The mice, frustrated by the constant dangers of the cat, meet in council to determine a solution to their tiring challenge. They discussed, and equally rejected, plan after plan. Eventually, a very young mouse raised up on his hind legs, and proposed that a bell should be hung around the cat's neck.
     "What a splendid idea!" they cried.
     "Excellent suggestion!"
     "Oh yes, that would very well warn of the cat's presence in time to escape!"
     They were accepting the proposal with great enthusiasm and applause, until a quiet old mouse stood up to speak.
     "This is, indeed, a very good suggestion and would no doubt solve our problems," he said, "Now, which one of us will put the bell around the cat's neck?"