Hammy the hamster adored the jelly leaves of young birch trees. It was still early spring and there were few leaves about, so what a stroke of luck it was when Hammy discovered a whole glade full of his favourite treats! According to the calendar, the jelly leaves weren't due for another fortnight, so the little fellow was over the moon.
This will be my secret! ― decided Hammy. ― My sweet larder!
For three days the hamster feasted on the jelly leaves and didn't tell a soul about his find, not even his best friend, the squirrel Hazel.
You've been rather quiet lately, Hammy, always rushing off somewhere, ― said the squirrel one day.
I've been helping Mum around the house, ― lied Hammy. ― Sorry, I must dash.
Right then, see you soon!
On the fourth day of gorging, Hammy's tummy ached, and no wonder with so much sugar! He took the syrup Mum had given him, his tummy settled, and Hammy decided to go for a stroll. He wasn't in the best of moods. Before long he bumped into Hazel.
Hello! Why so glum? ― asked his friend.
Oh, I'm just not in the mood.
Hammy, ― smiled the squirrel, ― I know just how to cheer you up! I only found it today... Still, come along, you'll see for yourself.
Hammy was astonished and bewildered when his friend led him to his jelly leaf glade. He had been there for three days and told no one, and she had discovered it on the very first day!
You're sharing such a secret with me? ― asked Hammy in amazement.
Of course, ― said Hazel, genuinely surprised, ― you're my friend, and friends should share!
Hammy felt dreadfully ashamed.
Hazel, I'm sorry. I found this glade before you did, but I kept it to myself out of greed and didn't want to share with anyone...
Oh, Hammy, Hammy, ― shook her head Hazel, ― you know that greed never leads to anything good.
Yes, I know, ― sighed the hamster, ― my tummy aches terribly because of that greed too! Come on, Hazel, let's tell all our friends about this glade! It's big, there's enough sweets here for everyone!
Let's do it, ― smiled the squirrel, ― what a wonderful idea!
Yes, dear children, greed never leads to anything good, and sweets taste far nicer when shared with friends! Look after your teeth and tummies, and don't be greedy, my little friends!
