Hammy the hamster absolutely loved the jelly lolly leaves that grew on the young gum trees. In spring there were still very few of them, so what a stroke of luck it was when Hammy discovered an entire clearing full of his favourite treats! According to the calendar, the jelly leaves weren't due for another couple of weeks, so the little fellow was incredibly happy.
This will be my secret! – decided Hammy. – My own sweet stash!
For three days the hamster feasted on the jelly leaves and didn't tell anyone about his discovery, not even his best mate, Nutmeg the squirrel.
You've been a bit distracted lately, Ham, always rushing off somewhere, – said Nutmeg one day.
I've been helping Mum around the house, – lied Hammy. – Sorry, I have to go.
Alright, see you later, then!
On the fourth day of gorging, Hammy's tummy ached, and no wonder: there's only so much lolly a body can take! He drank the medicine Mum gave him, his tummy settled down, and Hammy decided to go for a walk. He wasn't in the mood for much. Before long he ran into Nutmeg.
Hi! Why are you looking so glum? – asked his mate.
Oh, I'm just not feeling myself.
Hammy, – Nutmeg smiled, – I know just how to cheer you up! I only found it today... Actually, come on, you'll see for yourself.
Hammy was surprised and confused when his friend led him to his jelly lolly clearing. He had been here for three days and never told anyone about it, and she had found it on her very first day and told him!
You're sharing a secret like this with me? – asked Hammy in amazement.
Of course, – Nutmeg said sincerely, – you're my mate, and mates share!
Hammy felt terribly ashamed.
Nutmeg, I'm sorry. I found this clearing first, but I never told anyone about it because I was greedy, I didn't want to share with anybody...
Oh, Hammy, Hammy, – Nutmeg shook her head, – you know that greed never leads to anything good.
Yes, I know, – sighed the hamster, – and my tummy really hurts from all that greed! Let's tell all our friends about this clearing, Nutmeg! It's big, there's enough lollies here for everyone!
Let's do it, – smiled the squirrel, – that's a wonderful idea!
Yes, dear little ones, greed never leads to anything good, and lollies taste far sweeter when you share them with friends! Look after your teeth and your tummies, and don't be greedy, my little friends!
