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‹Better GutenbergGames and Songs of American ChildrenNo. 109 — Witch in the Jar · 120 of 172Contents›

Games and Songs of American Children

by William Wells Newell

120 of 172 · Contents · Download EPUB

No. 109 Witch in the Jar

One of the children is selected for a witch, and each of the others chooses some tree or post for a goal. The witch then marks out on the ground with a stick as many circles as there are players, which she calls “jars.” The children run out from their homes, and are pursued by the witch. Whenever she catches one, she puts him in one of her jars, from which he cannot escape unless some one else chooses to free him by touching. Once freed, he cannot be recaught until he has reached his home, and ventures out once more. The freer, however, can be caught, and as the witch keeps guard over her prisoners, it is a dangerous task for a player to attempt to set his companions free. When all are caught, a new witch is chosen.

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