ALONG FOUR-FOOTED TRAILS 



scarcely as large as a thimble. They were 

 quickly swallowed by the greedy Mongola. 

 Not yet content he sniffed about for some time 

 but at last gave up further search. In a most 

 satisfied manner he sat up, wiped his mouth with 

 his paws for a napkin and finally washed them 

 with his tongue, arranged the fur about his face 

 to complete satisfaction, walked over to me with 

 his tail held up in a proud manner and gave 

 several little grunts. Whether he was seeking 

 praise, I know not, but it was censure that he 

 received. Aunt said I should not be grieved 

 nor scold my pet for it was natural and right 

 that he should feed upon mice. If they are 

 not kept in check by their natural enemies they 

 so increase that they do great damage to crops 

 and to young orchards. 



The wise little field mice seem to be fully 

 aware of their constant danger from many 

 enemies. They seldom come out in the open 

 and usually lie concealed in their underground 

 homes until twilight. Then they venture out 

 for food or to make a friendly visit to a neigh- 

 bor. 'These trips are all taken with the great- 

 est precaution, for not only do their modest 



