 CHAPTER 1 OF THE ADVENTURES OF PUSSENBOOTZ, JUNIOR PUSSENBOOTZ had made a great discovery in the garret. It seems strange that he should have found something more important than a rat or a mouse, but he had. From the moment he had seen the picture book he was a changed cat. Yes, he said, holding it a little to one side, so that the light from the small attic window would show the picture more distinctly. This is certainly a portrait of my father. It was the story of Pussenboots, and on the cover was a beautiful picture of a cat wearing a magnificent pair of boots with shiny red tops. Puss sat down and opened the book. The further he read, the more excited he became. When he had finished, he jumped up and proudly looking at the portrait of his handsome father. He exclaimed with flashing eyes, From today I shall call myself Pussenboots, Junior. I shall go forth in search of adventure, just as my father did, and I shall not rest until I have found him. He looked around to see if he could find a pair of boots like those in the picture. To his delight he saw in a corner the very pair he wanted, and they had red tops too. He slipped them on and looked at himself in an old cracked mirror which stood against the wall. On a pig nearby hung a cap, dusty, but not a bit shabby or worn. Placing it on his head he hunted around until he found an old cane with a bent handle. There is a cane in the picture. I suppose they called it a staff in those days. At any rate I am now complete. I am a real Pussenboots, Junior. And with these words he scampered down the stairs as fast as he dared, not yet being used to his newfound boots. Hooray! he cried, as he reached the front door, and he took a hop, skip, and jump across the piazza, holding his tail gracefully in his left paw. Hooray! Down the steps he skipped, two at a time, down the walk to the gate, his heels clattering on the stone pavement, rat-a-tat-tat, like a cavalryman. The road was dusty, but he went along gaily, the sun shining on the bright red tops of his boots, making him very proud indeed. He hadn't gone very far, when he heard a funny little squeak, and looking to the side of the road from which the sound came, he saw a small pig stuck between two boards in the fence. Squeak, squeak! Oh, help me out! cried Piggy. Pussenboots, Junior, ran up, and with the help of his cane pried the boards apart, so the little pig could just squeeze himself through. Squeak, squeak! Oh, thank you! cried the little fellow. I wish I could do something to repay you. You can, replied Puss, Junior, who had by this time grown very hungry. I would like something to eat. Come with me, said Piggy. Mother always gets some milk from the dairymaid about this time. Come! And he took Puss, Junior, by the front paw, and started to run across the field. Hold on! I mean, let's go! cried Pussenboots, Junior. How do you know your mother will want visitors for lunch? She'll only be too delighted, especially when she knows how you pulled me out of the fence. You're not bashful, are you? No, replied Puss, Junior. But, you see, I've never lunched with pigs before. Oh, don't let that were you, replied his little friend, who seemed to be pretty sure of himself for so small a pig. Come along! And Puss did. CHAPTER II. OF THE ADVENTURES OF PUSSENBOOTS, JUNIOR. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. CHAPTER II. OF THE ADVENTURES OF PUSSENBOOTS, JUNIOR, by David Corey. A visit to Piggy's Mama. Puss, Junior, followed his friend, the little pig, whom he had so fortunately rescued from between the fence-boards, across the field and into the woods. Indeed, he was so hungry by this time that he felt he would be brave enough to follow a lion. Just then he heard someone singing in a high squeaky voice. This little pig went to market. This little pig stayed home. This little pig had roast beef. This little pig had none. This little pig cried wee-wee-wee all the way home. That's Mother, replied the little pig, in answer to an inquiring look from Puss, Junior. She always sings that, when any of us is nutty, you see, he added apologetically, I should not have tried to get through the fence and out on the road. Oh! I understand, replied Puss, Junior. Is that your house? Yes, and there's Mother." Puss, Junior, saw a very nice-looking lady pig, standing in the doorway of a queer little cabin. She had on a blue gingham apron over a short skirt of gray and a very tight-fitting shirt waist, which was stretched almost to the bursting point as she raised her right forefoot to shade her eyes. Well, there you are at last, she exclaimed to Piggy. But look at your trousers! You torn a big hole in them! He looked ruefully at the wret in his little blue jeans. I got stuck in a fence, he whimpered. He'd be there yet if I hadn't pulled him out, volunteered Puss, Junior, hoping to divert her attention from his little friend. Mrs. Porker, for that was her name, turned and looked at him, as much as to say, Where did you come from? But she didn't. She only very politely remarked, Thank you for helping Piggy. I'm sorry to say, he does not always mind mother. But come, you both are hungry, I know. And she led the way into the cabin. At a round table in the room, two little pigs were already eating their dinner. What's your name? asked Mrs. Porker in a kindly tone, pushing a chair up next to her for Puss. Puss and Boots, Junior, madam, he replied, with a polite bow. Mrs. Wiggy and Mrs. Tiggie, said their mother, and the two small pigs got up and shook hands with him. They had a merry lunch, and he was surprised to see how clean and well behaved the Porker family was. You know, said Mrs. Porker, as if reading his thoughts, that pigs are really the cleatest of animals, only man is so cruel to pigs. He shuts them up in small pens and makes them appear quite the opposite. Just read the books about us, and you will see. Yes, she continued, when pigs are allowed to run around, they are clean as they can be. Only when they are little they are often most disobedient. And she looked at Piggy, who got very red in the face. I don't believe he'll disobey again, answered Puss, Junior. If you have such a nice playground here in the woods, I shouldn't think he would want to run away to that dusty road again. Just look at my Boots! And he thrust his foot out, and showed the bright red tops all dingy with the day's travel. Lunch was now over, and after politely thanking Mrs. Porker for her goodness, Puss said good-bye to the three little pigs. Don't forget me, called out Piggy as Puss Junior climbed over the fence. Of course I won't, he called back, and waved his paw to Piggy in the doorway. End of Chapter 2 Chapter 3 of The Adventures of Puss and Boots, Jr. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Recording by Kurt from Tucson, Arizona. The Adventures of Puss and Boots, Jr. By David Corey Puss sees the cow jump over the moon. Puss Junior trudged along bravely for some time, but finding it very dusty, he left the road and climbed over the low stone wall that bordered the big pasture on his right. It's funny to see the moon in the day time, he remarked as he crossed the long green meadow dotted everywhere with yellow cow slips. I don't understand it, and he looked curiously at the big white moon which hung low in the skies just overhead. As he spoke, across the grass hopped a big silver spoon, closely followed by a dish with a blue border which rolled along the ground at a great rate. Wa-wao! Ha-ha! laughed a little dog from the other side of the fence. Keep on rolling, you'll tire him out pretty soon. Puss Junior watched the funny race with much amusement until he was startled by a voice at his side saying, Glad to see you! And turning around he saw a small cat with a fiddle under her paw. Hey, diddle-diddle, she sang in a high sweet voice and scratched away on the strings like a player in an orchestra. Tell me, Puss Junior said to her as the music stopped for a moment, Why is the moon out today? I thought it only came out at night. Why, don't you know? she replied. It is going to let the cow jump over it today. Indeed, and when does that happen? Oh, any minute now. In fact, there she comes through the gate, and sure enough across the fields a beautiful black and white cow came leisurely toward them. Good morning, she exclaimed, as she neared our two friends, and turning to the cat with the fiddle she said, Are you ready? If you are, just strike up a lively tune so that I can get into step before I try for my jump. Puss Junior was so interested that he forgot to ask another question, but stood still while the cow commenced to prance around, keeping perfect time to the music. Faster, faster, she called as she swung into a canter. I'm going to get a flying start, you know. If you get a flying start, the higher you will fly when you do fly. This undoubtedly was true, for in a moment more she rose gracefully from the ground toward the moon. Be careful, screamed the man in the moon, leaning out as she approached near enough for his voice to reach her. Be careful, and don't clip off a piece with your hoof as you go over. She did as he told her, and sailed over in a long sweeping curve and landed safely in a patch of clover at the other end of the field. Great, exclaimed Puss Junior, you did it splendidly. Oh, that's nothing she answered, although she seemed rather proud of her feet. Oh, that's nothing at all. I don't agree with you, he replied. I should think you'd be very proud of your feet. They're as good as wings. The jumping cow paid no more attention to him, but munched away at the clover like an ordinary cow. She won't say another word today, whispered the cat behind her fiddle. But if you're around this way tomorrow morning, and it's a nice day, she may try another jump. I'm sorry, Puss Junior replied. But by that time I shall be far away upon my journey. Thank you just the same. And with these words he took off his hat to Miss Pussy and resumed his travels along the cool shady path through the woods. End of Chapter 3 Chapter 4 of The Adventures of Puss & Boots Junior This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org Recording by Kurt from Tucson, Arizona. The Adventures of Puss & Boots Junior by David Corey Puss meets Yankee doodled Andy. The broad highway was somewhat dusty and not nearly so pleasant as the cool shady path through the woods. At the same time Puss felt that it was leading him on toward his journey's end, and the thought that then he would find his dear father made his heart beat fast with hope. He began to whistle when suddenly he heard the sound of hoof beats. Then a voice commenced singing loudly and clearly. Yankee doodled came to town riding on a pony. He stuck a feather in his cap and called it macaroni. Yankee doodled came to town. Yankee doodled Andy. He stuck a feather in his cap and called it sugar candy. Down the road came a pony at a mad gallop and seated upon his back was a very queer looking person. And his cap was a long feather and in his right hand was a big whip. The pony was galloping along at a great rate and every now and again his rider would give a tremendous whoop, like an Indian brave. Yankee doodled Andy, he yelled, and then the pony would stand up on his hind legs and neigh. Look