AS the last animal came on deck and the Noah boys hauled in the
gang-plank, the ark began rolling heavily, for the wind was high and the
water rough. "Are we sure every one is aboard?" asked Captain Noah,
"But best of all, my little dears,
'Twill most delight your listening ears,
So give with me three mighty cheers,
To hear that sheltered by that truce,
Loved more than Monkey, Owl or Moose,
In walked Your Precious Mother Goose!"
If there was anyone more delighted than Puss, Junior, he could not be
found aboard the Ark. To once more see Mother Goose who had so kindly
carried him on her Gander many miles filled him with delight. He ran
forward to greet her as she alighted from her faithful Gander.
"Mother Goose! Mother Goose!" cried Puss, "I'm so glad to see you
again."
"Let us go in. It's getting dreadfully wet outside," she replied giving
him a big hug.
Inside the cabin all was dry and cheerful. Mrs. Noah had the stove
burning brightly and her three daughter-in-laws were busy; getting
supper.
"Let me take your bonnet," said Mrs. Noah and before that dear old lady
could remove her headgear, Mrs. Noah had taken out the big pin and
undone the strings.
[Illustration]
"There, make yourself comfortable," she cried, pushing forward a
rocking-chair. "And have you found your father?" asked the Gander, for
he and Puss were having a fine time talking over old times.
"No, not yet," answered Puss sadly, "But I hear he is Seneschal at the
castle of my Lord of Carabas."
"You must be patient," answered the Gander. "And go in search of more
adventures."
"Yes," answered Puss, "and I have with me my good comrade, Tom Thumb."
"All ashore that's going ashore," shouted the hoarse voice of Captain
Noah. Then came the tinkle-jingle of the bell and the Ark quivered from
bow to stern, and in another moment was off on the dark waters.