THE CAT= 



need to wait until the guests arrive, to make sure 

 of this fact. As soon as she sees that knife, fork 

 and spoon are lying by her plate, she assumes that 

 she is not expected at table, and retires without 

 umbrage to the piano stool, which is her refuge on 

 such occasions. Those who deny that animals are 

 capable of reasoning may explain this conduct as 

 best they can. My observant and judicious little 

 cat perceives at her place certain utensils which are 

 used only by human beings, and therefore con- 

 cludes that she must this day resign her privileges 

 in favour of a visitor. She never suffers herself to 

 be mistaken ; but now and then, if she recognizes an 

 old friend, she will leap upon his knee, and intimate 

 that she is ready to accept any choice morsel which 

 he may be disposed to share with her. 



Menagerie Intime, Theophile Gautier. 



97 



