Page 33 - Book 8 Matty Hedgehog and the Paper Chase

Matty Hedgehog and the Paper Chase 31
and branches, running as if his own life was in danger and nothing else mattered. He was going too fast to brush away the tears that were blinding his vision, and in his mind he could hear his friend’s voice crying out: “I’m sinking.”
He crashed through the garden gate and screamed for help. His parents raced over to him and listened as he told them what had happened.
‘OK, son,’ said Alfie. ‘Calm down. Go back and stay there until I get help. Jessica, go and tell your dad what has happened. Sadie! You fetch Sam and Betsy; they’re decorating the delicatessen.’
Jessica was winded by the time she arrived at Rowley Weasel’s cottage. She cried as she tried to tell them what had happened. Charlie was out of the door in seconds and raced across the meadow. William and Rowley Weasel were hot on his heels, hoping to collect Badger on the way.
The remaining guests hurried away to Barns Wood to summon help, leaving Tilly, Jessica and Velvet alone.
‘I’m so sorry, Tilly,’ said Velvet. ‘I think it’s better if I go home now. I don’t want to be in the way.’
‘I’d like you to stay, Velvet. This is Jessi ...,’ said Tilly, clutching her chest and grabbing the edge of the table.
‘Grandma! What’s wrong with you?’ cried the young rabbit.
Tilly fell slowly to the floor and gasped: ‘Get me home, Velvet. It must be the shock.’
Together, Jessica and Velvet lifted Tilly and after a few minutes’ rest, stumbled back with her to the wildlife garden.