Mowgli

In a thick green jungle lived a little boy named Mowgli. A kind family of wolves had raised him, and he ran and played with the wolf cubs beneath the big trees.

Mowgli had the very best friends in the world. Baloo, the big good-natured bear, taught him how to find sweet honey and how to hum merry jungle songs.

And Bagheera, the wise black panther, soft and gentle, showed Mowgli the little paths, taught him to listen to the rustling leaves, and never to fear the dark.

"You are part of our jungle," said Bagheera. "We are always here beside you." Mowgli rode on Baloo's broad back and hugged Bagheera around the neck, and his heart felt warm.

In the evening all the animals gathered by the quiet river. Fireflies lit their little lanterns, frogs sang a lullaby, and a warm breeze rocked the leaves.

Mowgli yawned and nestled snugly between Baloo and Bagheera, like two soft pillows. "How lovely it is to have friends near," he whispered.

Baloo rumbled softly, Bagheera purred, and Mowgli closed his eyes. Soon the whole jungle was asleep beneath the stars. Goodnight, little one.