The players stand in a circle with arms stretched sideways, resting on each other’s shoulders, thus making a wide distance between. One player is chosen for runner and one for chaser. The game starts with the runner in one of the spaces under the outstretched arms of the players, and the chaser in a similar position on the opposite side of the circle. At a signal from a leader both start, the runner weaving in and out between the players or dashing across the circle in any way that he sees fit; but the chaser must always follow by the same route. If the runner be caught, he joins the circle; the chaser then takes his place as runner and chooses another player to be chaser.
The leader (who may be one of the players) may close the chase if it becomes too long by calling “Time!” when both runners must return to their places in the circle, new ones taking their places.
For large numbers there may be two or more runners and an equal number of chasers, or the players may be divided into smaller groups.
With various modifications, this game is found in many countries. As given here, it is of Italian origin.
Games for the Playground, Home, School and Gymnasium by Jessie Hubbell Bancroft