 Chapter 1 of The Tale of Betsy Butterfly This is a LibraVox recording. All LibraVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibraVox.org Read by Lucy Burgoyne. The Tale of Betsy Butterfly by Arthur Scott Bailey Chapter 1 Beauty and the Bossoms Everyone at the Field People in Pleasant Valley and the Forest Folk as well was different from his neighbors. For instance, there was Jesper Jay. He was the noisiest chap for miles around, and there was Peter Mink. Without doubt, he was the rudest and most rascally fellow in the whole district. Then there was Freddie Firefly, who was the brightest youngster on the farm, at least after dark, when his light flashed across the meadow. So it went. One person was wiser than any of his neighbors. Another was stupider, and somebody else was always hungrier. But there was one who was the loveliest. Not only was she beautiful to look upon, she was graceful in flight as well. When one saw her flittering among the flowers, it was hard to say which was the dentia, the blossoms or Betsy Butterfly. For that was her name. Whoever gave it to her might have chosen a prettier one. Betsy herself always said that she would have preferred violet. In the first place, it was the name of a flower, and in the second, her red and brown mottled wings had violet tips. However, a person as charming as Betsy Butterfly did not need worrying about her name. Had she been named after a dozen flowers, she could have been no more attractive. People often said that everybody was happier and better just for having Betsy Butterfly in the neighborhood. And some claimed that even the weather couldn't help being fine when Betsy went abroad. Why, the sun just has to smile on her, they would exclaim. But they were really wrong about that. The truth of the matter was that Betsy Butterfly couldn't abide bad weather, not even a cloudy sky. She said she didn't enjoy flying except in the sunshine, so no one ever saw her except on pleasant days. To be sure, a few of the field people turned up their noses at Betsy. They were the jealous ones, and they generally pretended that they did not consider Betsy beautiful at all. She has too much color. Me hittable moth remarked one day to Mrs. Ladybug. Between you and me, I have an idea that it isn't natural. I think she paints her wings. I don't doubt it, said Mrs. Ladybug. I should think she'd be ashamed of herself. And little Mrs. Ladybug pursed up her lips and looked very severe. And then she declared that she didn't see how people could say Betsy was even good-looking if they had ever noticed her tongue. Honestly, her tongues as long as she is, Mrs. Ladybug gossiped. But she knows enough to carry it curled up like a watch spring, so it isn't generally seen. You just gaze at her closely, someday when she's snipping nectar from a flower, and you'll see that I know what I'm talking about. Now some of those spiteful remarks may have reached Betsy Butterfly's ears. But she never paid the slightest attention to them. When she met me hittable moth or Mrs. Ladybug, she always said, How do you do? And isn't this a lovely day? In the sweetest tone you could imagine. And, of course, there was nothing a body could do except to agree with Betsy Butterfly, for it was bound to be a beautiful bright day, or she wouldn't have been out. So even those that didn't like Betsy had to give up trying to quarrel with her. End of Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Johnny Green was never quite happy unless he was collecting something. One year he went about with a hammer, chipping a piece of almost every rock in Pleasant Valley, and, of course, he gathered birds' eggs. After he tired of that, he began collecting postage stamps. Next he turned his attention to tobacco tags, even hailing travellers who passed the house, to ask them whether they hadn't a hard one, meaning by that. A tag that was hard to get. When he felt quite sure that he had a sample of every kind of tobacco tag in the whole world, Johnny Green had to think of something else to collect. And since it was summer and a good time to find them, he decided to start a collection of butterflies. News spread fast among the field people, and almost as soon as Johnny Green had made up his mind about his new collection, the whole Butterfly family knew of it. Old Mr Crow was the one that first learned of Johnny's plan, and he was not pleased either. Butterflies, he scoffed. I should think Johnny Green might better spend his time doing something worthwhile. Butterflies, indeed. Now, if he would only collect crows, there'd be some sense in that. But that was before Old Mr Crow and his neighbours understood exactly what a collection was. And the butterflies felt quite proud because Johnny Green was going to busy himself with them. Later, when the field people discovered that collecting butterflies meant catching them and sticking pins through their heads, the Butterfly family became greatly excited and worried. And as for Old Mr Crow, he was very glad that Johnny had not decided to collect him and his relations. Well, if you had been in Pleasant Valley that summer on almost any fine day, you might have seen Johnny Green running about the fields or the flower garden with the Butterfly net in his hand. He had made the net from a barrel hoop and a piece of mosquito netting, to which he nailed an old broomstick for a handle. And for the first few days, when he started making his collection, he didn't visit the swimming hole once. When his father asked him to do a little work for him, such as feeding the chickens, or leading the old horse Edmza to water, Johnny Green was not so pleasant as he might have been. He complained that he was too busy to bother with the farm chores, just then. But Farmer Green told him to run along and do his work. You'll have plenty of time to play, said Johnny's father. The Butterfly family was sorry that Farmer Green didn't keep his boy at work from dawn till dark. They didn't like to have to watch out for fear that Horrid Net might swoop down upon them and catch them. They wanted to have a good time among the flowers, without being in constant terror of capture at the hands of Johnny Green. But strange to say, Betsy Butterfly was not in the least uneasy. She was so gentle herself that she couldn't believe anybody would harm her. Little did Betsy realise that she was really in great danger. Her fatal beauty was sure to catch Johnny Green's eye. And though Betsy Butterfly did not know it, only an accident could prevent her being added to Johnny Green's collection. End of Chapter 2. Chapter 3. At the Tale of Betsy Butterfly. This LibriVox recording is in the public domain. The Tale of Betsy Butterfly by Arthur Scott Bailey. Chapter 3. A Mishap. Except for the work that his father made him do now and then, there was only one thing that bothered Johnny Green in making his collection of butterflies. The weather was not so good as it might have been. He soon found that there was no use hunting for butterflies except in the sunshine. So when a three days rain came, Johnny began to wish he had started a different sort of collection. But the weather cleared at last, and the sun came out so bright, that Johnny fairly pulled old Evansir away from the watering trough and hustled him back to his stall. But he was in a hurry to get to the Flour Garden with his butterfly net. As for the chickens, they had very little food that day. Once in the garden, Johnny Green found more butterflies than he had ever noticed before. But as soon as he began chasing them, they flew away to the meadow. That is, all but Betsy Butterfly. As she said, she was sure Johnny Green wouldn't annoy her. And that was where she was wrong. The moment he caught sight of her with her mottled red and brown wings with the violet tips, Johnny cried, there's a beauty. But Betsy Butterfly was so used to such remarks that she paid little heed to him. Neither when he crept nearer and nearer to her, with old dog's spot at his heels, she did not take fright. With her tongue deep in a fragrant blossom, she was enjoying its delicious sweetness when Johnny Green, bearing his net aloft, sprung at her. When Johnny jumped, Betsy Butterfly started up in alarm. She had really waited until it was too late, and if something unexpected hadn't happened to Johnny Green, Betsy would surely have had a place in his collection. But luckily for her, Johnny met with a fall. He may have tripped on a vine, or his foot may have slipped on the wet ground. Anyhow, he fell sprawling among the flowers, dropping his precious net as he stretched out his hands to save himself. Johnny's fall gave Betsy Butterfly her only chance. Coiling her long tongue out of her way, she quickly made her escape. So Johnny Green lost her, but she was not all that he lost. A strange accident happened just as he fell, for old spot leaped forward at the same time, and much to his surprise, spot found his head inside the Butterfly net. The long broomstick handle thumped him sharply on his back, and the silly fellow took fright