now there was no denying that the ground hog was getting too stout to look well, and people thought he would be angry at this. perhaps he was angry. the little rabbits were sure of it. they said they knew by the expression of his tail. still, you know, the ground hog came of a good family, and well-bred people do not say mean things even if they are annoyed. he combed the fur on his face with both paws, and answered with a polite bow: "if i had the slender and graceful form of my charming friend, mrs. red squirrel, i should be delighted to do as she suggests."