Our little Crumpet has passed over the Rainbow Bridge. I am not sure how or why. I noticed that I had not seen her today or yesterday, though Alice turned up quickly when I poured out the fresh food. I excavated a bit of their tunneling, and found her curled up and departed. Gerbils are not noted for long life spans. Perhaps her thread just ran out. I am not sure a new companion can be introduced to Alice at this point. I will pay her more attention now she is on her own. Sign in to see full entry.