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Colin the Crab Falls in Love

Colin the Crab is a hard worker who loves spending his spare time with friends. He has a charming home, but lately it has started to feel a bit empty and lonely. Is it time for Colin to find a spouse? Colin is confused, and none of his friends knows how to advise him. One day Finley the Frog, the director of the river museum, calls Colin for help when an accident befalls an important exhibition of shells and corals. Among the broken shelves, Colin makes a delightful discovery: a girl crab with the most beautiful eyes along the riverbank.

Colin the Crab is a hard worker who loves spending his spare time with friends. He has a charming home, but lately it has started to feel a bit empty and lonely. Is it time for Colin to find a spouse? Colin is confused, and none of his friends knows how to advise him.
One day Finley the Frog, the director of the river museum, calls Colin for help when an accident befalls an important exhibition of shells and corals. Among the broken shelves, Colin makes a delightful discovery: a girl crab with the most beautiful eyes along the riverbank.

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ENGLISH EDITION<br />

<strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Crab</strong><br />

<strong>Falls</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>Love</strong><br />

Tuula Pere<br />

Roksolana Panchyshyn<br />

W<br />

ickWick


<strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Crab</strong> <strong>Falls</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>Love</strong>, Orig<strong>in</strong>al English Edition<br />

Story by Tuula Pere<br />

Illustrations by Roksolana Panchyshyn<br />

Layout by Peter Stone<br />

English translation by Mirka Pohjanr<strong>in</strong>ne<br />

Edited <strong>in</strong> US English by Susan Korman<br />

ISBN 978-952-325-908-9 (ePub)<br />

ISBN 978-952-325-408-4 (Pr<strong>in</strong>t)<br />

First edition<br />

Copyright © 2018 Wickwick Ltd<br />

Published 2018 by Wickwick Ltd<br />

Hels<strong>in</strong>ki, F<strong>in</strong>land<br />

Pr<strong>in</strong>ted <strong>in</strong> EU<br />

Orig<strong>in</strong>ally published <strong>in</strong> F<strong>in</strong>land by Wickwick Ltd <strong>in</strong> 2018<br />

F<strong>in</strong>nish “Timo Taskurapu rakastuu”, ISBN 978-952-325-407-7 (Pr<strong>in</strong>t), ISBN 978-952-325-907-2 (ePub)<br />

English “<strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Crab</strong> <strong>Falls</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>Love</strong>”, ISBN 978-952-325-408-4 (Pr<strong>in</strong>t), ISBN 978-952-325-908-9 (ePub)<br />

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored <strong>in</strong> a retrieval system, or transmitted<br />

<strong>in</strong> any form or by any means, mechanical, electronic, photocopy<strong>in</strong>g, record<strong>in</strong>g, or o<strong>the</strong>rwise, without <strong>the</strong> prior<br />

written permission of <strong>the</strong> publisher Wickwick Ltd. The only exception is brief quotations <strong>in</strong> pr<strong>in</strong>ted articles and<br />

reviews. For details and written permissions, contact rights@wickwick.fi.<br />

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well as fundrais<strong>in</strong>g or educational use. Special editions can also be created to specification. For details, contact<br />

specialsales@wickwick.fi.


ENGLISH EDITION<br />

<strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Crab</strong><br />

<strong>Falls</strong> <strong>in</strong> <strong>Love</strong><br />

Tuula Pere • Roksolana Panchyshyn<br />

W<br />

ickWick<br />

Children’s Books from <strong>the</strong> Heart<br />

1


2


<strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Crab</strong> lived a happy life <strong>in</strong> a peaceful<br />

river bay. Among <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>habitants of <strong>the</strong> river,<br />

he was well known for his craftsmanship. For he<br />

had built his house, all <strong>the</strong> way from <strong>the</strong> basement<br />

to <strong>the</strong> attic, with his very own claws. And he never<br />

said no when someone asked him for help.<br />

<strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong>’s home was his favorite place <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> world.<br />

There, <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> peace and quiet of his beautiful yard,<br />

he was free to do his chores at his own pace. Late<br />

<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> even<strong>in</strong>gs, he loved to admire <strong>the</strong> moonlight,<br />

which cast a silvery tone over <strong>the</strong> hills along <strong>the</strong><br />

river.<br />

“It’s so lovely here,” he often sighed contently,<br />

hold<strong>in</strong>g a mug of herb tea firmly <strong>in</strong> his claws.<br />

