Oldal 221 [221]
PINOCCHIO 199
However, following the system of Gall, I dis¬
covered in his cranium a bony cartilage, that
the Faculty of Medicine in Paris has itself
recognised as the regenerating bulb of the hair,
and of dance. For this reason I have not only
taught him to dance, but also to jump through
hoops and through frames covered with paper.
Admire him, and then pass your opinion on
him! But before taking my leave of you, per¬
mit me, ladies and gentlemen, to invite you
to the daily performance that will take place
to-morrow evening; but in the apotheosis that
the weather should threaten rain, the perform¬
ance will be postponed till to-morrow morning
at 11 antemeridian of postmeridian.”
Here the director made another profound
bow; and then turning to Pinocchio, he said:
" Courage, Pinocchio! before you begin
your feats make your bow to this distinguished
audience—ladies, gentlemen, and children.”
Pinocchio obeyed, and bent both his knees
till they touched the ground, and remained
kneeling until the director shouted to him:
‘At a foot’s pace!”
Then the little donkey raised himself on
his four legs and began to walk round the
theatre, keeping at a foot’s pace.
After a little the director cried: