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23. JAP CHILDREN.


1. When a Jap boy is born there is great joy in his home. His mother's
friends all come to see him. They bring him presents, such as toys,
dried fish, and eggs.

2. Very early in his life the little Jap baby is strapped on to his
sister's back. He goes with her wherever she goes. If the weather is
cold, the little girl covers him with her coat. When the sun is hot she
shelters him with her sunshade.

3. When she plays she jumps and skips and runs about, and all the time
baby's little head jerks to and fro. He does not mind; he is quite
happy. You never hear a Jap baby cry.

4. When a boy is about three years of age he learns to walk. He soon
finds his feet, and runs about on high wooden clogs.

5. Jap boys are fond of pets and games. Wherever a boy goes he carries
with him a long pole. With this he makes flying leaps and does many
clever tricks.

6. Every boy in Japan wishes to be either a soldier or a sailor when he
grows up. Even tiny little mites play with flags and drums and little
guns. When the boys are older they are taught to be brave, and to die if
need be for their country.