It shrank from the stick in a seaman's hand, and it might easily have
saved its own life if it had been willing to leave its companion.
Instead of running away, however, it went on bravely and carefully in
the face of danger. The gallant animal was allowed to reach a place of
safety, amid the cheers of the crew, who knew how to appreciate such
devotion and sacrifice.
Rats are said to become warmly attached to the friends who care for
them. A minister had a pet rat which liked to sit on his desk. One day,
having poked its nose into the ink-bottle, the rat was in evident
discomfort in consequence. The minister went for a saucer of water,
saying, "There, wash your face!" The neat little fellow carefully
scrubbed its inky nose, first with one paw and then with the other,
holding up at last a clean and satisfied face for its friend's
inspection.
While rats may be useful and brave and wise, they are not good
housemates. Cleanliness and care, however, are usually sufficient to
keep them out of houses and storerooms, and a good cat makes an
excellent policeman. In our wish to be rid of the company of the rats
there is no excuse for treating them with cruelty.
THE SQUIRREL'S STORY.
Do you know who planted that little butternut tree in the field? I
planted it; I, a tiny gray squirrel.
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