Saw out the platform and wheels to dimensions. The connecting rod should be of wood 1/8" thick and 1/4" wide. A hole is bored near the end that is pivoted to the throat of the elephant; in the other end is a fork to fit over the axle crank with a fine hole bored at right angle thru the connecting rod for a brad to prevent the crank from slipping out. The two axles are made from No. 12 steel wire. One is straight, the other has a crank in the middle. Flat places are hammered near each end of the axles so that they may be pressed into holes in the wheels and not turn. Each axle is held to the platform by two staples which may be made from long brads by cutting off the heads.
Color the elephant gray, the blanket red and yellow, the platform and connecting rod red, and the wheels yellow. Fasten the platform to the elephant by driving nails thru it into the feet. Press the wheels onto the axles and fasten the axles under the platform so they move freely. Fit head and rod in places so all connections are strong and move without friction. Attach a string to the front end of the platform, and when pulled on the floor, the elephant will swing his trunk up and down in a vicious manner.
Animated Elephant
THE BUCKING MULE
Saw out of 3/8" stock the bodies of the mule and rider ([Fig. 19]). All legs and arms are of 3/16" stock. Two circles to be placed between the man's arms and shoulders are of 1/4" wood. The connecting rod, marked Z, Z ([Fig. 20]), shown full size and of 3/8" stock, is to connect the fore legs of the mule and the crank on the axle. Fasten the legs to the mule and arms and legs to the rider with loose joints. Then take rod Z, Z, and make the fork-like cut in the wide end and drill a small hole thru it at right angles to that cut. This is for the nail that holds the crank in place. Fasten the rod securely between the fore legs of the mule at the position indicated. The tail is then fastened with two 1/2" brads. Paint the mule and rider in contrasting colors.
