Mole and Badger returned to the kitchen.
Rat was walking up and down in his coat.
"I want to get back to my river," said Rat.
"But, Rat," said Mole, "Badger's home is lovely."
Rat really wanted to leave.
"I can't stay underground this long!
Come on, Mole!" Rat said.
"We must go before it gets dark."
"Don't worry, Rat," said Otter.
"I know every path in the Wild Wood.
I can lead you home at night."
"But I want to go now!" yelled Rat.
"All right," said Mole.
"Let me put on my hat and boots."
"You can use my shortcut," said Badger.
"You won't need to walk through the Wild Wood."
Badger took his lantern and led the way.
Otter came too.
The dark tunnel seemed to go on forever.
Finally Rat cried, "I see daylight!"
"Here we are," said Badger, at the tunnel opening.
He pushed them through and waved good-bye.
Otter piled some leaves to hide the hole.
Just behind them was the Wild Wood.
Mole looked at it and shivered.
"I'm glad I'm out of there!" he said.
"Well, I'm going home!" cried Otter.
And he ran down a trail.
The two friends started home.
Suddenly Mole stopped and sniffed.
Something smelled safe and familiar.
"Oh Ratty, please stop! Wait!" cried Mole.
But Rat kept walking.