But how to do it! All at once, by a happy inspiration, one bethought himself of the drum which was to be used in the dance.

The head was made of ground-hog leather, and perhaps a corner could be cut off and utilized for wings.

No sooner suggested than done.

Two pieces of leather taken from the drumhead were cut into shape and attached to the legs of one of the small animals, and thus originated the bat.

The ball was now tossed up and the bat was told to catch it, and his expertness in dodging and circling about, keeping the ball constantly in motion and never allowing it to fall to the ground, soon convinced the birds that they had gained a most valuable ally.