aris to Rome Road Race

ome time ago Baron Von Lodge was the head of a small country near Switzerland known as Lilliland.

Every time that the famous Paris to Rome Grande Race was discussed, the question arose as to when, if ever, would Lilliland agree to be included in the race?

But that was the rub; the seven-mile stretch was in the middle of Lilliland farm country. Cows, horses, pigs, and chickens, as well as other precious livestock, freely cross the road and expect the cars and trucks to get out of the way. In fact, the farmers have created strict rules against anyone who frightens any of their livestock. Farmers’ livestock have the right of way.

The matter of the invitation, to be a part of the famous road race, came up in front of the commission. There was much heated debate and a vote was taken. The vote was a tie and it was up to the Baron to cast the deciding vote.

The Baron met in private with his chief advisor, Professor Hamblin, and his fiancée, Lady Angela of Alpine Castle. The fact that the road race was good for tourism was discussed. The fact that the live farm animals could be run over was also brought up. There was no way that their farm animals could be protected.

Delegates from the Paris and Rome Motor Club Associations were sent to meet with the Baron, the Professor and Lady Angela.

The Baron was advised that the newer cars entering the race were faster than ever before. They would be racing to set new ground speed records. They thought that point of view would greatly impress the Baron. But they did not realize that Lilliland was more agricultural than industrial, so that argument did not work.

It was brought up that the noise from the racecars frightened the livestock and would cause them to become very nervous and produce less milk. Chickens would produce fewer eggs.

The Baron asked for a three day time period to reflect on both sides of the issue and make a final decision.

Finally the third day arrived and the Baron made his decision.

The Baron decided against accepting the invitation to be a part of the road race. If there was a way of offering better protection to the farmers’ livestock, he might reconsider his vote for another year.