The Town Mouse and the Country Mouse

One day, Town Mouse went to visit Country Mouse.

Country Mouse lived in a small, quiet house. He put out beans, bread, and a little cheese, and he shared them gladly.

Town Mouse wrinkled his nose. “Cousin, this food is too plain. Come to town with me. I will show you how to live.”

So the two mice walked to town.

It was late when they arrived.

Town Mouse led Country Mouse into a grand dining room. There were cakes and jellies left from a feast.

The two mice began to nibble.

Then they heard barking.

“What is that?” asked Country Mouse.

“Only the dogs,” said Town Mouse.

The door opened. Two big dogs stood there.

The mice jumped down and ran.

“Goodbye, cousin,” said Country Mouse. “I am going home.”

“So soon?” asked Town Mouse.

“Yes,” said Country Mouse. “Better simple food in peace than fancy food in fear.”

And that is the moral of our story: a peaceful home is better than a fancy one that makes you afraid.

Share what you have. Be kind to your cousin. And be glad of a quiet supper.