Rat made some lunch for Toad.
"Soup will help Toad feel better," he thought.
Finally Toad came in the room.
He looked like a real gentleman.
Rat watched Toad sip his soup.
"Now, Toady," Rat said,
"I don't want to hurt you.
You've suffered a lot."
"Oh yes," said Toad, nodding. "I have."
"But," said Rat, "you are a big fool!"
Toad dropped his spoon.
He was shocked.
"You were thrown in jail," said Rat
"Yes, but—" said Toad. (I escaped!)
"You were put in chains," said Rat.
"Yes, but—" said Toad.
(Not for long!)
"You were chased," said Rat.
"Yes, but—" said Toad.
(I got away!)
"You were thrown in the water," said Rat.
"Yes, but—" said Toad.
(I stole a horse!)
"And all because of a car!" cried Rat.
"Well, I . . ." said Toad.
(It was great fun!)
"Do you know what everyone is saying?" said Rat.
"They're saying my friend is a thief!"
Rat was very upset.
"You're right, Ratty," said Toad.
"I have been very bad."
Toad thought for a moment.
"I will go back to Toad Hall," said Toad.
"And I will live quietly.
No more adventures!"
"What?" cried Rat.
"Haven't you heard?"