786 WIGGLY AND THISTLE By Lisa Spray Chapter 1 It was still cold. The wind whistled outside the old barn. It was warm and cozy in the mound of hay to the left of the door. That was where the mice had hollowed out their meeting room. This evening they had something especially important to talk about. There were four mice there. Wiggly and Lilac were sitting next to each other, and Solemn and Thistle were across from them. They had just finished giving thanks to the One. (Most people don't stop to think that all the animals worship in their own way, too.) Now the mice were ready to deal with the evening's other business. Wiggly was speaking, as usual. She was a happy little mouse, so full of energy and fun that it often bubbled out in an excited little squeak. Even when she was sitting in one place she couldn't stop moving. She wiggled this way, and that way. That is how she got her name. Tonight she was not her happy little self, though. just don't know how to help! It makes me feel so sad to hear that little girl cry! She must be very lonely in that house with only grownups. ll she ever hears is `Layla, do this!' or `Layla, don't do that!' Even their cat is too old to play with her. Wiggly's usually merry little face looked very distressed. Even old Solemn was affected by her concern. His greying whiskers only twitched, but that was a great show of emotion for Solemn! Maybe you should try to play with her, Wiggly,said Lilac, as she licked her left paw carefully. Lilac was a very fastidious mouse and very careful about her fur. She especially liked grooming herself in the evening light. It brought out the purple highlights of her fur. That is how she had gotten her name. lay with her like Thistle does with his little boy. Isn't Joshua his name, Thistle?Lilac turned toward Thistle. Thistle was the youngest of the mice there that evening. His coat was light and silvery, like the heads of thistles. He was only a week younger than Wiggly, but a week is longer in mouse time than in human time. Normally he would be called immature, like Wiggly. However, he was a brave little mouse, and had had many adventures. They had given him a wisdom beyond his age. Actually, the mice in his tribe were beginning to look to him for leadership. He was showing himself to be worthy of their trust. Thistle's voice had a singing quality to it, rich and resonant, in spite of his youth. Yes, Joshua is his name and I am beginning to understand him a little better. Humans are strange creatures. They don't seem to realize the beauty and blessings all around them. I think that they get caught in their own minds, and forget what we have all been given. Then Joshua first came to my house he seemed very sad. I know that he had a hard time understanding the other humans. I think that he came from some place far away. Russia, they call it. And I think he missed his friends. He would just sit at the window staring out, hardly ever smiling. The only time he was happy was when they lit the Sabbath candles.Wiggly interrupted him, hat are Sabbath candles?Thistle replied, hey are candles that Joshua's aunt or mother lights to welcome the most holy day of their week. Some humans have different ways of thanking the One. The candles are part of Joshua's way.Wiggly started to interrupt him again, but Lilac stopped her. iggly, don't you want to hear how Thistle has helped his boy?At that, Wiggly held her tongue. The desire to help Layla was even greater than her own curiosity. Thistle continued, at first I was afraid, but the boy's sadness kept drawing me to him. I would creep into his room and just sit there, so still that he would not notice me. But one day he saw me. I was so terrified that I couldn't move! Instead of shouting and trying to scare me, he sat very quietly. After awhile, I saw that he was smiling. The next night when he saw me, his face lit up. He put down some bread crumbs he had been saving for me. That was how it started. Now we play almost every night. Sometimes I hide from him, and sometimes he hides from me. Or he will hide something delicious for me to find. The first time he laughed, it really scared me. Now that sound is like music. It makes my heart sing.The mice all were quiet. They all knew that special feeling of having the heart sing. It is the feeling of the One's pleasure and grace, the feeling of absolute love. The shadows filled in the bright areas. The night overtook the day. It was time to get home, before the owls living in the eves woke for their evening hunt. The mice touched noses. Then one by one they skittered out into the growing cold. Wiggly had the farthest to go. Her house was at the end of the street, down the hill from the old barn. Usually she was sorry to leave the evening's gathering. But tonight her mind was racing with exciting thoughts. She knew that she would have to try to help Layla, like Thistle had helped Joshua. It was a little scary. Actually, it was very scary. But she knew that she had to try. Chapter 2 The stars were bright and twinkling by the time Wiggly got home. People all along the street had turned on their lights. Most mothers were cleaning up after dinner. Wiggly stole up onto the porch quietly. She stopped to check carefully for the old cat. Even though she was an old cat, she was still a cat! The old cat was nowhere to be seen, and she did not smell the cat's scent on the evening air. Quickly, she skittered across the porch and into the little mouse hole by the frame of the front door. Once she was inside the walls, she knew she was safe. Quickly, she climbed her own little path to the second story bedroom. That was where Layla stayed. Layla lived in this house with her grandmother, or Ayeeyo as she called her in her own language. Her two grown uncles, Abdul and Mahmoud, lived with them. It didn't take Wiggly long to get to Layla's room. She could hear the little girl saying her night prayer. Wiggly peeked out. There was Layla's face right next to her's! The little girl was small for her age, and slight. Her face was heart shaped, and framed with thick, black curls. Long lashes surrounded her lovely dark brown eyes. There was a golden sheen to her rich mahogany skin. She was going to be a very beautiful woman. Layla was in the last prostration of her night prayer. Her forehead was touching the ground. She sat up and ended the prayer. Wiggly was right by her. The little mouse wasn't afraid at all. Maybe it was the prayer. Or maybe it was something about Layla, but she found herself trusting the little girl. Layla opened her eyes. She often liked to pray with her eyes closed, though her grandmother had told her she was supposed to pray with them open. She liked to close her eyes and feel the closeness of God. This time when she opened them, she saw a lovely little brown mouse. The mouse was so close that she could reach out and touch her! She drew in her breath with a start of joy. What a sweet little creature! God was answering her prayer. He had sent her a friend! It was miraculous! Her heart swelled with joy. Slowly, so she wouldn't startle her little visitor, she sat back. They sat there. Each