terrible claws, he said to the cat in a queer little squeaky voice:
"Dear Puss, I do not like to see you in such a fix. It is true we have
never been exactly friends, but I have always looked up to you as a
strong and noble enemy. If you will promise never to do me any harm,
I will do my best to help you. I have very sharp teeth, and I might
perhaps be able to nibble through the string round your beautiful
neck and set you free. What do you think about it?"

7. Do you think there was any chance of a cat and a mouse becoming
real friends?

8. Can you give two or three instances you know of presence of mind
in danger?



CHAPTER V


When the cat heard what the mouse said, she could hardly believe her
ears. She was of course ready to promise anything to anyone who would
help her, so she said at once:

"You dear little mouse, to wish to help me. If only you will nibble
through that string which is killing me, I promise that I will always
love you, always be your friend, and however hungry I may be, I will
starve rather than hurt your tender little body."

On hearing this, the mouse, without hesitating a moment, climbed up
on to the cat's back, and cuddled down in the soft fur near her neck,