Just as the merriment was at its height and they were all happily feasting and rejoicing, a friendly swallow came flying in with the news that the Thunder Giant was tearing across the sky in a terrible rage because a passing Trade Wind, who was in a hurry, had trodden on his toe. “What shall we do?” said every one. “He’ll spoil the party. He’ll upset everything.” And they all ran about in great confusion and distress. But the Rainbow Cat remained quite calm. He was a very resourceful creature. He retired under a table and opened his little bag and examined its contents, thinking hard all the time. Presently he came out. “I think I can manage the Thunder Giant,” he said. “Pray go on with the party. I will go and meet him and see what can be done.” They were all greatly astonished at his courage and coolness, but they were delighted to think that their party might not be spoiled after all, and they crowded round to watch him go sailing off to meet the giant, whose shoutings and mutterings could by this time be clearly heard in the distance. When the Rainbow Cat had gone some way and could already see the giant from afar, he stopped, opened his bag, and drew out a large black cloak. This he put on, pulling the hood well over his ears. He then sat down and appeared to be lost in deep thought. When the Thunder Giant came up he stood still for a moment to look at this strange object all alone in the middle of the sky. “Who are you, and what are you doing here?” he roared. “I’m the celebrated wizard Mewpus,” replied the cat in a very deep and impressive voice. “Mind my bag, there’s black magic in it. I have heard of you, O great Thunder Giant.” And he got up and bowed three times. The giant felt rather flattered, but he was still very cross and his foot hurt. “I don’t think much of wizards,” he said. “What can you do?” “I can tell your thoughts, O Giant,” was the reply. “Oho!” laughed the giant, “and pray what am I thinking at this moment, Mr. Mewpus?” “That is quite easy,” said the Rainbow Cat. “You are thinking how your foot is hurting you, and how you would like to get hold of the person who trod on your corns.” For the cat had heard all this from the swallow. The giant was astonished. “You’re a rather wonderful fellow,” he said. “It must be useful to be able to do that. Can’t you teach me?” “I dare say I might be able to,” said the Rainbow Cat. “I’ll see if you show any promise. Sit down, please.” The giant sat down and the Rainbow Cat walked three times round him, muttering to himself. “Now, tell me what I am thinking,” said he when he had done. The Thunder Giant sat looking at him rather stupidly. He wasn’t a very clever person. “I suppose you’re thinking what a fool I look, sitting here,” he said. “Wonderful--wonderful,” said the cat. “You show immense promise, sir. I have never had such an apt pupil.” “May I try again?” said the giant, who began to think himself very clever.