at once. With yelps of terror, he scurried out at the flower garden, and Johnny picked himself up just in time to see spot tearing across the meadow toward the woods. Spot! Spot! Come back! Johnny Green shouted, but old spot paid no attention to his young master. Perhaps he was too scared to hear him. Spot wanted to get rid of that net that covered his head, and he knew of no better place to go than the woods where he hoped to be able to free himself from his odd muzzle by rubbing against a tree, or nosing among some bushes. Johnny ran a little way after him, but when he saw spot duck into the woods, he turned back sadly towards the house. For all he knew, old spot might run a mile further before he stopped. Johnny would have to make a new net if he wanted to catch any more butterflies for his collection. And the trouble was, he had no more mosquito netting. A good many of the field people saw old spot as he dashed off with the butterfly net over his head, and they enjoyed a hearty laugh at the strange sight. As the Betsy butterfly, she had learned to watch out for Johnny Green, and she knew that another time he would have to be twice as fry as he had shown himself if he expected to capture her. Old spot didn't come home till afternoon. When he appeared at last, he looked very sheepish. He hoped no one had noticed his fright. And he wouldn't go near the flower garden again for a whole week. End of Chapter 3 Chapter 4 At the Tale of Betsy Butterfly This LibriVox recording is in the public domain. The Tale of Betsy Butterfly by Arthur Scott Bailey. Chapter 4 Busy Bodies Little Miss Ladybug said that she wished Betsy Butterfly no ill luck, but she thought that perhaps it would have been a good thing for her if Johnny Green had caught her and put her in his collection. On hearing that strange remark, Meetable Moth turned quite pale. She never wanted Johnny Green's name mentioned by anyone, because she lived in constant terror for fear he might mistake her for one of the butterfly family and capture her. What do you mean? She asked Mrs Ladybug, while Fat Jenny Junebug waddled near of them, in order to hear everything they said. Though Jenny was sleeping, having stayed out very late the night before, the promise of a bit of gossip made her brighten up at once. I mean, said Mrs Ladybug, I mean that Johnny Green would certainly have brushed Betsy Butterfly before adding her to his collection. And then, seeing a blank look on the faces of her hearers, she cried, Don't tell me you haven't noticed how untidy Betsy Butterfly is. Can it be possible that the heirs she gives herself and her fine manners have deceived you? What is it? asked Meetable Moth breathlessly, and as for Jenny Junebug, her breath was coming so fast that she couldn't say a word. I'll tell you exactly what I mean, Mrs Ladybug continued. I stopped and spoke to Betsy Butterfly this very morning, and I stepped up close to her, because I wanted to see if she really does paint her wings. As my friend Miss Moth here suspects, Mrs Ladybug explained to Jenny Junebug, and what do you think? I saw that Betsy Butterfly was completely covered with dust, from head to foot. Meetable Moth looked rather uncomfortable. She was somewhat dusty herself, and she thought that Mrs Ladybug might be giving her a slide dick. Perhaps Betsy had been on a journey, she ventured. Ah, but there is no dust today, on account of the rain we had last night, Mrs Ladybug replied. I'm convinced that the dust I saw on Betsy Butterfly was wicks old. The idea, Jenny Junebug exclaimed, I should think she'd be ashamed of herself. Did you tell her how untidy she looked? Mrs Ladybug shook her head. No, she answered, but I've been thinking the matter over, and I believe it's my duty to speak to her about it. I don't see what she's thinking of, to go about looking like that. Miss Moth looked more uneasy than ever, especially when Mrs Ladybug said, Wouldn't you like to come with me while I look for Betsy? I must go home now, thank you, said Meetable, and she hurried away without another word. But Jenny Junebug spoke up at once and said she would be delighted to accompany Mrs Ladybug. Really, Jenny, confided to her companion, it's a good thing to have backs as hard and slippery as yours and mine, for the dust can't stick to us as it does to some. There's no excuse for not keeping one's self-need, Mrs Ladybug said severely, and I shall give Betsy Butterfly a piece of my mind. End of Chapter 4 Chapter 5 At the Tale of Betsy Butterfly This LibriVox recording is in the public domain. The Tale of Betsy Butterfly by Arthur Scott Bailey Chapter 5 No Joker Much to Mrs Ladybug's surprise, she did not find Betsy Butterfly in the Flower Garden. It's too bad she's not here, Mrs Ladybug remarked to her friend, Jenny Junebug, who accompanied her. We'll have to look in the meadow, and it may take a long time to find Betsy there. Jenny Junebug yawned, right in Mrs Ladybug's face. Then I can't come with you, she said. I'm getting terribly sleepy again, and since I expect to be up all night, I'm going to take a nap. Mrs Ladybug looked at Jenny with great disapproval, as that fat young person crept under a leaf and went to sleep. Things have come to a pretty pass when ladies stay out all night, she muttered. It was not that way when I was a girl, but times have changed for the worse. The longer Mrs Ladybug stared at her sleeping friend, the more she thought that she ought to wake her up. If I rouse her, she'll be so drowsy tonight that she'll simply have to go to bed, Mrs Ladybug thought. So she poked Jenny Junebug several times. But Jenny Junebug only stirred slightly and murmured something in her sleep. And seeing that it was useless to try to awaken her, Mrs Ladybug set out for the meadow alone. The sun hung low in the west when Mrs Ladybug found Betsy Butterfly among a clump of milkweed blossoms. But Mrs Ladybug did not care what time it was. She was satisfied when she saw that Betsy was just as dusty as ever. For, to tell the truth, little Mrs Ladybug was so jealous of the beautiful Betsy that she wanted to say something disagreeable to her. Hasn't this been a lovely day? Betsy Butterfly cried happily as soon as she noticed Mrs Ladybug. I've enjoyed every moment of it. Ever since I saw you in the flower garden this morning, I've been here in the meadow, flitting from one blossom to another. You might better have spent a little of your time in a different way, Mrs Ladybug remarked with a frown. Betsy Butterfly looked up in surprise, withdrawing her long tongue from the blossom in which she had just buried it. Ah, as shudder, she'll print Mrs Ladybug. Please coil your tongue, she begged. I can't bear the sight of it, but I must say that I ought not to expect good manners in a person who goes about looking as untidy as you do. Betsy Butterfly laughed gaily. I didn't know you were such a joker, she exclaimed. Oh, I'm not joking, Mrs Ladybug said. I mean every word I say. Then I wouldn't talk so much if I were you. Betsy Butterfly advised her with a merry twinkle in her eye. And before Mrs Ladybug could say another word, Betsy Butterfly flew away and left her spluttering and choking. She insulted me, Mrs Ladybug screamed, as soon as she was able to speak. She insulted me, and then she hurried off because she didn't dare stay. But Mrs Ladybug was mistaken about one thing. Betsy Butterfly knew that she had just time to reach home before sunset. So that was why she left so suddenly, because she never was willing to travel when the sun was not shining. I'll see Betsy in the morning, Mrs Ladybug promised herself savagely. I'll make it my business to follow her everywhere she goes, until I've given her a good talking too. End of Chapter 5, Chapter 6, of the Tale of Betsy Butterfly. This LibriVox recording is in the public domain. The Tale of Betsy Butterfly by Arthur Scott Bailey. Chapter 6, Mrs Ladybug's Advice Little did Betsy Butterfly guess what Mrs Ladybug intended to say to her. And if she had known what it was, she would have been merely amused. For Betsy was entirely too sweet-tempered to take offence at anybody's fault-finding, least of all that of Mrs Ladybug, who was really a good-hearted soul when she wasn't jealous. And when Betsy went to the flower garden early the next morning, she felt kindly towards the whole world, not even expecting Johnny Green, though he had tried to capture her. Well, Mrs Ladybug was waiting for Betsy Butterfly among the flowers. She had been in such haste to reach the garden early that she had not stopped to have her breakfast. And like many people who have not drunk their morning cup of coffee, she was in a very peevish mood. Now, Miss Pert, I want you to listen to me. That was Mrs Ladybug's greeting to Betsy Butterfly on one of the most delightful days of the whole summer. It's my unpleasant duty, said Mrs Ladybug, who by that time was enjoying herself thoroughly. It's my unpleasant duty to tell you that people are talking about you. They say that you're going about covered with dust. And as a friend, I