Its nest is made with great care, with many galleries which open at the
surface, so that when attacked by an enemy, it can run from one to another
for security. For the squirrel has many enemies; all the weasel tribe,
cats, and even dogs attack them. Cats kill great numbers. The farmer shows
them as little mercy as he does rats and mice, as they are very
destructive, and carry off vast quantities of grain, which they store in
hollow trees for use. Not contenting themselves with one granary, they
have several in case one should fail, or perhaps become injured by
accidental causes. Thus do these simple little creatures teach us a lesson
of providential care for future events."
"How wise of these little chitmunks to think of such precautions!" said
Lady Mary.
"Nay, my dear child, it is God's wisdom, not theirs. These creatures work
according to his will; and so they always do what is fittest and best for
their own comfort and safety. Man is the only one of God's creatures who
disobeys him."
These words made Lady Mary look grave, till her nurse began to talk to her
again about the chitmunk.
"It is very easily tamed, and becomes very fond of its master. It will
obey his voice, come at a call or a whistle, sit up and beg, take a nut or
an acorn out of his hand, run up a stick, nestle in his bosom, and become
quite familiar.
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