But still, every once <strong>in</strong> a while, <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> found himself<br />

th<strong>in</strong>k<strong>in</strong>g how nice it would be to share his house<br />

with someone else. Preferably with someone who<br />

would appreciate its peacefulness and beauty as<br />

much as he did.<br />

“Well now, enough with <strong>the</strong> daydreams,” he told<br />

himself sternly one even<strong>in</strong>g. “Tomorrow is ano<strong>the</strong>r<br />

busy day at work.”<br />

3


Early <strong>the</strong> next morn<strong>in</strong>g, <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> headed over to<br />

see old Mrs. Catfish, who lived <strong>in</strong> a ramshackle<br />

house. Without <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong>’s constant care, <strong>the</strong> build<strong>in</strong>g<br />

would fall apart.<br />

“What would I do without you, <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong>? I’d have<br />

to leave my dear home and go live with strangers<br />

somewhere. What a dreadful thought!” Mrs.<br />

Catfish sighed.<br />

The old fish woman wiped tears from her eyes with<br />

a handkerchief trimmed with delicate antique lace.<br />

<strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> nodded gravely, and cont<strong>in</strong>ued attach<strong>in</strong>g a<br />

new floorboard <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> doorway to replace <strong>the</strong> old<br />

rotten one.<br />

“Don’t you worry, Mrs. Catfish,” <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> said<br />

consol<strong>in</strong>gly. “I will keep this house toge<strong>the</strong>r, even<br />

though I have to admit, it needs a lot of work.”<br />

When <strong>the</strong> job was done, Mrs. Catfish offered her<br />

helper cookies made of <strong>in</strong>sects, and some fresh<br />

water. As <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> was enjoy<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> snack on an old<br />

heirloom sofa, <strong>the</strong> lady of <strong>the</strong> house<br />

took out one of her many photo albums.<br />

It was time for rem<strong>in</strong>isc<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

4


5


Even though <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> was very busy today, he<br />

didn’t have <strong>the</strong> heart to <strong>in</strong>terrupt Mrs. Catfish.<br />

All her stories were about <strong>the</strong> most important<br />

events of her life.<br />

“Look here, <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong>, this is me. I was a beautiful<br />

young bride once,” <strong>the</strong> old woman sighed. “It was<br />

such a long time ago. Too long. Now I live <strong>in</strong> my<br />

house all alone.”<br />

“I live alone, too,” <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> rem<strong>in</strong>ded her gently.<br />

6


“But that’s not <strong>the</strong> same th<strong>in</strong>g at all!” Mrs. Catfish<br />

exclaimed. She looked <strong>in</strong>dignant. “You’ve never<br />

had a spouse to lose. I miss my Mr. Catfish terribly.”<br />

<strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> looked down and blushed. The old fish<br />

woman was right. He didn’t have a spouse, and<br />

perhaps he’d never have one. Yet, deep <strong>in</strong>side his<br />

heart, <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> often longed to have ano<strong>the</strong>r crab by<br />

his side.<br />

7


On his way home, <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> passed by Sally <strong>the</strong><br />

Starfish’s house. As he walked along Sally’s<br />

fence, he adjusted a couple of decorations to fit<br />

better between <strong>the</strong> boards.<br />

Sally was a va<strong>in</strong> young starfish who liked to<br />

brighten up her yard with decorations. Now <strong>the</strong><br />

fence was filled with shimmer<strong>in</strong>g pieces of glass<br />

and sh<strong>in</strong>y corks.<br />

Suddenly Sally herself appeared <strong>in</strong> a w<strong>in</strong>dow.<br />

“<strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> dear,” she called. “Would you m<strong>in</strong>d com<strong>in</strong>g<br />

over tomorrow? I’ve found <strong>the</strong> most wonderful<br />

mirror, but I don’t know how to hang it on my<br />

closet wall.”<br />

“I could come <strong>in</strong> right now,” <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> replied.<br />

