At last the wise old rats saw that something must be done. So they called a meeting of the whole family of rats, as many as were still alive.
When all had come together in a safe place and were still, the oldest and wisest rat rose up on his hind legs.
He stood up very straight, very tall, and very thin.
“My dear brothers and sisters, my dear children and grandchildren!” began the wise old rat.
“You all know the one fear of our lives.” Every rat trembled.
“That wicked cat has grown fat and sleek feeding on your brothers, your mothers, your wives, and your children.
No one of you knows when his turn may come to make a meal for that ever hungry monster.
He steals upon you without warning.