studied the other, enjoying the company of another living being. A tune began to swell in Layla's throat. It was the lullaby that her grandmother used to sing to her. That was during the peaceful days in her village long ago, before the war had torn apart their home in Somalia. It felt like hundreds of years since she had thought of the song. Now the lovely notes seemed to hum themselves. The comfort of those days flooded back. The pain and loneliness of the last three years slipped away. She knew for certain then that somehow God would reunite her with her parents and her little sister. They had been separated one awful afternoon. A bitter battle swept through their village. The battle lasted for three days. When it was over, most of the villagers had fled. Though her grandmother and her two grown uncles had looked and looked, they had not been able to find her parents. Then the famines came. Everyone was very hungry. They had travelled from refugee camp to refugee camp looking for her parents. Finally they had the chance to come to America. They didn't dare pass up the opportunity. Her uncle Abdul had taken her face in his hands. She looked up at him and saw that his eyes were very sad. He promised her that he would not give up the search for her parents. He would not give up, even though they were leaving for another country. He had friends who would keep looking. He had contacted the Red Cross. Somehow they would find her parents, God willing. We will find them, little one. We will find them, Inshallah (God willing). He had said it like a solemn promise. Now, for the first time since they had left, she believed that he would succeed. God would make him succeed. Inshallah, God willing. She finished the tune. Then she realized that the silky little brown figure had been swaying to the notes. The little mouse was dancing to her song! Before she could think of another song, her grandmother called her. The old woman was slowly climbing the stairs. Layla, are you in bed yet?The little brown visitor skittered out of sight. Layla started, as if she had been asleep. She struggled up. Both of her legs had gone to sleep. She quickly wiggled out of her dress into her night gown. She was glad she had brushed her teeth before she prayed. Now she could tumble into bed before her grandmother came through the door. here's my lovely girl,her grandmother said as she came over to the bed. She limped slightly from the pain of her stiff legs. The gentle old woman smoothed Layla's hair and kissed her on the forehead. Layla grabbed her hand and kissed it. Ah Ayeeyo, I love you,she whispered. love you too, dear,her grandmother replied smiling warmly. She was very relieved to see her granddaughter happy this night. She had been very worried about the little girl. But she hadn't known how to help. ime heals all things,she thought. She tucked in the slight little form, and kissed her again. She turned out the overhead light. She left just a night light glowing comfortingly by Layla's head. good night, my dear,and she was gone. Layla stretched happily. She turned on her side. There in the moonlight was Wiggly, sitting on the window sill, looking across at her. Layla smiled the first truly happy smile in years. Silently she prayed, oh, thank you, God! She looked again. Wiggly had gone to find her own cozy bed. Wiggly snuggled happily in her little nest-bed. She could hear the faint rustling of her brothers and sisters close by. But not too close by. Now that she was almost a full grown mouse she had started sleeping a little farther away from the rest. It made her feel more mature. Tonight was a special night. Wiggly wanted to stay awake to review all of its exciting moments. She could hardly wait to tell Thistle and the others of her adventure. She would be sure to tell them........ No matter how hard she tried, the tired little mouse could not stay awake. She drifted off into a very deep, very happy sleep. Chapter 3 The next day was a good one at school for Layla. She always enjoyed school. The weather was warming and the children in Layla's class were having a wonderful time playing outside again. Spring was coming. There was no doubt about it. Layla's teacher, Miss Sagert, looked out the window to search for the swelling buds she knew should be there. She sighed slightly. It had been a long year. She loved teaching, but this year had been hard for her. There were several new families in the area. Many of the children in her class had trouble with English. They were all making progress, but she wished she could spend more time with each of them. She had made time to help Joshua, who had just come from Russia with his parents. They were Jewish, and life had been hard for them in Russia. Now they were staying with his aunt while they got used to America, their new home. His aunt had spoken to her about him. She said that he was very smart, but quite shy. He might have a hard time adjusting to his new life in a new country. Miss Sagert had tried to give him all the extra time she could. It seemed to have paid off. His English was improving rapidly. He had started to come out of his shell. She was very thankful, because his sad eyes had haunted her for weeks. Recently she had heard him laughing more on the playground. He played well with the other children. He and Dan seemed to be forming a good friendship. Dan was a happy boy, and smart too. He would be a good one to have as a friend. She hoped that Dan's parents would not raise any objections. They were very good people, but somewhat narrow in their experience. Dan's grandfather was a minister in one of the local churches. The whole family was quite strict in their religion. She had encountered this strictness when they had come to discuss the Christmas pageant in December. They had wanted to be certain that Dan's part in the pageant did not involve anything they disapproved of. She had calmed their fears. They had finally given permission for Dan to be in the pageant. However, she was not at all sure how they would like their son having a Jewish best friend. Dan and Joshua did seem to be becoming best friends. The bell rang, and everyone trooped back in from lunch. Miss Sagert now had other things to think about. She did not worry about this problem again until many weeks later. Chapter 4 While Layla had a good day at school, it seemed endless to Wiggly. She could hardly wait to share her news about Layla. She was so excited! By evening when the mice met to give thanks, she was almost bursting. She was barely able to contain herself until they were finished. Finally they were done, and sitting comfortably in their cozy meeting hall. Then, before she could get a squeak out, Lilac turned to Thistle and said, histle, please tell us about the plans for spring planting.Wiggly was almost beside herself, but she knew better than to try to break into the conversation. That would be very bad manners. Mice are very careful about their manners. A mouse's life sometimes depends on manners. If everyone is talking at once, it is too noisy to hear the stealthy steps of a cat sneaking up. Also, if