the handsomest, healthiest looking yearling. An animal of this age, just approaching the prime of its life, was frisky and winsome. Then the family had to watch it carefully for four days before the Passover to make sure it was perfect in every way. During this period of close observation, they fed and cared for the lamb and grew accustomed to having it around. By the end of the fourth day, it must have won the affection of the entire household, especially the children. Now they all must avoid its