Chapter 89
The Snail and the Rose-TreeROUND about the garden ran a hedge of hazel-bushes; beyond
the hedge were fields and meadows with cows and sheep; but in the
middle of the garden stood a Rose-tree in bloom, under which sat a
Snail, whose shell contained a great deal—that is,
himself.
"Only wait till my time comes," he said; "I shall do more
than grow roses, bear nuts, or give milk, like the hazel-bush, the
cows and the sheep."
"I expect a great deal from you," said the rose-tree. "May
I ask when it will appear?"
"I take my time," said the snail. "You're always in such a
hurry. That does not excite expectation."
The following year the snail lay in almost the same spot,
in the sunshine under the rose-tree, which was again budding and
bearing roses as fresh and beautiful a