everyone is trying to be heard, no one will hear an alert mouse's warning squeak. With a little sigh Wiggly sat and listened. Thistle talked about the mice tribe's plans to plant dandelions and sunflowers. Last year, the dandelion crop had been so good that the mice were able to share with others. This year, they had decided they would try to plant sunflowers. Sunflower seeds are much bigger, though, and the mice would have to work in teams to plant them. They were not used to this kind of work, but Thistle was certain that they could do it. The mice were willing to try, since he was the one who had convinced them to try planting the dandelions last year. Normally, Wiggly would be very interested in the conversation. But tonight it just seemed like everyone droned on and on, and would never stop. Suddenly, a bright slash of lightning flashed through the sky. It was followed closely by a loud clap of thunder. The mice scattered quickly, rushing to get to their homes before the rain started pelting them. Rain drops are much larger to mice than they are to people. A fat drop on the head can give a little mouse quite a headache! Wiggly was crestfallen as she ran. She ran as fast as she could toward the old house at the end of the street. She felt so disappointed that she might have begun to cry if she hadn't had to run so fast. She tripped over a twig, tumbling into a pile of old grass. Picking herself up, she calmed down. Wow, why am I so upset? Why am I trying to help Layla, anyway? Do I really want to help her, or do I just want to brag about it?With that, Wiggly resolved not to talk about it at all unless someone else asked her. after all,she thought, if I want to tell someone else about my good deeds I'm not doing good at all. I'm just bragging!She just barely made it to the porch before the rain started. Once it started to rain, the water came down like a waterfall! Wiggly had never seen such rain. She was especially thankful to be living in such a nice warm house, rather than a wet hole in the ground like so many of her cousins. She said a little prayer for those cold, wet mice. Then she looked carefully for the cat. She was safe, and darted across the porch into the little hole by the door. This was the mice's own front door. Safe in the warm wall, she paused a moment to catch her breath. hope everyone else got home alright,she thought. Then she began to climb up to Layla's room. When she reached the little hole into Layla's room, she peeked out. The room was quiet. Layla was sitting on her bed doing her homework. Chapter 5 It would have been easier for Layla to work if she had a desk, but they could not afford such things yet. Normally she worked at the kitchen table down stairs with her grandmother bustling around. But tonight she had decided to come up stairs once she had finished clearing the table. She was hoping that her little mouse friend would come again. She didn't want to miss that! Layla was starting to be a little disappointed. She was almost done with her homework. She hadn't seen any sign of her new friend. She finished reading the very last page of her science assignment, and started to put the book down. There the little mouse was! She put the book down very slowly so she wouldn't startle the little creature. Then she slowly put her hand into her pocket. She took out the three kernels of sweet corn she had been saving for Wiggly. She very slowly and carefully got off the bed and put one kernel down. Then she put another closer to the little hole in the wall. Finally, moving ever so slowly and smoothly, she put the third just a foot in front of Wiggly. She very slowly sat back on her heels, and settled on the floor about six inches from the first kernel of corn. She held her breath, waiting to see if the little mouse would take the corn. Wiggly was very hungry after running so hard. She had been so excited before going to the barn that she had not eaten dinner. Now the delicious smell of corn made her nose twitch. She skittered over to the closest piece of corn. She picked it up in her front paws. The smell was wonderful. She began to nibble it slowly and politely. It was so good that she had to stop herself from gobbling it down with no manners at all! When that first kernel of corn was gone she glanced up at Layla. The little girl was quietly watching her. Without hesitating she went to the second kernel. She ate that one more slowly, but enjoyed every bite. By now she was full and happy. However, the third kernel was waiting there for her. She had never been so close to a human being before. She thought she should be afraid, but she wasn't. Besides, it would be very nice to be able to bring back such a treat for her brothers and sisters. Layla held her breath as the little mouse finished the second kernel of corn. Would a mouse come so close to a human to get corn? Wiggly slowly inched to the final kernel of corn. She looked up and saw the delight in Layla's eyes. It was a delight that she shared. It took a moment for her to remember the corn. She had just picked it up and put it in her cheek to carry when Layla's grandmother called from the foot of the stairs. ayla, have you finished your school work?es, Ayeeyo,she replied truthfully. Disappointed, she watched the startled mouse streak back to her little hole in the wall. It was just as well. Her uncle Abdul came up the stairs with the old cat, Sheba. She was meowing painfully, and struggling in his arms. ush, Sheba,he said as he tried to calm her. ayla, will you see if she will let you look at her paw? She won't let me get near it.Layla sat down on the bed and took the injured cat from her uncle. Sheba calmed immediately, and Layla gently took her paw and examined it closely. There was a big splinter in the pad. Sheba winced and meowed as Layla pulled it out, but she sat still as the little girl doctored her. I have never seen anyone with your way with animals, little one,Abdul said. mashallah, it is God's gift to you. Wiggly watched all of this with amazement. She was glad that she was safe in her little hole. She was also glad that Layla could help the old cat, even if she was a cat. Wiggly was a soft hearted little mouse. She never liked to see anyone in pain. Besides, she knew that the One loves all animals, cats and mice alike. Suddenly, Wiggly remembered that she had a lovely kernel of corn in her cheek to take to her brothers and sisters. She had forgotten all about it in the excitement. Now she would take it to them. It was time for Layla to pray and go to sleep. She would have many other nights to play with her new little mouse friend. Chapter 6 Several weeks passed. The days were getting longer and the evenings warmer. Spring had truly come. The mice had planted their dandelion seeds. They were still working on plans to plant sunflowers. They had not figured out how to dig holes to plant the seeds. Dandelion seeds are so small that even mouse paws can push them into the dirt. Or back feet can scrape dirt over them. Sunflower seeds are big. They are hard for a mouse to carry. They are much too large to just push into the dirt. Thistle was frustrated. He had not thought about this problem. He did not know how to solve it. There had been many discussions in the little meeting hall in the barn. No one had thought of a solution. The four mice were meeting early because of the planting. However, today there was something else even more important to discuss. Solemn was telling them about it. Thistle and I found three orphaned kittens in the drainage pipe by the pond. Their mother was killed by a car this morning. They are very young and still nursing. If we don't find a way to help them soon they will starve.The mice were all silent. The thought of the hungry kittens filled every mind. Layla would help them,Wiggly said with certainty. aybe I can get her to follow me.h, Wiggly, you never told us about Layla. We all got so busy we forgot to ask!Lilac was really sorry she had forgotten, and her voice told Wiggly so. That's alright,said Wiggly. 