Best Gopher Ever
by Arthur DiBianca (2018)

Help the unfortunate residents of Fairview! (Who are all animals, by the way.) A light puzzle for all ages.

action: %
response: Special thanks to Andy Fleming, Lorne Harris, and Brian Rushton for testing, and to Nadia Bellazola for cover art.

You are at the main entrance to the town of Fairview. A large gate leads out of town to the south, and a short path runs north to Primrose Street.

A well-dressed owl paces back and forth, murmuring worriedly. "Greetings!" he says in a deep voice. "I am Alfred P. Owl, the mayor of Fairview. Oh, it's an awful situation. Throughout our town, the animals have problems, very serious problems. Please, please help us!" He clasps his wings imploringly. "Come back after you have helped at least five of our hapless residents."
action: You go north
response: This cobbled street runs east and west, and a path leads south to the town gate.
action: Y.
response: debugcheapnitfol quit with exit status: 0
action: %
response: Special thanks to Andy Fleming, Lorne Harris, and Brian Rushton for testing, and to Nadia Bellazola for cover art.

You are at the main entrance to the town of Fairview. A large gate leads out of town to the south, and a short path runs north to Primrose Street.

A well-dressed owl paces back and forth, murmuring worriedly. "Greetings!" he says in a deep voice. "I am Alfred P. Owl, the mayor of Fairview. Oh, it's an awful situation. Throughout our town, the animals have problems, very serious problems. Please, please help us!" He clasps his wings imploringly. "Come back after you have helped at least five of our hapless residents."
action: You go north
response: This cobbled street runs east and west, and a path leads south to the town gate.
action: Go east
response: The cobbled street ends here at a tall fence.

A white umbrella is leaning against the fence. You take it!
action: You take the umbrella
response: You won't need to GET or TAKE things in this game. (If something is worth taking, you'll do it automatically.)
action: Inventory
response: You are carrying a white umbrella.
action: You go to the west
response: This cobbled street runs east and west, and a path leads south to the town gate.
action: Go west
response: Primrose Street ends here in a cul-de-sac. You see a shop to the south and an empty lot to the north.
action: You go south
response: The walls of this small shop are lined with tools. A sign hanging in front of the counter says, "Today's Sale: Hammers only five bucks!"

A doe sits behind the counter, filing her hoof with an emery board. She looks up. "Hi hon, I'm Janice, welcome to Tool Emporium. Are you having a nice day? I'm not. No one has bought anything, and look at these hooves: they're a mess, and I'm all out of my beautiful red hoof polish."

(Type STATUS to see a status report, including a list of unsolved problems.)
action: You go to the north
response: This empty lot is overgrown with weeds. The cul-de-sac is to the south.

You discover an old hubcap lying in a patch of weeds. You take it!
action: You go east
response: Corncob Lane continues east and west.

A pig in a tweed blazer and skirt is examining the ground through a magnifying glass. She jumps as you approach. "Oh, hi! I'm Emily Pig. I guess this must look a little silly. Well, I lost the key to my suitcase, and it's pretty small, so I'm just carefully retracing my steps." She sighs. "This is going to take a while."
action: Talk
response: "I'm still looking for my key. If you find it, please let me know!"
action: You go east
response: Corncob Lane ends here by the shore of Lake Horatio. You see a small house to the north. "E. P." is painted on the mailbox.
action: You go to the north
response: This small house is painted blue and features a bookshelf filled with detective novels. Two large suitcases stand next to the bed.

You notice a tiny key lying under the table. You pick it up!
action: Go west
response: Corncob Lane continues east and west.

Emily Pig is examining the ground through a magnifying glass.
action: You give the key
response: Emily looks up. "Oh, you found it! Thank you! This is such a relief." She puts the key in her pocket. "Here's a tip!" She gives you a quarter. Then she flops down on the ground and starts to read a small book.

(You have helped one animal!)
action: You go to the north
response: To the north, Little Oak Stream runs west to east, dividing Fairview in half. A wide wooden bridge crosses the stream.

A large ant leans against a bridge post. "Hello," he says slowly. "Name's Werner. We've got a problem: some of those boards are loose, and the bridge isn't safe! I'm eager to fix it, but I need a hammer. Actually, wait a second!" He fishes around in his pocket.
action: Talk
response: Werner pulls a five-dollar bill out of his pocket and gives it to you. "Here, see if you can find me a hammer!"
action: You go south
response: The walls of this small shop are lined with tools. A sign hanging in front of the counter says, "Today's Sale: Hammers only five bucks!"

Janice Doe sits behind the counter, filing her hoof with an emery board.
action: You give the bill
response: "Finally, a customer!" says Janice. She takes your five dollars, gives you a hammer, and goes back to filing her hoof. "These are really good hammers. You're getting a fantastic deal."
action: Go north
response: To the north, Little Oak Stream runs west to east, dividing Fairview in half. A wide wooden bridge crosses the stream.

Werner Ant leans against a bridge post, staring worriedly at the bridge.
action: You give the hammer
response: "Say, that's a fine hammer!" Werner grabs the hammer and immediately gets to work on the bridge.

(You have helped two animals!)
action: Go north
response: "I'm not done yet!" shouts Werner.

Werner Ant pries up some old nails from the bridge.
action: You wait
response: Time passes.

Werner Ant pulls some shiny nails out of his pocket.
action: Wait
response: Time passes.

Werner Ant pounds in a few nails.
action: You wait
response: Time passes.

Werner Ant pounds in one last nail and wipes his forehead.
action: You wait
response: Time passes.

Werner Ant gets up. "That should do it!" he says. "This bridge is now fixed and safe to use."
action: Talk
response: "Another job well done," says Werner. "Thanks for getting that hammer."
action: You go north
response: Willow Avenue continues north. To the south, a bridge crosses Little Oak Stream. A small building to the west has a sign that says "Personal Museum."
action: You go west
response: This is a very odd one-room museum. Shelves hold an assortment of worthless-looking items. In the middle of the room is a large table covered in black velvet.

A rat stands next to the table, weeping into a handkerchief. "Hello," he whimpers. "My?my name is Tobias Rat. Alas! my prize collection of Five Round Things has disappeared. Oh, what shall I do?" He starts bawling again.
action: You give the cap
response: "Ah!" says Tobias. "That is a fascinating specimen!" He takes the hubcap, polishes it with his handkerchief, and puts it on the table. "Please accept this token of my gratitude." He hands you a pair of gently used earplugs.
action: You check what you're carrying
response: You are carrying a pair of earplugs, a quarter, and a white umbrella.
action: Go east
response: Maple Street continues east and west.

You notice a brand-new unsharpened pencil lying in the middle of the street. You take it!
action: Go east
response: Maple Street ends here near Lake Horatio. To the north you see a comfortable-looking brick house.
action: You go north
response: This is a well-furnished living room. The walls are hung with various portraits. The exit is south.

