We’ll wear our bibs and hold our things as you have shown us how:—

Spoons in right paws, cups in left,—and make a pretty bow.

We’ll always say, “Yes, if you please,” and “Only half of that.”’

‘Then go, my darling children,’ said the happy Mother Cat.

The seven little pussy-cats went out that night to tea.

Their heads were smooth and glossy, their tails were swinging free;

They held their things as they had learned, and tried to be polite;

With snowy bibs beneath their chins they were a pretty sight.

But, alas for manners beautiful, and coats as soft as silk!

The moment that the little kits were asked to take some milk,