Later on, when he came down to face the crowds, he discovered the room was empty of flowers, and letters, and presents. The ministers of the crown had gone, and the street outside his house was deserted.

"Mum!" cried Ernest, "I'm my old self again! Look! It's me, just plain, ordinary Ernest! I'm a nobody! Isn't that wonderful!"

"Have you seen Ernest?" said Ernest's Mum, looking out the window, "I thought I heard him come in a few minutes ago. He'll be late for school."

Ernest hugged his mother and ran about the room, whistling and cheering. "Is that you Ernest? Have you brushed your hair yet?"

"I never brush my hair except for when I do brush it, sometimes!" said Ernest.

Now he knew he had just enough fame to be happy.