A yak in a bathrobe sits in an armchair, looking miserable. As you enter, he hands you a business card that says "Herman Yak, Attorney at Law." Then he points at the cup of hot water he's holding.
action: Talk
response: Herman Yak points at his neck and shakes his head. Then he points at his cup.
action: You take the cup
response: You won't need to GET or TAKE things in this game. (If something is worth taking, you'll do it automatically.)
action: You check your inventory
response: You are carrying Herman Yak's business card, an unsharpened pencil, a pair of earplugs, a quarter, and a white umbrella.
action: You give the pencil
response: Herman Yak frowns and shakes his head.
action: Go west
response: Maple Street continues east and west.
action: You go north
response: Here Willow Avenue passes between the Footlight Theater to the west and Zoltan's Restaurant to the east.

A confused-looking hen stands in front of the theater. "Stop a moment! My name is Cornelia Hen. Please help me. I can't leave my post of course, but I absolutely have to have...it was a...well now, what was it?" She scratches her head.
action: Talk
response: Cornelia says, "Oh, I remember! I need...I think...was it? No, it wasn't." She shuffles her foot.
action: Talk
response: "Hmm," says the hen, "maybe...was it...yes? No. No? No. Yes. No."
action: You wait for a while
response: Time passes.

"I need to start doing those memory exercises," says Cornelia.
action: You go east
response: Small round tables with white tablecloths fill the large dining room. Zoltan's is known for fine food, but it is strangely empty right now. The exit is west.

A dinner plate lies on the floor near one of the tables. You take it!
action: You go to the west
response: Here Willow Avenue passes between the Footlight Theater to the west and Zoltan's Restaurant to the east.

Cornelia Hen stands in front of the theater, looking bewildered.
action: Go north
response: This is the north end of Willow Avenue. To the east you see an abandoned drugstore.
action: Go east
response: This little drugstore seems to be abandoned. The shelves are empty, and there is no one here.

A small bottle of purple hoof polish is sitting on the counter. Apparently no one else wants it, so you take it!
action: You go to the south
response: Here Willow Avenue passes between the Footlight Theater to the west and Zoltan's Restaurant to the east.

Cornelia Hen stands in front of the theater, looking bewildered.

"Now what the heck was it?" mutters Cornelia.
action: You go to the west
response: Cornelia stops you. "You need a ticket to enter the theater!"
action: Inventory
response: You are carrying a bottle of purple hoof polish, a dinner plate, Herman Yak's business card, an unsharpened pencil, a pair of earplugs, a quarter, and a white umbrella.
action: You give the card
response: Cornelia looks at Herman Yak's business card. "Is that what I need? I think it might be. Although...no, probably not. I can't remember."
action: You go west
response: Maple Street continues in both directions, but to the west it is blocked by a huge pile of rubble.

A cow in an orange vest notices you. "Can you believe this? When they demolished the old Krone building yesterday, the whole thing fell into the street! I'm supposed to start clearing it, but I can't find a hard hat. My name is Barbara, by the way." She shakes your hand.
action: You go west
response: This is a very odd one-room museum. Shelves hold an assortment of worthless-looking items. In the middle of the room is a large table covered in black velvet, on which you see an old hubcap.

Tobias Rat stands next to the table, weeping into a handkerchief.
action: You give the plate
response: "Ooh!" says Tobias. He rubs the surface of the plate thoughtfully, then puts it on the table. "Please accept this in return." He takes a hand mirror from a shelf and gives it to you.
action: You give quarter
response: "Oh!" says Tobias. "That's lovely!" He takes the quarter and examines it closely. Then he places it delicately on the table. "Here, let me reward you with something special." He takes a fresh-looking teabag out of his pocket and hands it to you.
action: You check your inventory
response: You are carrying a teabag, a tarnished hand mirror, a bottle of purple hoof polish, Herman Yak's business card, an unsharpened pencil, a pair of earplugs, and a white umbrella.
action: Go north
response: This is a well-furnished living room. The walls are hung with various portraits. The exit is south.

Herman Yak sits in an armchair, holding a cup of hot water and looking miserable.
action: You give the tea
response: Herman brightens up as he takes the teabag. He drops it into his cup of water. He gives you a thumbs-up, then reaches into the pocket of his bathrobe and hands you a ticket.

(You have helped three animals!)
action: You go west
response: Maple Street continues in both directions, but to the west it is blocked by a huge pile of rubble.

Barbara Cow surveys the situation.

Barbara shakes her head at the rubble. "Amateurs."
action: Go north
response: Here Willow Avenue passes between the Footlight Theater to the west and Zoltan's Restaurant to the east.

Cornelia Hen stands in front of the theater, looking bewildered.

"I need to start doing those memory exercises," says Cornelia.
action: You give the ticket
response: Cornelia takes the ticket and tears it, and gives the stub back to you. "You may now enter the theater."
action: Go west
response: This theater has an awful lot of red velvet, from the curtain to the carpet to the seats. A poster advertises the currently running "Murder in the Dell." The main doors are east, and to the west is another smaller exit.
action: Go west
response: This narrow alley runs behind the Footlight Theater. To the west you see a wide road.
action: You go west
response: This wide road is lined with small flowering shrubs. It runs north and south, and a narrow alley leads east.
action: Go north
response: Walnut Road ends here. To the west a locked gate leads into the Ostracod Estate. To the east is Timmit Pool.
action: Go east
response: On a sunny day like this, Timmit Pool is a favorite destination for the youth of Fairview. Several small snakes and frogs are playing in a large round pool.

A grown-up asp lies in a chair by the pool. "Hi," he says weakly. "I'm Simon Asp. My kids have been here for hours. I'm so hungry. I can't move."
action: Talk
response: Simon looks at you pleadingly. "Could you please bring me a snack?"
action: Inventory
response: You are carrying a ticket stub, a tarnished hand mirror, a bottle of purple hoof polish, Herman Yak's business card, an unsharpened pencil, a pair of earplugs, and a white umbrella.
action: You go south
response: Walnut Road crosses Maple Street here. A statue in the middle of the intersection is dedicated to Horatio J. Turkey, the founder of Fairview. You may proceed in any direction, but to the south, a wide stream of oil flows across the road.
action: You go south
response: As soon as your foot touches the oil, you slip and fall down. You get up wincing.
action: You go to the east
response: Maple Street is interrupted here by a huge pile of rubble. On the north side of the street you can see the foundation of what was a large building. To the south a sign marks the entrance to Little Oak Park.
action: Go south
response: This pleasant park on the bank of Little Oak Stream is named after the eight-foot tree that stands at its center. A sign describes the tree as the "smallest oak in the four-county area."

A bat hanging from a light pole calls out as you enter. "Oh, help me!" she says. "My name is Violet Bat. That awful noise is driving me crazy! Please do something!"

You can't hear whatever she is talking about.
action: You give earplugs
response: Violet Bat is hanging out of reach.
action: Go west
response: You are in the front yard of a small brick house that stands to the north. Maple Street continues east and west. An overgrown hedge separates this yard from the one to the west.