advise you to give yourself a thorough brushing each morning and as often thereafter as may be necessary. Betsy Butterfly had listened in amazement to Mrs Ladybug's words. And she had hard work not to laugh too, because she thought Mrs Ladybug's advice decidedly funny. Thank you very much, Betsy said most politely. I'll remember what you've told me. Somehow Mrs Ladybug thought that Betsy meant she would follow her advice and she looked quite pleased. I shall expect a great improvement in your appearance the next time I see you, she announced. And with the manner of a person who has just done somebody a good turn, she hurried away to get the breakfast that was waiting for her somewhere. Then Betsy Butterfly enjoyed a good laugh. How ridiculous, she said to herself, but I won't tell Mrs Ladybug of her mistake, because she might feel upset if I did. And you can see just by that how kindhearted Betsy was. She did not even tell her own family about the joke for fear of hurting Mrs Ladybug's feelings. But jealous little Mrs Ladybug had no such misgivings. She went out of her way to explain to people that if they noticed a change in Betsy Butterfly's appearance, they might thank her for it. I told Betsy that she ought to brush the dust of herself. She informed her friends. Naturally she was displeased when she met Betsy that very afternoon and saw that the dust still lay thick on her wings. I believe you actually want to be untidy. Mrs Ladybug cried. And if you aren't going to brush that dust off, I shall do it myself. And grasping a small Indian paintbrush, the weight of which she could scarcely stagger under, Mrs Ladybug advanced upon Betsy Butterfly with a determined look in her eye. Oh, don't do that, cried Betsy. It's my painful duty to give you a thorough dusting, Mrs Ladybug declared. End of Chapter 6. Chapter 7 of The Tale of Betsy Butterfly This Libra Vox recording is in the public domain. The Tale of Betsy Butterfly by Arthur Scott Bailey. Chapter 7 Butterfly Bill Now a crowd had gathered quickly around Betsy Butterfly and Mrs Ladybug for the few people are quick to notice anything unusual. And a sprightly young cousin of Betsy's known as Butterfly Bill said to Mrs Ladybug with a wink at everybody else, I suppose you'll dust the rest of us too. Only those that needed replied Mrs Ladybug. Then you'll have your hands full, Butterfly Bill told her. Maybe you haven't noticed that every member of the Butterfly family in Pleasant Valley is covered with dust just as Betsy is. Mrs Ladybug looked surprised. Is that so? She said faintly. It certainly is, Bill cried. Maybe you never knew that the dust is what gives us our beautiful colours, he added proudly. And I warn you that if you so much as touch my lovely cousin with that brush you'll have every one of us fellows in your hair. Of course poor Mrs Ladybug was quite bald but she knew what Butterfly Bill meant and she was so upset that she promptly let the paintbrush fall to the ground. Then Betsy's cousin nodded approvingly. Now you'd better hurry home, he told Mrs Ladybug. There's a rumour around the meadow that your house is on fire and they say your children are in great danger. Little Mrs Ladybug at once fell to weeping. It's that horrid Freddy Firefly she shrieked. I've told him to keep away from my home. I've told him that he would set it to blazing with that light of his. But he's forever sneaking around my house as soon as my back is turned. There, there, don't be frightened, Betsy Butterfly said to her soothingly. It's only a rumour you know. That's so, Mrs Ladybug admitted, drying her eyes. I hear it almost every day too but I can never get used to it. I suppose this is only a false alarm after all. I wouldn't be so sure about that Butterfly Bill said wickedly with a shake of his head and if I were you I'd look after my own family a little more carefully instead of troubling myself with other people's affairs. Several of Bill's friends applauded his speech but Betsy Butterfly whispered to him to hush. Don't you see that Mrs Ladybug is not quite herself? She asked him. But Butterfly Bill was not a person to be easily silenced like that. She's a meddling busybody, he declared and it's my opinion that she ought to be put where she'll have to mind her own business. Who, may, called a wheezing voice right in his ear. Turning, Butterfly Bill saw that it was Jenny Junebug who had spoken to him. She had noticed the crowd from a distance and she had just arrived quite out of breath. Before Betsy Butterfly's cousin Bill could answer Jenny Junebug actually threatened him. If you were talking about me I shall have to knock you down, she declared. He had heard that Jenny delighted in flying bang into anybody but he did not know that she indulged in that un-lady life trick only after dark. Of course I didn't mean you, he said hastily and I hope you didn't mean my friend Mrs Ladybug either, Jenny Junebug added for if you did but Butterfly Bill waited to hear no more. Thoroughly frightened he sought safety in flight and as he flew away Mrs Ladybug couldn't help noticing the dust on his wings. There's certainly a peculiar lot that Butterfly family, she muttered. End of Chapter 7 Chapter 8 of the Tale of Betsy Butterfly This LubriVox recording is in the public domain. The Tale of Betsy Butterfly by Arthur Scott Bailey Chapter 8 Do you like Butter? After Mrs Ladybug failed in her attempt to brush the dust off Betsy Butterfly she grew more jealous of Betsy than ever. It was really a shame that Mrs Ladybug should feel like that. Usually she was quite harmless even if she was a busybody and a gossip but she simply couldn't forgive Betsy Butterfly for being so beautiful and now Mrs Ladybug begun to neglect her children more than ever in order to spy upon Betsy in the hope of discovering some new fault in her. Betsy Butterfly soon noticed that wherever she went she was sure to see Mrs Ladybug who had a way of bobbing up in a most startling fashion but Betsy was always quite polite to the jealous little creature and she never failed to inquire for her health and that of her children as well even if she met Mrs Ladybug a dozen times a day. For some reason Mrs Ladybug seemed quite touchy where her family was concerned. You don't need to ask about my children she told Betsy at last in a somewhat sharp tone they are in the best of health and I'll let you know in case they fall ill. It's strange she continued how everybody in this neighborhood is always primed into my household affairs. Betsy Butterfly smiled to herself she did not care to quarrel with Mrs Ladybug nor with anyone else for that matter so she abruptly changed the subject. Do you like butter? she asked. Why no? said Mrs Ladybug I don't care anything about it at least I never ate any then I don't see how you know whether you like it or not Betsy observed unless you've looked into a buttercup to find out Mrs Ladybug was interested in spite of herself can a person tell by doing that she wanted to know it's a sure way said Betsy Butterfly I was just looking into this buttercup that I'm sitting on when you flew up and spoke to me Do you like butter? Mrs Ladybug inquired I'm afraid not Betsy told her I'd like to try myself Mrs Ladybug exclaimed eagerly but I don't know how it's simple enough Betsy Butterfly replied you just look into a buttercup blossom and if it makes your face yellow then you'll find the butter whether you ever had any or not so Mrs Ladybug perched herself on a big blossom and peered earnestly into its cup Is my face yellow? she asked Betsy I do believe it is Betsy Butterfly cried and Mrs Ladybug looked much pleased I've always known I had refined tastes she remarked with a lofty air and now I'd like to sample a bit of butter but I don't know where to find any Butter they make it at the farmhouse Betsy informed her then perhaps Farmer Green's wife will let me have a little Mrs Ladybug said hopefully I'll go over to the farmhouse at once it's too bad you don't like butter too she added but secretly she was delighted the Betsy Butterfly had looked into a buttercup in vain End of Chapter 8 Chapter 9 at the tail of Betsy Butterfly this LibriVox recording is in the public domain the tail of Betsy Butterfly by Arthur Scott Bailey Chapter 9 Unexpected news Little Mrs Ladybug had a disappointment when she reached the farmhouse she found to her dismay that she couldn't get inside it the wire screens blocked her way through both doors and windows and nobody paid the slightest attention to her when she stopped at the buttery window and asked if she couldn't please have a bit of butter there was plenty of golden butter right there in plain sight since it happened to be churning day and Farmer Green's wife with her sleeves rolled above her elbows was working busily on the other side of the window screen I should think she might easily spare me a small sample Mrs Ladybug cried at last I'm afraid Farmer Green's wife is stingy Mrs Ladybug hoped that Johnny Green's mother would hear her remark but she didn't and in the end Mrs Ladybug had to fly