The Fast Train by James Aitchison

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We’re on the train to Paris

and we’re going really fast!

I can see the needle climb,

as the scenery flashes past.

The ride is very smooth;

not a rattle, bump or shake.

It’s like the magic carpet

that Aladdin used to take.

We’ve almost reached three hundred

kilometres an hour;

there’s no train in Australia

that has this kind of power.

Teacher’s note: The distance from Bordeaux to Paris is around 500 kilometres.  The fast train, leaving Bordeaux at 5.04 pm, arrives in Paris at 7.08 pm.

What’s Behind The Wall by James Aitchison

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A waterwheel that slowly turns,

A river there that swiftly churns,

A secret garden in the sunWhere lazy dreams are gently spun.

Where is this drowsy mill house found, Where insects buzz in sleepy sound? 

In France!  For there, midst ancient walls,

Legends live and history calls.

Teacher’s note: This old mill house is in Castelfranc on the River Lot.