Snowflakes grew thicker, falling around Jerry as he dug. It was only a few seconds before he had the treasure in sight. He stuffed the corn and berries into a small mesh pouch he had buried with the stash. (He had found the tiny sack one summer day when children were playing in the yard. It had been for a doll, but it was even better for a squirrel!) He grasped the black walnut and the sack with his front teeth, looked around for possible danger, then bounded across the yard to the herb garden.
Jerry quickly found some green rosemary growing close to the ground. He snapped off a sprig with his teeth and added it to the sack, now bulging with goodies. It was time to get home. Jerry turned toward the house to check for Lila. Sure enough, she was standing by the sliding glass door, peering right at him, licking her chops! Fortunately, she was on the other side of the window. However, Jerry had seen enough and turned quickly to head back home.
He wasn't able to run his fastest, being fattened up for winter, especially while dragging the bulky load. He was about halfway to the fence when he heard it--the door was sliding open again! Jerry gritted his teeth, not wanting to drop anything, and leapt toward the farmer's field behind the Millers' yard.
The cattle farm had galvanized mesh fencing, with wide squares and timber posts, stretching along the back of the yard. There was a sizable gap under the fence about eight inches from the ground. Squirrels could easily run under to make their escape if there wasn't time to climb.
Jerry stretched his body, darting forward, at top speed. But Lila had the body of a racing dog, and she was lightning fast. Jerry could hear her gaining on him. He contemplated dropping the booty as he flew toward the field. CRACK! Jerry stumbled across a fallen branch, but he didn't slow down or drop his prize. Lila flinched at the noise, not slowing much. Her mouth opened wide nearly on Jerry's tail--just as he slipped under the fence to safety!
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