“Did the cat have a white spot on her forehead?” asked the constable.
“Yes, sir.”
“And was mouse colored?”
“Yes, sir.”
“Why, it’s my little girl’s cat. She would be heartbroken if the cat were seriously hurt. You young rascal!” he continued, turning suddenly upon Peter, and shaking him vigorously. “Let me catch you at this business again, and I’ll give you such a warming that you’ll never want to touch another cat.”
“Let me go!” cried the terrified boy. “I didn’t know it was your cat.”
“It would have been just as bad if it had been somebody else’s cat. I’ve a great mind to put you in the lockup.”
“Oh, don’t, please don’t, Mr. Rogers!” implored Peter, quite panic-stricken.
“Will you promise never to stone another cat?”
“Yes, sir.”