away with her longing for butter still unsatisfied meanwhile Betsy Butterfly had been amusing herself in the meadow to her heart's content to tell the truth and rather a relief to be rid of Mrs Ladybug's society for so long a time and Betsy hoped that Mrs Ladybug's errand to the farmhouse would keep that busybody engaged for the rest of the day now after she left the farmhouse Mrs Ladybug set out to find Betsy Butterfly again but meeting daddy longleagues near the stone wall she stopped to gossip with him telling him how she had learned that she liked butter and explaining that she had not yet tasted any so you look into a buttercup to find out a said daddy longleagues I'll have to do that myself maybe I've always liked butter too without knowing that I do you can't tell till you try Mrs Ladybug remarked but you mustn't be too sure she may be disappointed there's Betsy Butterfly she doesn't care for butter at all are you sure about that daddy longleagues inquired really, I think you must be mistaken for I saw her with her face just buried in butter this very day at first Mrs Ladybug looked at him in amazement and then she grew very angry Betsy Butterfly deceived me she cried in a shrill voice she was afraid that if I knew she ate butter she would have to share it with me I'd like to know where she gets her butter Mrs Ladybug mused she was standing on some a farmer greens when I saw her daddy longleagues explained did she ask him for it Mrs Ladybug demanded I don't believe she did he admitted I think she just took it a wicked gleam came into Mrs Ladybug's eyes when she learned that and she threw up her hands exclaiming she steals Betsy Butterfly steals butter when the few people hear the news they won't think she's so fine and then Mrs Ladybug turned to daddy longleagues once more and demanded whether he knew of anything else the Betsy Butterfly was in the habit of taking from Farmer Green eggs he replied promptly eggs Mrs Ladybug repeated after him Betsy Butterfly steals butter and eggs and before daddy longleagues could stop her she had hurried away to spread the news far and wide end of Chapter 9 Chapter 10 at the tail of Betsy Butterfly this Lubri Vox recording is in the public domain the tail of Betsy Butterfly by Arthur Scott Bailey Chapter 10 The Night Watch Little Mrs Ladybug stopped everybody she met in the meadow and related how Betsy Butterfly was taking Farmer Green's butter and his eggs too without asking his permission she's going to get some of us into trouble Mrs Ladybug informed her neighbours just as likely as not Farmer Green and his wife will think others are stealing from them why I went to the farmhouse today and asked for a bit of butter and what do you think Mrs Green pretended not to hear me I thought it was queer at the time but now I know that she's angry with me she must have missed some of her butter and she thinks I'm the guilty party Mrs Ladybug shook her finger at her neighbours we'll have to do something to put a stop to Betsy Butterfly's thieving she declared Jealous Mrs Ladybug's story amazed all the field people would scarcely believe that anyone so beautiful and dainty as Betsy Butterfly would be mean herself by robbing Farmer Green or anybody else but Mrs Ladybug said that Daddy Longlegs had seen Betsy with her face buried in Farmer Green's butter and no one could doubt the word of so respectable a person as Daddy Longlegs What steps do you think we ought to take to prevent Betsy from eating any more butter and eggs that don't belong to her asked the Queen of the Bumblebee family I think we ought to set a careful watch on her said Mrs Ladybug I'm sure I don't see when she gets so stolen goods because I've watched her very closely myself for some time and I've seen her dine nothing but flowers perhaps she goes to the farmhouse at night Jenny Dunebug suggested that's a happy thought said Mrs Ladybug approvingly we'll have to get Freddie Firefly to follow her about after dark so Mrs Ladybug and her neighbors made arrangements with Freddie Firefly to have Betsy Butterfly spied upon that very night I'll watch her till sunset Mrs Ladybug agreed and then you must relieve me she told Freddie don't let her out of your sight until sunrise she warned him Freddie Firefly promised that he would be faithful to his trust and later that afternoon when the sun began to drop behind the mountains he relieved Mrs Ladybug who had been spying upon Betsy ever since their talk earlier in the day she's behaved herself fairly well so far Mrs Ladybug whispered to Freddie as she prepared to fly home to her children but there's no knowing when she may start for the farmhouse so you mustn't take your eyes off her all night you can trust me Freddie assured her and then Mrs Ladybug said good evening Freddie Firefly always claimed that that was the longest night he ever spent and he said that if he had realized that he would have to stay in one place from sunset to dawn he never would have agreed to watch Betsy Butterfly the Betsy Butterfly went to sleep the moment the sun went down Freddie had to remain for hours and hours where he could flash his light upon her and all the while he knew that his whole family was having a delightful time dancing in the hollow over towards the swamp it was especially hard for Freddie because he could see the gay lights of the Fireflies twinkling through the dark but Betsy Butterfly knew nothing of his long vigil she slept and slept the whole night long and Freddie Firefly had to admit to himself as he watched her that she didn't act like a robber in the least End of Chapter 10 Chapter 11 of the Tale of Betsy Butterfly This Libra Vox recording is in the public domain The Tale of Betsy Butterfly by Arthur Scott Bailey Chapter 11 A Sly One When Freddie Firefly reported to Mrs. Ladybug and her neighbours that Betsy Butterfly had taken neither butter nor eggs from Farmer Green during the night the field people were much puzzled She's certainly a sly one Mrs. Ladybug explained what do you think we ought to do now She asked Daddy Longleats who was supposed to be very old and therefore very wise I think you ought to warn her he replied after some thought you ought to tell Betsy Butterfly that she must stop pilfering No doubt your advice is good Mrs. Ladybug observed and I'll speak to Betsy this very morning you must come with me she told Daddy I naturally want to have a witness oh I'll come he cried in his thin quavering voice though what she meant by a witness was more than he knew so Mrs. Ladybug and Daddy Longleats set forth to find Betsy Butterfly and behind them followed a crowd of their neighbours even lazy Buster Bumblebee joined the procession though he was a drone and never worked he was always ready to exert himself for the sake of any new excitement the strange company wandered back and forth across the meadow for some time without finding Betsy Butterfly but at last Mrs. Ladybug and soon Betsy found herself surrounded by the mob goodness she cried looking about her in surprise how nice of you all to call on me I'm so glad to see you Betsy Butterfly was so cordial that Mrs. Ladybug couldn't help looking somewhat uncomfortable she couldn't avoid a strange feeling of guilt and yet she told herself that Betsy Butterfly was really the guilty one she's a bold piece Mrs. Ladybug exclaimed under a breath perhaps you won't be so happy to see us when you hear what we have to say to you Mrs. Ladybug began there hasn't been an accident I hope Betsy cried your house hasn't burned no replied Mrs. Ladybug and again she said no in a very decided manner we've come to warn you that we've found out about your trickery she announced we know that you like butter and that you're in the habit of taking it from Farmer Green and eggs too why I don't know what you're talking about Betsy Butterfly faulted she was really greatly surprised it won't help you to be untruthful Mrs. Ladybug told her severely it's no wonder she added it's no wonder Mrs. Green wouldn't give me a bit of butter when I went to the farmhouse yesterday she thought I was the one that's been stealing it from her right along and then Mrs. Ladybug was amazed by what followed the Betsy Butterfly actually smiled at her you're mistaken she said I never eat butter I don't like it and as for eggs how could I even break through an egg shell I don't know anything about that said Mrs. Ladybug and besides I didn't come here to be questioned she added tabling if you have any questions to ask just ask them of him that he's seen you with your face buried in butter and she pointed at Daddy Longleeks and now it was his turn to look uncomfortable that he considered Betsy Butterfly to be very beautiful indeed end of chapter 11 chapter 12 of the tale of Betsy Butterfly this LibriVox recording is in the public domain the tale of Betsy Butterfly by Arthur Scott Bailey chapter 12 a terrible thunder when the beautiful Betsy Butterfly turned her gaze on him Daddy Longleeks couldn't help wishing that he had worn his new coat that day however he straightened his necktie