Jackanapes

Geese share a village green with residents whose firm opinions often invite a smile in Juliana Horatia Ewing's children's story. The opening recalls preparations to fight the French and the arrival of the Black Captain, an officer with a remarkable black mare. Through the Grey Goose's confused explanations and the villagers' distrust of soldiers, Ewing gives public anxieties the scale of a small community where everyone knows everyone else's business.

The story later turns to Jackanapes, also called Theodore, as Miss Jessamine prepares him to meet his grandfather, the General. Her instructions cover clean hands, tidy lesson books and respectful manners. Once the two begin talking, the boy recounts his spending at the village fair, including presents for his aunt and the Postman. Readers can enjoy the contrast between adult expectations and a child's enthusiasms, while following a historical tale rooted in family affection and village life.