The wire mesh was no barrier to a hungry mouse. The hens were asleep, and so was the cockerel. Tiptoe saw a shadowy figure crossing in front of the enclosure. He recognized Sammy at once.‘Sammy! Look at me. I’m in here.’ he called. When the cat failed to respond, Tiptoe squeaked louder. He saw Sammy pause and search round for the sound.‘In here, Sammy. Amongst the feathered ones. Tee hee.’Sammy trotted over and peered through the wire. ‘Didn’t expect to see you,’ he murmured distractedly. ‘What are you doing there?’‘One of my sources of supply,’ Tiptoe answered.Suddenly Sammy perked up. An idea struck him. Tiptoe could help him. The mouse was no pet; he knew something of that other world of the vagabonds. Perhaps he would have some ideas.‘You look drenched,’ Tiptoe remarked to the tabby. ‘I’m surprised to see you out in this.’‘There is a reason,’ Sammy replied. ‘I’ll tell you all about it. I need your advice. Have you finished eating?’‘Of course not.
