Elderly Charlie has been retired by his owner. His own pasture and a tree for shade should provide a well-deserved rest for the old fellow. But Charlie misses his daily routine -- especially the hot, sweet, berry tarts from his friend Birdie, the tavern cook.

What's a little fence to a big, strapping, not-so-very-old-as-he-looks fellow like Charlie? Not much! Charlie begins escaping from his retirement pasture daily, and soon has a new/old routine to keep to.

Wonderful illustrations, and a charming story. This was a much-loved favorite among the many Margueritte Henry books on my shelves. ( )