THE PRISONER SET FREE. 127

to raise it, and thus liberate the captive; but the effort was
beyond their strength. Convinced, at length, of this, after
clamouring a little more, they marched away in a body, while
the prisoner quietly sat down and appeared resigned.

A short time afterwards a great deal of quacking was
heard, and a regiment of upwards of forty ducks was seen
marching into the yard, headed by two handsome drakes,
known by the names of Robin Hood and Friar Tuck. Evi-
dently with a preconceived purpose, they all marched up to
the crate and surrounded it. Every neck was thrust beneath
the lowest bar of the prison; every effort was made to raise
it, but in vain. At length a parley ensued. Then the noise
ceased. Only the deep-toned quacking of Robin Hood was
heard, when their object became clear. All the tribe gath-
ered together on one side of the crate, the strongest in front,
and as many as could reach it thrust their necks beneath
the crate, while the rest pushed them forward from behind.
Thus they succeeded in overturning the crate, and setting
free their imprisoned friend. With clamorous rejoicings from
the whole troop, the liberated duck limped off in their midst.

These sensible ducks teach us the important lesson that
union is streneth. Not that they, you will agree with me,
showed their wisdom exactly in liberating their companion,
who was placed in confinement for his benefit. However,
remember through life how much you may effect in a good
cause by sinking all minor differences, and uniting with
others like-minded with yourself.

—sogvere—