Old Rough The Miser. A Fable For Children

This edition has been fully restored with modern typesetting, custom cover design. "Old Rough the Miser" by Lily F. Wesselhoeft is an enchanting fable set on a vibrant farm, where a cast of animal characters confronts issues of greed, conflict, and wisdom. At the heart of the story is Old Rough, a miserly water-rat who stakes a claim on a meadow, sparking feuds with other woodland creatures over resources. The narrative unfolds with a dramatic trial, presided over by the wise Judge Owl, where Old Rough's rivalry with a crow and a water-rat over a cornfield intensifies. Despite the owl's ruling in favor of the crow, both parties continue their feud, illustrating the consequences of greed and the complexities of community dynamics. The tale further explores themes of justice, loyalty, and survival as Old Rough's interactions with other creatures reveal his harsh nature. His dealings with Bobtilla, a field-mouse seeking food for her sick child, and his treatment of his wife, Ruffina, highlight his selfishness. Meanwhile, in a tranquil woodland setting, lively encounters among creatures like chipmunks, crows, and the solemn owl Blinkeye underscore themes of wisdom and caution, as young animals learn to navigate the dangers of the wild. The story also features humorous and tense moments, such as a mischievous scheme by young crows to outsmart Old Rough and a deadly confrontation between the water-rat and a weasel, showcasing the interplay of cleverness, danger, and survival instincts. At a twilight reception hosted by Widow O'Warty, a gathering of woodland creatures celebrates with poetic exchanges, revealing aspirations and humor amidst themes of love and rivalry. Through its richly imagined world and engaging narrative, "Old Rough the Miser" offers young readers moral lessons and a playful exploration of animal life.