"Where are we going to?" asked little Peter. "Into the cave? And is Mamma going too?"
"No," said the little man. "She's stopping at home. But do be quick, for the feast has begun."
And with that he gave such a jump on to the floor that the boards fairly creaked again, and little Peter, slipped out of bed after him. The little Parsnip-man helped him on with his shoes and stockings, and Peter put on the rest of his clothes himself.
Then the Mannikin pulled out a little whistle and blew on it. Immediately there was a rustling under the bed, and then two mice peeped out.
In a moment the Parsnip-man caught one, and vaulted on to its back.
"You get on the other," he said to Peter.
"But it isn't big enough to carry me," said Peter doubtfully.
"Get up, I tell you!" said the little man, laughing.
Peter did as he was told. Doubtless he had been growing smaller, for when he was fairly astride he sat the mouse as if it had been made for him. As to the mouse, it kept perfectly still for Peter to mount.