'll tell you later. Right now let's try to help the kittens.iggly is right,said Thistle. e must work fast, or it may be too late. Our idea of getting Layla is a good one, Wiggly. The kittens are in the drainage pipe though. I think Layla will need help. I will try to get Joshua to follow me, too. We sometimes play a game where I pull on his shoe lace and he follows. Perhaps you should try that with Layla, Wiggly. There is still enough light for the children to go now. We'll meet at the pipe by the pond." Lilac turned to Wiggly, an I help you? I could look out for the old cat.Wiggly was very glad to have her come. She was certain that Layla would come if she understood. But how would she make her understand? She wasn't sure that Layla had shoe laces on her shoes. Maybe Lilac would have some ideas. Together the little mice ran down the road to Wiggly's house. Chapter 7 The two little mice got to the front porch. There was the cat Sheba asleep in front of the mouse hole! oh no!thought Wiggly. Wow what will we do? Layla's uncle blocked all the other mouse doors last fall.Indeed, Uncle Mahmoud had plugged all of the other entrances for the mice. He would have also plugged their front door too, except that it was hidden by the door frame. You could see it only if you were as short as a mouse. Lilac was older than Wiggly and knew all about cats. She told Wiggly to stand in front of Sheba, but at a safe distance. I'll get her attention, and you go get Layla,she told Wiggly. Then she slowly crept up to the sleeping cat. She grabbed one of her whiskers and pulled as hard as she could. Sheba woke with a start. She saw Wiggly and jumped up to chase her. Just then she caught sight of Lilac running toward the other side of the porch. She turned to chase Lilac. Lilac was a fast little mouse. The old cat was no match for her. Lilac kept her busy on the other side of the porch while Wiggly ran to the mouse hole. lease let Layla be in her room,Wiggly prayed as she climbed up her little trail. She had no idea where to start looking if Layla was not there. There was no time to waste searching. She sighed with relief when she saw the little girl lying on her bed reading a book. Now all she had to do was to get her to follow. But how? First she had to get her attention. She remembered Lilac pulling Sheba's wisker. She climbed up onto the pillow, and grabbed a strand of Layla's hair. She pulled it. Layla turned her head and looked at her. Oh hello, little friend,she said laughing. Then Wiggly ran down to her sweater. She grabbed the corner and started to pull as hard as she could. What are you doing, little mouse?Layla sat up slowly. She didn't want to frighten Wiggly. Wiggly ran down to Layla's feet and pulled on her sock. What do you want? Wiggly jumped off the bed. She ran to Layla's shoes. They did have shoe laces! She began trying to push the shoes to her. Do you want me to go somewhere?She put on her shoes, and then looked down at the little mouse. Wow what?Wiggly pulled on her shoe lace. She tried to pull Layla toward the door. It worked! Layla followed. Wiggly scampered out the door toward the staircase. She stopped several times and looked back to be sure that Layla was following. Layla had understood. She was coming right behind her. They came to the foot of the stairs. Wiggly stopped and looked around. There was Layla's grandmother sitting in a chair. Fortunately, her back was to them. There are you going, Layla dear?she asked her granddaughter. Layla did not know what to answer. She did not want to lie to her dear Ayeeyo, but she didn't have any idea where her little friend was taking her! May I go out and play?The day was warm and lovely. Of course, dear,her grandmother replied. ust don't stay out too long.Layla opened the front door. Wiggly skittered out onto the porch. But there was Sheba! Quickly Layla reached down. She scooped Wiggly up into her pocket. Hi, Sheba,she greeted the old cat. Sheba was tired of the game that Lilac had been playing with her. She turned to Layla with a meow. Do you want to go in? Layla held the door for the old cat. Sheba retreated to the living room. There she could be safe from cheeky mice! Layla set Wiggly back down on the porch. I'm sorry, little mouse. I hope I didn't scare you too much,she said. Wiggly was confused. She just stood there until Lilac came out and squeaked at her, come on, Wiggly. At that, Wiggly started, as if she had been asleep. The three hurried toward the pond together. Every now and then the mice would stop to be sure that Layla was following. She was. Chapter 8 Thistle and Solemn found Joshua very easily. They had to pass a little stream to get to Joshua's house. They heard him playing there with Dan. Dan had his scout backpack on. The boys were pretending to be great explorers. It took Thistle a little while to get Joshua's attention. Actually, it was Dan who first saw the two mice. Josh, look,he said in an excited whisper. Joshua followed his friend's finger and saw his little mouse friend. He and another mouse were tugging at his shoe lace. It's my friend! Hi friend, what are you doing?Thistle let go of the shoe lace and began to pull on his pant leg. Then he scampered a few steps toward the direction of the pond. He stopped and looked back at the two boys. Dan, I think he wants me to follow him.He took a step toward Thistle. That startled Solemn who started to run for cover. Thistle called to his frightened friend and calmed him. It's alright, Solemn. I think Joshua knows we want him to follow. I'm glad he has a friend to help him with the drainage pipe.The two mice took a few more steps and turned to see if the boys were following. They were. Off they all went toward the pond, as fast as little mouse legs could lead. They got there before Wiggly, Lilac and Layla. The two mice led the boys to the drainage pipe. The kittens were still mewing pitifully. They were very hungry now and starting to get frantic. Dan heard them first. He put his head down into the opening of the pipe. The kittens had never seen a human being. They were frightened. They scrambled deeper into the pipe, hissing and spitting. How will we get them out?he asked Joshua. By the time Joshua looked, only