Is but to take a walking-stick[Pg 13]—

[Pg 13]

Assume an air of pleasure,

And tell the people near and far

You stroll about because you are

A Gentleman of Leisure.'

'You have solved the problem,' said Bunyip Bluegum, and, wringing his friend's hand, he ran straight home, took his Uncle's walking-stick, and assuming an air of pleasure, set off to see the world.

He found a great many things to see, such as dandelions, and ants, and traction engines, and bolting horses, and furniture being removed, besides being kept busy raising his hat, and passing the time of day with people on the road, for he was a very well-bred young fellow, polite in his manners, graceful in his attitudes, and able to converse on a great variety of subjects, having read all the best Australian poets.

Unfortunately, in the hurry of leaving home, he had[Pg 14] forgotten to provide himself with food, and at lunch time found himself attacked by the pangs of hunger.

[Pg 14]

'Dear me,' he said, 'I feel quite faint. I had no idea that one's stomach was so important. I have everything I require, except food; but without food everything is rather less than nothing.

'I've got a stick to walk with.

I've got a mind to think with.

I've got a voice to talk with.

I've got an eye to wink with.

I've lots of teeth to eat with,

A brand new hat to bow with,

 Prev. P 4/80 next