"I am very tired, madam," said Puss, "for I have journeyed far to-day. Would it be asking too much if I might sleep on your front porch?"
"You may sleep on a big red cushion in the hall," she replied, "and I will also give you a bowl of milk."
"May I put my Good Gray Horse in your barn?"
"Of course," she answered. "You will find plenty of hay and oats for his supper."
The Good Gray Horse followed his small master to the stable and was soon made comfortable for the night. Then Puss locked the stable door and brought the key into the house.
"Hang it up on the nail behind the door," said the mother of the little child. "And take off your boots. They make so much noise on the kitchen floor. I fear they will keep my little one awake."
"I will gladly take them off," said Puss, and he placed them behind the door underneath the big barn key.
"My husband will be home very soon," she said, "but if you are very tired I will give you your supper at once."
"I would like it now," said Puss, with a weary sigh. And when he had finished he jumped upon the big red cushion and was soon fast asleep.