the kittens' eyes glowed in the dark shadows. don't know,Joshua replied. Their fear had made the kittens silent. The two boys sat down to consider. I'm smaller than you are, Dan. I can crawl back that far into the pipe. But I'm afraid that they will just go in deeper.As they sat there, Wiggly and Lilac came up to the pipe. Layla was right behind them. Hello, Josh. Hello, Dan,she said shyly. She knew the two boys from school. They were in the same class. But Layla was always a little shy with people she did not know really well. Hi, Layla! What are you doing here?asked Dan. Then he caught sight of Wiggly and Lilac. Josh, it looks like you are not the only one with a mouse friend that wants to help hungry kittens. Look.He pointed to the two mice who had lead Layla to the pipe. Joshua smiled broadly at the little mice. ren't they beautiful, Layla?Layla had always liked Joshua and Dan. Now that she realized they also were friends to the mice, she liked them even more. Layla,Joshua continued, here are some kittens in the drainage pipe. From the sound of their cries they have been left alone there for a long time. Something must have happened to their mother. Do you think you can help us get them out?f course I want to help if I can,she replied. By this time the kittens had stopped being so afraid. They were starting to cry again. Layla was determined to try to save the poor things. Oh I wish I had some milk to feed them!That reminded Dan of his scout backpack. have some powdered milk in my pack. And here. Here is a cup we can mix it in. Slowly he poured the powdered milk into the cup. Then he stirred in water from his canteen. He did not fill the cup, so Layla could carry it. She scrambled down to the pipe. The soil was very loose. She almost fell twice. Finally, she got to a place where she could crawl into the pipe. Talking softly to the little creatures, she began to crawl in toward them. The kittens calmed a bit at her voice. They did not retreat. They were not frightened by her. It was as if they knew she was going to help them. She stopped part way in and called out to the two boys. o you think you can follow me part way? Then I can hand the kittens back to you.That seemed like a good plan. Joshua crawled in after her. Dan, the largest of the three brought up the rear. Chapter 9 It was cool and damp in the drainage pipe. The light was dim and grey. The galvanized steel pipe was cold to touch. There was not much room for the children to manoeuvre. It was worst for Dan. The other two children were both small for their age, but Dan was large for his. Also, he had worn his pack, in case they needed it. He couldn't carry it because he needed his hands free, but when he was on his hands and knees the pack jammed against the top of the pipe. He could hardly crawl forward at all. He found the best way to move was to lay on his stomach and push himself forward with sharp kicks to the side of the pipe. Outside, the mice scampered for higher ground as the loose, sandy soil shifted near the pipe. The children moved forward. Layla reached the kittens. All the time she talked softly and reassuringly to them. She reached the first one, a little black ball of fur. He hissed at her, but let her pick him up. She put his nose into the cup. He sneezed and gagged. She tried several times, but he was too young to drink the milk himself. Layla took out the clean handkerchief her grandmother always insisted she carry. She dipped one corner into the milk and put the soaked cloth into the tiny little mouth. The kitten sucked hungrily. She took the cloth and dipped it back into the milk. It was a slow process. It took quite awhile for the little black kitten to get enough milk to be full. Then she passed him back to Joshua. ould you please hold him while I feed the next one?Joshua took the fuzzy little black body. The kitten hissed again at the smell of a new person. But he was tired and finally full. Soon he was asleep in the crook of Joshua's elbow. Layla began to feed the next kitten. A little white and brown bit of fluff, who was a bit more mature. When Layla put her little nose in the milk, the kitten sputtered and sneezed. Finally the kitten got the idea and began to lap up the milk. Layla sighed with relief. This might be easier than she had thought. Chapter 10 The second kitten was full and purring in Layla's hand. Now there were only two crying little mouths still begging to be fed. Joshua, can you take the second kitten?Joshua reached forward and took the little white and brown kitten. Now he had his hands full. The first kitten was still asleep, and his new charge was beginning to fall asleep too. Layla lifted the third kitten, who had beautiful orange fur. She put his nose in the milk. He sneezed and sputtered and struggled to get away. Finally he got the idea and began to drink the milk like his sister had. Again, Layla sighed with relief. This third kitten ate quickly. Too quickly. Layla was afraid that he would get sick. She had to keep pulling him away from the milk so he could catch his breath. Finally he was full. Or that is what Layla decided. She was worried that he would eat more than he really needed. She had to save some milk for the last little grey kitten at her knees. Layla again turned to Joshua. an you give Dan one of the kittens so you can hold this one?Joshua could not easily move with both kittens asleep. He had been able to shift so that he was sitting. He had one little cat on his lap asleep. The other was in his arms. Dan would have to come closer. With one big kick, Dan came close enough to take the kitten from his arm. Layla had just handed Joshua the third kitten. Then they heard an ominous rumble above and around them. That last kick had been too much for the unstable soil. It had shifted, and now the whole hillside was rumbling down on them! Layla gripped the last kitten just before the light was blocked out. The horrible rumble went on for what felt like ages. When it finally ended, the entrance was blocked. It was covered by tons of sandy soil and rock. They were trapped! Thankfully there was some light glowing dimly about 10 yards further in. The shift had parted the soil. With it, the pipe had pulled apart at a joint, openning just enough to let in fresh air and some light. Miraculously, the steel drainpipe did not collapse. But how would they ever get out? The children were shaken, but unhurt. Layla's kitten began to mew pitifully again. She began the task of feeding the last little mouth. Thankfully, the last bit of milk had not spilled. Now what would they do? Dan tried to turn around to see if he could dig their way out. The pack stopped him. He struggled out of the pack, and found the little trowel he always carried in it. Then he turned around and crawled the short distance back to the blocked entrance. He could tell right away that it was hopeless. A big boulder blocked most of the entrance. It would not budge when he put all of his weight against it. Where the boulder did not block the pipe, a steady stream of sandy spoil trickled on to a growing mound in the pipe. He turned back around