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 them; and more especially as the barn-cat's face wore a very self-satisfied smile, as if she were enjoying the house-cat's discomfiture.

"If you don't sit still I shall take you home at once," she said to the house-kittens when she had restored order and placed them where she could reach them in case of a second disturbance.

"Now that order is restored," said Mrs. Polly, "we will proceed to business. When did you see the gray kitten last?" she asked the sparrow.

"I haven't seen her for the last two days," answered the sparrow. "She isn't so attached to me as my friend the barn-cat here, and doesn't follow me up so closely."

"Don't joke at such a serious moment," said the barn-cat crossly.

"It's as easy to laugh as to cry," answered the sparrow, "and a good deal pleasanter."