carefully and tried to look as well as he could so you've seen me eating butter have you Betsy Butterfly asked you not eating it he corrected her I've seen you standing on it and your face was hidden in it too Mrs. Ladybug shot a triumphant glance at the crowd of which she and Betsy Butterfly and Daddy Longleeks were the centre what have you to say now my fine lady she demanded a Betsy with a sneer and still Betsy Butterfly was quite unruffled where did you see me doing that she asked Daddy Longleeks pleasantly enough I object Mrs. Ladybug interrupted hastily you needn't answer her question she advised Daddy Longleeks I know her tricks she'll keep us talking here until we forget what our errand was but Daddy Longleeks paid no attention to Mrs. Ladybug's advice I saw you in this meadow he explained and Mrs. Ladybug began not worried come she cried let's all go home now we've warned her and we'll leave her to think over what she's done Mrs. Ladybug added turning to Betsy Butterfly I hope you'll decide to turn over a new leaf why that's exactly what she did that time when I saw her Daddy Longleeks shouted while I was watching her turn over a leaf so what's the use of her turning over another and now it was Mrs. Ladybug's turn to look amazed and bewildered I don't know what you're talking about she snapped glaring at Daddy Longleeks and I don't believe you know yourself oh yes I do he retorted shrilly Butter has no leaves said Mrs. Ladybug with a knowing air saw heaps and heaps of it in Farmer Green's buttery yesterday and there wasn't a leaf on it how about Egg's thing shouted somebody in the crowd it was stupid but the bumblebee and of course nobody paid any heed to his silly question as he stared at Mrs. Ladybug Julie Daddy Longleeks let his mouth fall wide open what do you mean he demanded at last you and I aren't talking about the same sort of butter at all you're describing the kind of butter that Mrs. Green makes at the farmhouse and what pray tell have you been talking about all this time Mrs. Ladybug gasped the butter and eggs in the meadow Daddy Longleeks informed her I suppose you know the plant don't you I've heard of it Mrs. Ladybug replied but I doubt if there is such a thing and I say there is buster bumblebee climate we bumblebees are very fond of butter and eggs and we're about the only field people that know how to open a blossom and reach its nectar little Mrs. Ladybug waited to hear no more you've made a terrible thunder she told Daddy Longleeks hurriedly and before he could answer her she had hastened the way like many another jealous body Mrs. Ladybug had behaved very foolishly and it was no wonder that she wanted to get away from the crowd she didn't even bed Betsy Butterflies pardon for calling her a thief but all the rest of the field people realised at last that Betsy was no thief the butter and eggs plant they were all well aware was as free as the clover or the milkweed blossoms or any other of the wild flowers everybody knew that Farmer Green they'd no claim to them though they did grow in his meadow and when Betsy Butterfly thanked Daddy Longleeks for his explanation he wished more than ever that he had worn his new coat that day and his new hat too End of Chapter 12 Chapter 13 of The Tale of Betsy Butterfly This LibriVox recording is in the public domain The Tale of Betsy Butterfly by Arthur Scott Bailey Chapter 13 The Friendly Stranger Of course anyone so beautiful as Betsy Butterfly was bound to attract attention wherever she went people turned their heads if they could to look at her and those whose heads were so fastened to their bodies that they simply couldn't crown their necks at anybody even those unlucky creatures wheeled themselves about in order to gaze at Betsy if they happened to be ladies they stared at her because they wanted to see what was the latest style in gowns or maybe hats and if they happened to be gentlemen they looked at her because they just couldn't help it it was no wonder then that Betsy Butterfly had many admirers in fact accustomed to their flittering after her that usually she paid little heed to them but now and then one of them made himself so agreeable that Betsy favoured him slightly more than the others such was the stranger dressed in yellowish brown whom she chanced to meet among the flowers one day he was flying from flower to flower with a loud buzzing and reminded Betsy Butterfly of somebody but she couldn't just think who it was ah said the stranger as soon as he caught Betsy's eye the blossoms are fine and fresh after last night's shower aren't they Betsy had to admit that what the stranger said was true and when he came right over to the flower where she was breakfasting and begun to her and eating pollen Betsy Butterfly thought that for a stranger he seemed very friendly she looked at him for a time out of the corner of their eye while she tried to recall whom the newcomer resembled but he looked like no one she had ever seen and then all at once Betsy knew what was so familiar about him as he was his voice you remind me of a friend of mine she remarked he lives in the meadow not far from here it's your buzzing she explained if I didn't see you I should think you were bus to bumblebee Betsy's remark seemed to please the stranger and he smiled smokily while he buzzed louder than ever it's not surprising that I make you think of him he observed indeed it would be odd if I didn't for I'm a sort of cousin of Buster's so to speak perhaps you didn't know what my name is Bumble Joseph Bumble naturally Betsy and Joseph became good friends on the spot and after that people often saw them rambling together among the flowers now Joseph Bumble proved to be a great talker and since Betsy Butterfly was an excellent listener they spent many agreeable hours together at least Joseph enjoyed every minute that he spent in Betsy Butterfly's company and if at times she found his prattle a bit tiresome she was too well mannered to say so if the truth were known Joseph Bumble proved to be somewhat of a braggart he was forever boasting of his connection with the Bumblebee family and Betsy couldn't say anything to him without his remarking that his cousin Buster Bumblebee's mother the well known queen thought this or that and being of royal blood the queen ought to know what's what he frequently said I suppose Betsy said to him at last I suppose you're a royal blood yourself Mr Bumble oh very he replied with a smirk where all of us very royal indeed and Betsy Butterfly thought how pleasant it was to be friends with anyone who came from such a fine family as Joseph Bumble's End of Chapter 13 Chapter 14 of the Tale of Betsy Butterfly This LibriVox recording is in the public domain The Tale of Betsy Butterfly by Arthur Scott Bailey Chapter 14 A Deep Plot As time passed Betsy continued to see a great deal of Joseph Bumble and she noticed one peculiar thing although he talked continually at his cousin Buster Bumblebee the queen's son no one had ever seen the two together How does it happen she asked Joseph at last that I never find you with your cousin aren't you friends we're certainly not enemies said Joseph Bumble though I must admit that we're not quite so intimate as we might be Buster and I have different tastes and now that the red clover is in blossom he spends all his time in the clover field but as you know like you I'm very fond of flowers and I'd rather be here in the meadow or the flower garden with you than in the clover patch with Buster Bumblebee Naturally such an answer was bound to please Betsy Butterfly and after that she bothered her head no more about the friendship between the two cousins certainly Joseph Bumble's explanation sounded reasonable and she had no cause to doubt his statement Meanwhile there were others among Betsy Butterflies admirers who became very peevish on observing how much time Betsy and the newcomer in the neighbourhood Joseph Bumble were spending in each other's society and they agreed among themselves that something ought to be done to put an end to the upstart Bumble's boasting Betsy Butterfly thinks the fellow is a cousin a Buster Bumblebee said chirpy cricket but I've noticed that he and Buster are never together let's ask Buster to come over so that he may meet this cousin of his and then perhaps we'll learn something more about Joseph Bumble than we know now everyone said that that was a good plan and Betsy's admirers chose Daddy Longlegs to call on Buster Bumblebee and invite him to a party to be given in the meadow the following day Daddy Longlegs agreed to do the errand in fact that for him it was half a day's journey to the Bumblebee's home from the stone wall where he lived but he thought that by hurrying he ought to be able to get back in time to put on his best coat and go to the party though he might arrive somewhat late don't forget to ask Betsy Butterfly to the party as he started off on his long trip I'll attend to that myself Cherpie Crickard promised and don't forget to invite Joseph Bumble Daddy cautioned him oh we don't need