A dog wearing a sun hat stands in front of the house. She yells at the hedge, "If you don't give them back to me, I swear I will?I will do something you'll regret!" She turns to face you. "My name is Henrietta Dog. You will never believe what an attitude that?that INDIVIDUAL has. He refuses to return my...oh, it just makes me too mad."
action: You go west
response: Maple Street ends here in another front yard, which contains an assortment of plastic flamingos, gnomes, birdbaths, and the like. An overgrown hedge separates this yard from the one to the east. There is a small green house to the north.

A tawny cat is sitting here in a lawn chair. He wears sunglasses and holds a newspaper. "Hey there!" he calls to you. "I'm Jack Cat. Nice day! Too sunny, though. I need a way to get some shade."
action: You give umbrella
response: "Now that will give some shade," says Jack, taking the umbrella. "But I don't want to sit here holding it. I'll get too tired. I need some way to attach it to my lawn chair!"
action: You check what you're carrying
response: You are carrying a ticket stub, a tarnished hand mirror, a bottle of purple hoof polish, Herman Yak's business card, an unsharpened pencil, and a pair of earplugs.
action: Go north
response: It's not easy to maneuver inside this dwelling, because there are piles of stuff everywhere: mostly books, but also half-assembled furniture, electronic components, and cardboard boxes. On one wall hangs a photo of two aged cats. The exit is south.

A battered orange frisbee sits on one pile of boxes. You hesitate for a moment, then grab it.
action: Go south
response: Maple Street ends here in another front yard, which contains an assortment of plastic flamingos, gnomes, birdbaths, and the like. An overgrown hedge separates this yard from the one to the east. There is a small green house to the north.

Jack Cat sits here in his lawn chair, reading the newspaper. An umbrella is lying across his lap.

"You certainly did!" calls a voice from the other side of the hedge.
action: Go east
response: You are in the front yard of a small brick house that stands to the north. Maple Street continues east and west. An overgrown hedge separates this yard from the one to the west.

Henrietta Dog is here, glaring at the hedge.

"It's not like you ever use them," calls a voice from the other side of the hedge. "Which is why I can't even see you right now."
action: Go north
response: The front door is locked.

"Of course I use them!" shouts Henrietta. "Now give them back!"
action: Wait
response: Time passes.

"I never borrowed them, you silly dog," calls a voice from the other side of the hedge.
action: You wait
response: Time passes.

"You certainly did!" cries Henrietta. "How dare you deny it!"
action: You wait
response: Time passes.

"It's not like you ever use them," calls a voice from the other side of the hedge. "Which is why I can't even see you right now."
action: You wait
response: Time passes.

"Of course I use them!" shouts Henrietta. "Now give them back!"
action: Go west
response: Maple Street continues in both directions, but to the west it is blocked by a huge pile of rubble.

Barbara Cow surveys the situation.
action: Go west
response: This is a very odd one-room museum. Shelves hold an assortment of worthless-looking items. In the middle of the room is a large table covered in black velvet, on which you see an old hubcap, a quarter, and a dinner plate.

Tobias Rat stands next to the table, weeping into a handkerchief.

"Who would do such a thing?" moans Tobias.
action: You give the frisbee
response: "I've always wanted one of these!" cries Tobias. He hugs the frisbee and places it on the table. "This is a feeble reward, but please take it." He picks up a pair of garden shears and gives them to you.
action: You go to the west
response: You are in the front yard of a small brick house that stands to the north. Maple Street continues east and west. An overgrown hedge separates this yard from the one to the west.

Henrietta Dog is here, glaring at the hedge.

"Of course I use them!" shouts Henrietta. "Now give them back!"
action: You give the shears
response: "You got them back!" cries Henrietta, clapping. "It's about time!" she shouts at the hedge. Then she unlocks her front door, runs inside, and returns a moment later wearing heavy leather gloves. She begins clipping the hedge.

(You have helped four animals!)
action: Talk
response: "I just love clipping," says Henrietta.
action: Go north
response: This quaint little house is decorated with carnation wallpaper, tulip curtains, and a large vase of possibly fake irises. The exit is south.

You discover a large speckled egg sitting out on a counter. You take it!
action: Go south
response: You are in the front yard of a small brick house that stands to the north. Maple Street continues east and west. An overgrown hedge separates this yard from the one to the west.

Henrietta stands next to the hedge, clipping away.
action: Go west
response: This is a very odd one-room museum. Shelves hold an assortment of worthless-looking items. In the middle of the room is a large table covered in black velvet, on which you see an old hubcap, a quarter, a dinner plate, and an orange frisbee.

Tobias Rat stands next to the table, weeping into a handkerchief.
action: You give the egg
response: Tobias looks at the egg. "No, I collect things that are more flat and round. That way they don't roll off the table."
action: Inventory
response: You are carrying a large speckled egg, a ticket stub, a tarnished hand mirror, a bottle of purple hoof polish, Herman Yak's business card, an unsharpened pencil, and a pair of earplugs.
action: Go east
response: On a sunny day like this, Timmit Pool is a favorite destination for the youth of Fairview. Several small snakes and frogs are playing in a large round pool.

Simon Asp lies weakly in a chair by the pool.

"How long can they stay in there?" whimpers Simon.
action: You give the egg
response: Simon's eyes widen. "Oh, you're a life saver." He accepts the egg and slowly swallows it whole. Then he smiles and falls asleep.

(You have helped five animals! Go talk to the mayor!)
action: You go south
response: To the north, Little Oak Stream runs west to east, dividing Fairview in half. A wide wooden bridge crosses the stream.

Werner Ant leans against a bridge post, looking calmly at the stream.

Werner nods approvingly at the bridge.
action: Go south
response: You are at the main entrance to the town of Fairview. A large gate leads out of town to the south, and a short path runs north to Primrose Street.

Alfred P. Owl paces back and forth, murmuring worriedly.
action: Talk
response: "Excellent!" says the mayor. "I knew I could count on you! There are many other animals who desperately need your help, so don't stop now! I'd like to give you some assistance, but this is the only useful thing I have on hand." He presents you with a shiny silver motorcycle helmet.
action: Go south
response: But you haven't helped all the animals!

The mayor shakes his head.
action: You go north
response: To the north, Little Oak Stream runs west to east, dividing Fairview in half. A wide wooden bridge crosses the stream.

Werner Ant leans against a bridge post, looking calmly at the stream.
action: Go west
response: This is a very odd one-room museum. Shelves hold an assortment of worthless-looking items. In the middle of the room is a large table covered in black velvet, on which you see an old hubcap, a quarter, a dinner plate, and an orange frisbee.

Tobias Rat stands next to the table, weeping into a handkerchief.

"Woe is me," says Tobias.
action: You give the helmet
response: "That's not regulation equipment," says Barbara. "On the other hand, I need to get working. OK, fine." She forces the helmet on her head with some difficulty. Then she starts hacking at the rubble, and immediately discovers an oil valve. "Whoa, this oil valve is open! That can't be good!" She shuts it off. "Why they installed an oil valve on the street here, I'll never know."

(You have helped six animals!)
action: Go west
response: There's still no way past all the rubble.

