Page 30 - The Black Deer and Charlie Rabbit

28
The Black Deer and Charlie Rabbit
The fox swung round, and for a second looked dazed. There was a few moments’ silence, until the fox said, ‘Hello,’ in a stilted voice and quickly gabbled: ‘I’m Max and I live in the forest, over there.’
Alfie smiled and looked the animal over before saying: ‘Nice to meet you, Max. No doubt I will see you again.’
‘Why?’ the fox asked sternly.
‘No reason. Just making conversation, that’s all.’
‘Ah! Yes, of course. I’ll see you again,’ said the fox as he quickly walked away towards the forest.
Alfie frowned and watched the fox until it was out of sight. He would have to report the incident to Badger. This might be another suspicious creature and therefore Wisdom must be notified. The squirrel hurried back to the path.
Cyril was repairing a broken fence when he arrived. ‘Everything all right, Alfie? You look worried,’ said the rat.
‘I’m fine, Cyril. I’ve seen a new range of kitchen tiles at Fay’s studio and wondered if you wanted to go and see them. If you like, I’ll measure up after I’ve fitted the cupboard doors.’
Alfie felt uncomfortable not talking about the fox but he quickly remembered Badger’s warning about spreading rumours. In fairness, Max could be a real fox. Nevertheless, he decided to wait until later, when he would speak freely to Charlie and Sam.