WOODEN FIGURES 91 



The other figures are rigid and immovable. Surely 

 this must be the Captain of the merry band ! 



Each of us, paper and pencil in hand, is asked 

 to note the number written beneath every model 

 and to record an opinion as to whom the figure is 

 intended to represent. The winner of the most 

 correct list receives a prize. 



The game is an engrossing one, for while all are 

 desirous of detecting their own characteristics, 

 even more interesting are the peculiarities of their 

 neighbours. Here, as shown by an accurate and 

 kindly observer, are the little human weaknesses 

 and the special accomplishments of all the garden 

 colony. Two golden-haired ones, whom others do 

 not hesitate in naming, are unable to recognise 

 themselves. One figure wears a large hat, but the 

 face below it is scarcely delineated ! Can this be 

 intentional, or did the artist suddenly feel unable 

 to read this character ? In vain we ask, At what 

 moment of night or day has the West Wind been 

 playing round Peg's Garden ? How could we be 

 unconscious that she was discovering the hearts 

 that are in that garden ? Those who appreciate 

 the charm of a busy hive of workers all concen- 

 trating their energy upon one happy effort will 

 know that it is not difficult to read hearts that are 

 simple and childlike. 



As the little figures are wrapped away again and 

 put to sleep until another festival comes round, 

 pleasant thoughts remain with each one of us. 

 The artistic beauty of workmanship and colour- 

 ing recalls the skill of bygone craftsmen who de- 

 voted leisure and infinite patience to a study of 



