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 worthless vagabond, and don't deserve such a good little wife as I've got; but with all your wisdom, Mrs. Polly, haven't you learned that you can't teach an old dog new tricks?"

"Nonsense!" said Mrs. Polly decidedly; "the idea of a bright young fellow like you talking in that style! You've got sense enough, and you're good-hearted and brave; now don't throw away all those good qualities, but use them to make of yourself a useful member of society."

"I'll be shot if I don't try," said the sparrow, with an affectionate glance at the bright-eyed sparrow; and judging from the manner in which she nestled against him, it was very evident to Mrs. Polly that there was plenty of love left.

Meanwhile Graywhisker sat in his hole, laying plans for the future.

"It's provoking," he said to himself, "that they found the gray kitten so soon.