Why The Giraffe's Neck Is Long

Southland Times, Issue 22146, 14 October 1933, Page 19

Why The Giraffe's Neck Is Long

Many years ago—before our ancestors were bom, all the animals lived in the forest—even the cows, horses and pigs, not to mention the cats and dogs. As these animals were getting unruly, and stubborn a system of education was set up. A school was built for each kind of animal—one for the tigers, one for the horses and so on. After this was brought into existence, the King Leo IV, found that one of each kind of animal was left and so a school was built to accommodate these. This school was different from the others. Different animals, different ideas and indifferences. But, apart from these, they had gymnasium classes. The giraffe was very good at this and so one day he said he would give a demonstration on this subject. All the principals, and teachers from miles around wore there. He did many wonderful things and, after a series of three, the last came to hand. This last one was to tie a knot in his neck! He did it and the King asked him to do it again. He did it, but he simply could not undo it again! Try as he could the knot would not come out. All the animals from the king to the pupils pulled to get his neck undone. At last, after everyone was exhausted it unfolded but instead of being two feet it was two and ten feet long! That is how the giraffe got his long neck and so, when you go to a zoo the next time, think of my story. It will help you wonderfully. If you do not believe me ask the giraffe himself! —3 marks to Cousin Ngaire Horrell (13) Mandeville.