Number 136, Danger Mouse

I've finally prepared something for the publishers; they are getting about a dozen stories, some of which I have illustrated, some not.  I spoke to them to make sure.  I'm excited but nervous, but it will be good to get the package off in the post tomorrow, and see what happens next.  I really hope they turn something into a book, find me a good illustrator, get a partnership thing going.  There's loads more in me, and I'd like nothing more than to sit and write all day instead of driving the truck.  Also, its a job that can be done anywhere, so we could move to somewhere a bit warmer in the winter!  I'm dreaming. Stop counting chickens!

Here's a new one:

Danger Mouse

We seldom travel very far,

In our old and scruffy car,

But Rufus Four Legs loves to sleep,

On the back seat of the Jeep.

Sleep is maybe not quite right,

As he sees everything in sight;

I think he closes just one eye,

So that nothing much slips by.

A horse, a walker with a dog,

Even in the thickest fog;

He’ll spot them when they’re miles away,

And tell them off in his own way.

He barks and nips the window pane,

Time and time and time again.

First we worried, then we laughed,

When we realised he’s daft.

The same thing happens in the house,

It started watching Danger Mouse;

He snaps at creatures on TV,

Animals that he can see.

People do not make him bite,

But any furry creature might;

Best of all is You’ve Been Framed,

By which you know he can’t be blamed.

After all, it’s full of pets,

The craziest that real life gets,

Rufus thinks they’re really fun,

And licks the screen with every one.

He snaps and barks and curls his lip,

And gives a disapproving nip,

But bumps his face into the glass,

When on the other side they pass.

But he doesn’t seem to know,

They can’t see him even though,

His face is but an inch away,

And he can’t get them come what may.

Rufus may be pretty smart,

And he has a big warm heart,

But some things he’ll never know,

And of course we tell him so.

Rufus you are just a mutt,

You might think you’re clever but,

Leave the television be,

It wasn’t made for dogs you see.

We know there’s no cat inside,

No mice or parrots in there hide,

Ignore the pictures, they can’t feel

Your teeth or tongue ‘cos they’re not real!

© Stephen Saunders