out, yelled the rider as he approached Puss. Don't you see you're in the way? Am I, said Puss, drawing to one side of the road? Well, not now, said the rider, drawing rain and looking at Puss with a great deal of interest. Where's your horse? Where's my horse-repeated Puss looking about as if he expected to find one? Yes, where's your steed, continued the stranger? Haven't got, and he said, Puss. My two legs are all that I have to carry me. Get up behind me, said the stranger. My name is Yankee doodled Andy, and a Yankee is always willing to give a fellow traveler a lift, whether he be on the high seas or on the road. Thank you, my fellow traveler, replied Puss, and he sprang nimbly to the saddle and clung tightly to the coattails of Yankee doodled Andy. Get up, cried the latter, and away went the pony down the road. In a short time the towers and church steeples of a town came into view. Suddenly a queer-looking figure tumbled down from the sky on the road just in front of them. Yankee doodled Andy reigned in his horse just in time, otherwise he would have run over the man in the moon. Why don't you fall any other place but right in front of my horse, asked Yankee doodled Andy in a stern voice? Couldn't help it, answered the man in the moon. You must remember it's not such an easy thing to hit the exact spot you would tend to when you jump all the way from the moon. It's almost impossible. I've even heard that an aeroplane has some difficulty in dropping bombs so that they hit the mark. Well, I've heard that too, admitted Yankee doodled Andy, although up to this time Yankeeville has not suffered from any air attacks. Well, don't be too sure, answered the man in the moon. I've seen a few things from my moon house that you never even dreamed of. Did you ever hear the rhyme about the man in the moon? Puss asked politely. No, I never did, said the man in the moon. What, exclaimed Puss in surprise? The man in the moon came tumbling down and asked the way to Norwich. He went by the south and burnt his mouth with eating cold peas-poor ridge. Ha-ha! laughed the man in the moon. You are joking. I'm sure you are. And he turned his footsteps toward the south. He went by the south and burnt his mouth, said Puss. Can't help it, said Yankee doodle. He will go that way. End of Chapter 4 Chapter 5 of The Adventures of Puss and Butch Jr. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Recording by Melissa Franklin. The Adventures of Puss and Butch Jr. by David Corey. Puss sings a song and helps a beggar. After he had said good-bye to Yankee doodle Dandy, Puss Jr. had a good time playing all the morning with some little boys whom he met. One of the little boys got out his hobby horse and he and Puss Jr. took turns galloping up and down the sidewalk. I had a little hobby horse and it was dapple gray, its head was made of pistro, its tail was made of hay, saying his mother from the front porch. My little boy has had a fine time, she said, but he must come in now and rest, for it is almost luncheon time. And I must be going, said Puss Jr., for I have many miles yet to travel ere I find my father puss in boots. You have been so kind, said the little boy's mother as she shook hands with Puss. Good-bye, cried the little boy quite sorrowfully, waving his hat as Puss disappeared down the street. Hi-ho, said Puss to himself, once more on my journey I am a wandering minstrel, as it were, and to suit his words he began to sing. A wandering little cat am I, seeking father cat. In my paw my trusty staff on my head my hat, with the magic plume the owl gave to me one day, when the journey ends I'll have lots of time to play. A pussycat poet, cried a voice close at hand. Puss Jr. started and turned. At his side stood a beggar man. I'm hungry, said the poor fellow, and poets I hear are always generous, and he held out his hat for Puss to drop in a penny. Are they, inquired Puss with a grin, he put his hand into his pocket and took out a sixpence. Here, my good man, he said, take this little piece of money, it is more than I will get for the song which you seem to admire so much. What are you going to buy with the money? he asked, after they had walked along for some time. They had left the city and were now in the country. I'm going to get some peace porch hot, answered the beggar. I'm going to spend that sixpence in short order. I haven't had a thing to eat since yesterday morning. I have never gone hungry so long as that, said Puss. I think I've been pretty lucky since I started out to find my father Puss in boots. Puss in boots! exclaimed the beggar man with surprise. Why, I once stopped at a castle where there was a most wonderful cat. He was the senichill, I think, and a most intelligent animal. Where was the castle? asked Puss. I mean, in what country? I don't remember, replied the beggar man. You see, I have begged at so many back doors and so many poster and gates that I have them all jumbled up together in my memory. Dear me, said Puss, will I ever find anybody who really knows where my father lives? Peace porch hot, peace porch cold, peace porch in the pot nine days old. Along the road came a man with a big white apron over his coat. In front of him he wheeled a little cart in which was a large pot of porridge. Some like it hot, some like it cold, some like it in the pot nine days old. Well it won't be in that pot even nine minutes, cried the beggar man. Here my good friend, he cried, give me six pence worth of your porridge and be quick about it. Don't be in a hurry, said the porridge man, where's the six pence? Here in my good right hand, replied the beggar man. Ah, said the porridge man, you shall have your porridge. I will also have some, said Puss. Hot or cold, asked the man, you take yours hot and I'll take mine cold, said the beggar man, and in a few minutes the porridge was all gone. End of chapter 5 The Vesper Bells were ringing as Puss Jr. entered the great gate that led into the city of Babylon. Along the street the lamps were being lighted, and their flickering gleams sent the shadows hiding in building and alley. Puss, however, in spite of shadows, trudged on with a bright light. Waiting for an opportunity to get his supper, and a comfortable place to sleep. Suddenly he was startled by a strange sight. A small boy in his nightgown came racing down the street. We willy-winky runs through the town, upstairs and downstairs in his nightgown, rapping at the windows, crying through the lock. Are the children in their beds it's past eight o'clock? Wait for me, cried Puss Jr., but we willy-winky did not stop. On he ran, turning the next corner before Puss could overtake him. Halfway down the block, Puss stopped and ran up the steps. Lifting the big brass knocker, he let it fall with a wrap, that soon brought a maid to the door. Goodness me, she exclaimed, what have we here? Is anybody at home, said Puss, flicking the dust off the red tops of his boots in a most unconcerned way? As if indeed he had been accustomed to it. The maid held out a little silver tray. I will take your card. Poor Puss, he didn't have any. But I'm Puss and Boots Jr., he said, with such a lovely purr, that the maid opened the door wide. Come in, dear Puss Jr. Just then we willy-winker ran down the stairs, crying, Are the children in their beds it's past eight o'clock? Closing the front door he whispered through the keyhole. Are the children in their beds? And before he reached the sidewalk, he turned back and, wrapping on the window, cried, It's past eight o'clock. Little kittens don't need wee-willy-winky, I guess, said the maid, tickling Puss Jr.'s head. Hush-a-bye, baby, lie still with thy daddy, thy mammy has gone to the mill, To get some meal to bake a cake. So pray, my dear Puss. Hush-a-bye, baby, lie still with thy daddy, thy mammy has gone to the mill, To get some meal to bake a cake. So pray, my dear baby, lie still, made Puss Jr. sleepy. For the man's voice was low and tender, and Puss was very tired. And a sleepy voice he asked, And has the mother gone to the mill to get the meal for the cake? Indeed she has, replied the maid. After this she went into the kitchen, Puss gazed about him for a while, And then dropped off to sleep, hearing the drowsy voice of the man upstairs singing. Hush-a-bye, baby, lie still with thy daddy. All was very quiet. Tick-tock, tick-tock, said the big clock, And a mouse peeped out of his hole, and laughed to himself when he saw Puss fast asleep. He tiptoed over to the red top boots that had fallen off Puss Jr.'s tired little feet, And even crawled inside. Perhaps he wanted to tell his father how brave he had been To go inside a big cat's high-top boots while the owner snored close by. Presently he ran over to the hole in the wall. I imagined it did not take him long to tell his story. For in a few minutes three little mice crept out and tiptoed over to where Puss lay sleeping so soundly. Did you ever see any nicer boots than these? Mr. Mouse put on a very wise expression. They are certainly a very fine pair of boots, said he, And they have the mark of a royal cobbler. Gracious me how interesting, cried Mrs. Mouse, let me take a look. And she inspected Puss Jr.'s footwear with much interest. Beautifully made, she said, this must be a royal cat. For otherwise why should he have a royal cobbler? I only hope he is not a royal mouser, replied Mr. Mouse. And I think now that we have seen all we have that we had better return for who knows when he may awake. So they scampered off, leaving Puss Jr. still sound asleep. End of Chapter 6 Chapter 7 of The Adventures of Puss in Boots Jr. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. The Adventures of Puss in Boots Jr. by David Corey. Puss Jr. meets three Jolly Welshmen and the Queen of Hearts. As Puss Jr., staff in hand, wandered down the green hills to the lowlands, he came to a sandy beach, and there stood three Jolly Welshmen looking toward the sea. One said it was a ship, the other he said nay, the third one said it was a house with the chimney blown away. It's nothing of the sort, cried Puss Jr., jumping nimbly about, it's nothing of the sort. Perhaps it's a submarine, suggested one of the three Jolly Welshmen, walking over to inspect the little craft. Wrong again, tooted a little owl, who was perched upon a tree close by. It looks like a cheese, suggested the smallest of the three Jolly Welshmen. Nonsense, answered Puss Jr., whoever heard of a person sailing about in a cheese. Well, I didn't mean a Swiss cheese, replied the Welshman, who up to this time had said nothing. Swiss cheeses are full of holes, I guess they wouldn't float very long. This boat has a big crack in it, said Puss, just look and see for yourself. Crackers and cheese laughed one of the three Jolly Welshmen. How do you like my joke? It makes me feel hungry, said Puss Jr. I've had nothing to eat for a long time. Come with us then, said the three Jolly Welshmen. We'll take you to see the queen. I don't look very neat, replied Puss, rubbing the salt spray from his boot tops. Neither do I, cried the little owl, preening his feathers and stretching out his tail. I'm all ruffled up. Well, the queen's making tarts today, cried the three Jolly Welshmen all at once. We're going, anyway. Puss Jr. and the little owl waited no longer, but followed the three Welshmen at once. In the distance could be seen the turrets of a stately castle. On arriving at the post and gate, they were admitted after a slight delay. In the courtyard all was bustle and excitement. On long tables were spread the most delicious looking tarts. Raspberry, strawberry, lemon, apple, and all the other delicious varieties that could be imagined. Puss Jr.'s mouth fairly watered at the site, and the little owl could hardly restrain himself from picking out strawberries that protruded from under the crust of a tart near at hand. The three Jolly Welshmen also showed signs of impatience. They were as anxious to taste the tarts as were their small companions. At that instant a great commotion arose. The nave of hearts was seen rushing away with a whole trayful of tarts. After him ran the queen, holding up her long train so as to run faster. Puss joined in the chase to help the queen. End of Chapter 7. Recording by Julian Bradley Chapter 8 of The Adventures of Puss in Boots Jr. