The Book of Cats. 47 



fear of disturbing them ; yet he was generally 

 thought to be a passionate, sour-tempered man. 

 It is said that Cardinal Wolsey used to accommo- 

 date his favourite Cat with part of his regal seat 

 when he gave an audience or received princely 

 company. 



There is a funny story told of Barrett, the painter, 

 another lover of Cats. He had for pets a Cat and 

 a kitten, its progeny. A friend seeing two holes in 

 the bottom of his door, asked him for what purpose 

 he made them there. Barrett said it was for the 

 Cats to go in and out. 



" Why," replied his friend, " would not one do 

 for both r 



" You silly man," answered the painter, " how 

 could the big Cat get into the little hole .''" 



** But," said his friend, " could not the little one 

 go through the big hole }'' 



" Dear me," cried Barrett, " so she could ; well, I 

 never thought of that." 



M. Sonnini had an Angora Cat, of which he writes : 

 '* This animal was my principal amusement for 

 several years. How many times have her tender 

 caresses made me forget my troubles, and consoled 

 me in my misfortunes. My beautiful companion at 

 length perished. After several days of suffering, 



