🐸 The Wind in the Willows – Chapter 2: Toad's Big Idea

One bright morning, Rat invited Mole to visit Toad Hall.

“Toad wants to see us,” Rat said. “He has a new idea.”

They packed a lunch and walked through the woods. Toad Hall was a grand, old house with large windows and long gardens.

Toad greeted them with open arms.

“My dear friends!” he said. “I’ve discovered something amazing.”

Rat rolled his eyes. “Another hobby?”

“Better than all the others,” Toad smiled. “I’ve given up boats and singing. I’m now… a traveler!”

“A traveler?” Mole asked.

“Yes!” Toad said. “I’ve bought a beautiful horse and a cart. We will ride in it across the country—like true adventurers!”

Toad led them outside. There stood a small green cart and a strong brown horse. The cart was decorated with red and yellow flowers.

“It looks nice,” Mole said kindly.

“It’s not just nice—it’s freedom!” said Toad. “The open road, the wind in your fur, the stars at night…”

Rat sighed. “How long until you give this up too?”

“Never!” Toad shouted. “This is my true calling!”

They set off down the road. Toad held the reins and sang songs loudly.

At first, it was fun. The countryside was beautiful. They passed fields, trees, and happy animals. But after a few hours, Rat and Mole were tired.

Toad didn’t notice. He was too busy talking.

Suddenly, a loud noise came from behind them.

🚗 VROOM! A big red car sped past on the road, kicking up dust.

Toad jumped in surprise. His eyes lit up.

“What was that?” he whispered.

“A motor-car,” Rat said. “Noisy things.”

Toad was silent.

Then, very quietly, he said, “I want one.”

Rat groaned. “Oh no. Not again.”

Back at Toad Hall, Toad couldn’t stop talking about the car.

“It was so fast. So powerful! The way it moved—it was magic!”

Rat shook his head. “You’ll forget it tomorrow.”

But Mole wasn’t so sure. He saw a strange light in Toad’s eyes.

Toad’s adventures were just beginning…

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📖 Glossary

Word/Phrase	Meaning
Grand	Large and impressive
Hobby	Something you enjoy doing for fun
Cart	A small vehicle pulled by a horse
Reins	Straps used to guide a horse
Motor-car	An old word for car
Calling	A strong feeling of purpose or passion

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❓ Comprehension Questions

1. Where do Mole and Rat visit in this chapter?

2. What is Toad’s new idea?

3. How does Toad describe his cart?

4. What do they see on the road that excites Toad?

5. What does Toad say he wants?

6. How do Rat and Mole react to Toad’s new interest?

7. What does Mole notice about Toad at the end?

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✅ Answers

1. Toad Hall.

2. He wants to travel the country in a horse cart.

3. He says it means freedom and adventure.

4. A fast red motor-car.

5. He wants to own a motor-car.

6. Rat is annoyed; Mole is unsure.

7. He sees excitement and obsession in Toad’s eyes.