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org The Adventures of Puss in Boots Jr. by David Quarry Puss learns where his father is and receives a tart from the queen. The nave of hearts was a pretty good runner, and Puss Jr. found it no easy task to catch him. Finally, however, he did, and after some difficulty brought him back to the castle. As they entered the post and gate, the king of hearts called for those tarts and beat the nave full sore. I'm glad I didn't take a tart, said Puss, in a whisper to his little friend the owl, while the three jolly Welshmen looked much relieved to think that they had not touched one either. At this point the queen came graciously forward and offered them all a tart apiece. How do you like it? she asked Puss, smiling in a kind way. You deserve much more than a tart for having caught that naughty nave. What can I do to reward you? Puss carefully wiped his whiskers with his pocket handkerchief before replying. Your Majesty, he answered, I am in search of my illustrious father, Puss in Boots. Could you but direct me to him? I shall consider you have more than repaid me for my trouble. Coming to the castle, said the queen, and I will have my seneschal inquire. No doubt he will know as he is a very wise man and an old retainer. So saying, she led the way into the castle, followed by Puss Junior and the little owl. Puss in Boots, Puss in Boots, repeated the old man, in an inquiring tone, talking half to himself. Why, is he not in the employ of my Lord of Carabas? Yes, indeed, cried the queen. Now I remember. My dear Puss in Boots Junior, you still have a long journey before you. But to the brave, all things are possible. Although he lives far beyond the borderline of Mother Goose Land, a good traveller need not despair. No indeed, Your Highness, replied Puss Junior, I have a good heart and strong legs. It is but a question of time before I see him, for danger I fear not, neither stony roads nor stormy seeds. Bravely said, cried the queen. But who is your little friend? she added, turning to look at the owl, who had perched himself on the shoulder of Puss Junior. He is the owner of the beautiful pea-green boat, replied Puss. And to him I owe much, for had he not come to my rescue when the giant of the beanstalk pursued me, I should have been captured. His boat was on the shore, and we sailed away just in time. Most exciting, said the queen. And so that is how you landed on Cranberry Tart Island? Yes, Your Highness, said Puss. But I did not know it was an island, nor that it was called Cranberry Tart. Well it is, replied the queen. And if you will spend the night here, I will see that you reach the mainland tomorrow without delay. So Puss Junior consented to spend the night in the stately castle of Tart Island. End of Chapter 8, Recording by Julian Prattley Chapter 9 of The Adventures of Puss in Boots Junior This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. The Adventures of Puss in Boots Junior by David Corey Chapter 9, Puss Crosses a Wonderful Bridge The next morning, bright and early, Puss Junior left the stately castle of Cranberry Tart Island and continued his journey. The queen had bidden him a kind farewell, at the same time instructing one of her retainers to show him the bridge connecting Cranberry Tart Island with the mainland. On arriving at the bridge, Puss Junior was most surprised to see that it was built entirely of gingerbread. Goodness, he exclaimed to himself, if many stopped on their way over to take a bite, there would soon be no bridge left. Probably the builder had been aware of this fact, for at the entrance of the bridge was displayed a large sign which read as follows. No loitering allowed on the bridge, the gingerbread must not be eaten under penalty of a fine and imprisonment. It looks pretty stale anyway, to the little owl, who blinked and winked in the early morning light as he flew beside Puss Junior. You can't see very well, my dear friend, answered Puss, it looks perfectly delicious to me. Never mind how it looks, said the retainer, overhearing Puss Junior's remark, you must obey the law. I have no intention of not obeying answered Puss, nor would I endanger our safety by biting off a piece. Should the bridge fall into the water, I should be forced to swim, and swimming is no easy matter for a cat, especially with high-top boots. Wisely said, replied the retainer, and now that we have crossed over safely, I will leave you to pursue your journey, for you need no further help from me. Thank you, cried Puss Junior. Yet there is one thing I would warn you of, replied the retainer, pausing before taking himself off. In yonder forest is a gingerbread cottage, beware of it, for within lives a wicked witch. With these words he turned away and crossed the gingerbread bridge that led back to Cranbury Tart Island. A gingerbread cottage laughed Puss to himself, following the path that led into the forest. A gingerbread bridge and a gingerbread house, a gingerbread cat and a gingerbread mouse, but the gingerbread cat ate the gingerbread mouse, as she ran on the bridge from the gingerbread house. End of Chapter 9. Recording by Julian Pratley Chapter 10 of The Adventures of Puss and Boots Junior This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Recording by Mickey Lee Rich The Adventures of Puss and Boots Junior by David Corey Puss and Boots Junior visits the old woman in the shoe. It was now about high noon, but the air was cool and balmy for the sun hardly penetrated the deep recesses of the green forest. As Puss trudged along, he sang a little song to himself. Think he must have been something of a poet, for unconsciously his words rhymed, and the air also was of his own making. A little brown wren who was hopping along on the green moss that covered the floor of the great forest heard him, he told it to someone who afterward told it to me. And this is the way the little song went. Through the woods, the coal woods, the green woods, sweet with balm and fur. To the music of the breeze, singing softly through the trees This, the song, I prrrrrrrrrrrr. Happy he who's travels far, travels far and free. Over valley, over hill, over smiling lee, Never weary of the road, happy that he be. Just a jolly traveler, wandering like me. As Puss finished his song, he emerged from the woods and found himself upon a broad highway. This must be the road that will lead to my father's house, he said to himself, and joyful proceeded on his journey. In the distance, he saw what looked like a queer little house. But as he drew nearer, he saw it wasn't a house at all, but a big shoe. So many children were playing around, running in and out, that he would have found it difficult to count them, even if he had tried. Hello! he called out to a little boy who was the only one who hadn't run into the shoe to tell his mother that a big cat with boots on was coming up the garden walk. Hello! Boots junior said again, and the little fellow bashfully put out his hand. You have pretty boots, he said, looking down at them. Yes, answered their owner, I'm rather proud of them myself, but what are your little brothers and sisters afraid of? He added, as he noticed them peeking at him out of the window, I won't hurt them. Just then, the old woman who lived in the shoe came out, and seeing one of her children talking to a strange cat who wore boots, she hurried up to them and asked, are you Puss and Boots? No ma'am, but I'm his son, was the quick reply, I'm Puss and Boots junior. Oh, of course, she said, I knew your father years ago, and for a moment I forgot how time flies. Yes, we were very good friends in those days, he was a very fine cat. Puss junior nodded politely. Won't you come in? the old woman asked, turning toward her shoe house. Though you may find it difficult as I can hardly find room for all my children, I suppose people think I'm very cross. She continued as they managed to squeeze past the children in the hallway, because I give them all a whipping before putting them to bed. But if I didn't, those I put to bed first wouldn't lie still. You see, by the time I get the last one to bed, it's time to take the first one up for breakfast. Puss junior felt very sorry for her, as she didn't seem cross a bit, and the children clung to her skirt in a loving manner. Will you have a bowl of broth? she asked. It is about lunchtime, and I am going to give the children some. He thanked her, and said he would gladly as he was hungry and tired. He sat down with the children, who had by this time arranged themselves in a row, each one with an empty bowl in his hands. The broth tasted very good, and Puss junior felt so much better after eating it, that he proposed a game of tag. They all ran outside, and stood around in a ring while he counted. Eenie, meenie, miney, mo, till all were out except himself. You're it! the children cried gleefully. What a frolic followed! He finally caught the biggest boy, making believe for some time to miss the little tots, who screamed with fun as he chased them in and out among the trees. It was a different matter, however, when it came to catch Puss junior. At last, with a jump, he ran up a tree and out on a limb, from which he dangled his red-topped boots over their heads. When everyone gave up, he came down, and after thinking the old woman for her kindness with a flourish and bow, he resumed his journey. End of Chapter 10, Read by Mickey Lee Rich Chapter 11 of The Adventures of Puss and Boots Junior This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Recording by Mickey Lee Rich. The Adventures of Puss and Boots Junior by David Corey Puss Junior joins the circus. As Puss Junior neared a pretty village, his attention was attracted to a large tent in a field. Galy-colored wagons were standing close by, and every now and then a roar or a growl could be heard quite distinctly. A circus! cried Puss as he hastened forward and entered a small opening in the fence. As he approached the great tent, he heard a voice singing. It came from a little side tent, in a woman's voice, quite soft and low. Oh, mother, I'm to be married to Mr. Punch and Nello. To Mr. Punt, to Mr. Chin, to Mr. Nell, to