The Elf and the Dormouse

So - did you wonder how the Umbrella was invented?  Here's the answer:

The Elf and the Dormouse

by Oliver Herford

Under a toadstool

Crept a wee Elf,

Out of the rain

To shelter himself.

Under the toadstool,

Sound asleep,

Sat a big Dormouse

All in a heap.

Trembled the wee elf,

Frightened, and yet

Fearing to fly away

Lest he get wet.

To the next shelter ---

Maybe a mile!

Sudden the wee Elf

Smiled a wee smile,

Tugged till the toadstool

Toppled in two.

Holding it over him

Gaily he flwer.

Soon he was safe home

Dry as could be.

Soon woke the Dormouse ----

"Good gracious me!

Where is my toadstool?"

Loud he lamented.

---And that's how umbrellas

First were invented.

Pretty sure it's true.  ;-)

SG