The Wallypug of Why

by G. E. Farrow

“Silence,” called the Husher. “Now repeat the question,” he added, turning to the Poodle.

The Poodle repeated the last verse.

“Now then, what’s the verdict?” asked the Husher, looking all around the room.

A small Guineapig at the further end held up his paw.

“Well?” said the Husher.

“‘I SHOULD LIKE TO PUT A FEW QUESTIONS.’”

“I should like to put a few questions to the Poodle before replying,” squeaked the Guineapig.

“Certainly,” said the Poodle politely.

“First of all,” said the Guineapig, referring to some notes that he had made, “you said you had heard that the people of Japan were most polite; now where did you hear it?”