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BOOK THREE. 97 His threat as good as prophecy Was proved by Mr. Mildandsly; For, putting on a mealy robe, He squatted in an open tub, And held his purring and his breath : Out came the vermin to their death. On this occasion, one old stager, A rat as grey as any badger, Who had in battle lost his tail, Abstained from smelling at the meal ; And cried, far off, * Ah, General Cat, I much suspect a heap like that ; Your meal is not the thing, perhaps, For one who knows somewhat of traps ; Should you a sack of meal become, I 'd let you be, and stay at home.' Well said, I think, and prudently. By one who knew distrusf to be The parent of security. VOL. 1. — 7
