Peter
Peter
Holland, or the Netherlands as we call that part of Western Europe, being below sea-level, has been long protected from the flow of the ocean by what they call dykes, which are some sort of sea-walls.
Long ago, when these dykes were first built, they were not so well-reinforced as now. Now and then, due to erosion, there appeared a small leak in the dyke; and if it went unrepaired at once, there was the fear of its growing into a breach and the sea submerging the coast habitations. So, there used to be a constant watch and vigil of the dykes, through both night and day.
One evening after sunset, it so happened that a cowherd boy named Peter discovered a leak in the dyke. The sentinel on guard had just retired and he would not soon return. The boy understood the position and impending danger. While he cried and cried for help, at the same time, he plugged the hole with his finger. There was neither sound, nor sight in response to his cries. Chill winds were biting and cold water freezing him. His voice grew low, as he thrust his whole hand into it. As it became numb, he thrust his other hand too. Had he not frozen meanwhile, he would have thrust his feet and even his whole body to plug the leak! But, he froze and became unconscious. It was in this condition that the watchman found him, when he returned to duty.
Questions :
- Write in your own words the story of brave Peter.
- Can you think of another story of this kind?
[Source – Stories for Children – II, Published by – Sri Sathya Sai Books & Publications Trust, Prashanti Nilayam]