Mr. Low. Mr. Punt, Mr. Chin, Mr. Nell, Mr. Low, to Mr. Punt and Nello. As the last words died away, a clown came from behind a circus wagon. Nello! Nello! he called. What is it, Punch? inquired the owner of the pretty voice, peering in the doorway of her tent. But before he could answer, she exclaimed, Oh, look! See the cat with red-topped boots! The clown turned and gazed at Puss Junior, who came forward and put out his paw. Won't you join our circus? said the clown with an engaging smile. Puss did not reply for a moment. He was thinking it over quite seriously. Whether or not it would interfere with his finding his father was the question. While he stood debating as to what was the thing to do, the circus lady came out of her tent and cried. Oh, do join our circus, sir Puss. I am sure you would be a great attraction. Every child in town would want to see a cat who wore boots. At this, Puss Junior's face was all smiles. In fact, his whiskers curled up in a most laughable way, making his little face quite irresistible. Thank you both very much, he replied. But before I answer, I must tell you that I am in search of my illustrious parent, the famous Puss in Boots. If I join your circus, how am I to find my dear father? Easy as not, answered the clown quickly. We are always on the move, a new town most every day. We never linger long in any one spot. No, indeed we don't, cried the circus lady. We give a performance this afternoon and tonight, and then we pack up and are off again. You can have one of the circus horses to ride, suggested the clown by way of encouragement. You need not travel on foot if you join us. That's a big inducement, admitted Puss Junior. It's a merry life, added the circus lady, and when all the little children clap their hands and cry, Bravo! It's very exciting. I'll join, said Puss. Here's my paw. And here's my hand, said the clown. And here's mine, cried the circus lady. Come with me, said the clown, and I'll put your name on the program and you shall be a regular circus performer from now on. And that is how Puss Junior joined the circus. End of Chapter 11. Read by Mickey Lee Rich. Chapter 12 of The Adventures of Puss and Boots Junior. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Read by Mickey Lee Rich. The Adventure of Puss and Boots Junior by David Corey. Puss Junior proves to be a wonderful circus performer. It was about 8.30 o'clock in the evening. The big tent was all aglow with lights. A long line of people reached from the dusty roadway to the ticket office. Flaring torches through strange streaks of light over the field, lighting up the circus wagons with their gleaming red bodies and yellow wheels. Now and then the roars of the lions and the trumpeting of the elephants could be heard. Then the music of the band, a bugle call, a shrill voice, a snap of whips, all the familiar sounds of a travelling circus as the evening breeze ruffled the many flags that decked the great white tent. Puss Junior stood by the side of the clown in the tan bark ring and looked about him. On all sides were eager faces. Hundreds of children screamed and yelled as the clown came forward and motioned for silence. When the sounds had died away, he spoke loud and clear. Ladies and gentlemen and little children, we have with us tonight the son of the famous Puss and Boots, the well-known nursery character dearly loved by old and young. Puss Junior is in search of his father, but in the meantime has consented to join our circus. I venture to say that no other circus in the world has so wonderful a cat among its performers. You will all be charmed to see his act. His first performance will be to ride around the ring on our beautiful Arabian horse, White Marvel. As the clown finished, Puss jumped nimbly on the horse's back and commenced riding around the ring as if he had been accustomed to this sort of thing all his life. The children clapped their hands and the grown-up smiled and nodded approvingly. The white horse broke into a gallop, but Puss stood first on one leg and then on the other, bowing gracefully here and there. Not once did he lose his balance, although he wore his red-topped boots and to stand on the bareback of a horse under such conditions is not the easiest thing in the world. When the clown brought out a wooden ring covered with tissue paper, the crowd held its breath. Would Puss Junior dare jump through it? A round galloped the big white horse in a swift canter, Puss balancing himself on one leg. As he neared the clown who stood on the blue barrel close to the ringside, Puss gathered himself together for the jump. Through the tissue paper he went like a bird on the wing and landed safely on the horse's back. A wild round of applause greeted his daring deed. The children clapped their hands and screamed, forgetting in their excitement to eat their peanuts and candy popcorn. The man who carried the pink lemonade in funny little glasses all set in rows in a ten tray stood still to watch. He forgot to cry. Anybody want some delicious pink lemonade? Because he was so excited over the success of the new member of the circus family. Then all the rest of the actor folk did their stunts. The monkeys played baseball and the elephants had a boxing match and when all was over, the clown and the circus lady ran up to Puss Junior and said, You were the star performer of the whole show. Which of course pleased Puss immensely. As the circus entered a town one bright sunny morning, the lion and the unicorn escaped from their cages. Great was the excitement. All the circus people started after them with long ropes hoping to be able to lasso them. At first the town folks were greatly frightened but gradually as they found out that the lion and the unicorn paid little attention to them, their fear gave way to interest. It seems that the lion was an enemy of the unicorn and as soon as they were free they began to fight. The lion and the unicorn were fighting for the crown. The lion beat the unicorn all around the town. Some gave them white bread and some gave them brown. Some gave them plum cake and sent them out of town. If it had not been for the plum cake, I barely believed they would have been fighting still. But as soon as the unicorn saw the plum cake, he said to the lion, What's the use of fighting Leon? Let's have a truce. In fact, I'm hungry. So am I, replied the lion. I haven't had a sweet thing since I joined the circus and you know how hard it is to see all the little boys and girls eating candy and popcorn and not be able to get even one little piece. That's quite true, replied the unicorn. People seem to think that all I require is hay and as for you, they think raw meat is enough. With these friendly words, they stopped fighting and began to eat the plum cake. All the townsfolk stood by watching them. When the circus men arrived on the scene, they were too surprised for the moment to do a thing. They just stood still and watched the two animals eat the cake, even waiting until the lion had picked up the last crumb and the unicorn the last raisin. Then they came forward very quietly and threw a rope first over the lion's head and then over the unicorns and led them back to their cages. Puss Jr., who had by this time arrived on the scene, turned to the people and said, Ladies and gentlemen, it was very kind of you to give plum cake to our animals. It only goes to show that kindness will do. I hope you will appreciate how much we thank you for what you have done and also that you will come to our show tonight. I can assure you we will give you a double bill to show you how much we appreciate what you have done for us. Hooray! cried the crowd. Three cheers for Sir Cat. That night there was a tremendous attendance. The tent was crowded. Everyone was in a jolly frame of mind. All the circus people did their best. Puss Jr. jumped through three hoops without touching the back of the big white horse and the clown was funnier than he had ever been in all his life. The circus lady never looked so pretty, nor did she ever ride so well before and it took the ticket seller all night to count the money. End of Chapter 13. Read by Mickey Lee Rich. Chapter 14 of The Adventures of Puss & Boots Jr. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Recording by Mickey Lee Rich. The Adventures of Puss & Boots Jr. by David Corey. Puss Jr. meets another cat and moralizes on contentment. For some time, Puss Jr. traveled with the circus, but at last finding he could make better time if he traveled alone, he said goodbye and started off by himself. Perhaps he remembered the old saying, he travels faster who travels alone. And at any rate, he made up his mind on this point and set bravely out by himself. But he was not lonely, for he was continually seeing new sights and new people. One morning, as he trudged along a road bordered by green meadows, he saw at some little distance ahead a large apple tree. As he grew near, a pussycat ran up the trunk. Little Robin Redbress sat upon a tree, up went Pussycat and down went he. Down came Pussycat away, Robin ran, said Little Robin Redbress, catch me if you can. Little Robin Redbress jumped upon a wall. Pussycat jumped after him and almost got a fall. Little Robin dripped and sang and what did Pussy say? Pussycat said mew and Robin flew away. What are you trying to do? Asked Pussyboots Junior, stopping in front of the tree and looking up at the Pussycat who sat upon the wall, looking after the Robin who had flown away. I'm not trying to do anything, replied the Pussycat crossly, but I was wishing I had wings. They would be very nice, replied Pussy Junior reflectively. They would be most convenient at times. Indeed they would, answered the Pussycat. They'd be lots better even than red-topped boots. Pussycat looked down at his feet. Perhaps, he said, but I have found my boots most helpful. Do you know, he continued, if people would be a little more contented with what they have, I think they'd get more. The Pussycat did not answer for a few minutes. Then she said, what you say is very true. I suppose I ought to be thankful that I have such nice, strong claws. It's not hard work climbing trees, and as far as running goes my legs carry me very well. Perhaps I don't need wings after all. Well, I never saw a flying cat, admitted Pussy Junior, although I've seen some remarkable things since I started out to find my father Pussyboots. So you are a traveler, said the Pussycat, jumping down from the wall and walking up to Pussy. How long have you been seeking your father? A long, long time, replied Pussy Junior. Do you know, sometimes, I almost get discouraged, for this is a big world, and at times I feel so very, very small. Well, you come home with me, said the Pussycat, and get a good rest. I think you're tired out. This was the truth, for he had traveled far that day. Chapter 14. Read by Mickey Lee Rich. Chapter 15 of The Adventures of Pussyboots Junior. