86 



THE BEAUTY OF THE CAT 



create a morbid taste for the unnatural and ugly, instead 

 of the beautiful ; the beautiful, be it what it may, is always 

 pleasant to behold ; and there is but little, if any, doubt in 

 my mind but that the constant companionship of even a 

 beautiful cat must have a soothing effect. Therefore, not 

 in cats only, but in all things have the finest and best. 

 Surround yourself with the elegant, the graceful, the bril- 

 liant, the beautiful, the agile, and the gentle. Be it what 

 it may, animal, bird, or flower, be careful to have the best. 

 A man, it is said, is made more or less by his environments, 

 and doubtless this is to a great extent, if not entirely, a fact ; 

 that being so, the contemplation of the beautiful must 

 have its quieting, restful influences, and tend to a brighter 

 and happier state of existence. I am' fully aware there are 

 many that may differ with me, though I feel sure I am not 

 far wrong when I aver there are few animals really more 

 beautiful than a cat. If it is a good, carefully selected 

 specimen, well kept, well cared for, in high condition, 

 in its prime of life, well-trained, graceful in every line, 

 bright in colour, distinct in markings, supple and elegant in 

 form, agile and gentle in its ways, it is beautiful to look at 

 and must command admiration. Yes ! the contemplation 

 of the beautiful elevates the mind, if only in a cat ; beauty 

 of any kind, is beauty, and has its refining influences. 





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