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 "Our friend the sparrow did us such a good turn in recovering the stolen ribbon," said Mrs. Polly, "that we mustn't be too hard on his peculiarities. We all know that if his manner is sometimes frivolous, he has proved to us that he has a warm heart and is devoted to our service."

"His heart's warm enough and he is brave enough too," said the barn-cat, who had a strong sense of justice; "but I do wish he was a little steadier in his ways."

"We must take people as we find them," answered Mrs. Polly. "Now, Mrs. Barn-cat, when did you see the gray kitten last?"

"I left her yesterday afternoon to watch my kittens while I was out, and when I came back she was gone. That's all I know about it."

The little tiger-kittens had listened to every word that had been said, and had a