THE JUST SO STORIES FOR LITTLE CHILDREN (Illustrated Edition). Rudyard 1865-1936 Kipling

now and then you will hear grown-ups say, 'Can the Ethiopian change his skin or the Leopard his spots?' I don't think even grown-ups would keep on saying such a silly thing if the Leopard and the Ethiopian hadn't done it once—do you? But they will never do it again, Best Beloved. They are quite contented as they are.

      I am the Most Wise Baviaan, saying in most wise tones,

       'Let us melt into the landscape—just us two by our lones.'

       People have come—in a carriage—calling. But Mummy is there. . . .

       Yes, I can go if you take me—Nurse says she don't care. Let's go up to the pig-sties and sit on the farmyard rails! Let's say things to the bunnies, and watch 'em skitter their tails! Let's—oh, anything, daddy, so long as it's you and me, And going truly exploring, and not being in till tea! Here's your boots (I've brought 'em), and here's your cap and stick, And here's your pipe and tobacco. Oh, come along out of it—quick.