“I’m afraid this isn’t a good time. I have to hurry to<br />

a starfish ball. My boyfriend is com<strong>in</strong>g to pick me<br />

up soon, and I haven’t even dressed yet! I also have<br />

to oil my arms!” She fussed.<br />

“I’ll come tomorrow <strong>the</strong>n. Have a great even<strong>in</strong>g!”<br />

<strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> waved a claw, and cont<strong>in</strong>ued on his way.<br />

8


<strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> had met Sally’s boyfriend, and quickly<br />

come to <strong>the</strong> conclusion that <strong>the</strong> starfish was<br />

not much of a handyman. The young starfish only<br />

seemed <strong>in</strong>terested <strong>in</strong> Sally, and admir<strong>in</strong>g his own<br />

looks.<br />

Those who spend hours <strong>in</strong> front of a mirror are<br />

rarely <strong>in</strong>terested <strong>in</strong> build<strong>in</strong>g projects, <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> had<br />

learned.<br />

9


Just when <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Crab</strong> was about to open<br />

<strong>the</strong> pretty gate to enter his yard, he heard a<br />

humm<strong>in</strong>g sound from upstream. It was Eddie<br />

<strong>the</strong> Eel, approach<strong>in</strong>g on his motocopter. When he<br />

noticed <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong>, Eddie braked hard.<br />

“How’s it go<strong>in</strong>g, old chap? On your way out this<br />

even<strong>in</strong>g?” Eddie <strong>the</strong> Eel asked with a big smile. “I<br />

could offer you a ride, if you like. I’m go<strong>in</strong>g to take<br />

my wife out for a little while to get some fresh air.”<br />

10


Eddie was always <strong>in</strong> a good mood when he got<br />

to drive around with his motocopter and tell<br />

o<strong>the</strong>rs about its many splendid qualities.<br />

“I th<strong>in</strong>k I’m go<strong>in</strong>g to stay <strong>in</strong> this even<strong>in</strong>g and rest a<br />

little. Say hello to your wife for me!” <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> replied.<br />

Eddie started <strong>the</strong> eng<strong>in</strong>e of <strong>the</strong> motocopter aga<strong>in</strong>,<br />

and quickly disappeared around <strong>the</strong> bend <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

river. <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> walked across <strong>the</strong> yard to his pavilion,<br />

stopp<strong>in</strong>g to admire <strong>the</strong> stream<strong>in</strong>g water.<br />

Perhaps one night I could go out and visit some<br />

friends or someth<strong>in</strong>g, <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> thought. But go<strong>in</strong>g out<br />

on my own doesn’t seem like much fun. He sighed.<br />

He’d like to look for a spouse. But where <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

world could he f<strong>in</strong>d one?<br />

11


All week long, this idea of f<strong>in</strong>d<strong>in</strong>g a spouse<br />

cont<strong>in</strong>ued to whirl about <strong>in</strong>side <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong>’s head.<br />

But he felt quite uncerta<strong>in</strong> about how to handle<br />

this unfamiliar matter. He decided to <strong>in</strong>vite his<br />

friends to his pavilion this weekend to celebrate<br />

<strong>the</strong> full moon. He could ask <strong>the</strong>ir advice <strong>the</strong>n.<br />

After sunset on Saturday even<strong>in</strong>g, <strong>the</strong>re was a<br />

buzz at <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong>’s gate. Eddie <strong>the</strong> Eel made quite an<br />

appearance by show<strong>in</strong>g up <strong>in</strong> his motocopter. His<br />

wife sat beside him, and Mrs. Catfish was <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

back. She climbed off, look<strong>in</strong>g a bit dizzy. She had<br />

just experienced <strong>the</strong> fastest ride of her life.<br />

“How wonderful that an older fish woman like me<br />

gets to spend an even<strong>in</strong>g with you youngsters!”<br />

Mrs. Catfish smiled with delight. “I brought my<br />

gramophone and some records, just <strong>in</strong> case we’d<br />

like to do some danc<strong>in</strong>g.”<br />

Next, Sally <strong>the</strong> Starfish arrived with her boyfriend.<br />

They were both dressed <strong>in</strong> gorgeous even<strong>in</strong>g wear<br />

and practically glow<strong>in</strong>g with happ<strong>in</strong>ess. The<br />

couple sat down on a nice bench <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> pavilion,<br />

gently <strong>in</strong>tertw<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>ir arms.<br />