without even trying to dig out. afraid we are trapped,he told the others. ut don't worry. My parents will be looking for us soon. He was a brave boy, but even he was frightened. How would his parents know where to look for him? He and Joshua hadn't told anyone where they were going. They hadn't known themselves. He was frightened by their situation, but knew that they had to keep up their spirits. Joshua understood that too. He joined in, y parents and aunt and uncle will miss me too. They will be looking too.Layla knew that her uncles and grandmother would be worried. However, her parents did not even know what country she was in! The thought brought tears to her eyes. Quickly, to keep from crying, she began to pray as her grandmother had taught her to do. Bismillah al-Rahman al-Raheem. Ahamdullilah Rabil al-amin... The lovely words strengthened her and calmed her heart. hat's beautiful, Layla. It sounds a lot like the Hebrew prayers my mother and father say. What does it mean? Joshua was really taken by the prayer and the calm it spread throughout the pipe. Layla was glad that her grandmother had made her practice her English by translating every word in the prayer. Now she knew it in English too. It means: In the name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful. Praise be to God, Lord of the universe. Most Gracious, Most Merciful. Master of the Day of Judgment. You alone we worship. You alone we ask for help. Guide us in the right path; the path of those whom You blessed; not of those who have deserved wrath, nor the strayers.ow,exploded Dan. hat's a lot like the Lord's Prayer.Layla and Josh were both interested. Layla's grandmother had often read the verses from the Quran that spoke of the `people of the book.' Her grandmother reminded her that all believers in the one God are called submitters (in Arabic, muslims) in the Quran. She had told her that it didn't matter what people called themselves. Anyone who really believed in God and the Hereafter and was righteous was a submitter. Now Dan was saying that his prayer was like hers! Please say it for us, Dan.es, please say it,Joshua chimed in. All of the children felt much better talking and thinking about God. Dan began a little shyly, ur Father, who art in Heaven, hallowed be Thy name...Again the pipe was filled with lovely words which bring calm and comfort. Chapter 11 Down where the pipe's entrance used to be, the mice were almost frantic. They tried to dig through the sandy soil themselves. After just a few minutes Thistle stopped them. This is not working,he said. e have to go get help.Lilac and Solemn both looked very shaken. You two stay here and guard the children,he said kindly. He realized that they needed to feel they were doing something important. But they were too shaken to do much. Wiggly, will you please come with me? The two mice ran off as fast as their little legs would carry them. When they were out of earshot, Wiggly turned to Thistle. hat will we do now? How will we find help?Thistle answered truthfully, don't know, but we have to try. In the meantime, three families were becoming more and more worried. Layla's grandmother and uncles had combed the yard and house. Layla had never left the yard before without permission. They did not know what to do. Finally Uncle Mahmoud said, e have to ask for help.es,Layla's grandmother said. She led them up the street to the house where Layla's teacher lived. Miss Sagert was a little surprised to see them. They told her that Layla was missing. She called her fiance, who was a deputy with the sheriff's department. Lee Redwing was changing into his uniform. The sheriff had just called him to tell him that the families of two boys had reported them missing. He was to meet the families at the school. He asked Miss Sagert if they could all meet in her school room. Of course,she replied. Layla's grandmother suddenly remembered that she had forgotten to turn the oven off. She and Uncle Mahmoud apologized and said they would come to the school as soon as they made certain everything was safe at home. Uncle Abdul and Miss Sagert started down the street to the school. It is a good thing that Layla's grandmother needed to go home first, or Wiggly and Thistle might never have found her! Chapter 12 Everyone but Layla's grandmother and uncle arrived at the school. Miss Sagert let them in and lead them to her room. As soon as they were seated, Dan's uncle started up again on Dan's mother. Boy, you shouldn't have let Dan get mixed up with that Jewish boy. Oh hush, George! They are just people, like us!Dan's mother replied. At that moment, Joshua's family came streaming in. His uncle and father were followed by his aunt, who was comforting his mother. Dan's mother took one look at the pale face of the Jewish woman, and she immediately went to her. Together they hugged and cried. Lee turned to Dan's uncle. They had gone to school together, and were friends. emember, George, Jesus taught us to love our brothers as ourselves. George looked down shamefaced. He was not a hateful man, just very worried. Dan was his favorite nephew. He was a good boy, and it wasn't like him to go off without telling anyone where he was going. By the time Layla's grandmother and uncle got to the walk in front of the school, Thistle and Wiggly were just coming up over the hill. here's Layla's grandmother!Wiggly squeaked excitedly. The mice ran quickly to catch up with the old woman and her son. They really didn't need to hurry. Layla's grandmother had to walk slowly because of her painful legs. The mice caught up easily. Wow what? Wiggly asked. Let's follow them and see where they are going,replied Thistle. Neither mouse had been close to adult humans. They were rather frightened of them. Besides, he doubted that mice could get adults to follow them like the children had. Lee Redwing was just finishing as they walked in. t doesn't seem that we have any clue at all. We don't know where to start looking for the children. There was a slight edge to his voice. He was more aware than the others how long the afternoon shadows were getting. He did not relish having to leave the children out there alone in the dark. When he had finished speaking, Dan's and Joshua's mothers crossed over to Layla's grandmother. She held out her hands to them. They all hugged, and then she put an arm around each slender waist. Can we pray for our children?she asked in her strong, gentle voice. She began the prayer, In the name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful. Merciful Lord, You created us all. You have protected us all. Please protect our children. Guide us to find them safe and happy, if it is Your will.Then she recited the prayer Layla had recited in the pipe. Everyone was silent. Thistle and Wiggly climbed up onto the computer counter. That was where the class computers were set up for the children. It was nice and high, and they could see what was going on. Lee Redwing was the only one who noticed them. He watched them with a silent enjoyment. Mice were special friends to him. He did not want to frighten them. Dan's grandfather was moved