Page:Sparrow, the tramp (IA sparrowtramp00wess).pdf/255

 of one of those young rats or Mrs. Silverskin! I'd make them bring me something to eat,—they are so much lighter than I am they can slip along more easily."

The barn-cat sat behind a post in the barn, where she could hear and see without being seen, and the house-cat was watching a hole outside with great perseverance.

"He can't come out without one of us seeing him," said the barn-cat to herself; "I am sure of that. One thing is certain; he can't stand it much longer. He must venture out soon for food, and then—"

Yes, she was right; he was coming out at last,—that was his long gray nose looking out of his hole, and those his small sharp eyes. Hardly daring to breathe, the barn-cat watched every motion. He looked anxiously around in every direction, and then stole softly along. The barn-cat did