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information, or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Recording by Mickey Lee Rich. The Adventures of Pussyboots Junior by David Corey. Puss meets Mother Goose. Oh, my pretty cock. Oh, my handsome cock. Pray you do not crow before day, and your comb shall be made of the very beaten gold and your wings of the silver so gray. Pussy Junior opened his eyes sleepily to find himself in Mother Goose's arms. They were seated on a gander's back, who was flying along as if such a thing as traveling with two passengers was nothing at all. As Mother Goose finished her little verse, the gander alighted on the roof of a red barn on which a weather cock sedatedly turned this way and that in the early morning breeze. The sun was just coming up, for it was early, very early. Puss rubbed his eyes and sat up. And how's my little pussy cat? Asked Mother Goose, stroking him kindly, did he have a good night's sleep? Yes indeed, thank you. Answered Puss, now thoroughly awake and remembering how he had met Mother Goose the previous day and fortunate it was that she had agreed to take him back to Mother Goose's land. Cock-a-doodle-doo! said the weather cock. Crow as much as you like, said Mother Goose, now that Puss is awake you can make all the noise you wish. At first I thought we weren't going to stop on your barn, Sir Santa Clair, and that was the reason I asked you to delay your early morning crow so that we could be far away before you commence. Puss is in need of all the sleep he can get for in a few days. He will be on his feet again. He has still a long ways to go ere he finds his famous father Puss in boots. Well, answered the weather cock, I didn't crow before day so kindly give me a gold comb and silver wings. That I will, answered Mother Goose this very evening. And who will bring them? Asked the weather cock for he was very vain and is sometimes called a weather vain, perhaps for that reason. Who will bring them to me and how am I to know that a gold comb will be becoming or that silver wings will suit my complexion? Leave that to me, said Mother Goose with a lofty air. Weather cocks only know of the Prizes that blow. They swing back and forth when the winds from the north, in red rest. More poetry from Mother Goose, sighed the weather cock. If people must talk, why do they want to rhyme it out? Let them talk in good old prose, it suits me best. Mother Goose evidently did not hear his remarks for she was busily feeding the gander. Puss was stretching his legs by walking along the roof and watching some sparrows who were chirping under the eaves. She cried, get aboard the Goose ship! When they were comfortably seated she turned to the weather cock and said this evening the sun will gild your comb and silver your wings just before he goes behind yonder western hill. Goodbye! The weather cock did not reply, and the gander did not wait, but flew away with his two passengers safely sitting on his back. End of Chapter 15 Read by Mickey Lee Rich Chapter 16 of The Adventures of Puss & Boots Jr. This is a LibraVox recording. All LibraVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer please visit LibraVox.org Read by Mickey Lee Rich The Adventures of Puss & Boots Jr. by David Corey Tripping with the Stars Twinkle, twinkle little star How I wonder what you are Up above the world so high like a diamond in the sky. Puss repeated this little rhyme to himself as he looked at a lovely star that shone in the heavens with a soft and silvery light. I always like that little song, said Mother Goose. I've heard it time and again. Mothers always sing that to their babies just before they go to sleep. Do they? asked Puss. Mine never did. She used to sing about little mice and birds. Mother Goose laughed heartily. It all depends on whose little baby you are. She said but I guess it all comes out all right in the end. The gander said never a word. He was doubtless too busy propelling his great wings and steering with his tail to pay much attention to what his two passengers were saying. I don't know whether there was a sign up like the ones they have in the cars don't talk to the motorman or not. At any rate, the gander observed the law for he made no answer. On and on they went through the night past cloud and star over river and valley hill and dale swiftly and silently for after these few remarks both Mother Goose and Puss grew very sleepy. It must have been well on toward morning when he awoke. Nestled on a soft feathery gander's back with the wind singing lullabies as you travel swiftly underneath the stars is quite sufficient to keep anyone asleep. It was indeed a mighty fine cradle and if the morning sun had not poked his golden fingers into puss junior's eyes he might still have been sound asleep. Mother Goose he cried touching the dear old lady gently on the shoulder. It's time for you to wake up. To be sure it is she replied rubbing her eyes and arranging her curls beneath her old peaked hat to be sure and dearie me I believe I have actually overslept. They were now close to the earth the cocks were crowing lustily in the barn yards and every now and then the bark of a dog faint but clear would come to their ears. It's funny to look at a house from the outside in the early morning said puss I've always looked out from the inside of course you have my little traveler answered mother goose but now that you are on your journey to find your famous father puss in boots you will see many things very differently. Well said the gander for the first time speaking I'm a bit tired so I think I will alight near this old barn puss was delighted for he wanted once more to feel himself on earth End of Chapter 16 Recording by Mickey Lee Rich Chapter 17 of The Adventures of Puss in Boots Junior This is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Recording by Mickey Lee Rich The Adventures of Puss in Boots Junior The Adventures of Puss in Boots Junior by David Corey Puss finds adventure at the top of Jack's famous beanstalk The next morning as Puss Junior went journeying along he came in sight of a modest little cottage in the garden of which was growing an immense beanstalk reaching up and up until its top was hidden in the clouds on approaching the front gate a motherly looking woman appeared in the doorway and looked curiously at Puss Good morning ma'am he said lifting his cap politely Good morning she replied at the same time wiping a tear from her eyes Have you seen anything of my son Jack? No ma'am answered Puss Has he not climbed down the beanstalk? What? exclaimed the good woman Do you mean to tell me he has climbed up this giant beanstalk? Indeed he has answered Puss and if you will permit me I will climb up also Maybe I shall find him near the top or possibly entangled in the vines The good woman gladly gave her consent and Puss sprang nimbly up the vine-like ladder Up and up he climbed until he was lost to sight amid the white clouds in the sky At last he reached the top and looking about him curiously he wondered which way to turn Suddenly he heard a gentle cackling near hand and a small hen crawled out of a thicket that laid to the right of the path I'm tired to death laying golden eggs for that greedy giant To lay every day is all work and no play She continued unconsciously making a little rhyme But where is Jack? asked Puss after he had consoled her by saying that there was much harder work in the world than laying golden eggs He's up at the giant's house hiding somewhere She replied Won't you show me the way? said Puss for I have a message from his mother to deliver to him Come along, follow me She cackled and Puss walked by her side politely helping her over the rough places as the path became steeper and steeper Near the top of the hill was the giant's house But Puss was not afraid and boldly followed the little hen through the great doorway who found himself in the presence of the giant Come, Chick cried the giant, not noticing Puss Come, Chick, and lay me a golden egg I'm so tired today, she replied Won't you let me off just for once? No, sorry roared the giant Lay, lay How dare you be so cruel, sir giant roared Puss as loud as he could stepping forward and brandishing his staff Hidy, tidy, laughed the giant On one condition while I let off the little hen and that is that you spend the night in my house and tell me some of your adventures Puss junior bowed low and graciously He was able now to reward the little hen for showing him the way and as the guest of the giant it would be much easier to find Jack Puss made up his mind toward midnight to hunt over the entire house for him End of Chapter 17 Read by Mickey Lee Rich Chapter 18 of The Adventures of Puss and Boots Junior This is a LeapRvox recording All LeapRvox recordings are in the public domain For more information or to volunteer please visit LeapRvox.org Recording by Mickey Lee Rich The Adventures of Puss and Boots Junior by David Corey Puss discovers where Jack is hiding Puss Junior found the giant a very agreeable host Perhaps it was because Puss told so many interesting stories of what he had seen and done since leaving the garret By the time you find your father roared the giant for even when he whispered it sounded like thunder you will have traveled far and wide, my dear friend They were seated in the giant's great living room A huge pipe was in his mouth and his image rose in a cloud as big as that from a factory chimney Puss Junior was not the least bit dismayed however for he was naturally a brave cat and his many adventures had given him an air of assurance as well as a liberal education He sat opposite the giant and recounted his adventures one after another much to the delight of his great host All the while however Puss was scheming as to the best way to discover Jack and up his mind firmly that after his long climb up the beanstalk and the fact that he had been so lucky as to make a friend of the giant he would allow nothing to turn him aside Finally the giant fell sound asleep Puss carefully opened the door and tiptoed into the kitchen where the giant's wife was washing up the supper dishes As he entered he noticed that the oven door was open just to crack My good woman said Puss The giant's wife started at the sound of his voice and immediately walked over and stood in front of the oven as if to guard it from view Haha said Puss to himself I'll wait your Jack is in the oven I wonder why the good woman mistrusts me Madam said Puss I'm in search of a little boy named Jack and I have a message from his mother for him Jack of the wonderful beanstalk said Puss I'm in search of a little boy named Jack and I have a message from his mother for him Jack of the wonderful beanstalk and I am sure he is in yonder oven Puss junior heard a scratching sound then a creak and in a moment Jack stepped from behind the giant's wife after carefully closing the oven door How do you do said Jack coming forward and what does mother want She is worried about you replied Puss junior and asked me to tell you should I have the good fortune of meeting you that she hoped you would return home for she is so lonely That I will answered Jack as soon as I have the opportunity He had hardly finished speaking when the heavy tread of the giant was heard Jack jumped back into the oven while the giant's wife commenced talking to Puss junior as if nothing whatever had happened Why did you leave me roared the giant turning fiercely to Puss Why did you fall asleep asked Puss Were my tales not of sufficient interest to keep you awake They were replied the