THE RASH YOUNG MOUSE.

“COME[1] in, [2]come in, you naughty child, Don’t run about the house,” [3]“Oh, mother, mother, let me please!” Thus spoke the little mouse. [4]“Those crumbs, I’m sure they’re meant for me, Upon the parlor floor, And most [5]delicious cheese I smell, [6]Within the pantry door.” [7]“Dear child, dear child,” mamma replied, “The danger you don’t see; If [8]puss appeared, what would become Of you? [9]That troubles me.” “Pussy won’t come,” said young Miss Mouse, [10]“I’m pretty sure of that,” And [11]off she ran to taste the cheese, Quite [12]merrily, pit! pat! And mother-mouse [13]within her hole, Said [14]“Dear! oh dearie, dear! Young children are so headstrong, ah! They never think of fear.” So little mousie ate her cheese, And never [15]heard behind The [16]footsteps soft, which mother dear Had told her she must mind. [17]Pounce, pounce, squeak, squeak! Oh! ’tis too late! And never, never more Will young Miss Mouse eat cheese so nice, Behind the pantry door. So ends the tale of little mouse, But one word more comes here; Remember, mother always knows What’s best for children dear.