But, before I proceed to relate my new little companion's history,
I must beg leave to assure my readers that, in earnest, I never
heard a mouse speak in all my life; and only wrote the following
narrative as being far more entertaining, and not less
instructive, than my own life would have been: and as it met with
the high approbation of those for whom it was written, I have sent
it to Mr. Marshall, for him to publish it, if he pleases, for the
equal amusement of his little customers.



PART I.

Like all other newborn animals, whether of the human, or any other
species, I can not pretend to remember what passed during my
infant days. The first circumstance I can recollect was my
mother's addressing me and my three brothers, who all lay in the
same nest, in the following words:-'I have, my children, with the
greatest difficulty, and at the utmost hazard of my life, provided
for you all to the present moment; but the period is arrived, when
I can no longer pursue that method: snares and traps are
everywhere set for me, nor shall I, without infinite danger, be
able to procure sustenance to support my own existence, much less
can I find sufficient for you all; and, indeed, with pleasure I
behold it as no longer necessary, since you are of age now to
provide and shift for yourselves; and I doubt not but your agility
will enable you to procure a very comfortable livelihood. Only
let me give you this one caution--never (whatever the temptation