Real or Fake #26

(1) Read the story. (2) Tell the story in your own words. (3) Ask the questions.
The Signalman
James “Jumper” Wide worked for the Cape Town Port Authority Railway and often jumped between moving train cars. In 1877, he misjudged a jump and fell under a train, losing both of his legs.

To help with his daily life, James hired Jack to push his wheelchair, do chores, and even operate the railway signals. When the railway authorities found out about Jack, they weren’t happy — because Jack was a baboon.

The manager was ordered to fire both James and Jack, but James pleaded for their jobs and demonstrated how competent Jack truly was. The manager was amazed and decided to officially hire Jack, paying him 20 cents a day and half a bottle of beer each week.

Jack worked faithfully for nine years and never made a single mistake.
Comprehension Questions
  1. How did James lose his legs?
  2. What was Jack hired to do?
  3. How much did Jack get paid?
Discussion Questions
  1. Would you like to have a pet monkey?
  2. What are some other jobs that a monkey would be good at?
  3. Should animals be paid for their work?
  4. When was the last time you were on a train?

 

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