The children had formed a large circle and held each other's hands.

In the middle of the circle stood the excluded child.

This child had to strike someone's hand at random and then there was a race around the circle to see who would first get in the open space inside.

This game was played with the greatest zeal; but suddenly Erick pulled his hands away from his neighbors' and ran away, so that great confusion arose.
"We will not let him play any more," cried Churi, much angered.
"Indeed we will," maintained Kaetheli firmly, "perhaps a wasp has stung him, or perhaps they play the same game where he used to live.

When he returns he can take my hand.