The Elf And The Dormouse

Under a toad stool Crept a wee Elf, Out of the rain To shelter himself.

Under the toad stool Sound asleep, Sat a big Dormouse All in a heap.

Trembled the wee Elf Frightened, and yet Fearing to fly away Lest he get wet.

To the next shelter-- Maybe a mile! Sudden the wee Elf Smiled a wee smile;

Tugged till the toad stool Toppled in two; Holding it over him, Gayly he flew.

Soon he was safe home, Dry as could be. Soon woke the Dormouse-- "Good gracious me!

"Where is my toad stool?" Loud he lamented. And that's how umbrellas First were invented.

--OLIVER HERFORD.

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