Barbara whistles an old farm tune.
action: Go south
response: Walnut Road crosses Maple Street here. A statue in the middle of the intersection is dedicated to Horatio J. Turkey, the founder of Fairview. You may proceed in any direction.

The pavement is still a bit oily, but you should be able to cross it now.
action: You go to the south
response: This section of Walnut Road is quiet and peaceful. To the south, the road crosses a bridge over Little Oak Stream.
action: You go south
response: Walnut Road continues its long journey north and south. To the east is a concrete building with a sign that says LABORATORY.
action: You go east
response: This large chamber is filled with worktables and various pieces of apparatus. In the center stands a massive machine. Several long metal rods stick up from the machine through a hole in the ceiling. They are vibrating violently.

A ram in a white lab coat is peering into the machine. He turns to meet you. "Greetings! Pleased to make your acquaintance. I am Professor Hubert Ram, and this is my wonderful Alteratomatic. Well, that's what I'm calling it now, but I might change the name later. Anyway, it's all charged up and ready to go, but sadly I can't activate it until I find a 33-ounce oscillating prosistor."
action: Go south
response: Juniper Lane runs west from here, and Walnut Road continues north and south. To the east you can see a lot of tall weeds.
action: Go east
response: This lot is full of weeds and occasional pieces of trash, as well as a large muddy puddle. You can see Walnut Road to the west.
action: You go south
response: This is the south end of Walnut Road. Azalea Street starts here and runs west. To the east is a post office.
action: You go east
response: This small post office features a counter and a wall of locked mailboxes. A sign advertises same-day delivery to addresses in Fairview.

A large bee is pacing nervously behind the counter. "You've got to help me!" she exclaims. "I have to make deliveries later today, and I can't find my mail bag, and if I don't find it then I can't deliver anything, and I will be in SO much trouble, and I'm going to get fired, and I'm not kidding at all!" She pauses for breath. "Also, my name is Meg Bee."
action: You go to the west
response: Azalea Street ends here. To the south you see what looks like an auto repair shop.
action: Go south
response: This is the front office of an auto repair shop. A desk and table are covered with work orders, and various keys hang from a rack on the wall.

A fox wearing greasy jeans and a T-shirt stands by the desk, holding a work order. "Welcome to the shop!" he says. "I'm Willard Fox. If your vehicle needs any work, bring it in! But hey, maybe you can help me with a little problem." He taps the work order. "Simon Asp wants his car back tomorrow, and I can't fix it because I've lost my Jenkins-head screwdriver. Could you find me one? Here." He gives you a ten-dollar bill.

"Oh, by the way," he adds, "in case you don't know, there's a path between the two empty lots. You have to look carefully to find it."
action: Go east
response: This small post office features a counter and a wall of locked mailboxes. A sign advertises same-day delivery to addresses in Fairview.

Meg Bee is pacing nervously behind the counter.
action: You go to the east
response: You can't go that way.

Meg buzzes unhappily.
action: Go east
response: This lot is full of weeds and occasional pieces of trash, as well as a large muddy puddle. You can see Walnut Road to the west.

Sure enough, you discover a small path east through the weeds!
action: Go east
response: This empty lot is overgrown with weeds, but a small path leads west through them. The cul-de-sac is to the south.
action: Go south
response: The walls of this small shop are lined with tools. A sign hanging in front of the counter says, "Today's Sale: Hammers only five bucks!"

Janice Doe sits behind the counter, filing her hoof with an emery board.

Janice blows on her hoof.
action: You give the bill
response: "I'll bet you want a screwdriver," says Janice as she takes the bill. She hunts around under the counter and gives you one.
action: You go to the west
response: This lot is full of weeds and occasional pieces of trash, as well as a large muddy puddle. You can see Walnut Road to the west. A small path leads east through the weeds.
action: You go west
response: Juniper Lane runs east from here. An imposing courthouse stands to the north, and to the west is a school: Fairview Elementary, according to the sign.
action: You go to the west
response: This is one of several classrooms at Fairview Elementary. It contains about fifteen young animals, pretty well-behaved as it appears. You can leave the school to the east or south.

The teacher, a tall emu, nods to you as you enter. "Welcome to 4A. Say hello, class. My name is Mrs. Rosina Emu. I was just telling the class about a little problem. I've lost my glasses, so I can't read from our history book. It's very distressing."

Several of the students giggle. You notice that Mrs. Emu's glasses are on top of her head.
action: Talk
response: Before you can communicate anything, Mrs. Emu says, "Excuse me, I don't mind your observing, but we really can't have any additional talking. It sets a poor example for the students."
action: You give the mirror
response: "No thank you," says Mrs. Emu as she glances at the mirror. Then she notices her reflection. "Good heavens! My glasses have been on my head this whole time!" The students start laughing, and Mrs. Emu gives them a very severe look as she lowers her glasses into position.

(You have helped seven animals!)
action: Talk
response: Mrs. Emu says, "Excuse me, I don't mind your observing, but we really can't have any additional talking. It sets a poor example for the students."
action: Go north
response: You stand in the carved-wood foyer of the Fairview courthouse. There is only one courtroom, and it seems to be empty.

A coupon for a free piece of luggage is lying on the front counter. You take it!
action: Go south
response: This is the front office of an auto repair shop. A desk and table are covered with work orders, and various keys hang from a rack on the wall.

Willard Fox stands by the desk, examining a work order for Cornelia Hen.
action: You give the screwdriver
response: Willard looks at the screwdriver. "No, that's not what I need. That's a Jarvis-head, but Simon Asp's car requires a Jenkins-head. Totally non-standard, but what are you gonna do?" He shrugs.
action: You go west
response: This is one of several classrooms at Fairview Elementary. It contains about fifteen young animals, pretty well-behaved as it appears. You can leave the school to the east or south.

Mrs. Rosina Emu stands in front of the class.
action: You go south
response: The Fairview Elementary playground is full of swings, seesaws, and other familiar equipment. There is no one here right now.

An old plastic hula hoop has been left near the slide. You take it!
action: Go north
response: This is one of several classrooms at Fairview Elementary. It contains about fifteen young animals, pretty well-behaved as it appears. You can leave the school to the east or south.

Mrs. Rosina Emu stands in front of the class.

Mrs. Emu reads aloud from A History of the World for Young Animals.
action: You give the screwdriver
response: Janice shakes her head. "We have a no-return policy."
action: Go north
response: To the north, Little Oak Stream runs west to east, dividing Fairview in half. A wide wooden bridge crosses the stream.

Werner Ant leans against a bridge post, looking calmly at the stream.

Werner pats his new hammer affectionately.
action: Go west
response: Maple Street continues in both directions, but to the west it is blocked by a huge pile of rubble.

Barbara Cow is banging on the rubble with a pickaxe.
action: You give the hoop
response: Tobias gasps. "Incredible!" He puts the hula hoop on the table. "I simply don't know what to say! My collection of Five Round Things has been restored! My happiness is complete!" He shakes your hand vigorously. "This deserves a special reward. I'll give you a real oddity." He hunts around for a while, and then produces a furrowed metal cube. "I have no idea what this is, but it's fascinating, isn't it?" He gives it to you.

