Going South

Going South

After many days of summer, the riverbank was busy. Rat watched the birds packing their nests. “ Why do they have to fly south?” thought Rat. “ The riverbank is perfectly fine. ”

“ Hey, Ratty! ” called some mice. “ Come and help. ” They walked by carrying baskets and boxes. “ What are you up to?” asked Rat. “ Moving! To our winter home, ” said one mouse.

“ But it’s a beautiful day, ” said Rat. “ Winter is far away. ” “ Oh, we know that, ” said another mouse. “ But we like to be ready! ”

“ Let’s go for a row, ” said Rat. “ We can have a picnic! ” “ Not today, Rat! ” said the first mouse. “ Ask another day, when no one is busy. ”

Rat frowned. “ Fine! Do what you want! ” He turned and tripped over a box. “ Ow! ” cried Rat, rubbing his back. “ Be more careful, ” said a bluebird.