It was an unfortunate remark, for the Dragon spouted terrific flames after him, and fast though he sped up against the slope, he had not gone nearly far enough to be comfortable before the ghastly head of Smaug was thrust through the opening behind. Luckily the whole head and jaws could not squeeze ink but the nostrils sent forth fire and vapor to pursue him, and he was nearly overcome, and stumbled blindly on in great pain and fear.

Chapter 12