(You have helped eight animals!)
action: You check your inventory
response: You are carrying a furrowed metal cube, a luggage coupon, a Jarvis-head screwdriver, a ticket stub, a tarnished hand mirror, a bottle of purple hoof polish, Herman Yak's business card, an unsharpened pencil, and a pair of earplugs.
action: You look at your surroundings
response: This is a very odd one-room museum. Shelves hold an assortment of worthless-looking items. In the middle of the room is a large table covered in black velvet, on which you see an old hubcap, a quarter, a dinner plate, an orange frisbee, and a plastic hula hoop.

Tobias Rat stands next to the table, admiring his collection.

Tobias brushes off the velvet.
action: You go south
response: Walnut Road crosses Maple Street here. A statue in the middle of the intersection is dedicated to Horatio J. Turkey, the founder of Fairview. You may proceed in any direction.
action: You go to the south
response: This section of Walnut Road is quiet and peaceful. To the south, the road crosses a bridge over Little Oak Stream.
action: You go south
response: Walnut Road continues its long journey north and south. To the east is a concrete building with a sign that says LABORATORY.
action: You go east
response: This large chamber is filled with worktables and various pieces of apparatus. In the center stands a massive machine. Several long metal rods stick up from the machine through a hole in the ceiling. They are vibrating violently.

Professor Ram is examining his machine.

The professor adjusts a slider on the machine.
action: You give the cube
response: "What luck!" cries the professor. He takes the cube from you and examines it. "Well, this prosistor is actually a 34-ounce, but I think it will be OK." He opens a panel and forces the cube into place. "Thanks, you've been a big help! Now let's see here. Hold on one moment." He begins tweaking the controls.

(You have helped nine animals!)
action: Wait
response: Time passes.

"OK," says the professor. "Let me explain how the Alteratomatic works. Give me an object, and the machine will change it somehow. I don't know exactly what will happen, but that's the fun of it!"
action: You give the polish
response: Professor Ram puts the bottle of purple hoof polish in the machine. He pushes a large black button. Sparks fly between the metal rods. A few seconds later, he reaches in and pulls out a bottle of red hoof polish. "See, it works!" he says as he gives it to you.
action: You give the pencil
response: Professor Ram puts the unsharpened pencil in the machine. He pushes a large black button. Sparks fly between the metal rods. A few seconds later, he reaches in and pulls out a sharpened pencil. "Here you go," he says.
action: You check your inventory
response: You are carrying a sharpened pencil, a bottle of red hoof polish, a luggage coupon, a Jarvis-head screwdriver, a ticket stub, a tarnished hand mirror, Herman Yak's business card, and a pair of earplugs.
action: You give the mirror
response: Professor Ram puts the tarnished hand mirror in the machine. He pushes a large black button. Sparks fly between the metal rods. A few seconds later, he reaches in and pulls out a shiny hand mirror. "Here you go," he says.

Just then you hear a buzzer, and the metal rods stop vibrating. "Uh oh," says the professor. "The Alteratomatic ran out of juice. It will recharge, but you might have to wait a bit."
action: You wait awhile
response: Time passes.
action: You give the earplugs
response: "The Alteratomatic is recharging," says the professor. "Hang on."
action: Go south
response: You can't go that way.

The professor opens a panel and fiddles with something inside.
action: Go south
response: The walls of this small shop are lined with tools. A sign hanging in front of the counter says, "Today's Sale: Hammers only five bucks!"

Janice Doe sits behind the counter, filing her hoof with an emery board.

Janice sighs.
action: You give the polish
response: "Wow!" says Janice. "That is fantastic! Give it here!" She takes the bottle.

(You have helped ten animals!)
action: Inventory
response: You are carrying a shiny hand mirror, a sharpened pencil, a luggage coupon, a Jarvis-head screwdriver, a ticket stub, Herman Yak's business card, and a pair of earplugs.
action: You give the pencil
response: Cornelia looks at the sharpened pencil. "Is that what I need? I think it might be. Although...no, probably not. I can't remember."
action: You give the card
response: Cornelia looks at Herman Yak's business card. "Is that what I need? I think it might be. Although...no, probably not. I can't remember."
action: You go east
response: This large chamber is filled with worktables and various pieces of apparatus. In the center stands a massive machine. Several long metal rods stick up from the machine through a hole in the ceiling. They are vibrating violently.

Professor Ram is examining his machine.
action: You give the screwdriver
response: Professor Ram puts the Jarvis-head screwdriver in the machine. He pushes a large black button. Sparks fly between the metal rods. A few seconds later, he reaches in and pulls out a Jenkins-head screwdriver. "Here you go," he says.
action: You go to the south
response: This is the front office of an auto repair shop. A desk and table are covered with work orders, and various keys hang from a rack on the wall.

Willard Fox stands by the desk, examining a work order for Alfred P. Owl.
action: You give the screwdriver
response: "You found one!" says Willard. "Thank you!" He sticks the screwdriver in his back pocket.

(You have helped eleven animals!)
action: Talk
response: Willard taps the work order he's holding and laughs. "Alfred Owl has been driving the same car for almost twenty years! It's getting harder and harder to find the parts!"
action: Go east
response: You can't go that way.

Willard tosses the work order on the desk and picks up one for Simon Asp.
action: Go east
response: This large chamber is filled with worktables and various pieces of apparatus. In the center stands a massive machine. Several long metal rods stick up from the machine through a hole in the ceiling. They are vibrating violently.

Professor Ram is examining his machine.

The professor adjusts a dial on the machine.
action: You give the card
response: Professor Ram puts Herman Yak's business card in the machine. He pushes a large black button. Sparks fly between the metal rods. A few seconds later, he reaches in and pulls out Zoltan Reindeer's business card. "Here you go," he says.
action: Inventory
response: You are carrying Zoltan Reindeer's business card, a shiny hand mirror, a sharpened pencil, a luggage coupon, a ticket stub, and a pair of earplugs.
action: You give the coupon
response: Meg looks at the luggage coupon. "That's really nice of you to offer, but I need a mail bag right now, and if I take anything else, I'll just get frustrated that it isn't a mail bag!"
action: You go south
response: The walls of this small shop are lined with tools. A sign hanging in front of the counter says, "Today's Sale: Hammers only five bucks!"

Janice Doe sits behind the counter, applying some red hoof polish.
action: Inventory
response: You are carrying Zoltan Reindeer's business card, a shiny hand mirror, a sharpened pencil, a luggage coupon, a ticket stub, and a pair of earplugs.
action: You give the earplugs
response: Professor Ram puts the pair of earplugs in the machine. He pushes a large black button. Sparks fly between the metal rods. A few seconds later, he reaches in and pulls out a pair of corks. "Here you go," he says.

Just then you hear a buzzer, and the metal rods stop vibrating. "Out of juice again," says the professor. "Don't worry, it should recharge soon."
action: You give the coupon
response: Professor Ram puts the luggage coupon in the machine. He pushes a large black button. Sparks fly between the metal rods. A few seconds later, he reaches in and pulls out a tool coupon. "Here you go," he says.

