The Wind in the Willows

The next summer’s boating season begins, and Rat and Mole spend an early morning repairing their boat, “painting and varnishing, mending paddles, repairing cushions, hunting for missing boat-hooks, and so on” (59). At breakfast, they hear a knock on the door. It’s Badger, who never visits others, so it’s a big surprise.

Badger strides in and announces solemnly that this is the day they’ll convert Toad from an out-of-control adventurist to a sensible animal. Badger adds that Toad has ordered yet another automobile, and time is short. They set out at once in single file, Badger leading, and walk to Toad Hall.

A new car, bright red, stands before Toad Hall. Toad steps outside, dressed for travel in a hat, goggles, gloves, gaiters, and overcoat. He welcomes his guests and invites them along for a drive but hesitates at their stern expressions. Rat and Mole grab Toad and hustle him back inside, while Badger dismisses the chauffeur and orders Toad to remove his road clothes. Toad refuses, so Badger directs Rat and Mole to do it. They place Toad on the floor and strip him of his touring garments while he struggles and protests.