12


13


The Newt family arrived with <strong>the</strong>ir children.<br />

The smallest ones were <strong>in</strong> baby carriers, and<br />

<strong>the</strong> family had also brought along camp beds, just<br />

<strong>in</strong> case.<br />

“This is what it’s like when you have kids,” Norma<br />

<strong>the</strong> Newt said happily, bustl<strong>in</strong>g about with her<br />

husband. She looked for good spots for <strong>the</strong> little<br />

ones, right next to <strong>the</strong> table where <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> had set<br />

all <strong>the</strong> treats.<br />

It was a nice even<strong>in</strong>g. Everyone ate and talked,<br />

and <strong>the</strong>y played wistful tunes on Mrs. Catfish’s<br />

gramophone. The full moon rose to <strong>the</strong> sky and<br />

cast its light over <strong>the</strong> river bay, light<strong>in</strong>g up <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong>’s<br />

pavilion and yard. After <strong>the</strong> little newts had fallen<br />

asleep, <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> plucked up his courage.<br />

“Promise me you won’t laugh,” he began shyly. “I’d<br />

like to ask your advice about someth<strong>in</strong>g a bit delicate.”<br />

“Of course, <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong>! We’d love to help you <strong>in</strong> any<br />

way we can,” his friends exclaimed, almost <strong>in</strong> one<br />

voice.<br />

14


15


<strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> cleared his throat and got to <strong>the</strong> po<strong>in</strong>t.<br />

“You see, <strong>the</strong> th<strong>in</strong>g is, I’ve always lived here by<br />

myself. I don’t have many relatives, and <strong>the</strong>y live<br />

far away, so I don’t get to see <strong>the</strong>m often.”<br />

“But all of your friends are here!” Norma <strong>the</strong> Newt<br />

po<strong>in</strong>ted out.<br />

“That’s true. I do have many good friends, but<br />

none of you lives here with me,” <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> said quietly.<br />

16


His friends glanced at each o<strong>the</strong>r. Was <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong><br />

unhappy with his life? Was he tired of his<br />

friends, or was someth<strong>in</strong>g else go<strong>in</strong>g on?<br />

Then Sally <strong>the</strong> Starfish nodded as she caressed one<br />

of her boyfriend’s arms. “I understand you very<br />

well, <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong>. There are friends, and <strong>the</strong>n <strong>the</strong>re are<br />

special friends. There’s a big difference between<br />

<strong>the</strong> two!”<br />

“Oh, now I get it. <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> needs a spouse!” Eddie <strong>the</strong><br />

Eel said. “I charmed my wife by tak<strong>in</strong>g her for a<br />

ride with my previous motocopter. But m<strong>in</strong>d you,<br />

<strong>the</strong> new one is much f<strong>in</strong>er and—”<br />

“Oh, give it a rest, Eddie!” Mrs. Eel cut him off.<br />

“This is serious!”<br />

17


18


<strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Crab</strong> stared at his friends. Fortunately,<br />

<strong>the</strong>y weren’t laugh<strong>in</strong>g or teas<strong>in</strong>g him<br />

but tak<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> matter seriously. A lively discussion<br />

followed. Everyone had a story about how he or<br />

she had met a spouse. Eventually, <strong>the</strong> group started<br />

ponder<strong>in</strong>g what could be done to help <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong>.<br />

“You could buy yourself a little motocopter. Even a<br />

used one would do,” Eddie <strong>the</strong> Eel suggested. “And<br />

before you know it, you’ll meet a cute girl crab who<br />

wants to go for a ride with you.”<br />

“But I’m quite happy with my cart,” <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> said.<br />