Just then you hear a buzzer, and the metal rods stop vibrating. "Out of juice again," says the professor. "Don't worry, it should recharge soon."
action: You go east
response: This lot is full of weeds and occasional pieces of trash, as well as a large muddy puddle. You can see Walnut Road to the west. A small path leads east through the weeds.

This empty lot is overgrown with weeds, but a small path leads west through them. The cul-de-sac is to the south.
action: You give the coupon
response: Janice looks at the coupon. "Sorry, this is expired."
action: You give the coupon
response: Professor Ram puts the tool coupon in the machine. He pushes a large black button. Sparks fly between the metal rods. A few seconds later, he reaches in and pulls out a luggage coupon. "Here you go," he says.
action: You go south
response: This pleasant park on the bank of Little Oak Stream is named after the eight-foot tree that stands at its center. A sign describes the tree as the "smallest oak in the four-county area."

Violet Bat is hanging from a light pole.
action: Inventory
response: You are carrying a luggage coupon, Zoltan Reindeer's business card, a shiny hand mirror, a sharpened pencil, a ticket stub, and a pair of earplugs.
action: Talk
response: "I can't come down with all that noise!" says Violet. "Oh, my head! Hanging upside-down helps a little."
action: You look at your surroundings
response: This pleasant park on the bank of Little Oak Stream is named after the eight-foot tree that stands at its center. A sign describes the tree as the "smallest oak in the four-county area."

Violet Bat is hanging from a light pole.

Violet moans pitifully.
action: You go east
response: This large chamber is filled with worktables and various pieces of apparatus. In the center stands a massive machine. Several long metal rods stick up from the machine through a hole in the ceiling. They are vibrating violently.

Professor Ram is examining his machine.

The professor opens a panel and fiddles with something inside.
action: You give stub
response: Professor Ram puts the ticket stub in the machine. He pushes a large black button. Sparks fly between the metal rods. A few seconds later, he reaches in and pulls out a ticket. "Here you go," he says.
action: You check your inventory
response: You are carrying a ticket, a luggage coupon, Zoltan Reindeer's business card, a shiny hand mirror, a sharpened pencil, and a pair of earplugs.
action: You go west
response: You are in the front yard of a small brick house that stands to the north. Maple Street continues east and west. An overgrown hedge separates this yard from the one to the west.

Henrietta stands next to the hedge, clipping away.

Henrietta adjusts her sun hat.
action: You give the card
response: "No thanks," says Henrietta.
action: Go west
response: Maple Street ends here in another front yard, which contains an assortment of plastic flamingos, gnomes, birdbaths, and the like. An overgrown hedge separates this yard from the one to the east. There is a small green house to the north.

Jack Cat sits here in his lawn chair, reading the newspaper. An umbrella is lying across his lap.
action: You give the card
response: "No thanks," says Jack.
action: You go to the west
response: The gate is locked tight. You won't be getting in there.
action: Go east
response: On a sunny day like this, Timmit Pool is a favorite destination for the youth of Fairview. Several small snakes and frogs are playing in a large round pool.

Simon Asp is sleeping in a chair by the pool.
action: You give the card
response: Simon Asp is sleeping.
action: Go east
response: Small round tables with white tablecloths fill the large dining room. Zoltan's is known for fine food, but it is strangely empty right now. The exit is west.
action: You give the card
response: Cornelia looks at Zoltan Reindeer's business card. "Is that what I need? I think it might be. Although...no, probably not. I can't remember."
action: You give the coupon
response: Cornelia looks at the luggage coupon. "Is that what I need? I think it might be. Although...no, probably not. I can't remember."
action: You give the mirror
response: Cornelia looks at the shiny hand mirror. "Is that what I need? I think it might be. Although...no, probably not. I can't remember."
action: You check your inventory
response: You are carrying a ticket, a luggage coupon, Zoltan Reindeer's business card, a shiny hand mirror, a sharpened pencil, and a pair of earplugs.
action: You give the earplugs
response: Cornelia looks at the pair of earplugs. "Is that what I need? I think it might be. Although...no, probably not. I can't remember."
action: You give the pencil
response: Cornelia looks at the sharpened pencil. "Is that what I need? I think it might be. Although...no, probably not. I can't remember."
action: You go east
response: This little drugstore seems to be abandoned. The shelves are empty, and there is no one here.
action: You go to the north
response: This is a well-furnished living room. The walls are hung with various portraits. The exit is south.

Herman Yak sits in an armchair, holding a cup of tea.

Herman coughs.
action: You give coupon
response: Herman looks surprised, but he takes the coupon and shuffles into another room. He returns with a suitcase, which he gives to you.
action: You give the suitcase
response: Professor Ram puts the suitcase in the machine. He pushes a large black button. Sparks fly between the metal rods. A few seconds later, he reaches in and pulls out a duffel bag. "Here you go," he says.

Just then you hear a buzzer, and the metal rods stop vibrating. "Out of juice again," says the professor. "Don't worry, it should recharge soon."
action: You give the bag
response: "Oh!" says Meg. "That's not a regulation mail bag, so I might still get in trouble, but I think it's big enough for all the mail, and it looks easy to carry, and I bet it will work! So thank you!" She grabs the duffel bag and shakes your hand gratefully. "I really want you to have something in return! Uh, here!" She gives you a roll of packing tape.

(You have helped twelve animals!)
action: Go west
response: You are in the front yard of a small brick house that stands to the north. Maple Street continues east and west. An overgrown hedge separates this yard from the one to the west.

Henrietta stands next to the hedge, clipping away.

Henrietta brushes some leaves off her shoulder.
action: You go to the west
response: Maple Street ends here in another front yard, which contains an assortment of plastic flamingos, gnomes, birdbaths, and the like. An overgrown hedge separates this yard from the one to the east. There is a small green house to the north.

Jack Cat sits here in his lawn chair, reading the newspaper. An umbrella is lying across his lap.

Jack yawns.
action: You give the tape
response: "Perfect!" says Jack, taking the roll of tape. He stands up, tapes the umbrella to the back of his lawn chair, and opens it. Then he drops back into the chair with a sigh of content. "You're the best," he says.

(You have helped thirteen animals!)
action: You check what you're carrying
response: You are carrying a ticket, Zoltan Reindeer's business card, a shiny hand mirror, a sharpened pencil, and a pair of earplugs.
action: You give the ticket
response: Cornelia takes the ticket and tears it, and gives the stub back to you. "Didn't you already give me a ticket?"
action: Talk
response: "Hmm," says the hen, "maybe...was it...yes? No. No? No. Yes. No."
action: You check your inventory
response: You are carrying a ticket stub, Zoltan Reindeer's business card, a shiny hand mirror, a sharpened pencil, and a pair of earplugs.
action: Go east
response: Corncob Lane continues east and west.

Emily Pig is sitting by the side of the road, reading a small book entitled McTransom: Master Detective.

