"Old bones don't rest and recover as quickly as young bones, and I
just don't feel equal to going over there now," said she. "The truth
is, Reddy, I am growing old. I am going to stay right here and rest.
Perhaps then I'll feel able to go hunting to-night. You trot along now,
and if you get more than a stomachful, just remember old Granny
and bring her a bite."

There was something in the way Granny spoke that told Reddy she was
speaking the truth. It was the very first time she ever had admitted
that she was growing old and was no longer the equal of any Fox.
Never before had he noticed how gray she had grown. Reddy felt a
feeling of shame creep over him, -- shame that he had suspected
Granny of playing a sharp trick. And this little feeling of shame
was followed instantly by a splendid thought. He would go out and
find food of some kind, and he would bring it straight back to Granny.
He had been taken care of by Granny when he was little, and now he
would repay Granny for all she had done for him by taking care of her
in her old age.

"Go back in the house and lie down, Granny," said he kindly. "I am
going to get something, and whatever it may be you shall have your share."
With this he trotted off towards the Old Pasture and somehow he
didn't mind the ache in his stomach as he had before.



CHAPTER XIV: Three Vain And Foolish Wishes

There's nothing so foolishly silly and vain
As to wish for a thing youcan never attain.