked at each other in wonder. Cool, they said together.


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[Assistant] I guess what happens in Thebes stays in Thebes, said Jack. Annie laughed. Okay.


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[Assistant] We have the third secret of greatness now, said Jack.


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[Assistant] He took out his pencil and picked up a piece of paper from the floor.


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[Assistant] Under the words humility and hard work, he added meaning and purpose. Isn't that two secrets? said Annie.


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[Assistant] No, in this case, I think it takes two words to say one thing really well, said Jack.


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[Assistant] And you know who else I think had meaning and purpose in his life, said Jack. Who? said Annie. Mustafa, said Jack. He worked so hard, but he wouldn't take money for doing the right thing. And I could tell he really loved his grandson. That's true, said Annie.


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[Assistant] Mustafa's life definitely had meaning and purpose.


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[Assistant] I'll bet Ali grows up to be just like him, said Jack.


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[Assistant] He took the tiny bottle of mist from his pack and put it on the paper. Then he looked at Annie. Your ring, my lady. Oh, I forgot, she said. She pulled the ring of truth off her finger and put it on the paper next to the bottle. Okay, let's go home, said Jack. I'm ready, said Annie. She led the way down the ladder. Jack followed. Wow, he said.


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[Assistant] This letter is a lot easier without a hurt shoulder and a sprained ankle, isn't it? No kidding, said Annie. Jack and Annie started walking together through the Frog Creek woods.


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[Assistant] Hey, do you think our lives have meaning and purpose? said Annie. I guess so, said Jack. We help people and animals said Annie.


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[Assistant] This is Mary Pope Osborne. We hope you have enjoyed this unabridged production of Magic Treehouse Merlin Missions, book number 23, High Time for Heroes. This program was directed by Lewis Milgram, executive producer Orly Moskowitz.


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[Assistant] Text Copyright 2014 by Mary Pope Osborne Production Copyright 2014 Penguin Random House LLC All rights reserved.


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[Assistant] Nah. Cause square is what's in right now. Nah. Hey you, come over here.


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[Assistant] Why? This is because a square box is made using just a single cardboard sheet. Wow. Oh.


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[Assistant] Well, a round box requires several.


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[Assistant] As square boxes can be easily assembled on site, they are transported in the form of flat cardboard sheets, easily stacked on one another.


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[Assistant] However, round boxes need to be first assembled. This makes it difficult to transport and store these huge piles of boxes on site.


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[Assistant] Why is a laboratory thermometer not used to check body temperature? Oh, you have got fever.


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[Assistant] Oh, seems like you have made your choice. A clinical thermometer has a kink.


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[Assistant] Now, in a laboratory thermometer, this kink is absent. This is because a laboratory thermometer is meant to measure immediate temperature.


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[Assistant] Hence, after recording our body temperature, until we check it, the mercury will fall, thus not giving us an accurate reading.


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[Assistant] Next topic, anaerobic respiration. Heh. What is the cause of muscle cramps? Excess sleep. No.


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[Assistant] Respiration is a process in which the cells of our body produce energy.


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[Assistant] Normally, our cells respire aerobically. In this process, the glucose with the help of oxygen is completely broken down to produce energy, water and carbon dioxide. Is this energy then used for all our activities? Indeed.


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[Assistant] However, during heavy exercise, our body cannot deliver enough oxygen to the cells of our muscles. Hence, in such situations anaerobic respiration helps us to produce some energy temporarily and thus, continue our work.


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[Assistant] In anaerobic respiration, the glucose is partially broken down in the absence of oxygen to produce comparatively less amount of energy and a waste product called lactic acid.


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[Assistant] Why is glass transparent? Give me minimum five years to unravel its mystery.


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[Assistant] Alright, now listen. Any substance is said to be transparent when particles of visible light called photons are not absorbed by the substance and thus, they easily pass through the substance.


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[Assistant] Whether a substance will absorb the photons or not depends upon the gaps present in between the orbits of electrons of that substance.


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[Assistant] If the gaps in a substance are small, then the electrons of that substance are able to absorb the photons which pass through those gaps, making the substance opaque.


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[Assistant] I'll do. From where do you get such ideas? To explain arthritis, we need to first understand what a joint is. A joint is a place where two bones meet.


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[Assistant] When there is inflammation, swelling or pain in one or more joints, then it is termed as arthritis. The cause of arthritis depends upon the type of arthritis.


