2O8 OUR HOME PETS 



them of the desire ; and what a cat really de- 

 sires he generally succeeds in getting, sooner 

 or later. To own one of these most attractive 

 and most costly pets in the city, where thieves 

 abound, is to live a life of constant anxiety 

 and watchfulness. Only those who have kept 

 guard over a sly and cunning human lunatic, 

 ever plotting to escape, can appreciate the 

 vigilance necessary for his safety. Yet, in 

 spite of this, so ornamental and so beautiful is 

 the gentle creature, that few who are able to 

 do so can deny themselves the pleasure of 

 owning one. 



The curious Siamese cat, of which a few 

 specimens have been seen in the West, is 

 white and black or dun-color and black. The 

 favorite style of decoration is black muzzle, 

 ears, legs, and tail, with the remainder of the 

 body white or dun. It has eyes of blue or 

 rich amber -color, and is more singular than 

 beautiful. However, since it is said that the 

 only pure breed is kept in the palace of the 

 King of Siam, and it is difficult to get any to 

 import, it will no doubt be greatly desired, 

 and bring a high price. It is more delicate in 

 constitution than our own cats, affectionate 



