When Bob and Tommy went to the sea-side last year they had a very happy time.

Perhaps the thing that they enjoyed most of all was a ride on Neddy’s back. Dear old Neddy—he was most patient. He would carry Bob and Tommy together all along the sands and think himself well paid if a carrot was given him at the end of the journey.

One day Bob and Tommy had a fright. They were playing on a little island when the tide was coming in. Soon there was water all around them.

When their big sister, who was reading a book on the sea-shore, saw what had happened, she gave a loud cry of alarm.

At this moment up came Neddy’s master, holding the donkey by the bridle.

“I think I can help you, Miss,” said the man, quick to see what was wrong. “I’ll lead Neddy through the water, and he’ll soon bring the young masters safe to shore.”

And true enough he did.

Dear good Neddy! He was given that day a splendid feast of carrots, and I think he deserved them, do not you?

Father has promised that he will buy Bob and Tommy a donkey for their very own, and they are more pleased than ever.