Chums Become Kings

Otago Witness, Issue 4069, 8 March 1932, Page 70

Chums Become Kings

By

ERN. SHAW

Copyright

NO. NINE. After tramping many weary miles, the Chums left the land of Cleptomania behind, and came to a strange country where the people were very tall and very thin. When they turned sideways (the people, I mean, not the Chums) you couldn’t see them at all. The Chums approached a very wise-looking old man, and Golly said: “ Can you tell us where the magic river is?" The old man threw up his hands in horror and turned sideways, to vanish at .once! “ This river doesn’t seem to be popular," said Golly, " let’s ask this boy." They went up to a boy, who was already six feet, six inches tall, and looked ridiculous in a schoolboy's cap and short trousers, and Teddy said: “ Have you heard of a magic river anywhere about here?” “ Yes," piped the boy, and his knees began to shake. “ There’s the magic river three miles away over there." He pointed. “ But you mustn’t let the water touch you or you will be turned into a fish forever! There isn’t any bridge, and there isn't any boat!” Then he, too, turned sideways and was seen no more. But the Chums were not afraid. They soon reached the magic river, which was not very wide, and lined by tall trees. “ I’ve a brainwave,” cried Golly. “ Impossible!” replied Teddy. Golly clambered up a swaying tree and when he reached the top it bent over and gently landed him on the opposite bank. " Trust your Uncle Golly,” he chortled.* *' Come along, now, come along!" Teddy snorted, but followed his example. (To be Continued.)