“It’s very handy for carry<strong>in</strong>g build<strong>in</strong>g equipment<br />

and groceries.”<br />

Sally <strong>the</strong> Starfish attempted to persuade <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> to<br />

update his wardrobe.<br />

“Girl crabs would be eager to date you if you<br />

weren’t always wear<strong>in</strong>g those same old overalls,”<br />

Sally <strong>in</strong>sisted.<br />

“But <strong>the</strong>se are so practical. I can carry my tools<br />

and o<strong>the</strong>r useful th<strong>in</strong>gs <strong>in</strong> my pockets,” <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong><br />

defended his wardrobe.<br />

19


After <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> rejected Mrs. Catfish’s suggestion<br />

to buy antique furniture and a porcela<strong>in</strong><br />

tableware to impress female crabs, his friends<br />

f<strong>in</strong>ally gave up. They started to get ready to leave.<br />

“I’m afraid we aren’t much help,” Norma <strong>the</strong> Newt<br />

sighed.<br />

“We’ll let you know if we come up with some o<strong>the</strong>r<br />

ideas,” Eddie <strong>the</strong> Eel promised.<br />

The moon had traveled across <strong>the</strong> bay by <strong>the</strong> time<br />

that <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> waved good-bye to his last guest. It was<br />

time to close <strong>the</strong> gate and go to bed.<br />

Actually, I did get a lot of help from <strong>the</strong>m, <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong><br />

thought. Now I know that I have to f<strong>in</strong>d a spouse <strong>in</strong><br />

my own way. It wouldn’t be like me at all to show off<br />

with fancy clo<strong>the</strong>s or by driv<strong>in</strong>g around <strong>in</strong> a motocopter.<br />

In his bedroom, <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> could see <strong>the</strong> silvery moon<br />

sh<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g through <strong>the</strong> curta<strong>in</strong>. Before fall<strong>in</strong>g asleep,<br />

he went over <strong>the</strong> conversation with his friends<br />

once more.<br />

“I am <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Crab</strong> and nobody else,” he decided.<br />

“I should do f<strong>in</strong>e, just <strong>the</strong> way I am.”<br />

20


21


The new week began with a burst of activity.<br />

On Monday morn<strong>in</strong>g, <strong>the</strong> sun had barely<br />

risen when <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong>’s phone rang loudly.<br />

“This is F<strong>in</strong>ley <strong>the</strong> Frog, <strong>the</strong> director of <strong>the</strong><br />

museum. We have an emergency here!”<br />

“How can I help you?” <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> said, still sleepy.<br />

“Our shell collection!” F<strong>in</strong>ley sounded out of<br />

breath. “A huge shelf conta<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g our most valuable<br />

shells and corals has collapsed. Now <strong>the</strong>y’re ly<strong>in</strong>g<br />

on <strong>the</strong> floor all over <strong>the</strong> place!”<br />

“I’ll come and help you right away,” <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> said.<br />

22


<strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> quickly packed some supplies onto his<br />

cart, and slipped <strong>the</strong> most important tools<br />

<strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> pockets of his overalls. There was no time<br />

to waste!<br />

F<strong>in</strong>ley <strong>the</strong> Frog was wait<strong>in</strong>g for <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> on <strong>the</strong> stairs.<br />

He ushered <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> museum.<br />

“Just look at this mess!” <strong>the</strong> director moaned.<br />

“Soon I won’t have a museum to run anymore!”<br />

“Perhaps it’s best you go to your office for a little<br />

while, so I can have a closer look,” <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> suggested.<br />

23


24


The director sat down at his desk, but he kept a close eye on <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> through a glass<br />

wall as <strong>the</strong> crab <strong>in</strong>spected <strong>the</strong> damage. <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> moved carefully among <strong>the</strong> fallen<br />

shelves and museum pieces.<br />

“I can fix this,” <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> murmured. “First, I’ll collect <strong>the</strong> most fragile pieces and put<br />

<strong>the</strong>m beside <strong>the</strong> wall, and <strong>the</strong>n, I’ll handle <strong>the</strong> shelves.”<br />

“I can help with collect<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> shells and corals,” a quiet voice said from beh<strong>in</strong>d<br />

<strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong>. “I’ll br<strong>in</strong>g new glass jars to replace <strong>the</strong> broken ones.”<br />

25


<strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> spun around quickly. There she was . . .<br />

a girl crab with <strong>the</strong> most beautiful eyes <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />

world!<br />

The girl crab stood <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> middle of <strong>the</strong> mess.<br />

She stared back at <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> with a startled look. She<br />

flushed, and it seemed to take her a moment to<br />

speak.<br />

“I’m <strong>the</strong> museum assistant, Clara <strong>the</strong> <strong>Crab</strong>. I know<br />

