Page 57 - Book 8 Matty Hedgehog and the Paper Chase

Matty Hedgehog and the Paper Chase 55
‘I understand that they live further down the river now,’ said Dolly. ‘I do know they need work, because the rain washed their home and bakery away.’
Dolly was then distracted by a new guest arriving, and Charlie composed himself for what he wanted to say next. He was worried about how to introduce it but Dolly saved the day. She returned with an attractive bag and placed it on the table. ‘Just a few things for the girls,’ she beamed.
‘Dolly, this has to stop,’ he began, and paused as he watched her smile disappear. ‘I don’t want to upset you, but the girls, especially Paris, think that you are the answer to everything. They have nowhere to hang the extra clothes or shelves to display their toys. You have been very generous and kind to us, Dolly, but I don’t want them to expect gifts every time they visit you. Does that make sense?’
Dolly bowed her head. ‘Yes. I suppose so. It’s just that I felt sorry for them, Charlie. I am so pleased they stayed with me when they were on their way back home from the coast. Your brother and his wife did little to make their stay a happy one; they couldn’t wait to get away. It broke my heart.
‘Anyway, that’s all in the past. I understand, I really do. What will I say when they visit and have to leave empty- handed?’
‘Absolutely nothing. My mother and I will speak to them. Thank you, Dolly. Now, I really must dash to find Saskia. Willow will be punctual and I don’t want to keep him waiting. See you soon.’
When Charlie left the hotel, he began to ask passing animals if they knew of a duck family that owned a bakery.