[Of course it was, Marcia thinks to herself. The dumbest things tend to gain popularity rather than something sensible. That seems to be the way here just as back home.]

Ah, yes. They can speak. [She realizes she ought to elaborate, so she lets out a small sigh.] They are magykal, I should probably clarify that now. All you must do is utter a simple spell; "Speeke, Rattus Rattus".

Then they are free to relate their message to you. Afterwards, you either dismiss them or send a message back to the sender. Not the quickest form of communication, but it gets the job done.