Uncle Wiggily, a rabbit gentleman, returns to his home, a hollow stump bungalow, seeking a moment of rest. He inquires with his housekeeper, Nurse Jane Fuzzy Wuzzy, about the whereabouts of Baby Bunty, a lively little rabbit girl he cares for. Baby Bunty, whose parents were taken by a fox, is not present, having gone to buy a toy balloon with a penny Nurse Jane gave her. Uncle Wiggily, relieved, settles into his easy chair for a nap. His rest is interrupted by Billie Wagtail, a goat boy, who excitedly informs Uncle Wiggily that Baby Bunty is floating above the treetops. Uncle Wiggily, startled, wonders if she has taken his airship, but Nurse Jane assures him it remains in the stable. Johnnie Bushytail, a squirrel, confirms Billie's account, prompting Uncle Wiggily to take action. Uncle Wiggily dons his flying suit and, with the help of Billie and Johnnie, prepares his airship, which is equipped with toy circus balloons and an electric fan. He ascends to rescue Baby Bunty, who is floating due to her overinflated toy balloon. Baby Bunty explains that she accidentally blew the balloon too large, causing her to lift off the ground. Uncle Wiggily safely retrieves Baby Bunty, deflates the balloon, and returns her to the ground. The incident highlights Baby Bunty's lively nature, which keeps Uncle Wiggily active and prevents him from feeling old and stiff. The story concludes with a light-hearted acknowledgment of Baby Bunty's cuteness and the lively energy she brings to Uncle Wiggily's life.
By Howard R. Garis · First published 1928 · Genre: Children's Literature, Fantasy, Animal Fiction