Uncle Squeaky hopped up.

"And so, kiddies," he chuckled, "he went poking along like this. He
drawled and he droned and was always an hour behind time. Finally the old
sleepy-head laid down and died."

"Just so, Hezekiah," nodded Grand-daddy.

The kiddies laughed at Uncle Squeaky's droll antics.

"You walked like Grandpa Turtle, Uncle," laughed Nimble-toes.

"Well," continue Grand-daddy "the other young mouse thought life was so
short that he must move like a whirlwind or his work would not get done."

"And so," explained Uncle Squeaky, "he went on a hop, skip and jump like
this. He made dust fly in other folks' eyes, a-hustling and a-bustling
about until he hardly knew if he was on his head or his heels."

They all shouted as Uncle Squeaky pranced about the room, his coat tails
flying out straight behind him.

"I've always believed in being moderate. Neither too fast nor too slow,"
finished Grand-daddy.

"Do stop being such a clown, Hezekiah," scolded Aunt Squeaky. "Give us a
little more music. We shall not hear our band again all winter."

"We have to be real quiet in the Giant's house. Let's stay here with Pa
Field-Mouse where we can do as we choose," grinned Uncle Squeaky.