"That isn't what I mean," said Hortense.
"Well, say what you mean then," said Owl sharply.
"You are all very disagreeable to-night," announced Hortense.
"Let's vote for the most disagreeable person," said Lowboy. "I nominate Hortense. Are there any questions? If not, the ayes have it and Hortense is elected."
Hortense was so angry that she walked away and would hear no more. Nor did she even wait to see that Alligator returned to the parlor.
In the morning as she lay in bed, she wondered if he had and, dressing herself quickly, ran outdoors to see. As she ran around the barn, she came upon Grandfather and Fergus looking at the sofa. Grandfather was stroking his chin.
"How could it possibly have got here?" said he. "All the doors and windows were locked as usual this morning."
"Well, who would carry it out and leave it in such a place, anyhow?" said Fergus.
A slight movement which stirred the seat of the sofa caused them all to gaze at it wonderingly. Then a sound came from within.
"The second time!" exclaimed Grandfather. "If it's the cat again, I'll know he's the cause of all these odd doings."