giant somewhat taken aback by the answer he received I guess I have the habit of falling asleep after supper It's mighty difficult to break a habit It is indeed said Puss I feel very sleepy myself Will you allow me not to break my habit of going to bed early The giant laughed long and hard Show him to his room mother He said turning to his wife So Puss said good night and followed her upstairs having made up his mind to meet Jack at midnight End of Chapter 18 Recording by Mickey Lee Rich Chapter 19 of the Adventures of Puss and Boots Junior This is a LibriVox recording All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain For more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org The Adventures of Puss and Boots Junior by David Corey Puss and Jack make a bold rescue It was midnight in the giant's house Puss Junior heard the great clock strike 12 Softly he tipped down the stairs holding his boots in one paw and his staff and cap in the other When he reached the great living room he peed cautiously in There sat the giant in the big armchair fast asleep The poor little hen that laid the golden eggs lying on the table not daring to move How dare he break his word said Puss to himself He promised if I told him stories last night that he would not make the little hen lay her daily golden egg Now he has gone and broken his promise The little hen moved uneasily and looked appealingly at Puss What can I do? he said to himself Suddenly a bright idea came into his head and turning toward the kitchen he opened the door very softly and peered in To his great delight he saw Jack sound asleep in the big rocking chair that the giant's wife sat in during the few moments of the day in which she was not hard at work Puss Junior carefully set his boots down near the door and walked over to Jack fearing he might let out a cry of surprise upon seeing him Puss paused How shall I waken him without startling him he asked himself It was indeed a problem Should Jack give a scream the giant would wake and rush in then all would be lost It was a trying moment for Puss Junior Suddenly an owl hooted outside Jack slowly opened his eyes Shhh cautioned Puss quietly Be careful Don't worry I'm not going to whisper I have no desire to make the acquaintance of the giant He wouldn't care for my stories He'd just eat me up That he would said Puss He's no good either He broke his promise to me last night and then Puss told Jack how the giant said he would let the little hen off for once if Puss would tell some of his adventures And I spent all last evening with Puss And now he has kept that poor little hen by his side all night long She's in the great living room on the table not daring to move And the giant has the cold egg tightly grasped in his hand Let's rescue the little hen said Puss How can we? asked Jack Why, just run off with her replied Puss Where to? said Jack for he was still rather sleepy and was not working as rapidly as Puss Junior's Take her home to your mother whispered Puss Together they crept into the room where the giant still lay snoring Jack carefully picked up the little hen and started for the door As he did so he knocked Puss Junior's staff from his paw Run! cried Puss as the giant opened his eyes They fell upon Puss for Jack had disappeared down the beanstalk You have stolen my hen he roared Puss started in another direction and the giant after him just then the little owl who had awakened Jack flew near and called out the owl and the pussy cat went to sea in a beautiful pea green boat and this is the way Puss Junior escaped from the wicked giant End of Chapter 19 Read by Mickey Lee Rich Chapter 20 of The Adventures of Puss and Boots Junior This is a LibriVox recording All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain For more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Recording by Mickey Lee Rich The Adventures of Puss and Boots Junior by David Corey Puss Junior meets Mr. Rowley Frog The following day Puss Junior was trudging along near the edge of the forest The land was rather low and marshy and the path was none too dry He generally picked his way avoiding as possible the muddy spots of a sudden his attention was arrested by a funny sight A few feet in front of him as he rounded a curve in the path was a frog On his head rested a large stovepipe hat much worn and weather beaten A large cigar was in his mouth on which he puffed away vigorously The clouds of smoke streamed out behind him like a long grey feather Hello Mr. Rowley cried Puss And taking the cigar out of his mouth he answered How do you know my name Just a good guess of mine perhaps replied Puss But anyway there is a famous Mr. Rowley in Mother Goose so I took a chance Well I don't want you to try to stop me said Rowley for I had enough fuss when I left home You see my people didn't want me to go at all Then why did you Ask Puss who by this time had come up to the frog Because I was tired to death of the old pond replied Rowley One has got to see the world some time and when one is young is the time and not when one is old Yes every dog must have his day quoted Puss And every frog too answered Rowley Pushing his high hat down on his head more securely and replacing the cigar between his lips Where are you going asked Puss A frog he would a wooing go Hey ho said Rowley whether his mother would let him or no with a roly-poly gammon and spinach hey ho says Anthony Rowley Well then Anthony cried Puss taking the frog by the arm let us be comrades for it is a lonesome business this traveling alone and I would have a good friend to talk to while we trudge along How do you have a companion answered Mr. Rowley Don't you remember the second verse in Mother Goose Not exactly replied Puss Junior Well this is the way it goes answered the frog it's describing me of course So off he set with his opera hat Hey ho says Rowley and on the road he met with a rat Pray Mr. Rapp will you go with me Hey ho says Rowley Kind Mrs. Moussey Four to see At that moment the rat jumped out of the bushes Don't be afraid said Puss Junior All right replied the rat I shan't Glad to have seen you both said Puss Junior I can't tarry long for I must continue my journey End of Chapter 20 Read by Mickey Lee Rich Chapter 21 of the Adventures of Puss and Boots Junior This is a LibriVox Recording All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain For more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Recording by Kurt from Tucson, Arizona The Adventures of Puss and Boots Junior by David Corey Puss is heartily welcomed by Jack the Jumper It was near nightfall Puss Junior was weary and foot sore, for he had traveled far No one had given him a thing to eat all day and he was faint from the want of food Darkness was coming upon him and he looked about him to find a place to sleep In the distance a little light caught his eye and hastening his steps toward it he soon came to a small cottage Looking through the open door he was surprised to see resting on the floor a small brass candlestick It was the flame from this that had attracted his attention and drawn his weary feet forward Jack be nimble, Jack be quick and Jack jump over the candlestick Over the candlestick leaped a small boy and with a laugh turned toward the open door Can you jump over a lighted candlestick he asked I never tried, said Puss but I guess I can Don't sing your tale cried Jack as Puss prepared himself for the jump Don't worry replied Puss Junior I think too much of my tale to spoil one single little hair Gathering himself together Puss jumped nimbly over the candle Good for you cried the little boy Oh, that's nothing replied Puss I once belonged to a circus You did cried the little boy Tell me about it Well, said Puss, there isn't much to tell I was walking along one day and came up to a big tent A man asked me if I would not like to join and I said yes What did you do asked the little boy Well, I rode a horse around the ring I jumped through hoops covered with tissue paper and I never slipped off It was pretty good fun, sighed Puss Junior But, dear me, I'm so hungry Can you get me some milk Of course I can replied the little boy you just sit down and see that candle doesn't blow out and I'll run and tell mother In a few minutes he returned followed by a motherly looking woman Why, it's Puss in boots, she said No, madam replied Puss But I'm his son and have been these many months trying to find my dear father And you haven't found him yet said the good woman No, not yet replied our little hero, but I hope to very soon Well, you shall have a good supper said the kind woman The boy tells me you are hungry In a few minutes Puss was eating a hearty supper and then he followed the little boy up to his bedroom where they both slept soundly all night long after mother had blown out the light End of chapter 21 Chapter 22 of the Adventures of Puss and Boots Junior of LibriVox Recording All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain For more information door to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Recording by Kurt from Tucson, Arizona The Adventures of Puss and Boots Junior by David Corey Old King Cole's fiddlers are rather rude to Puss Old King Cole was a merry old soul and a merry old soul was he and he called for his pipe and he called for his bowl and he called for his fiddlers three and every fiddler he had a fine fiddle and a very fine fiddle had he Tweedledee Tweedledee said the fiddlers oh there's none so rare as can compare with Old King Cole and his fiddlers three Cole Castle was a very magnificent one Puss looked up at the great walls and sighed I wish I would find my dear father here but I suppose I won't no you won't cried a voice and one of the three fiddlers poked his head out of a window and laughed loud and long there are no cats in this castle no cats allowed here did Fiddler appearing at the poster gate Puss Junior almost felt like crying did you ever hear of puss and boots he asked certainly replied all three fiddlers at once but he doesn't live here no cats do we make all the noise in this castle you don't think for a moment Old King Cole could stand any more noise do you my father wouldn't make noise replied puss Junior indignantly I never heard of a cat that didn't said one of the fiddlers all cats make an awful noise at night said another they meow and cry like everything on the back fence said the third fiddler they make more noise than a fiddle and a worse noise than a fiddle out of tune I don't like you said puss people who don't like cats are not to be trusted ha ha laughed all three fiddlers you are jealous of us not the least replied puss stoutly I'm not jealous at all I'm just indignant that you should make such a remark about my family no harm meant said the three fiddlers no harm meant my good sir cat very well we won't argue the matter said puss for a fiddler has no time to argue if he would reach his journey's end time is precious and I must be on my way only let me tell you I have heard many a fiddle that made a worse noise than a cat and with this parting remark our little hero continued on his way end of chapter 22 chapter 23 of the adventures of puss and boots Junior of the d Series of adventures of puss and bootscrew of the d of