250 The Book of Cats. 



had predicted, for I knew liis nature better than 

 anyone else could) he took a violent dislike to it. 

 A blast on the trombone ; the effect was as he 

 prognosticated instantaneous, though not perfectly 

 satisfactory ; the brazen note was immediately 

 responded to by one equally loud from our Cat, who 

 appeared to regard it as a challenge to combat, and 

 thickened his tail and bared his teeth accordingly, 

 at the same time swearing and spitting dreadfully. 

 I need not say that the trombone-player was 

 discomfited, while my fame as a Cat-charmer 

 was considerably augmented." 



Poor Pussy ! her character is not often properly 

 understood, as we read elsewhere : — 



'' One or two common errors about Cats may be 

 noticed. Many persons will destroy them when 

 anything is the matter with them, whereas, in many 

 cases they would recover with a little care. Some 

 think they do not drink much, which is a mistake. 

 Water should always be placed within their reach. 

 As to their want of attachment, there is no doubt 

 that is generally owing to the neglect (if not worse 

 treatment) they often experience. Every animal 

 will ordinarily return kindness for kindness ; and, 

 if persons will only try, they will not find Cats an 

 exception. But to knock an animal about, or 



