A terrifying cat had come to live in the big house. Every time the mice went into the kitchen for a nibble, the cat would send them scampering.
"We'll starve!" they shouted, and decided to have a council meeting. One by one the mice spoke, but no one could think of a plan.
Finally, a boastful mouse stepped forward and proclaimed his idea to be best. He explained, in detail, how a small bell attached to the cat's collar would warn them all of his approach. Patting himself on his own back for the excellent idea, he sat down.
The oldest mouse stood up and said, "You are a very clever fellow to think of a plan like that! But, now tell us, are you BRAVE enough to put the bell on the cat?"