by the deep and pure faith of Layla's grandmother. He was also moved by their situation. They were three families from very different backgrounds, drawn together by their need. He began to recite the Lord's Prayer. Lee Redwing and Wiggly were the only ones who saw Thistle begin to act very strangely. He closed his eyes. Without any effort, he jumped up onto the closest computer keyboard. Then he began to hop silently from key to key on the keyboard, with his eyes still closed! Wiggly was astounded. What was he doing? She had never seen him act so strangely. She stared at him and realized that he was praying too. She knew then that it was not Thistle who was directing his movements. She had heard stories of mice heros who were able to give themselves over to the One, much as some humans were able to. She had never witnessed such a wonderful thing happening. She bowed her head in awe. Lee Redwing was speechless. Astonished, he watched as the little mouse spelled out o n d p i p e on the computer terminal. Thank You, God. Your help comes in many miraculous ways!Lee Redwing prayed silently, and with deep feeling. Lee's fiance, the children's teacher Anne Sagert, followed his gaze. She started to say something, but he caught her eye and shook his head. She held her tongue, filled with astonishment. Thistle startled, as if he had been asleep. Wiggly went up to him and touched noses. h, Thistle.That was all she could say. Dan's grandfather was finished. Lee Redwing spoke slowly. We should start at the pond. No one questioned him. They could walk to the pond in a few minutes. Lee needed to drive his truck over, though. He might need to use the radio to call the sheriff's station for help. He asked Anne to ride with him. As they climbed in, he said quietly, 'm not sure everyone would understand what we just saw. People are often afraid of what they do not understand. Anne nodded. She understood what he was talking about. Yes,she thought, We must be appreciative of the miracles we see, but not try to share them with those who are not ready to understand. Chapter 13 It was almost sunset when everyone arrived at the pond. Lee and Anne got there first. They went right to the pipe. Lee studied the mound of dirt blocking the entrance to the pipe. Anne walked up the hill. She came to the crack in the earth where the pipe was slightly parted. There, curled up together in the twilight she saw two exhausted mice. They were guarding the little hole. Silently she beckoned to Lee. He strode up to her and gazed down. He smiled broadly, and whispered, guess the children were in good hands.He pulled gently on Anne's hand and they walked a few paces away. He began to sing an old Indian lullaby to waken the mice gently. Sure enough, Lilac and Solemn woke. They skittered for cover. Then Anne and Lee walked back to the opening. Lee shined a light down the hole and Anne shouted, Layla, Josh, Dan! Are you there?iss Sagert!the three children yelled happily. Are you all ok?es,Layla answered. ut we are hungry and a little cold.on't worry, dears. Your families are coming. We will get you out soon.Lee pulled her aside and whispered in her ear. Don't promise them too much yet. It may take awhile to get them out. This sand is very unstable.Anne nodded. She went back to the hole. What would you like to eat? Anything!Dan's voice boomed out. Everyone laughed. Lee went back to the truck and called in to the station. The news went out . that the children were found. Food was on its way, along with engineers who would decide what was the safest way to get the children out. Dan's parents were the first to get to the pond. They saw Lee and Anne over by the pipe. It was a matter of minutes before they were talking with their son again. Then Joshua's family came up and talked with him. Finally, Layla heard her dear Ayeeyo's voice. Everyone was relieved and happy. Food soon followed. It was lowered down through the crack in the pipe. Layla crawled forward to get the food. The children feasted on tomato soup, cheese sandwiches and hot chocolate. Layla asked for some warm milk for the kittens. They had woken up with all of the noise and activity. Soon they were all happily eating too. Someone had even sent down a doll's baby bottle filled with warm milk to feed the little black kitten who could not drink! By the time the engineers arrived and set up their lights, everyone was feeling much better. The engineers were closely followed by the local newscasters and reporters. The story was picked up by the wire services, and soon the whole state was hearing about the three brave children who had risked their lives for four kittens. By the time the national news picked up the story, the three children had each been interviewed. They told their whole life history! The engineers were worried about trying to stabilize the sand without daylight. Pillows would not fit down the crack, but warm clothes and blankets were passed down. Though the children were disappointed that they would have to stay the night, they made the best of it. Soon they were snuggled warmly in blankets dreaming warm dreams. Each child had one or two kittens tucked in with them. It had been a slow news day. The story of three children, each from a different country and a different religion asleep in an American drain pipe became international news! Soon it was broadcast across the globe. Thistle and Wiggly had followed Layla's family back to the pipe. They found Lilac and Solemn. They were as close as they dared to be to all the commotion. You did very well guarding the children,Thistle told the two tired little mice. Wiggly turned to him and said, nd you did very well bringing help. Thistle replied, didn't do anything. Only the One did. He helps us all the time. We just don't usually notice.With all the noise and lights, the four little mice decided to creep away to their own beds. But before she left, Wiggly had to check on Layla herself. She felt badly that she had led her friend into danger. She knew that everything would be all right, but she couldn't sleep without seeing Layla again. She crept up to the crack in the pipe. The children had all moved close to the hole. As Wiggly looked down, she saw the three of them warm and comfortable in their blankets. Just as she was getting ready to skitter away, Layla openned her eyes and caught sight of her. Thank you, little friend, for coming to see me even here.She smiled. She wanted to visit, but was so sleepy that she couldn't stay awake. She closed her eyes again. Wiggly felt much better, seeing her friend safe and warm. She skampered off happily to her own bed. Chapter 14 It was a bright and lovely spring morning. The pond was bustling with activity. Earth moving equipment had been brought in. And more engineers. The news media had brought in almost as many people and as much equipment! There were reporters from all over the country. And there was an anchor man from one of the major television networks. The families were still there, and so were Anne and Lee. With so much activity it is a little surprising that the mice came back. But they did. Neither