to ask him said Cherpie Crickard he'll come without being invited unless I'm greatly mistaken luckily for Daddy Longlegs there was not a breath of wind either that day or the following one so he made excellent time for Bumblebee home where he found Buster Bumblebee and gave him his invitation then Daddy turned around and started back towards his stone wall Buster Bumblebee had promised to come to the party and Daddy wanted to be present when the two cousins Buster Bumblebee and Joseph Bumble met with Betsy Butterfly right there to watch them End of Chapter 14 Chapter 15 of the Tale of Betsy Butterfly This LibriVox recording is in the public domain The Tale of Betsy Butterfly by Arthur Scott Bailey Chapter 15 Joseph Bumble's Complaint It happened just as Cherpie Crickard had expected Butterfly arrived at the party with her admirer Joseph Bumble buzzing close behind her although he had not been invited he did not feel the least bit shy about coming Being of the royal family I never waked to be asked to a place he had explained loftily to Betsy and you'll see that everybody will be glad to see me at the party People always consider it an honour to have me at their entertainments Joseph's words prove partly true anyhow Anyone could see that Joseph Bumble was more than welcome Cherpie Crickard and Daddy Longleeds as well good many others rushed up to him and told him how pleased they were to see him and Joseph Bumble was having a very agreeable time talking in a loud voice about himself and his family when he suddenly stopped short A look of displeasure crossed his face and Daddy Longleeds asked him if he had eaten something that disagreed with him No replied Joseph Bumble I've been interrupted and it's hardly the sort of treatment a person of royal blood like myself expects to receive at a party interrupted you Cherpie Crickard inquired I don't know Joseph Bumble answered but someone was talking in a loud voice Are you sure it wasn't yourself that you heard Daddy Longleeds wanted to know Certainly not cried Joseph Don't be silly Don't you suppose I know my own voice when I hear it Perhaps it was your echo Daddy ventured At that Joseph Bumble rudely turned his back on him and began whispering to Cherpie Crickard He was actually suggesting that Daddy Longleeds should be thrown out of the party and then Mr Bumble again paused abruptly and listened There he said to Cherpie Crickard Don't you hear that buzzing that's the person that interrupted me and I'd like to have him put out of the party too along with this queer old chap who insulted me a moment ago Cherpie Crickard looked around until his eye rested on Buster Bumble B who had just arrived and who was at that moment talking with Betsy Butterfly There's the young man you hear Cherpie told Joseph Bumble Don't you know him No, replied Joseph as his eyes followed Cherpie Crickards and I don't want to know him either He looks to me to be a very ordinary person and anybody can see that he's annoying Betsy Butterfly I told you I want him chased away from here at once for I'm of royal blood and I'm not accustomed to go to parties with ragtags and bobtails I'm a cousin of Buster Bumble B the Queen's cousin Well, Cherpie Crickard tried hard not to laugh right in Joseph Bumble's face I'll see what I can do Cherpie promised him and I will admit that somebody ought to be bad out of this party Good, exclaimed Joseph Bumble I'm glad to know that you're so sensible Perhaps he would have spoken in a better fashion Had he known exactly what Cherpie Crickard had in mind But now he said nothing more though he continued to stare angrily at Buster Bumble B who was glad to see Betsy Butterfly and was telling her as much too End of Chapter 15 Chapter 16 at the tail of Betsy Butterfly this LibriVox recording is in the public domain the tail of Betsy Butterfly by Arthur Scott Bailey Chapter 16 Nothing but a fraud At last Joseph Bumble's displeasure passed all control He began to buzz as loud as he could hoping to drown Buster Bumble B's buzzing so that Buster could no longer talk to Betsy Butterfly Naturally Buster soon had to raise his own voice in order to make himself heard and soon the two made such a roar that everybody else had to stop up his ears Noticing a look of distress on Betsy Butterfly's face Buster asked her what the trouble was You and your cousin Joseph are making a terrible record of him My cousin Joseph cried Buster Bumble B and who is he I should like to know Point him out to me please for I don't know I had a cousin at this party There he is said Betsy Butterfly nodding her head towards the glouring Joseph What? That unshaven stranger I assure you he's no relation of mine You must be mistaken Betsy persisted He says he's your cousin and of royal blood himself Nonsense cried Buster Bumble B Just let me talk to him a moment and I'll soon prove that your friend is nothing but a fraud Accordingly Buster left her and straightway perched himself Daisy directly in front of Joseph Bumble How'd he do? said Buster I hear you've been talking about me Now Joseph Bumble's only thought was that the noisy chap in the yellow and black velvet must have overheard what he had said to chirpy crooked about throwing him out of the party I don't care to talk with you Joseph announced in his grandest manner I'm from such a fine family that I have to be very particular about who I'm seen with Is that so? said Buster I suppose if Buster Bumble B were at this party you'd be glad to talk with him I should say I would was the other's answer He's my cousin What's your name anyhow? Buster inquired Joseph Bumble What's the rest of it? Buster Bumble be demanded while the whole company surged around him so that they might hear I refuse to answer said Joseph Bumble and afterward Daddy Longlands declared that at that moment he saw the fellow's knees trembling Come said Joseph Bumble turning suddenly to Betsy Butterfly I see that we've accidentally fallen in with some rough people and we'd better be moving on But Betsy Butterfly didn't even look at Joseph What is his full name? She asked Buster He's a Bumble flower beetle Buster said and as for his being related to me that's all humbug This stranger is no king either to the Bumble bee or any other bee family but his voice is so much like ours that he's taken part of our name though our family has always claimed that he has no right to it Who are you? Joseph Bumble demanded a Buster quite fiercely He was determined to put his enemy to route if he could I'm Buster Bumble bee was the reply Don't you know your cousin? When he heard that Joseph Bumble knew at once that the game was up his trickery was discovered beyond a doubt so with one last lingering look at the beautiful Betsy he took to his wings and no one ever saw him in those parts again As for Betsy Butterfly she never could bear after that to hear the name of Joseph Bumble so much as mentioned End of Chapter 16 Chapter 17 of the Tale of Betsy Butterfly This Libra Box recording is in the public domain The Tale of Betsy Butterfly by Arthur Scott Bailey Chapter 17 Dust is difficulty It was to be expected that as time went on Betsy Butterfly's fame would spread far and wide and long before the summer was over half the creatures that lived in Pleasant Valley knew her They were the ones that went about by daylight and rested at night As for the other half the night prowlers many of them had heard about the beautiful Betsy though of course they had never seen her that is none of them except Freddie Firefly who had flashed his light upon Betsy all one night because Mrs. Ladybug had a strange notion that she was stealing butter from the farmhouse In fact after that happened Freddie Firefly had gone about telling all his friends how beautiful Betsy Butterfly was and saying what a pity it was that she could not see her at night as well as sunshine he talked so much about her that at last a good many of the night prowling people said that they wished they might see Betsy Butterfly just once for they could scarcely believe that anybody could be as dainty and bewitching as Freddie Firefly would have them believe her and certainly eager to make Betsy's acquaintance indeed he begun to complain that he was losing his appetite through thinking about Betsy Butterfly so he besought Freddie Firefly to help him out of his difficulty now while he was talking with Freddie Firefly this young moth who was known as Dusty never once stopped eating and I fly noticed how his Betsy's stuck out and he wondered what the fellow's appetite could have been like before he lost some of it you don't act like one in delicate health Freddie Firefly observed as he watched the greedy Dusty consume more food oh but I am Dusty Moth protested feebly I'm so weak now I lose myself with my wings Freddie was sure that Dusty's trouble was merely due to his being too fat but he saw no reason for quarrelling with him can't you think of some plan by which I could meet Betsy Butterfly Dusty Moth persisted perhaps if I could see her just once I'd be able to get my mind off her