Cleans the Chimney

  
         
One chilly afternoon Snuffles decided to light his first fire of the winter. However, before he did this, he thought he really ought to give the chimney a good sweep. He collected various brushes and brooms and some steps and peered up into the sooty darkness. "Goodness, it does need a clean, I can't even see out of the top," he said. He had been busily sweeping the chimney for over an hour, getting sootier by the minute, when he noticed that something appeared to be blocking it near the top.

He picked up his longest brush, climbed up a bit higher into the chimney and tried to dislodge it. It was stuck fast so he carefully climbed even higher and wobbling rather precariously on the top of the steps he gave a great big push with the brush. The object came unstuck and fell down the chimney, knocking Snuffles off his steps on the way. They both tumbled into a sooty heap on the hearth.

Snuffles was amazed to see a blackbird stagger coughing and spluttering from under a large nest.

"Whatever do you think you're doing!" said the blackbird indignantly, brushing himself down. "I was just enjoying a nice snooze when suddenly I find myself at the bottom of your chimney, covered in soot!"

"Well I'm very sorry," said Snuffles crossly, getting to his feet, "but you were blocking my chimney! It's a good thing I found you before I lit my fire!"

They glared at each other for a moment then began to giggle. They both looked such a sight, covered in soot and bits of twigs from the nest. "I suppose you're right," laughed the blackbird. "I should be thankful, but I've been there since the spring and its been very cosy. Now I suppose I shall have to find somewhere else to stay."

"Oh don't worry," said Snuffles, "I'm sure we can find you somewhere. But first I think I had better clear this mess up."
The blackbird helped and soon the soot was cleared away and the brass around the hearth was bright and shiny again. "I've had an idea," said Snuffles as they sipped a cup of tea, "how would you like to move into my attic for the winter? It's very warm and there is a small window so you'd be able to get in and out easily.

The blackbird thought this was a splendid idea and was even more delighted when Snuffles took him up later to show him the room. He thanked Snuffles and set about making himself comfortable.
  Snuffles had a warm bath, slipped on his winter dressing gown and snuggled into his favourite armchair in front of a blazing fire. He chuckled to himself when he thought of the afternoons antics and how funny he and blackbird must have looked, covered in soot and twigs. But it was rather a nice feeling that he wouldn't be alone for the winter now that he had a "lodger" in his attic!
 .........More next week!!!!
 ©Mike James Limited.