In the nick of time!

'Your mum's a diamond,' Flossie bleated.

'She's surprised even me this time,' Lefty replied.

'When we get home I'm going to get her...well...actually, what does your mum like?'

'I'm never sure,' Lefty sighed. 'She's very difficult to buy for. When they get to that age they never seem to want for much.'

'Well, whatever she decides on. She's saved our lives and no mistake.'

'I didn't know she could pilot a balloon. She's never mentioned it.'

'I bet there's a lot we don't know about your mum.'

'Possibly a lot I wouldn't want to know!'

And Flossie and Lefty laughed.

'.........................................................Pity we couldn't get everyone in,' Lefty said.

'We won't be abandoning them,' Flossie replied. 'I don't care how long it takes, we'll go back for them. We're a flock...a family. We'll be together again one day. I won't stop until it happens!'

Lefty sniffed a few times 'Have you got a handkerchief at all? I've....I've got a bit of grit in my eye.'

'Here,' Flossie replied, 'use my bow tie.'

So Lefty did.