elighted to do so; and
that is that you will allow me to ask the Rats from the Inn. They are
touchy people, and do not readily forgive an injury."

"What I said all along," muttered Uncle Columbus, lifting his eyes
from his dusting. "I said 'away with pride,' but I wasn't listened
to."

"You will be now," said the Councillor in a soothing and dignified
manner. "Certainly; send an invitation to the Inn if you wish it. Just
write, 'To meet the Court Hedgehog,' at the top, Wilhelm; it will make
it more gratifying."

CHAPTER V.

The Court Hedgehog, with an escort of six guards, had meanwhile
arrived at the Mole's house, and was being entertained by the
Mole-mother and her children, who were all in a state of great
nervousness.

The Court Hedgehog, however, appeared to be more condescending than
could have been expected from his position. He accepted some
refreshment, and a pipe of the Mole-father's tobacco, and then
reclining in the one easy chair, he awaited the course of events with
calmness.

Here the Councillor found him some hours later, when the confusion in
the Hedgehog household having been smoothed over--a deputation of the
father and sons started to bring the distinguished guest home in
triumph.

The rooms in the Councillor's house had all been gaily decorated with
pine branches; the stove sent out a pleasant glow; and the
Hedgehog-mother, in her best cap and a stiff black silk dress, stood
waiting to welcome her guests in the ante-room.

By her side sat Berta, who had fortunately recovered sufficiently to
be present at the entertainment; though still suffering from the
effects of the shock, and with her head tied up in a silk
handkerchief.

[Illustration]

As the Court Hedgehog appeared in the doorway, three of the younger
children, concealed in a bower of branches, commenced to sing an ode
composed by Uncle Columbus for the occasion, beginning "Welcome to
our honoured guest,"--while a fiddler hired for the occasion
accompanied it upon the violin, behind a red curtain.

The first visitors to arrive were the Moles; followed by the Rat
family, who were filled with remorse when they received the
invitation, at the thought of their treacherous behaviour.

"I declare, mother," said the Innkeeper to his wife in a whisper, "the
Mole-father is such a good creature, I shall be ashamed to quarrel
with any of his friends for the future. 'Live and let live,' ought to
be our motto."

Uncle Columbus did