Guignol slid upon the stage and fell flop!—on his nose. Guignol began to dance. But again he tripped over his big feet and landed puff!—on his stomach.
He stood up, grunting and groaning and puffing, and again he danced.
Margot and Jeanne watched Pierrot bouncing up and down. Jeanne had to catch Pierrot's hat each time it flew off, as it did whenever Guignol fell down on the stage.
Pierrot's hair stood up like wire, and the cap went up in the air. At least, that is what Jeanne said it did!
When the fight came, they could not hold Pierrot. He kicked and squirmed and waved his arms.
Jeanne was so shocked when his cap flew off and hit a gentleman in the eye! Margot was embarrassed, too. They scolded and spanked Pierrot, but it did no good.
"He wants to be in the play," whispered Jeanne. "I have spoiled him by making him the hero, and now he cannot watch Guignol!"
The children were relieved when at last the play was over. They were then able to take the unruly puppet away and bundle him into the car.
"My child always disgraces me! But we cannot blame him," said Jeanne, shaking her head like a fond but troubled mother. "He was so abused before, and now he has discovered what a great actor he is, and what a hero!"
"Oh, but Pierrot is splendid!" answered Margot.