"For supper," said Alligator in his harsh voice. "He'll be furry, but eat him I will."
He started up the ladder.
"I'm old and big for such work as this," said he, "but have him I will. Push my tail a bit and give me a lift."
Hortense pushed and Andy, at the top, pulled. Out went Alligator, Hortense and Andy holding his tail while he scrambled down the roof.
Jeremiah raised his voice.
"Help! Help!" he cried as Alligator slid slowly down the roof towards him. Then, as Alligator put his forelegs against the chimney and began to lift his horrible head, Jeremiah shut his eyes and jumped.
Quick as a flash Alligator's huge jaws opened wide, and into them fell Jeremiah. Hortense could see Alligator's throat wiggle as Jeremiah went down.
Alligator crawled back slowly.
"I must seek my corner and go to sleep," said Alligator, balancing himself on the window ledge. "Hear him?"
Hortense and Andy put their ears to Alligator's back. Within they could hear Jeremiah running around and around and crying out.