Rain pattered against the window and she could hear animal noises and voices outside. Gradually Beth recognized the attic bedroom in the Tail End Farm owned by her aunt and uncle. She was staying here while her parents were away. The room was still dark and a gust of wind sent more rain drumming against the window. Beth pulled the blanket over her head and snuggled back under the downy warmth. Suddenly the bedroom door swung open. Beth heard muffled footsteps approaching the bed and then she felt a rush of cool air as the blanket was pulled aside. “Rise and shine!” cried a voice. “Mornings start early on a farm!” “Hey!” Beth complained, sitting straight up. Martin Badby, her tall dark-haired cousin, stood grinning mischievously down at her. “Give that back!” Beth demanded, lunging at him with outstretched arms. “No way!” Martin yelled, backing away. He tossed the blanket across the room out of her reach. Beth scowled. Martin was twelve years old, older than her by three years, but he sometimes acted as if he were six.