Emily taps her chin thoughtfully.
action: Talk
response: "Thanks for the help!" says Emily. "When I'm done with this, I'm going to go home and unpack!"
action: You give the pencil
response: Emily looks up. "Oh, thanks, but I don't want that."
action: You go to the north
response: This small house is painted blue and features a bookshelf filled with detective novels. Two large suitcases stand next to the bed.
action: You go to the west
response: Corncob Lane continues east and west.

Emily Pig is sitting by the side of the road, reading a small book entitled McTransom: Master Detective.
action: Talk
response: "When you have helped the rest of the animals, I'll give you a fine reward!"
action: You give the pencil
response: The owl shakes his head. "I'm afraid I have no use for that."
action: You give the card
response: Professor Ram puts Zoltan Reindeer's business card in the machine. He pushes a large black button. Sparks fly between the metal rods. A few seconds later, he reaches in and pulls out Herman Yak's business card. "Here you go," he says.
action: Go north
response: You can't go that way.

The professor adjusts a knob on the machine.
action: You go to the west
response: You are in the front yard of a small brick house that stands to the north. Maple Street continues east and west. An overgrown hedge separates this yard from the one to the west.

Henrietta stands next to the hedge, clipping away.

Henrietta hums along with her clipping.
action: You give the card
response: "I never want to see that two-bit charlatan again!" cries Henrietta, waving her shears.
action: Go west
response: Maple Street ends here in another front yard, which contains an assortment of plastic flamingos, gnomes, birdbaths, and the like. An overgrown hedge separates this yard from the one to the east. There is a small green house to the north.

Jack Cat sits here in his umbrella-shaded lawn chair, reading the newspaper.
action: You give the card
response: "No thanks," laughs Jack. "In case you don't know, Herman Yak isn't the most popular animal in town. He has lost more cases than I can count. He should go back to his old job."
action: Talk
response: "Thanks for the umbrella," says Jack. "Now I can sit here all day."
action: You give the card
response: Mrs. Emu huffs. "I'd give you my opinion, but I need to watch my language here."
action: You check your inventory
response: You are carrying Herman Yak's business card, a ticket stub, a shiny hand mirror, a sharpened pencil, and a pair of earplugs.
action: You go east
response: This small post office features a counter and a wall of locked mailboxes. A sign advertises same-day delivery to addresses in Fairview.

Meg Bee is sorting letters behind the counter.

"That mail is gonna get delivered..." sings Meg.
action: You give the card
response: "Oh wow, I have heard a lot of things about Herman Yak, and basically it's all bad, because he keeps losing everyone's cases, which is kind of a problem when you're a lawyer."
action: You give the card
response: "Yeah, Herman Yak's car is here in the shop. He's not a very good lawyer. He should probably go back to selling luggage."
action: You give the pencil
response: "No thanks," says Willard.
action: You go east
response: This small post office features a counter and a wall of locked mailboxes. A sign advertises same-day delivery to addresses in Fairview.

Meg Bee is sorting letters behind the counter.
action: You give the mirror
response: "If you want to mail that, you'll have to pack it up and put stamps on it and everything!"
action: You go south
response: The walls of this small shop are lined with tools. A sign hanging in front of the counter says, "Today's Sale: Hammers only five bucks!"

Janice Doe sits behind the counter, applying some red hoof polish.

Janice hums softly.
action: You give the card
response: "He's a shyster, if you ask me."
action: You give the mirror
response: Janice glances in the mirror. "As good-looking as ever," she says.
action: You give pencil
response: "No thanks, hon," says Janice.
action: You go south
response: You are at the main entrance to the town of Fairview. A large gate leads out of town to the south, and a short path runs north to Primrose Street.

Alfred P. Owl paces back and forth, murmuring worriedly.

"Dear, dear," says the mayor.
action: You give the card
response: "Ah yes," says the mayor, "one of our most, er, active attorneys."
action: You give the mirror
response: The owl shakes his head. "I'm afraid I have no use for that."
action: You give the mirror
response: "No thanks," says Werner. "I've got my hammer, and I'm content."
action: Talk
response: "Another job well done," says Werner. "Thanks for getting that hammer."
action: You give the card
response: Werner shakes his head. "I know all about him."
action: You go to the west
response: This is a very odd one-room museum. Shelves hold an assortment of worthless-looking items. In the middle of the room is a large table covered in black velvet, on which you see an old hubcap, a quarter, a dinner plate, an orange frisbee, and a plastic hula hoop.

Tobias Rat stands next to the table, admiring his collection.
action: You give the card
response: "No thanks," says Tobias. "My uncle hired him once, and things didn't turn out too well."
action: You give the pencil
response: "No, I couldn't take anything else from you!" says Tobias.
action: You go to the west
response: Maple Street continues in both directions, but to the west it is blocked by a huge pile of rubble.

Barbara Cow is banging on the rubble with a pickaxe.

Barbara shakes her head at the rubble. "Amateurs."
action: Talk
response: "Thanks for the helmet!" says Barbara.
action: You give the pencil
response: "No thanks," says Barbara Cow.
action: You give the card
response: Barbara laughs. "No thank you!"
action: You give the stub
response: Cornelia glances at the stub. "Head in anytime," she says.
action: Go north
response: This is a well-furnished living room. The walls are hung with various portraits. The exit is south.

Herman Yak sits in an armchair, holding a cup of tea.
action: You give the card
response: Herman points at himself.
action: You wait
response: Time passes.

"Now what the heck was it?" mutters Cornelia.
action: You give the stub
response: "No thank you," says Mrs. Emu, glancing at the ticket stub.
action: Status
response: (You have been playing for 614 turns. So far you have helped Emily Pig, Werner Ant, Herman Yak, Henrietta Dog, Simon Asp, Barbara Cow, Rosina Emu, Tobias Rat, Hubert Ram, Janice Doe, Willard Fox, Meg Bee, and Jack Cat.)

* Alfred P. Owl wants you to return after you have helped the remaining animals.
* Cornelia Hen can't seem to remember what she wants.
* Violet Bat wants relief from the noise she is hearing.
action: You give the pencil
response: "No thank you," says Mrs. Emu, glancing at the sharpened pencil.
action: You give mirror
response: Mrs. Emu checks the mirror to make sure she hasn't missed anything else.
action: Talk
response: "Those rods vibrate at a very high frequency. They would be extremely loud, but fortunately you and I can't hear them."
action: You give the card
response: Professor Ram puts Herman Yak's business card in the machine. He pushes a large black button. Sparks fly between the metal rods. A few seconds later, he reaches in and pulls out Zoltan Reindeer's business card. "Here you go," he says.
action: You give the card
response: Professor Ram puts Zoltan Reindeer's business card in the machine. He pushes a large black button. Sparks fly between the metal rods. A few seconds later, he reaches in and pulls out Herman Yak's business card. "Here you go," he says.

Just then you hear a buzzer, and the metal rods stop vibrating. "Out of juice again," says the professor. "Don't worry, it should recharge soon."
action: Go south
response: This pleasant park on the bank of Little Oak Stream is named after the eight-foot tree that stands at its center. A sign describes the tree as the "smallest oak in the four-county area."