<strong>the</strong> pieces very well and can help you get everyth<strong>in</strong>g<br />

back toge<strong>the</strong>r. But maybe I should take some<br />

herb tea to <strong>the</strong> director F<strong>in</strong>ley <strong>the</strong> Frog first, so<br />

he’ll calm down and stay out of our way.”<br />

26


<strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> couldn’t help laugh<strong>in</strong>g. Despite her shy<br />

appearance, Clara seemed like a very determ<strong>in</strong>ed<br />

young lady! She knew just how to handle<br />

F<strong>in</strong>ley and a situation like this!<br />

As Clara swung <strong>in</strong>to action, <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> began work<strong>in</strong>g<br />

too. While he fixed <strong>the</strong> shelves, he couldn’t help<br />

sneak<strong>in</strong>g peeks at Clara. First, she took a cup of tea<br />

to <strong>the</strong> frazzled director. Then she replaced broken<br />

glass jars, reorganized <strong>the</strong> shells and corals, and<br />

found <strong>the</strong>ir labels. Clara def<strong>in</strong>itely had an orderly<br />

way of work<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

“Here’s some tea and biscuits for you!” Clara<br />

handed <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> a small tray.<br />

“Thank you. I might as well take a little break<br />

now,” <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> said, pleased. “Almost all <strong>the</strong> shelves<br />

have been fixed!”<br />

27


28


Clara and <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> had a nice cup of tea toge<strong>the</strong>r.<br />

The two crabs chatted easily, never once<br />

runn<strong>in</strong>g out of th<strong>in</strong>gs to talk about. And after <strong>the</strong>ir<br />

break, <strong>the</strong> rema<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g work went very smoothly.<br />

The exhibition area was back <strong>in</strong> order by late afternoon.<br />

F<strong>in</strong>ley <strong>the</strong> Frog looked delighted. “<strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong>, your<br />

help was <strong>in</strong>dispensable!” he declared. “We couldn’t<br />

have rebuilt <strong>the</strong> exhibition without you.”<br />

<strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> glanced toward Clara. “It wouldn’t have<br />

gone this well without Clara’s help. All I did was<br />

build <strong>the</strong> shelves and remove <strong>the</strong> broken pieces.”<br />

“We worked well toge<strong>the</strong>r, didn’t we?” <strong>the</strong> girl crab<br />

said with a smile. “And I’d love to come over to see<br />

your blue pavilion. I’m sure it’s quite lovely!”<br />

On his way home, <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Crab</strong> whistled happily.<br />

His cart felt light as he bounced up and down on<br />

<strong>the</strong> rocks along <strong>the</strong> streambed. What a great day<br />

this had been. Such a great day!<br />

29


No one could have imag<strong>in</strong>ed how much <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong>’s<br />

life would change after his emergency repair<br />

at <strong>the</strong> museum. Never<strong>the</strong>less, his friends could tell<br />

that someth<strong>in</strong>g quite extraord<strong>in</strong>ary had happened<br />

to him.<br />

The first one to notice <strong>the</strong> change <strong>in</strong> <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> was Sally<br />

<strong>the</strong> Starfish. She was very familiar with matters of<br />

<strong>the</strong> heart.<br />

“I suspect that <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Crab</strong> has fallen <strong>in</strong> love,”<br />

Sally said to her boyfriend.<br />

“How can you tell?” <strong>the</strong> boy starfish wondered.<br />

30


“Have you seen him? He bought new overalls, and<br />

he’s wear<strong>in</strong>g a waterlily <strong>in</strong> his breast pocket. It’s<br />

not like him at all!”<br />

Eddie <strong>the</strong> Eel had also observed someth<strong>in</strong>g new <strong>in</strong><br />

<strong>the</strong> air. One even<strong>in</strong>g <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> had dropped by to ask<br />

Eddie about motocopter lessons. If he could learn<br />

to drive it, perhaps Eddie would let him borrow<br />

<strong>the</strong> old motocopter for a little trip?<br />

“But of course, dear chap! It’s quite easy to drive,”<br />

Eddie said. “I’m sure you will learn quickly.”<br />

31


32


<strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> and Clara loved spend<strong>in</strong>g time toge<strong>the</strong>r.<br />

