The king grew very fond of Tom and his wise sayings. He took Tom with
him wherever he went.
If it began to rain, Tom would creep into the king's pocket and sleep
until the rain was over.
The king had a new suit made for Tom, and gave him a needle for a sword.
A mouse was trained for Tom to ride.
The king and queen never tired of seeing him ride his queer little horse
and bravely wave his sword.
One day, as they were going hunting, a cat jumped out and caught Tom's
mouse.
[Illustration]
Tom drew his sword and tried to drive the cat away.
The king ran to help poor Tom, but the little mouse was dead, and Tom
was scratched and bitten.
Tom was put to bed, but he did not die.
No indeed! he was soon well again, and fought many brave battles and did
many brave deeds to please the king.
_English Fairy Tale_
[Illustration]