Mole and Rat opened the door.
Outside, ten young field mice stood in a line.
"What fine boys!" said Rat.
"What colorful red mufflers!" cried Mole.
The mice looked up with bright eyes.
An older mouse held up a lantern.
"Now, one, two, three!" he cried.
Together, their tiny voices rose in the air.
Let your doors open wide.
Even with the snow outside,
Bring us in by the fire.
You will have joy in the morning!
Here we stand in the cold and sleet,
Frozen fingers and frozen feet.
You by the fire, bring us in from the street.
You will have joy in the morning!
The mice ended their song and smiled.
"Very well sung!" cried Rat.
"Ah, listen!" said Mole. "The bells!"
Church bells rang in the distance.
"Now come on in.
All of you!" said Rat.
"Yes, come in!" said Mole, smiling.
"This is just like old times.
I always give the mice a feast after they sing."
The field mice all hurried inside.
They stood by the fire, warming their paws.
Mole was suddenly upset.
"Rat," he said, "we have nothing to give them!"
"I'll take care of it!" said Rat.
Rat pointed to the older mouse with the lantern.
He was the choir leader.
"Come here," Rat said.
"I want to talk to you."