the d Is that your hush-a-bye baby upon the treetop he asked the miller on entering the old mill? —'No sirree,' answered the jolly miller with a jolly laugh. —'Haven't you ever heard the song about me?' —'This is the way it goes.' There was a jolly miller once, lived on the River Dee. He worked and sang from morn till night. No lark so blithe as he. And this the burden of his song, for ever used to be, —'I care for nobody, no not I, and nobody cares for me.' —'Doesn't anybody care for you?' asked Puss. —'It seems strange, for you are so jolly.' —'Well,' answered the miller, —'You see, it's this way. —'I'm here all alone all day. There's no room in the mill except for me in the sacks of corn. It all belongs to me, even the old willow tree. —'I let a little woman who lives quite near here hang the cradle on the limb every morning.' As she goes to work in the village, she puts her baby in the cradle, and the wind rocks it to sleep, until she comes back at noon. Then she goes away again, and comes back at evening, and takes the cradle home with her. —'The baby is very good, that is. It has been so far. But you can never tell how long a baby will be good.' —'That's true of everyone,' said Puss, with much gravity. —'If it ever starts crying, that is, a long crying spell, she'll have to get another willow tree or another baby. I can't be bothered with a crying baby so close at hand.' —'But you haven't answered my question yet,' said Puss. —'Oh,' replied the miller, —'You mean because I care for nobody and nobody cares for me?' —'Yes. I don't quite understand it.' —'Come inside, and I'll explain it to you,' said the miller. Puss walked inside and sat down on a bag of flour. —'All I do is grind corn for people,' continued the miller, sitting down on a dusty stool. They bring their corn into be-ground, and then they leave. When they come back, the corn is ready for them. That is, the flour. They take it away, and I'm left all alone. —'So what do I do?' —'Well, I make friends with a little mouse and a big rat that live in the old mill.' As he spoke, the little mouse ran out of her hole and sat down by the miller. —'We are great friends, aren't we, mouse?' he said. The little mouse squeaked. —'Yes, Mr. Miller?' Then the big rat came out and sat down by the miller, only on the other side. —'Aren't we great friends?' asked the miller. The rat said, —'You're the best friend I have.' At which the miller smiled, and Puss grinned. —'Animals make good friends,' said the miller. —'Yes, indeed,' replied Puss, but rats and mice are so destructive. —'They eat your corn.' —'Not much,' said the miller. Only a little bit. —'We only eat what we need,' said the mouse and the rat. INCORRUS. END OF CHAPTER XXIII. CHAPTER XXIV. OF THE ADVENTURES OF PUSSIN BOOTS JUNIOR. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Recording by Jason in Canada. THE ADVENTURES OF PUSSIN BOOTS JUNIOR by David Corey. PUSS JUNIOR RENDERS A MOTHER AD. PUSS JUNIOR was very much interested in the jolly miller and his two small friends, the rat and the mouse. It seemed strange to Puss that a miller would have two such friends as these. But when he thought it over, he saw there was much reason to the miller's words. At the time the miller was talking, the mouse and the rat kept a close watch on Puss Jr. They knew from experience, most likely, that cats are not millers, and although Puss Jr., with his boots and cap, his clothes and staff, did not resemble an ordinary cat, at the same time he was a cat. So the rat and the mouse kept at a safe distance. Tell your little friends, said Puss to the jolly miller, that I won't hurt a hair of them. Mousy, said the miller, leaning over and patting the little mouse, Sir Cat says he will not harm a hair of your tiny head. That's very kind of him, replied the little mouse in a squeaky voice. The rat made the same answer when the miller patted him. Just then the mother of the baby who was in the cradle on the treetop came by. She smiled at the miller, who took off his rusty, dusty cap. There she goes, he said to Puss. She's going to take the cradle down now. She'll take cradle and baby and all, home with her. Puss stepped to the doorway to watch her. First she stood on tiptoe and looked into the cradle. Then she smiled and leaned over and kissed the baby, who began to crow and clap his hands. After she had kissed him many times, she lifted him out of the cradle and danced him up and down on her knee. As she danced him gently up and down, she sang. Down in the village all the day long, mother's been singing a sweet little song. Just to herself she's been singing all day, while baby's been rocking and rocking away. Hush-a-bye, baby, on the treetop. Mother is watching the tick-tocky clock. Counting the minutes go by until she will be taking her baby boy down from the tree. Then she laid the baby over her shoulder and, picking up the cradle, started off for home. Let me carry the cradle for you, said Puss Jr., running out of the mill. That would be a great help, she replied, for baby is getting very heavy, and mother has been working hard all day. So Puss put the cradle on his shoulder and, bowing to the miller, followed after her, while the baby kicked and crowed and tried to reach down and pull his whiskers. And Puss tickled the baby's hand and winked at the baby, who gurgled and laughed, and tried to pull the feather out of Puss Jr.'s cap. And the little mother forgot all about her own weariness, for baby lay so warm against her neck, and his laugh tinkled so sweetly in her ear. End of Chapter 24 Chapter 25 OF THE ADVENTURES OF PUSS AND BOOTS, Jr. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Recording by Jason in Canada. THE ADVENTURES OF PUSS AND BOOTS, Jr. by David Corey. THE MILKMAN'S HORSE, OLD NAGATI Nog Jockety jog, jockety jog, over the hills and over the bog. Jockety jog, jockety jog, many a miles this day I've trod. Jockety jog, jockety jog, I'm the milkman's horse, old nagaty nog. Are you really? exclaimed Puss Jr., looking up into the face of the old white horse, and is your name nagaty nog? Yes, that's my name, replied the old horse. You see, every horse is a nag, so in some way or another they got to calling me nagaty, and then after a while they added on the nog. Yes, everyone has at least two names, replied Puss, and it is natural that you should have two just like everybody. I like the name nagaty nog very much. It's quite fine. It sounds horsey, all right, he answered, giving his tail a sweep to brush off some flies that had settled on his side. It sounds real horsey. And it fits you perfectly, said Puss. You couldn't have chosen a better name. But I didn't choose it, replied the old horse quickly. It was given to me. You see, my master and I start out early every morning. First we go to the farm to get the milk. It's so early in the morning that it's quite dark sometimes. That is, in the wintertime. The farmer comes out and opens the milk-house door with his key. The milk is all kept in great big pans and long rows. It's very cool inside for the milk-house is built over a spring that bubbles away all the time, running out of the old stone milk-house down to the meadows where the cows drink it and the little fish swim in it. I know, because one time when my right forefoot was hurt, they put me out in the meadow and many a good drink I've had from that same little brook. The bottom is all bright little stones, and the ferns hang over the edge of the bank, and the little birds hop down and drink. Oh, it's very pleasant out there in the meadow. I sometimes wish my old foot would go lame again so that I might enjoy the green grass and the cool breezes. But that wouldn't do at all. My master would lose money. He would love to hire another horse. And then, too, I would miss the mothers who come out to get the nice fresh milk from my master. Sometimes they have a baby in their arms and two or three small children hanging on to their skirts, and they always pat my nose and say, How is old Nagany nog today? Sometimes I get a lump of sugar, too. You make me wish that I could drive a milk-wagon, said Puss Junior with a sigh. I'd like to be a milkman if I had a Nagany nog to drive. What is your master's name? asked Puss Junior, as the old white milk horse paused in his story. My master's name is Roundy K-rog. Jockety jog, jockety jog. He's a good man. He drinks no grog. Jockety jog, jockety jog. Never does he old Nagany flog. That's a blessing, said Puss Junior. I've seen so many poor horses whipped. It's a shame that a man can hurt a horse. Yes, a horse is a man's most fateful friend, replied old Nagany. He works for him all the time. Don't you get tired, asked Puss? No, replied the old horse, not very tired. You see, when we start out, we have the cans full, so we go very slowly, so as not to turn the milk or spill it. If we went too fast, the tops of the cans might fly off. Then on our way home, when all the milk has been delivered, and all the hungry little children have had all they can drink, we come along at a good clip. The cans bump and make a most cheerful noise, and every step is nearer home, where my supper of oats is waiting for me, and my good master's supper is waiting for him. I'd like to climb up into your wagon and go home with you, said Puss. Do you suppose your master would object? You can ask him, replied the old horse, but you mustn't climb up until you do. Certainly not! replied Puss, indignantly. I wouldn't take such a liberty. Tell me more about him. The old horse whisked his tail and commenced. Jockety jog, jockety jog. I'll bear him safe through all this fog. Jockety jog, jockety jog. How the darkness this way dot clog. The old horse paused. I was thinking of a dark night some time ago. The moon was hidden behind the clouds, and not a star was to be seen. We had gone a long ways out of our usual track, for my master had heard of a poor woman who had a sick baby. And he said he must take her some fresh milk. When we started back for home it was already pretty dark, but I knew the road. My master left it all to me. He just let the rains hang down over the dashboard and gave me my head. So I kept along, taking good care and not to stumble. The tin cans bumped and banged together, and the wheels creaked over the rough places. Master began to sing his favourite song. Place the little candle light in the window clear and bright. Though the night be dim and dark, I shall see its tiny spark. End of Chapter 26. Recording by Kate Mulligan Chapter 27 of The Adventures of Puss and Boots Jr. