So away he trotted, for the Hare made no objection.
Then he thought to himself:
“The Hare thinks a lot of his long legs, but I’ll get the better of him all the same. For all his haughty ways, he’s not so very clever, and I’ll make him pay; see if I don’t.”
As soon as he got home, he said to his wife:
“Quick! go and get dressed. You must come out with me.”
“What’s the matter?” said his wife.
“I’ve wagered the Hare a golden guinea. I’m to run a race with him, and I want you to be there.”
“Good gracious me!” cried the Hedgehog’s wife. “Have you lost your senses? How can you think of racing the Hare?”
“Don’t be so quick with your words, woman,” said the Hedgehog. “That’s my affair; you mustn’t meddle with what you don’t understand. Look sharp; put on your things, and come along.”
What was the wife to do? She had to obey, whether she wanted to or not.