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135 PRINCESS

was not actually a king's daughter, as far as I know, but she was so evidently high bred, and had such a superior, aristocratic air about her, that the name seemed perfectly appropriate.

There could be no question as to her high descent and pure blood. It was apparent in every one of her graceful movements, in the exquisite softness and delicacy of her grey coat, the thickness and fluffiness of the ruff she wore round her neck, and the size and bushiness of her superb tail. In a word Princess was a pure-bred Persian cat, and her happy owners, Mrs. and Miss H., took great pride in her possession, and much pleasure in her society.

Indeed, they declared that her understanding was quite beyond that of ordinary animals, and that she quite understood much of their conversation.

One day Miss H. went out to make some calls, and on her return sat down to tell her mother all about her visits. Princess jumped into her lap, and curled herself up cosily, as if to listen to her adventures.

Presently, Miss H. said: 'You have no idea, mother, what a magnificent cat Mrs. Taylor has. It is immensely big, and has one of the most splendid tails I ever saw.'

In a moment, Princess rose, sprang from Miss H.'s lap, and walked to the door, demanding to be let out. It was clearly not for her to stay and hear one of her own mistresses praising the charms of a horrid rival.

Mrs. and Miss H. made acquaintance with a lady whom we will call Miss Gray, and to Miss Gray