A wooden peg two inches long is driven into the ground. A little must
be left above the earth. The defeated boy has then to seize this with
his teeth and draw it out. If he has difficulty in getting hold, the
other boys are the more delighted and set up the cry, "Root! Root!"
but this is not fair, and he should not be discouraged.

JACK STONES

is a much older and a more widespread game than mumbly peg. The
knuckle bones of sheep and pigs, marbles, pebbles or any other small,
heavy objects that can be thrown and grasped, are used. The best are
made of iron and are sold cheaply.

Five stones or jacks are necessary for the game, a description of
which I shall not attempt, for the feats vary, and the ingenious boy
can add to them.

There may be a penalty decided on in the game of jack stones, but it
is not usual, and so may be placed among those contests of skill in
which success is its own reward.

HOP SCOTCH

is a far more strenuous game than the two just mentioned, nor, when
properly played, is it behind them in the skill required. Of course,
the best place for all games is out in the open country, but the
children in towns and cities do not cease from the play for want of
space.

Except when covered with snow and ice, Hop Scotch courts can be seen