Every now and <strong>the</strong>n, <strong>the</strong>y went shopp<strong>in</strong>g at Ozzie<br />

<strong>the</strong> Octopus’s store. But <strong>the</strong>y were both very careful<br />

about money. When Ozzie tried to talk <strong>the</strong>m <strong>in</strong>to<br />

buy<strong>in</strong>g trendy summer sandals or floppy hats,<br />

it only made <strong>the</strong>m smile. <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> and Clara only<br />

bought th<strong>in</strong>gs that were really necessary.<br />

On her first visit, Clara marveled at <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong>’s house.<br />

“What a beautiful home!” she said. “You have<br />

worked hard for it.”<br />

<strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> showed his girlfriend all around <strong>the</strong> house.<br />

She saw its every room and corner, every bush<br />

and stone <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> yard, <strong>the</strong> fence and <strong>the</strong> toolshed.<br />

F<strong>in</strong>ally, he took her <strong>in</strong>side <strong>the</strong> blue pavilion and<br />

offered her a cup of even<strong>in</strong>g tea.<br />

“Sitt<strong>in</strong>g here <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> even<strong>in</strong>gs must be very nice,”<br />

Clara sighed.<br />

“It’s all <strong>the</strong> more lovely now that you are sitt<strong>in</strong>g<br />

here next to me,” <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> said quietly, blush<strong>in</strong>g.<br />

Both crabs were silent for a moment before <strong>the</strong>y<br />

went back to dr<strong>in</strong>k<strong>in</strong>g tea. That even<strong>in</strong>g<br />

was very calm and deep blue <strong>in</strong> color.<br />

33


<strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Crab</strong> was anxiously wait<strong>in</strong>g for <strong>the</strong><br />

weekend. After f<strong>in</strong>ally ga<strong>the</strong>r<strong>in</strong>g his courage,<br />

he had <strong>in</strong>vited Clara to jo<strong>in</strong> him for a picnic<br />

upstream. There was only one problem. <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> still<br />

had no idea how to drive <strong>the</strong> peculiar vehicle!<br />

He’d been go<strong>in</strong>g to Eddie <strong>the</strong> Eel’s place for driv<strong>in</strong>g<br />

lessons. But despite Eddie’s patient efforts to show<br />

<strong>the</strong> crab how to start up <strong>the</strong> vehicle and use <strong>the</strong><br />

steer<strong>in</strong>g controls, <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> was baffled. “I know how<br />

to use my tools, but motocopters just aren’t for<br />

me,” he said with a sigh.<br />

34


It was <strong>the</strong>ir last lesson before <strong>the</strong> weekend. The<br />

vehicle jumped up and down and bounced<br />

uncontrollably along Eddie’s driveway.<br />

“Honestly, you are <strong>the</strong> most challeng<strong>in</strong>g student<br />

I have ever had!” Eddie compla<strong>in</strong>ed. “And as<br />

you know, I’ve taught about a dozen motocopter<br />

drivers <strong>in</strong> my own driv<strong>in</strong>g school.”<br />

Frustrated, <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> shook his head. He had tried to<br />

get <strong>the</strong> stubborn vehicle under his control so many<br />

times. What if he had to cancel <strong>the</strong> picnic with<br />

Clara? He had waited so long for this occasion.<br />

35


<strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> took a deep breath, and decided to give<br />

<strong>the</strong> motocopter one more try. He reviewed<br />

Eddie’s <strong>in</strong>structions, and started to press buttons<br />

on <strong>the</strong> dashboard.<br />

“Which gear should I use? Where’s <strong>the</strong> gas pedal?<br />

The clutch?” Drops of sweat appeared on <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong>’s<br />

forehead.<br />

As his panic grew, <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> clenched <strong>the</strong> steer<strong>in</strong>g<br />

wheel <strong>in</strong> his claws so tightly that it broke <strong>in</strong>to<br />

pieces. Then one of his legs got stuck beside <strong>the</strong><br />

gas pedal. “Aah!” <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> cried as <strong>the</strong> vehicle sped<br />

forward. He couldn’t f<strong>in</strong>d <strong>the</strong> brake anywhere.<br />

