Edith Francis Foster

Jack's Mama was making pies. "Please, Jack," said she, "get me some cold water." Jack took his pail and went out to the pump. Jimmy Crow went too. He sat on Jack's shoulder, bouncing up and down as Jack worked the handle.

T hen Jack took the cup which hung on a nail and filled it at the pump. But as it touched his lips, Jimmy reached round and snatched it, and flew up into the big cherry tree. "April-Fool!" called out Pepper from Grandma's window.

J ack was vexed. "Bring that back!" he shouted—but Jimmy Crow only chuckled. Jack jumped on a barrel, and began to climb the tree. Just as he reached up to grab Jimmy's leg Jimmy hopped to the next branch higher, tipping the cup, and all the water splashed down into Jack's face. "April-April-Fool!" cried Pepper from the window. Jack felt more vexed than ever. He dropped his hat and hurried, but Jimmy hopped as fast as Jack climbed, till they reached the top of the tree. Then, just as Jack thought he had him, Jimmy Crow dropped the cup, bang! on his nose, and flew off to the rooftop of the house.

O h, you bad Jimmy!" cried Jack, and started to climb down again. And all the way Pepper screamed, "April-April-Fool!" and giggled and giggled till Jack had to laugh too.

T hen he carried in the pail of water, and told Mama all about it. "I didn't mean to get fooled once today," said he, "but Jimmy Crow has fooled me three times already."

T hey both laughed, and Mama gave him a whole little apple pie, baked in a dish. Edith Francis Foster