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Recording by Jen Broda. The Adventures of Puss and Boots Jr. by David Corey. Puss buys a pair of boots made for his famous sire. Solomon Grundy, born on a Monday, christened on Tuesday, married on Wednesday, took ill on Thursday, worse on Friday, died on Saturday, buried on Sunday. This is the end of Solomon Grundy. Puss Jr. stood before a little shop. In the window was this sign. Too bad! said Puss to himself. He had such a nice little store. He did that! cried a voice. Puss looked up and saw a little old woman. On her head was a queer green bonnet, and over her shoulders hung a faded red shawl. Are you Mrs. Grundy? asked Puss. For some reason he felt sure it was, so he was not at all surprised when she answered yes. And do you still run the little shop? he asked. Yes, my good sir Cat. She replied. And I have a very fine pair of red-topped boots which I would like to sell to you. I guess I need a new pair, said Puss Jr., looking down at his own. There was a big hole in the toe of one, and the other was minus a heel. Walk in, said a little old Mrs. Grundy, and you may try them on. Puss followed her into the store and sat down. Mrs. Grundy climbed up a little step ladder and took down a box from the top shelf. This pair of boots, she said, was made once upon a time, very long ago, for a very famous cat whose name was Puss in boots. Had these words Puss Jr. jumped off his seat and threw his paws around Mrs. Grundy. Gracious me, she cried, what are you doing? Oh my dear madam, cried Puss. The famous cat you mentioned is my father. I am Puss in boots, Jr. Is that possible? exclaimed Mrs. Grundy, letting the box fall with a bang to the floor. Is that possible? I am so glad that I saved these boots all these years, and to think that his son will wear them, she added, sitting down in her excitement. But I don't care much about the boots, cried Puss Jr. I want so badly to find my father. Can't you tell me where he lives? Mrs. Grundy looked puzzled. I did know, my little friend, she replied, but I have clean forgotten now. Indeed I have, she added in a sympathetic voice, seeing how disappointed poor little Puss looked. Just the same I will pay you well for the boots, said Puss Jr., and be on my way at once. No one can tell what each day may bring, and I might find my father, although it grieves me to think you have forgotten just where he lives. End of Chapter 27 Recording by Jen Broda Chapter 28 of The Adventures of Puss in Boots, Jr. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Recording by Jen Broda The Adventures of Puss in Boots, Jr. by David Corey Puss meets a modest mending man and a jolly miller. If I'd as much money as I could spend, I never would cry old chairs to mend. If I'd as much money as I could tell, I never would cry old clothes to sell. Well, what would you do?" asked Puss, Jr., coming up to the funny little man who was singing the song as he journeyed along over the roadway down the hill, across the bridge to the creaking mill. I'd buy a house and a little cow and a little pig, and I'd live all the days of my life as happy as could be, replied the funny little man. That wouldn't take such an awful lot of money, replied Puss. You said in your song if you had as much money as you could spend. I should think that would mean a big castle and a big automobile and a big yacht and—and I couldn't spend more than a little, for I've never had much practice in spending, answered the funny little man. Before Puss could make reply they crossed the bridge and found themselves opposite the old mill. In the doorway stood the miller all covered with flour. His hat was dusty too, even his hair and eyelashes were white with dusty flour. Any old chairs to mend? asked the funny little man. I have a stool here that has a lost leg, replied the miller, and an old clock that has lost a hand, and my wife has a pitcher that has lost a mouth, and a needle that has no eye. Can you mend them all? You'd better call in the doctor, said the funny little man. He's the person you want. Ha ha! roared the miller. I was only joking. So was I, answered the little man. Give me the stool, I will heal that patient first, then we'll see about the others. The miller presently brought out the injured stool, and while it was being mended he and Puss Junior had a talk. Yes, said the miller, as Puss seated himself on a sack of flour, I am a busy man. It's grind, grind all day long. Red corn and yellow corn and white corn from the cribs of the farmers. From the fields to my mill, and then from here to the baker or the kitchen, and then into cakes for little children. The big wheel goes round and round all day long and the water splashes and gurgles as it turns. And then I tie up the sacks after they are well filled, and then the wagon comes and takes them away. Every day the same thing year in and year out. It's nice and cool, said Puss, and the flour smells sweet, and it's home, you know. I'm a little tired with my long journey, and I wish I could find my dear father. Cheer up, said the miller. You'll find him soon, I'm sure of that. CHAPTER XXVIII THE ADVENTURES OF PUSS AND BOOTS JUNIOR THE ADVENTURES OF PUSS AND BOOTS JUNIOR by David Corey Puss overhears a proposal and is invited to a wedding. It was a merry time when Jenny Wren was young, so needly as she danced and so sweetly as she sung. Robin Redpress lost his heart, he was a gallant bird, he doffed his hat to Jenny, and thus to her he said, My dearest Jenny Wren, if you will but be mine, you shall dine on cherry pie and drink nice current wine. I'll dress you like a gold finch, or like a peacock gay, so if you'll have me, Jenny, let us appoint the day. While on his journey Puss Junior paused to listen to this sweet song. On a branch above him sat Robin Redbreast. With his hat held in one claw he bowed most beautifully to a little Wren that sat on a limb just below him. I'll dress you like a gold finch, repeated Robin, swinging his beautiful green hat with its long black feather up and down in the breeze. Jenny blushed behind her fan, and thus declared her mine, then let it be to-morrow, Bob, I'll take your offer kind. Cherry pie is very good, so is current wine, but I'll wear my russet gown and never dress too fine. I'd like to buy her a beautiful gold dress, said Robin Redbreast, turning to look at Puss Junior, who stood very quietly at the foot of the tree. I think her little russet gown is much nicer, replied Puss. To tell you the truth, she wouldn't look very much like a Wren if you dressed her like a gold finch. Of course I wouldn't, chirped little Jenny Wren, and besides, I wouldn't feel at all like myself. I might think Robin had married a gold finch instead of me, and I don't want to think that. Of course you don't, said Puss kindly. You are both right, said Robin Redbreast. I only thought for the moment that she would like a different gown, but she shall have her way. There is only one little bird in the world for me, and that is Jenny Wren. Jenny hid her face behind her fan, for she was blushing very hard. Indeed her cheeks were almost as red as Robin's breast. Tomorrow, then, shall be our wedding day, said Robin, and you are invited, my dear Puss Junior. End of Chapter 29 Recording by Jen Broda Chapter 30 of The Adventures of Puss and Boots Junior This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Recording by Jen Broda The Adventures of Puss and Boots Junior by David Corey Puss and several acquaintances journey to the wedding Robin rose up early before the break of day. He flew to Jenny Wren's house to sing a rondeau. He met the cock and hen, and bade the cock declare, This should be his wedding day with Jenny Wren the fair. The cock then blew his horn to let the neighbors know. This was Robin's wedding day, and they might see the show. Puss Junior was also up bright and early. He carefully polished his red top boots and dusted his cap with the long feather in it. Then he started out for the woods. Cock-a-doodle-doo! cried the rooster. How do you doodle-doo? My nobles are chanted clear, asked Puss bowing. I am on my way to cock Robin's wedding. He has given me an invitation. He added as the rooster stopped crowing to listen. A little squirrel ran down from his tree and stood upright on his hind legs as Puss came to the edge of the woods. Follow me, said Puss. There is to be a fine wedding in your forest city this morning. So the little squirrel ran after Puss. Presently they came to a little pond on a big log set of very friendly looking old bullfrog. Kerchunk! Kerchunk! He cried. Get off your log and come with us, said Puss Junior. There is to be a grand wedding in the woods. The bullfrog jumped off his log into the water with a great splash and swam to the shore. Scrambling up the bank he followed Puss and the squirrel. The three had only gone a little ways when they came to a chipmunk. Hello, Chip, cried the little squirrel, do you want to join us? Where are you going? To a wedding, said Puss Junior. All right, said the chipmunk, and he ran up and joined Puss Junior's little party. After going for some distance they came to a brook. How shall we get across, asked Puss Junior. I'm all right. I said to the bullfrog, I'll swim. And with a beautiful dive he landed in the middle of the stream and swam away to the other bank. I wish my boots were rubber, said Puss. I might wait across and carry you two on my back. While they were wondering what to do a muskrant swam up to the bank and said, Why don't you walk over, beaver-dam? It's only a little distance from here. Will it be perfectly safe? Puss the little squirrel timidly. Certainly, my dear friends, replied the muskrant, you run along the bank and I'll show you the way. So Puss and his small comrades followed the little muskrant till they reached beaver-dam. End of CHAPTER XXXI of the Adventures of Puss and Boots Junior. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Recording by Jen Broda. The Adventures of Puss and Boots Junior by David Corey. The guests arrive safely at the wedding. Puss Junior continued on his way with his small comrades, the squirrel, the old bullfrog, the chipmunk, the muskrant, the beaver, who had joined them without being asked after they had paid him for crossing his dam and the timid little rabbit. Presently they saw in the distance the wedding procession of Cock Robin and Jenny Wren, and first came Parson Rook with his spectacles and band, and one of Mother Hubbard's books he held within his hand. The sparrow and the tom-tit, and many more were there, all came to see the wedding of Jenny Wren the fair, then followed him to the lark, for he could sweetly sing, and he was to be the clerk at Cock Robin's wedding. Let us make haste, cried Puss Junior, or we shall be late. Please don't go so fast. Begged the old bullfrog, I am a very poor walker. Here, climb up on my back, said the squirrel. You can lean against my tail. It will keep you from falling off. This helped matters a great deal, and our little friends moved forward at a great pace. The old bullfrog was also much relieved. He was pretty tired, and every once in a while gassed for breath. He was not too weary, however, to catch several flies on the way, and he winked quite solemnly at Puss, who grinned in return. As they neared the wedding procession they heard the lark singing. He sang of Robin's love, for little Jenny Wren, and when he came on to the end, then he began again. The gold finch came on next to give away the bride, the lennet being bridesmaid walked by Jenny's side. And as she was awaking, said upon my word, I think that your Cock Robin is a very pretty bird. I think he is, whispered Puss Junior to the squirrel, so do I, said the chipmunk. Kerchunk, said the old bullfrog, he has a fine red vest. I always like white waistcoats, though. He added looking down at his own. But then, you know, everybody doesn't like the same thing. End of Chapter 31 Recording by Jen Broda