Loudmouse

Once there was a mother mouse who had four little baby mice. The four little mice and their mother lived in the house of Mr. and Mrs. Arthur L. Dowd. Mr. and Mrs. Dowd lived in the rooms of the house, and the little mice and their mother lived inside the walls.


One day, the mother mouse thought that the time had come for a talk with her children.


“Children,” she said, “you are big little mice now, and I think you are ready to be on your own, and go where you like, and find your own food. But first let me tell you some things to remember. Mr. Dowd does not know that we live in his house, and if he found out, he would not like it. You must always take care not to be seen. When you’re hungry and want to visit the kitchen, wait until night when Mr. Dowd is asleep. And don’t leave any tracks on the kitchen floor. And above all, never make any noise. Do you hear me?”