“I’ll have some fun with you, puss,” said he. “Come along!”
He took the cat and drew her to the trough at which the cattle were accustomed to drink. Seizing the poor animal by the head, he thrust it into the water till the poor thing was near strangulation. Of course, she made her dissatisfaction known by shrill cries.
They attracted the attention of Andy, who was splitting wood only a few rods distant. Looking up, he saw the poor cat’s predicament, and became justly indignant.
“What are you doing there, Tommy?” he demanded, sternly.
Tommy looked up and answered with characteristic impudence:
“None of your business!”
“Stop hurting the cat!” said Andy, imperatively.
“Go on with your work and let me alone,” answered Tommy, preparing to plunge the cat’s head into the trough once more.
Andy’s answer was to drop the ax and rush to the trough. Seizing the boy by the collar, he forcibly took away the cat and said:
“You ought to be ashamed of your cruelty!