and on my meals again I don't know how I can help you Freddie Firefly confessed you see Betsy goes home exactly at sunset and at present she never seems to make her home in the same place for even two nights so one can never be sure where she will be of course when the sun is shining you can always find her among the flowers to help you any because you're such a sleepy head in the daytime that you couldn't see anything even if it stuck right into your eyes can't you explain my sad case Betsy Butterfly Dusty Moth asked hopefully I've heard that she's very kind hearted and if she knew how I'm suffering on her account I'm sure she'd be glad to meet me some pleasant dark night he begged so piteously that in the end Freddie Firefly agreed to do what he could but I warn you he said I warn you that I can't give you much hope End of Chapter 17 Chapter 18 of the Tale of Betsy Butterfly this lubricant recording is in the public domain The Tale of Betsy Butterfly by Arthur Scott Bailey Chapter 18 Solomon Alves Idea Freddie Firefly actually did send a message to Betsy Butterfly telling her that Dusty Moth wanted to see her and saying that unless she would agree to meet him in the meadow some night soon Dusty was afraid he would lose his appetite entirely but Betsy thought the whole affair was only a joke so she merely laughed and sent Freddie no answer at all for she hardly believed that she needed to explain to him that nothing could induce her to stir out after sunset Freddie Firefly was much upset because he received no answer to his message perhaps he could not have cared so much had Dusty Moth not made his life miserable each night from dusk to dawn but that persistent fellow kept asking Freddie every few minutes if he had heard from her yet and naturally anyone would grow tired if he had to keep saying no no no all night long at the same time Dusty Moth kept insisting in a most annoying way if he lost much more of his appetite he would be ill and it would be Freddie Firefly's fault so Freddie Firefly began to worry he came finally to detest Dusty Moth and Freddie's family noticed that he was growing quite thin because Dusty Moth left him little time between questions in which to eat his meals comfortably I declare I wish Betsy Butterfly would move away from Pleasant Valley Freddie Firefly exclaimed at last quite out of patience with everybody and everything I'm in a pretty fix I am and since I don't know how to get rid of this annoying Dusty Moth I'm going to ask Solomon Owl what I'd better do that at least was a comforting thought so the following morning just before dawn he made what might be termed a flying call on Solomon Owl who lived in the Hemlock Woods beyond the swamp and luckily wise old Solomon thought of a good plan at once as soon as he had heard Freddie Firefly's story he said to him if Betsy Butterfly refuses to meet your friend you ask her for a picture that's a splendid idea Freddie cried how in the world did you ever happen to think of it Mr Owl Solomon Owl hooted at that question that's my secret he said if I told all I know everybody else would be just as wise as I am and after giving another long string of hoots which he followed with the burst of loud laughter Solomon Owl popped into his house anyhow Freddie Firefly couldn't complain that he now had a remedy for his trouble and he felt so carefree and happy again that on his way across the meadow he stopped to talk with Jimmy Rabbit who was taking a stroll in the direction of Farmer Green's search Freddie Firefly quickly told Jimmy all about his affair with Dusty Moth he even explained how he had gone to ask Solomon Owl's help and related what that wise bird had advised there's only one thing that worries me now said Freddie Firefly anxiously I'm wondering whether Betsy Butterfly would have thought of it by himself End of Chapter 18 Chapter 19 at the Tale of Betsy Butterfly This Libra Box recording is in the public domain The Tale of Betsy Butterfly by Arthur Scott Bailey Chapter 19 A Bit of Luck Jimmy Rabbit promptly set Freddie Firefly's gears at rest I happen to know, said he that Betsy Butterfly has a picture of herself Are you sure? Freddie asked him eagerly I ought to be replied Jimmy Rabbit because I painted it myself the very next day after I finished a portrait of old Mr Crow It ought to be a good one if you made it, said Freddie but wasn't it some time ago as an artist It was earlier in the summer Jimmy Rabbit admitted Of course, Betsy Butterfly has changed somewhat since thing, but this picture was a fine likeness of her at the time I painted it I suppose, he added I was the first one in the whole valley to perceive that she was going to be a beauty when she got her full growth Do you suppose she'll send me the picture if I asked her so I can show it to Dusty Moth Freddie asked Jimmy Rabbit looked a bit doubtful, he pondered for a few moments and then he said I'll tell you what I'll do tomorrow morning I'll see Betsy and I've no doubt that she'll loan me the picture if I promise to return it to her That'll be great cried Freddie Meet me near the duck pond as soon as it's dark tomorrow night and be sure to bring Betsy's picture with you Then Freddie Firefly hurried off to find Dusty Moth who happened likewise to be looking for him because he had a question to ask They met shortly and Dusty Moth immediately cried Have you heard from her meaning Betsy Butterfly of course Now see here Freddie Firefly said It's plain enough that Betsy doesn't care to meet you but I have a plan that ought to suit you well enough If you could look at her picture once you'd be satisfied wouldn't you? I would replied Dusty Moth if I got my appetite back afterward Well, will you promise to stop pestering me about Betsy Butterfly if I let you see this picture of her Yes, yes Dusty promised impatiently Where is it? Quick, let me see it Oh, you'll have to wait till tomorrow night Freddie explained I shall not be able to eat a single mouthful till then Dusty Moth groaned Well, you can suit yourself about that You told him impatiently and please don't speak to me again tonight I've been troubled enough on your account without being bothered by you any more One moment cried Dusty as Freddie Firefly started to leave him Well, what do you want now Freddie growled flashing his light impatiently in Dusty Moth's eyes Are you sure you want to take the picture Dusty asked him Yes, yes, of course she will Why shouldn't she? I should like to know You certainly do ask the silliest questions And yet Freddie Firefly had put the same query himself to Jimmy Rabbit only a short time before But now he was quite certain that his worries were almost Betsy Butterfly has caused me a powerful lot of trouble Freddie grumbled as he hurried over the hollow to join in the dance of the Firefly family End of Chapter 19 Chapter 20 At the Tail of Betsy Butterfly This LibriVox recording is in the public domain The Tail of Betsy Butterfly by Arthur Scott Bailey Chapter 20 Chapter 20 Something seems wrong When Jimmy Rabbit went to see Betsy Butterfly the next morning he found her quite willing to let him take her picture away with him But I must say Betsy remarked I must say that I don't understand why anybody should want to borrow this old portrait Everybody tells me I have changed a great deal since you made it That's true Jimmy Rabbit agreed But the person to whom I'm going to show it won't know the difference I don't believe he knows me then she remarked No, and probably he never will, said Jimmy Rabbit But don't you worry about that From what I hear of him he's a good deal of a bore Don't bother to bring back that picture She called to Jimmy Rabbit as he hopped away I'm afraid Betsy Butterfly is growing vain he murmured to himself to be sure she has changed but I shall always like this portrait of her because I painted it myself Later when he was in Farmer Greens Garden he read the picture carefully in a rhubarb leaf and hid it beneath a pile of brush and he didn't come back for it until after dark just as the moon peeped above the rim of the hills At the duck pond Jimmy Rabbit found Freddie Firefly waiting for him hopping up and down and flashing his light through the misty gloom Did you get it? Freddie demanded It's safe in my pocket Jimmy assured him Let me have it, said Freddie Dusty Moth is waiting for me at the fence corner near the orchard and I want to give him a good look at Betsy Butterfly's picture before the moon gets too high for he can't see well if there's too much light Jimmy Rabbit drew the picture carefully from his pocket and Freddie Firefly took it and slung it across his back He fairly staggered under the weight Aren't you going to look at Betsy's picture yourself? Jimmy Rabbit asked him It's a good bit of work if I do say so Oh, I don't care about seeing it It's nothing to me, you know said Freddie carelessly but I hope Dusty Moth will be satisfied with it Well, I won't go with you to see if he is Jimmy Rabbit told him I usually have a light lunch at this hour so I'll meet you here at the