“Coming, why are folk always in such a hurry for you to answer the door?” muttered Mr. Tumblebum.
“A fine morning to you, sir. My name is Baxter, Henry Baxter, and I perform a variety of home improvements,” said the little workman.
“Oh, for the love of Mike, I don’t need anything fixed. Be on your way and leave me in peace,” cried the rabbit.
The small handyman stared up at the soffits and shook his head. “No, sir, you have an infestation which needs immediate attention,” said Henry.
“What on earth are you going on about?” said Mr. Tumblebum.
“See them there swallows, they’s fix’en to make their nest in your soffits. After them, the rooks, and soon your whole house will be an aviary,” said the worker.
“Goodness, I had no idea. Please repair it before those fiends can do any damage,” said the rabbit.
The homeowner retreated into the safety of his study. The handyman pounded and scraped until all was right as rain.
“Cooee! All finished, sir,” came a voice outside the window.
Mr. Tumblebum stepped out to inspect the handyman’s work. “Hmm, can’t say I see any difference,” said the man.
“Well, no, of course not. I tightened up the ridges so the birds couldn’t slip in and build a nest. They have already gone since building here would be impossible,” said Baxter.
“Yes, quite right. What is the payment?” asked the owner.
“Today is your lucky day. Normally, I would hit you up for a fiver, but seeing it’s Wednesday, it’s three pounds five,” replied the handyman.
“How fortunate you happened by,” said the man as he dropped the coins in Baxter’s hand.
“If you need anything else, I’ll be round these parts next month,” said Baxter, giving Mr. Tumblebum a nod.
Later, outside the Shiny Coin pub, Baxter sat drinking his ale when two swallows hopped up on the table.
“Bout time you two show up. This here bird seed is smelly,” said Baxter. He handed over two small bags of seed.
“A pleasure working with you boys. Don’t forget we’re doing Mrs. Crudditon’s tomorrow,” said Baxter with a wry smile.
The birds flew off with their payment, and Henry Baxter ordered another ale. “I love it when the living comes easy. It makes my tummy warm and fuzzy,” chuckled the handyman.
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