the janitor that I was doing my duty. I used to find some choice tid-bits
in the desks, some of which opened at the end, and did not lift at the
top; pieces of cake, numerous pickled limes (for which I did not care),
and also plenty of cookies, and sometimes a sandwich.

I observed by the aid of a mirror standing on the floor in a teacher's
closet that I was growing large and good-looking; my dark coat was smooth
and glossy, my white shirt-front set off a well poised head, and I
possessed as fine a pair of whiskers as ever graced a cat. Of these I was
extremely proud, but used to keep my entire person well groomed as well as
that particular portion of my features. I exercised in the school yard in
order to keep in good form and also took boxing lessons from an
acquaintance, who occasionally called. I soon began to tire of the school
life and dull studies, however, and longed to go out somewhat during the
evening, but the janitor was careful to lock me in the school at eight
o'clock.

One evening I found that a window on the ground floor had been left open.
It was but the matter of a moment to vault out and I found myself on the
street alone at night for the first time in my life.

I remembered mother's advice, but thought that she was rather too
particular; indeed I felt that I could come to no harm, so walked down the
street, keeping an eye out for dogs, as mother had warned me to do.

I soon perceived that the broad highway was too much exposed for my
traveling, and so I proceeded into a back yard, jumped a fence, and found
myself on a back road, where market men deliver their goods. It was really
quite attractive and sociable, for I came upon a group who seemed to be
serenading some mutual acquaintance. I had listened to the children