He did so very reluctantly , and scolded the shadow well as he went back to Polly ; though all the time he felt he was doing right , and knew he should be glad afterwards . Will trotted after the rabbit , but did n't find it ; he found a bird 's - nest instead with four little birds in it . He had an empty cage at home , and longed for something to put in it ; for kittens did n't like it , and caterpillars and beetlebugs got away . He chose the biggest bird , and , holding him carefully , walked away to find Polly . The poor mother-bird chirped and fluttered in great distress ; but Will kept on till his little shadow came before him , and tried to make him turn back . `` No , no , I want him , '' said Will . `` I wo n't hurt him , and his mother has three left : she wo n't mind if I take one . '' Here the mother-bird chirped so loud it was impossible to help seeing that she did care very much ; and the shadow stamped its foot and waved its hand , as if ordering the young robber to carry back the baby-bird . Will stood still , and thought a minute ; but his little heart was a very kind one , and he soon turned about , saying pleasantly : `` Yes , it is naughty , and I wo n't do it . I 'll ask mamma to get me a canary , and will let this birdie stay with his brothers . '' The shadow patted him on the shoulder , and seemed to be delighted as Will put the bird in the nest and walked on , feeling much happier than if he had kept it . A bush of purple berries grew by the path , and Will stopped to pick some . He did n't know what they were , and mamma had often told him never to eat strange things . But they smelt so good , and looked so nice , he could n't resist , and lifted one to his mouth , when little shadow motioned for him to stop . `` Oh , dear ! you do n't let me do any thing I want to , '' sighed Will . `` I shall ask Polly if I tar n't eat these ; and , if she says I may , I shall , so now . '' He ran off to ask Polly ; but she said they were poisonous , and begged him to throw them away . `` Good little shadow , to keep me safe ! '' cried Will .
`` I like you ; and I 'll mind better next time , 'cause you are always XXXXX . ''
Polly Will baby-bird beetlebugs bird bush left minute mother-bird right