Wiggly nor Thistle could stay away, and Lilac and Solemn wouldn't let them go alone. They climbed to the top of a rock just a little bit away. There they could see everything, but not be seen. Or so they hoped. By about 10:30 the crews had stabilized the sandy soil and dug most of the way to the children. It was 11:30 when the careful work of the engineers and all their workmen finally paid off. The children were free at last! Slowly Dan backed out of the pipe, a kitten in each hand. Then Joshua followed, again with a kitten. Finally Layla brought out the last kitten. The children were muddy and stiff, but they were happy and well. Every one hugged and kissed and tried to talk all at once. They were so busy that almost no one noticed when the TV anchor man came up to Layla's grandmother and spoke quietly to her. The old woman's face transformed with wonder. Tears began to flow from her eyes as she turned to her grand-daughter and said, a'shallah, it is God's gift! Layla your parents! They found us!The story had been broadcast all across the globe. It even reached the small German town where Layla's mother and father had been living as refugees. Friends of theirs had woken them to look at the pictures broadcast from across the sea. There was their family, the mother and brothers lost so long ago! And their daughter, their own Layla, was in the middle of an international story! Their friends had called the Red Cross. The Red Cross was going to fly them to the United States as soon as they could get the paperwork straightened out. The Red Cross called the network to get news to the family. The network was glad to help. And they would also help with the red tape! Things were quickly arranged. Plans were made to bring Layla's parents and little sister by the end of the week! Wiggly could hardly believe her ears when she overheard the news. Layla had a little sister! She wouldn't be lonely any more! She suddenly then had a pang of fear. Maybe Layla wouldn't need a mouse friend any more. Just as she was thinking this, Layla looked up and caught sight of Wiggly and Thistle on the rock. Her already happy face brightened even more, and Wiggly knew that they would always be friends. Chapter 15 It was several days before things were back to normal in the little town. There were a few reporters still poking around, even so. Layla was happy to get back to school, though it meant she could not spend as much time with Wiggly. She and Joshua and Dan often played and talked together. They had become fast friends. Dan's grandparents were taking care of the kittens until they were old enough to go to the children. Each child was going to take one, and Anne and Lee were taking the fourth. There was much excitement at Layla's house as they prepared a room for her parents. It was the room next to Layla's. Dan's parents were giving them a bed, and Joshua's aunt had brought a lovely wooden dresser. Anne was making new curtains and the sheriff's department was donating a beautiful rug. Things were almost back to normal for the mice, too. They had begun their evening meetings in the old barn again. However, they had a new helper in their planting. Layla's old cat, Sheba, was waiting for Wiggly one night when she came home. Wiggly was startled to see her. She started to run. But Sheba spoke reassuringly to her, I want to thank you for helping to rescue my grandnieces and nephews. I would like to do something to help in return. Wiggly had told Thistle and the others. Thistle thought that the old cat could dig holes for the sunflower seeds. And so she could! Sheba and the mice had a wonderful morning planting. They all had fun together, and planted many seeds. Later that month, after Layla's parents and little sister were settled, Dan's grandfather organized the first Faith Fair. He came over one evening after dinner to Layla's house. That was when he told them of his plans for the Faith Fair. He also told them that Layla's grandmother had made him realize that it doesn't matter what you call your religion. Everyone worships the same God. As Layla translated his words for her parents, she swelled with pride for her dear Ayeeyo. Her eyes met her grandmother's, and she realized that the dear old woman was proud of her too. Layla ran to her and hugged her fiercely. I love you, Ayeeyo!she whispered to her. I love you too, my dear,her grandmother replied, gently smoothing her hair and smiling warmly at her. Dan's grandfather asked the children to help with the fair. They helped with the invitations, and building the podium, and decorating for the dinner. Layla was very happy. Her parents had just come to the United States and already they could share in a celebration of one of its greatest gift is religious freedom! Dan's grandfather also asked the children to speak. Layla and Joshua were too shy, but Dan felt that he had to help his grandfather. For days the three children worked on his speech together. Though they weren't going to speak, Layla and Joshua were just as nervous and excited as Dan was. Finally the day of the fair came. It was warm and beautiful. The sky was a deep blue and there was just enough breeze to keep everyone comfortable, but not enough to blow things away. All of the churches and the synagog and the mosque participated. Almost the whole town was there. For a whole day they got together and shared. They sang together and read scripture together and played together and ate together. At the end of the day they had a big pot luck feast together. The mice had a special feast, too. But most people did not know about it. The children and Anne and Lee planned the menu of sunflower seeds, raisins, apple pieces and delicious, fresh, plump kernels of corn. They put the feast on a rock right by the fair grounds, where the mice could see and hear everything safely. After everyone had eaten, Dan's grandfather introduced the speakers. The mayor said a few words, as did the minister of each church and the rabbi and imam of the synagog and mosque. Finally it was Dan's turn. Good evening ladies and gentlemen. Thank you all for coming to this special day. Layla and Josh and I would like to share some special thoughts with you. We have been talking a lot together and we realized some things. Some people don't believe that God exists. Some people think that He is just for their religion. But we know that He is there for us all. Sometimes He does things that we don't understand. For instance, He could have kept the mother of our four kittens from being killed. He could have saved the kittens without us. He could have kept the sand from covering up the pipe. Some people might think that He should have done these things. But then Josh and Layla and I would not have become such good friends. Our families would not have gotten to know each other. We would not be having this fair. And Layla's parents would not have found her. God's way is best. Even when we do not understand it.Everyone clapped and agreed. As Dan was getting down from the podium, he glanced up. Layla and Joshua followed his gaze. They saw four little mice on the rock, all watching them.