Boom! With a loud crash, <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> slammed <strong>in</strong>to a<br />

wall of Eddie’s house.<br />

36


“I’m all right, but I can’t get out!” <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> waved his<br />

claws back and forth.<br />

“Just stay put. I’ll get some help,” cried Eddie <strong>the</strong><br />

Eel. He rushed <strong>in</strong>side to make a phone call.<br />

Soon <strong>the</strong> fire brigade of carps, and <strong>the</strong> river ambulance<br />

of eels arrived, along with a large number<br />

of locals. Everyone was relieved to see that <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong><br />

appeared to be all right. The rescue workers<br />

began work<strong>in</strong>g on free<strong>in</strong>g him from <strong>the</strong> wrecked<br />

mach<strong>in</strong>e.<br />

37


Clara rushed to <strong>the</strong> accident scene. <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> was<br />

still stuck <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> motocopter.<br />

“Thank goodness you were not hurt!” Clara bent<br />

down and hugged <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> so tightly that <strong>the</strong>ir claws<br />

clattered.<br />

“I don’t th<strong>in</strong>k I’m much of a motocopter man,”<br />

<strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> sighed gloomily.<br />

“And you don’t have to be! It’s better to let go of<br />

such fancies,” Clara said.<br />

Eventually, <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> was set free. The river ambulance<br />

crew left <strong>the</strong> scene, once <strong>the</strong>y had made sure<br />

that <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong>’s shell was unbroken, and each of his leg<br />

jo<strong>in</strong>ts was all right.<br />

<strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> felt embarrassed about all <strong>the</strong> trouble and<br />

worry he had caused. “I’m so sorry, Eddie.”<br />

Fortunately, Eddie was not angry at all. “You are<br />

f<strong>in</strong>e, <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong>. That’s all that matters! Besides, I have<br />

excellent <strong>in</strong>surance on all my vehicles,” Eddie said<br />

cheerfully. With that, he left <strong>the</strong> young couple<br />

alone.<br />

38


39


40


Later that day, <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> and Clara climbed onto <strong>the</strong> roof<br />

of <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong>’s house. They sat side by side for quite a while,<br />

not say<strong>in</strong>g a word.<br />

“I was try<strong>in</strong>g to learn how to drive a motocopter because I<br />

wanted to take you on a very special trip,” <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> confessed.<br />

“Why? It’s quite lovely here <strong>in</strong> our home bay,” Clara said.<br />

<strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> hesitated. “I thought . . . <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> lookout spot upstream,<br />

I could . . . ask you to be my wife,” <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> blurted out. “And<br />

now, you have to settle for this place.”<br />

There was a long moment of silence. They could almost<br />

hear <strong>the</strong>ir little crab hearts beat<strong>in</strong>g under <strong>the</strong>ir breastplates.<br />

At last Clara smiled. “My answer is <strong>the</strong> same, no matter<br />

where we are. Of course! <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Crab</strong>, you are exactly<br />

<strong>the</strong> k<strong>in</strong>d of crab I want to live with for <strong>the</strong> rest of my life.”<br />

That even<strong>in</strong>g two very happy crabs sat side by side on<br />

<strong>the</strong> roof of <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong>’s charm<strong>in</strong>g house, admir<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> silvery<br />

moon, and plann<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>ir future. Even <strong>the</strong> w<strong>in</strong>d stilled,<br />

to listen to <strong>the</strong> two crabs dream<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> quiet.<br />

41


<strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Crab</strong> is a hard worker who loves<br />

spend<strong>in</strong>g his spare time with friends. He<br />

has a charm<strong>in</strong>g home, but lately it has started<br />

to feel a bit empty and lonely. Is it time for<br />

<strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> to f<strong>in</strong>d a spouse? <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> is confused,<br />

and none of his friends knows how to<br />

advise him.<br />

One day F<strong>in</strong>ley <strong>the</strong> Frog, <strong>the</strong> director<br />

of <strong>the</strong> river museum, calls <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> for<br />

help when an accident befalls<br />

an important exhibition of<br />

shells and corals. Among <strong>the</strong><br />

broken shelves, <strong>Col<strong>in</strong></strong> makes<br />

a delightful discovery: a<br />

girl crab with <strong>the</strong> most<br />

beautiful eyes along<br />

<strong>the</strong> riverbank.<br />

wickwick.fi

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