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[Assistant] Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage that cushions the ends of bones in a joint gradually breaks down and wears away. As a result, the bones begin to rub against each other, causing swelling and pain in that joint.


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[Assistant] I was going to be his younger sister's roommate at Northwestern, so I walked into their house and he was sitting in this chair and he made some sarcastic quip.


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[Assistant] Listen, Warren is smarter than you even know. His brain is going all the time. And my dad said to me, now you have to understand about him. You're not gonna have discussions with him like you would most normal people. But he has a heart of gold.


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[Assistant] I mean, he would go around saying I'm going to be the richest man in the world.


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[Assistant] When the children were growing up, I was very involved in civil rights.


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[Assistant] He would go with me to hear speakers.


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[Assistant] I was talking to him one day about some racial issue.


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[Assistant] I think sometimes geniuses are by default lonely and isolated.


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[Assistant] He was not really well adjusted. He was just, just funny. I mean, humorous guy who maybe had a motor around him.


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[Assistant] When the kids were little, I was feeling really sick. I had the flu. So I laid down on the bed and I said to Lauren, will you get me a pan or something from the kitchen? I may not get to the bathroom. I feel so sick.


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[Assistant] And that's why I learned to have my own life. We were two parallel lines. And, but very connected when he was open to connecting.


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[Assistant] So I called Austin, I said Austin will you take one, make him some soup, go over there and look after him because he's not gonna make it.


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[Assistant] I understand why we don't, because it's, uhm, business.


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[Assistant] To me, the crux of it is that it wasn't the money itself.


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[Assistant] Huge paintings or built big houses or anything like that. It's all mental with him. And the money is his scorecard.


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[Assistant] I don't go to most things than Omaha because I think Oscar lives there with him and that's for her to do. And then we do all kinds of things.


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[Assistant] We took a walk and he looked around and he doesn't, he's not very visual.


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[Assistant] He was looking around and he said, this really is, this is your city.


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[Assistant] I am so drawn to color and light and form and nature that he thought it was a good place for me.


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[Assistant] I always thought I'd marry a minister or a doctor or somebody out doing some...


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[Assistant] And the fact that I married somebody who makes just piles of money is really the antithesis of what I ever thought. But I know what he is. And uhm, he is... There's no finer human being than who he is.


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[Assistant] And I think it's a great company. I know it's Graham owned and Graham run and that's fine with me. And I thought, wow, this guy's really terrific.


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[Assistant] He used to come to board meetings with about 20 annual reports. And he would take me through these annual reports. I mean, it was like going to business school with Warren Buffett.


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[Assistant] I'm Patti Stonecypher, the CEO of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. And we appreciate you coming today, especially since I sent a very vague and very late notice to ask you to come to a conversation with Bill and Melinda on the future of philanthropy. So, let's get on with it.


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[Assistant] Where's my book?


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[Assistant] But then my book went and bath. And books don't like baths. But it's okay, because if you know the story inside your head, you can still tell it, even if the book is all drippy.


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[Assistant] Well, I was the oldest and then my brother and then my sister and my father would go to New York periodically to check on businesses and stops and things like that. And he'd come back. He always had a costume for each of us and Warren loved it. He was very good natured. He was quiet. It was hard to tell he was a genius at that point, but, um, I mean, who was looking?


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[Assistant] You know, I guess they still had these things where you crank them and things added up. And she could add it in her head faster than the machine could do it. She was absolutely amazing in that.


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[Assistant] Well, I think we were terrified of her. When I'd wake up in the morning, I'd listen to hear her voice. I could tell by her voice it was going to be a terrible day or not.


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[Assistant] The roommate said it was just driving him crazy because he studied all the time when Morgan would come in like 15 minutes before the exam and just ace his way through it.


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[Assistant] He was just totally enamored of her and why not, and she of him. She'd sit on his lap all the time and he'd stroke her hair. It was softening him. Susie was really


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[Assistant] One would sit upstairs in his little office there and, uh,


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[Assistant] I would bring up the name of a company and most of the time, he knew much more than I did about the company. He'd know how many shares were outstanding. He'd know the capitalization. He'd know the earnings. It was absolutely incredible. I mean, when Warren said something, it meant a heck of a lot.


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[Assistant] You're not buying an asset, you're buying a name, you're buying a brand, you're buying a real franchise here. And Charlie was more responsible for that than anybody.


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[Assistant] There was a time, Warren was getting criticized.