Amusing the Mice

The Wind in the Willows 33 Amusing the Mice

The choir leader came over to Rat. “ Can I help you, sir?” said the mouse. Rat spoke quietly. “ Are the shops still open?” he asked.

The mouse nodded politely. “ Shops are open late this time of year, ” he said. Rat put some coins into the mouse’s paw. “ Great! ” said Rat. “ Go buy us some good food. ”

The rest of the mice sat down by the fire. Mole was opening his empty cupboards. “ Oh dear, ” Mole said, shaking his head. ” Now, ” cried Rat, “ what shall we do for fun?”

Mole turned and looked at Rat. “ Well, ” said Mole, “ these mice are actors too. They did a play about pirates last year. ” ” Really? Let’s see! ” cried Rat.

The mice whispered together. “ Samuel should do it, ” said one, pointing. “ Yes, Sammy will do it! ” said the others. One young mouse stood shyly.