The first of January dawned bright and clear, much to the gratification of the inhabitants of Jungletown, for King Leo had decreed that various sporting contests should take place on Monkey Hill. There were to be foot races on skis and snow shoes, snow ball encounters and toboggan races. In fact, almost every kind of winter sport was to be indulged in, with the exception of skating, for the king was averse to that amusement, and never included it in his entertainments.