By evening in Felt Presence, the ceramic pumpkin had ordered four very small dressing gowns.

“For the acorns,” he explained.

“Are they cold?” asked a skeleton.

“They’re noisy sleepers.”

The skeletons cut soft felt, added tiny belts, and helped each acorn into its gown. Their hats stayed on.

The pumpkin returned them to his waistcoat and gave a cautious wriggle.

Nothing rang.

“Better?”

“Everyone seems comfortable.”

He settled on his saucer beneath the orange blanket.

A moment later, a tiny hat emerged from one pocket.

The skeleton put it on the bedside table.

Then three more.