a certain old woman had several maids, whom she used to call to their work every morning at the crowing of the cock.

the maids, finding it grievous to have their sweet sleep disturbed so early, killed the cock, thinking that when he was quiet they might enjoy their warm beds a little longer.

the old woman, however, vexed at the loss of the cock, and suspecting them to be concerned in his death, from that time made them rise soon after midnight!