abbits there were known for their intelligence and witty conversation. Merrick liked to talk more than he liked to play ball, so they chatted for a while. Before long they had decided to spend the day together. "You can ride on my back," Merrick suggested. "You'll get a better view and a faster ride." In exchange, Merrick knew he would have good company for the day.

orlie did not disappoint him. She flattered Merrick by asking his opinion about several matters.

It wasn't long before the conversation drifted to Jorlie's future. Merrick offered some ideas, hoping to justify Jorlie's good opinion of him.

adly, his advice held little value, since he was an entirely different species.

Jorlie gave up hope that her companion could help in any way besides transportation. She was grateful for that, however, because of her promise to be home for supper.

errick didn't seem to notice when Jorlie turned the discussion to more ordinary matters. They talked on happily as they made their way through a cornfield toward a neatly kept homestead in the distance. Merrick was ready to rest and this looked like the place for it. When they neared the house, they spotted an old rabbit hoeing a patch of clover near by.

orlie and Merrick waved a greeting when the farmer looked up. The old rabbit waved back as they approached. "Good day to you, friends," he shouted.

It was the custom on that far away planet for rabbits to welcome other rabbits, even if they were strangers in the company of large spotted dogs.

ake a rest from your travels," he said, hesitating from his work when they arrived. "What are you two looking for out here?"

Jorlie hadn't realized she was looking for anything until then. Perhaps, the farmer could help. "I'm looking for an occupation," she said. "Do you know what I should do when I grow up?"

The old farmer scratched his ear and thought. "Have you considered farming? Nothing more satisfying than planting clover and rye."