Violet Bat stands near a light pole, looking miserable.
action: You give the plugs
response: "You're a lifesaver!" cries Violet. She takes the plugs and jams them in her ears. "I can't hear a thing now. What a relief." She sighs and sits down on a park bench.

(You have helped fourteen animals!)
action: Talk
response: "I can't hear you, sorry!" says Violet.
action: You give the card
response: "No thanks!" says Violet.
action: You check what you're carrying
response: You are carrying Herman Yak's business card, a ticket stub, a shiny hand mirror, and a sharpened pencil.
action: Status
response: (You have been playing for 647 turns. So far you have helped Emily Pig, Werner Ant, Herman Yak, Henrietta Dog, Simon Asp, Barbara Cow, Rosina Emu, Tobias Rat, Hubert Ram, Janice Doe, Willard Fox, Meg Bee, Jack Cat, and Violet Bat.)

* Alfred P. Owl wants you to return after you have helped the remaining animals.
* Cornelia Hen can't seem to remember what she wants.
action: You give yourself
response: You can only give something you're carrying. (Not yourself!)

The professor opens a panel and fiddles with something inside.
action: You give the ticket
response: Cornelia cries, "Enough! Stop giving me tickets! What's the matter with you?" She yanks the ticket from your hand.
action: Inventory
response: You are carrying Herman Yak's business card, a shiny hand mirror, and a sharpened pencil.
action: You give the card
response: Cornelia looks at Herman Yak's business card. "Is that what I need? I think it might be. Although...no, probably not. I can't remember."
action: You give the mirror
response: Professor Ram puts the shiny hand mirror in the machine. He pushes a large black button. Sparks fly between the metal rods. A few seconds later, he reaches in and pulls out a tarnished hand mirror. "Here you go," he says.
action: You give pencil
response: Professor Ram puts the sharpened pencil in the machine. He pushes a large black button. Sparks fly between the metal rods. A few seconds later, he reaches in and pulls out an unsharpened pencil. "Here you go," he says.

Just then you hear a buzzer, and the metal rods stop vibrating. "Out of juice again," says the professor. "Don't worry, it should recharge soon."
action: You give the pencil
response: Cornelia looks at the unsharpened pencil. "Is that what I need? I think it might be. Although...no, probably not. I can't remember."
action: You give the mirror
response: Cornelia looks at the tarnished hand mirror. "Is that what I need? I think it might be. Although...no, probably not. I can't remember."
action: You go south
response: This pleasant park on the bank of Little Oak Stream is named after the eight-foot tree that stands at its center. A sign describes the tree as the "smallest oak in the four-county area."

Violet Bat is sitting on a bench, looking out at the stream.
action: You go to the north
response: This quaint little house is decorated with carnation wallpaper, tulip curtains, and a large vase of possibly fake irises. The exit is south.
action: Go west
response: Maple Street ends here in another front yard, which contains an assortment of plastic flamingos, gnomes, birdbaths, and the like. An overgrown hedge separates this yard from the one to the east. There is a small green house to the north.

Jack Cat sits here in his umbrella-shaded lawn chair, reading the newspaper.

Jack moves his lawn chair slightly.
action: You go north
response: It's not easy to maneuver inside this dwelling, because there are piles of stuff everywhere: mostly books, but also half-assembled furniture, electronic components, and cardboard boxes. On one wall hangs a photo of two aged cats. The exit is south.
action: Talk
response: "Give me an object, and I'll stick it in the Alteratomatic. We'll see what happens."
action: Talk
response: "This is my best invention so far." The professor pats his machine.
action: You give the mirror
response: Professor Ram puts the tarnished hand mirror in the machine. He pushes a large black button. Sparks fly between the metal rods. A few seconds later, he reaches in and pulls out a shiny hand mirror. "Here you go," he says.
action: You give the pencil
response: Professor Ram puts the unsharpened pencil in the machine. He pushes a large black button. Sparks fly between the metal rods. A few seconds later, he reaches in and pulls out a sharpened pencil. "Here you go," he says.

Just then you hear a buzzer, and the metal rods stop vibrating. "Out of juice again," says the professor. "Don't worry, it should recharge soon."
action: Go north
response: You stand in the carved-wood foyer of the Fairview courthouse. There is only one courtroom, and it seems to be empty.
action: You go to the west
response: This is one of several classrooms at Fairview Elementary. It contains about fifteen young animals, pretty well-behaved as it appears. You can leave the school to the east or south.

Mrs. Rosina Emu stands in front of the class.

Mrs. Emu adjusts her glasses.
action: You give the pencil
response: "No thank you," says Mrs. Emu, glancing at the sharpened pencil.
action: You go to the south
response: The Fairview Elementary playground is full of swings, seesaws, and other familiar equipment. There is no one here right now.
action: Go east
response: This small post office features a counter and a wall of locked mailboxes. A sign advertises same-day delivery to addresses in Fairview.

Meg Bee is sorting letters behind the counter.

Meg shuffles some bins around.
action: Talk
response: "I really appreciate you going and doing whatever it was you had to do to get me this bag!"
action: Talk
response: Willard taps the work order he's holding and shakes his head. "That Cornelia Hen. Every time she brings her scooter in here, she's forgotten what the problem is! But I find, if I just keep talking to her long enough, she eventually remembers."
action: Talk
response: "Oh!" cries Cornelia. "Of course, I need a?wait, no, I already have a bunch of those."
action: Talk
response: Cornelia closes her eyes. "It couldn't have been that, or that...or those. No, it definitely wasn't any of those things."
action: Talk
response: "Well, maybe I don't need anything after all. Except...no, I'm sure I needed something."
action: Talk
response: "Oh!" shouts Cornelia. "A pencil! That's it! I need a pencil! I think you already showed me one, didn't you?"
action: You give the pencil
response: "Yes!" shouts Cornelia. "Just what I need!" She pulls out a small notebook. "This is my reminder book. I write important things it, which is why I never forget them." She jots down a short note.

(You have helped fifteen animals! Go talk to the mayor!)
action: You go south
response: To the north, Little Oak Stream runs west to east, dividing Fairview in half. A wide wooden bridge crosses the stream.

Werner Ant leans against a bridge post, looking calmly at the stream.

"Pleasant day," says Werner.
action: You go south
response: You are at the main entrance to the town of Fairview. A large gate leads out of town to the south, and a short path runs north to Primrose Street.

"You've done it!" cries the mayor as you approach. "You have saved the town! You have ended the misery! My gratitude is boundless! I will never forget your helping us at such a critical time. If you had not appeared when you did, I don't know what we would have done! What can I possibly do to repay you? No reward can be enough. But here, take this!"

He gives you a signed autobiography.

(You have helped all sixteen animals!)
action: Inventory
response: You are carrying a signed autobiography, a shiny hand mirror, and Zoltan Reindeer's business card.
action: Go north
response: It's time for you to leave Fairview.
action: You go to the south
response: You leave Fairview, pleased to have been helpful. Of course, you only went there to take a walk, since your doctor has told you to walk more. Hopefully 556 blocks is enough!