duck pond after I come back from the cabbage patch They parted then and shortly after Freddie Firefly dropped down beside Dusty Moth who made no attempt to conceal his pleasure At last he cried At last I am to behold the beautiful Betsy Butterfly's picture I do hope it's a good likeness He added with trembling hands to unwrap the rhubarb covering from the portrait It certainly is Freddie Firefly assured him It was made by a friend of mine who once painted a famous picture of old Mr Crow While Freddie danced along the top of the fence Dusty Moth carried the picture into the shade of an apple tree out of the moonlight He might see it more clearly A few moments later Freddie Firefly was both surprised and alarmed to hear a cry of anguish from the direction of the apple tree What's the matter he called There's nothing wrong I hope But Dusty Moth made no reply End of Chapter 20 Chapter 21 The Tale of Betsy Butterfly This Libra Box recording is in the public domain The Tale of Betsy Butterfly by Arthur Scott Bailey Chapter 21 A Strange Change Receiving no answer to his question Freddie Firefly skipped down from the fence and sought the shade of the apple tree where he found Dusty Moth staring fixedly at Betsy Butterfly's picture Dusty's face wore a most curious look He seemed at once angry sorrowful and amazed and not till Freddie Firefly asked again what was the trouble did Dusty Moth say a word Then he pointed scornfully toward the portrait that Jimmy Rabbit had made earlier in the summer So that's the charming Betsy Butterfly, eh? That's the beauty I've heard so much about I can tell you right now that if I had any idea she looked like this I never would have lost my appetite over her You astonished me Freddie Firefly exclaimed Have you forgotten how anxious you were to meet the lady and meet her Dusty Moth howled I promise you I'd never go out of my way to meet anybody that looked as she does though I might go a long distance to avoid her Freddie Firefly glanced toward the picture that it had fallen face downward upon the ground and he did not take the trouble to raise it he asked Indeed I don't I think she's hideous Dusty Moth shouted Never in all my life have I been so deceived in a person I don't understand how you can say that Freddie Firefly told him but I suppose your idea of beauty may be different from mine and from many other peoples too Anyhow I hope you'll go back again I don't know about that said Dusty Moth just now I don't feel as if I ever wanted to taste food again a shudder passed over him and he covered his eyes as if to shut some terrible image from his memory I must leave you now said Freddie Firefly and please don't forget what you promised me you said that if I'd showed you a picture of Betsy Butterfly you would stop pestering me about her Don't worry about that Dusty Moth assured him bitterly I shall never mention Betsy Butterfly's name again I don't want to think of her but I'm afraid I can never never get her face out of my mind I know he added I know I shall see it in my dreams and just think how terrible it will be to wait at midday out of a sound sleep with her dreadful face and form haunting me Freddie Firefly couldn't help feeling sorry for the poor chap but he could think of nothing to do except to show him Betsy's portrait once more so he started to raise the picture from the ground where it still lay face downward and the moment Dusty Moth saw what he was about he gave a frightful scream and flew off into the night he's a queer one Freddie Firefly mused now I've always thought Betsy was a fine ripping just then his eyes fell upon the picture for the first time and Freddie Firefly's mouth fell open in astonishment so amazed was he by what he saw that he tumbled right over backwards and then scrambling to his feet he wrapped the rhubarb leaf hastily around the picture and slung it across his back again Jimmy Rabbit has made a terrible mistake he groaned as he started for the duck pond Back at the meeting place Freddie Firefly rushed up to Jimmy Rabbit in great excitement do you know what you did he cried you brought me the wrong picture and Dusty Moth has gone shrieking off into the darkness he was so disappointed this is not Betsy Butterfly's picture it's some dreadful looking caterpillar and when I glanced at it just now over in the orchard to chill all through me for the first time then Jimmy Rabbit said nothing at first he had seemed quite upset but before Freddie had finished speaking he had begun to smile and then he unwrapped the picture once more and leaned it against a stone where the moons rays fell squarely upon it you're mistaken he informed Freddie then this is a picture of Betsy Butterfly I painted it myself and I ought to know as I explained last night I made it earlier in the summer and as I said she has changed somewhat in the meantime but it's a very good likeness of her as she was once you mean gassed Freddie Firefly you mean Betsy Butterfly was once an ugly caterpillar why certainly said Jimmy Rabbit and so was Dusty Moth for that matter yes he was a caterpillar himself once and a much uglier one than Betsy if only he knew it in fact said Jimmy looking at the picture with his head on one side as caterpillars go Betsy Butterfly was a great beauty even at so early an age end of chapter 21 chapter 22 of the tale of Betsy Butterfly this Libra Vox recording is in the public domain the tale of Betsy Butterfly by Arthur Scott Bailey chapter 22 The Skipper in Farmer Green's Meadow they lived a very nervous person called The Skipper he was a distant cousin of Betsy Butterflies and since the two were almost exactly the same age they quite naturally spent a good deal of time together The Skipper was of a dark somber brown shade and it always seemed to the gaily coloured Betsy that he tried to make up for his dull appearance by being extremely lively in his movements he was forever skipping suddenly from one place to another a trick which had caused people to call him by so odd a name much as she liked this queer cousin Betsy often found his uncertain habit somewhat annoying it was not very pleasant when talking to him that he had unexpectedly left her when she supposed he was right beside her or behind her if she had anything important to tell him she frequently had to hurry after him and the worst of it was once she had overtaken him she never knew when he would dart away again as the summer lengthened it seemed to Betsy Butterfly that the Skipper grew more flighty than ever once she had been able to say a few words to him before he went sweeping off but now now she could not even tell him that it was a nice day without following her cousin at least half an hour in order to finish her remark you're becoming terribly fidgety Betsy told him at last if you don't look out you'll have nervous prostration or ice shell if you don't stop jumping about like a jack in the box I advise you, she said to see a doctor before you get any worse of course it must not be supposed that Betsy Butterfly could say all that to her cousin without going to a good deal of trouble as a matter of fact she had to follow him about the fields for two whole days and travel several miles before she succeeded in finishing what she wanted to say to him why I feel fine the Skipper cried I don't need a doctor I he started to skip away from the wild morning glory blossom on which he had purged himself but Betsy caught him just in time now you listen to me she commanded you're in a dangerous condition someday someone will come to you with an important message and if you go sailing off the way you do how's he ever going to tell you the whole message until it's too late perhaps if it was good news it wouldn't hurt to keep it a while the Skipper asserted cheerfully and he gave a quick spring with the hope of escaping from Betsy's grasp but she held him firmly by the coattails suppose I wanted to warn you not to go near the flower garden because Johnny Green was waiting there for you with his net to capture you and put you in his collection you might be sorry afterwards if you didn't sit still and listen to me so said the Skipper I hadn't thought of that I'd see a doctor at once but I don't know any go to Aunt Polly Woodchuck under the hill Betsy Butterfly advised him she's the best doctor for miles around so they went together to call on Aunt Polly the old lady looked at the Skipper and shook her head I can't help him she said she passed anxiously is his trouble catching no indeed said Aunt Polly he can't stay one place long enough to give it to anybody well after that Betsy saw very little of her cousin the Skipper but she did not mind that especially since she soon made the acquaintance of a very agreeable young gentleman who dressed in the height of fashion he wore a swallow tail coat every day and the neighbors all said that the manners were delightful he never went skipping off while Betsy Butterfly was talking to him end of chapter 22 end of the tale of Betsy Butterfly by Arthur Scott Bailey this recording is in the public domain