“O, bother starts ,” said the Rat. “It’s a splendid day. Come for a row, or a stroll along the hedges, or a picnic in the woods, or something.”

“Well, I think not today , thank you,” replied the field-mouse hurriedly. “Perhaps some other day⁠—when we’ve more time ⁠—”

The Rat, with a snort of contempt, swung round to go, tripped over a hatbox, and fell, with undignified remarks.