I think you're all on the wrong track. Doubtless the most illuminating version of the text is this translation:
Wake! for the Golden Cat has put to flight
7 quoted lines
The Mouse of Darkness with his Paw of Light:
Which means, in Plain and simple every-day
Unoriental Speech?The Dawn is bright.
They say the Early Bird the Worm shall taste.
Then rise, O Kitten! Wherefore, sleeping, waste
The Fruits of Virtue? Quick! the Early Bird
Will soon be on the Flutter?O make haste!