“Animals of the forest, the judges have decided that the prize should go to Mr. Tiny Redsquirrel of Squirreltown!”
Turning to the embarrassed but happy little squirrel, she pulled from her wing a quill, which she gave him with a low bow, saying:
“This quill was taken from my wing. No creature is more respected by the human race and all other animals than I am. Anyone who receives a quill pen made from one of my feathers will be famous ever after. Accept this reward for your excellent poem and your good scholarship; but bear in mind that every achievement is but a camping place for the night.”
CHAPTER XXIII.
Tiny never forgot the pleasant half hour that followed his graduation. Although he felt happy, he was sorry to leave dear old Beaver Creek with its many delightful associations. After waving a friendly farewell to Mr. Opossum, Jolly Gopher, and his other chance acquaintances, he turned to bid his classmates goodby. The bird choir was still singing its sweetest airs.
“Your poem was very good for a beginner,” said Miss Hare, with a smile. “I suspect that you spent much time in its preparation.”
“I expect to write a better one in a year from now,” replied Tiny.