The Boy made his way back to the village in a state of great despondency. First of all, there wasn't going to be any fight; next, his dear and honour… - Kenneth Grahame

Oh dear, oh dear, how stupid men are when they get an idea into their heads! I tell you he's a good dragon, and a friend of mine, and tells me the most beautiful stories you ever heard, all about old times and when he was little. And he's been so kind to mother, and mother'd do anything for him. And father likes him too, though father doesn't hold with art and poetry much, and always falls asleep when the dragon starts talking about style. But the fact is, nobody can help liking him when once they know him. He's so engaging and so trustful, and as simple as a child!

In silence they landed, and pushed through the blossom and scented herbage and undergrowth that led up to the level ground, till they stood on a little lawn of a marvellous green, set round with Nature's own orchard-trees — crab-apple, wild cherry, and sloe.

"We shall creep out quietly into the butler's pantry — " cried the Mole.
" — with out pistols and swords and sticks — " shouted ther Rat.
" — and rush in upon them," said Badger.
" — and whack 'em, and whack 'em, and whack 'em!" cried the Toad in ecstasy, running round and round the room, and jumping over the chairs.