The Wig and the Shoulder of Mutton; or, The Folly of Juvenile Fears

A quiet afternoon in the Friendly household turns into a lively lesson on childhood fright when three curious guests arrive and the children huddle together at the sound of a mysterious noise on the upper stairs. Their nervous chain of commands leads them to the doorway, where a startled lamplight reveals a barber’s boy tangled in a wig, sparking both shrieks and giggles. Their father, Mr. Friendly, uses the odd encounter to explore why darkness makes ordinary things seem monstrous, inviting the kids to confront the imagined monsters that shadow their imagination.

Through witty dialogue and a gentle moral, the story shows how a simple touch can dissolve fear, while a lighthearted anecdote about a misplaced servant and a hidden bottle of beer promises more playful insight. Listeners will enjoy the charming blend of mischief, family banter, and the timeless message that courage often begins with seeing—rather than fearing—the unknown.