Good evening. Welcome to the Just Sleep podcast. I'm Tasia, your host.

Every week, I will read you an old story to help you relax, put the stressful day behind you, and drift off to sleep.

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Tonight, I continue the story,

The Wind in the Willows,

by Kenneth Graham.

So lie down, close your eyes,

and let me read you a story.

Footsteps fell on his ear, and the figure of one that walked somewhat wearily came into

view, and he saw that it was a rat and a very dusty one.

The wayfarer, as he reached him, saluted with a gesture of courtesy.

That had something foreign about it, hesitated a moment, then with a pleasant smile,

turned from the track, and sat down by his side in the cool herbage.

He seemed tired, and the rat let him rest unquestioned, understanding something of what was in

his thoughts, knowing too the value all animals attach at times to mere silent companionship,

when the weary muscles slacken and the mind marks time.

The Wayfarer was lean and keen featured, and somewhat bowed at the shoulders.

His paws were thin and long, his eyes but wrinkled at the corners, and he wore small gold earrings in his neatly set, well-shaped airs.

His knitted jersey was of a faded blue, his breeches, patched and stained, were based on a blue foundation, and his small belongings that he carried were tied up in a blue cotton

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