Page:Sparrow, the tramp (IA sparrowtramp00wess).pdf/22

 "I haven't time to sit for my portrait this morning," resumed the old rat, as Mrs. Polly continued to gaze steadfastly at him. "You'll know me the next time you see me, I hope!"

"I know you already," said Mrs. Polly; "you're Gray Whisker."

"Whew!" exclaimed the old rat, with another grin that showed the broken front tooth; "there's nothing like being famous."

"I've heard of you from my friend the barn-cat," said Mrs. Polly. "She has known you a long time, she says, but you don't care to become very intimate with her;" and Mrs. Polly gave a short laugh that was very irritating to Gray Whisker's nerves.

"The old fiend!" he exclaimed angrily; "of all the meddlesome old—"

"Don't get excited," said Mrs. Polly calmly.

"You'd better mind your own business,"