Suddenly there is a noise of feet—
Rattle and clatter and patter and beat!
Old Puss makes a flying leap from her chair,
With a half-awake and startled stare,
Striving to see
What it may be.
Helter-skelter the kittens appear;
“Oh mother dear, we very much fear
That we have lost our mittens!” they cry.
“You have? Then you shall have no pie!