Sunshine and Shadow 
89 
sider of great importance. A cat should have a 
name, because it adds to her dignity, and com- 
mands respect for her. Moreover it enhances her 
commercial value to be thus individualized, and 
lifted above the general mass of her kind.” 
“ I am very glad to know all these things,” said 
Mrs. Cotton. “ You certainly have interested me 
in this subject as I never have been before in all 
my life.” 
Before Mrs. Cotton went away that afternoon she 
actually came over to the window-sill and gave 
Budge several gentle strokes. I suppose she chose 
Budge because he is the smallest. 
“ How docile and confiding,” said she ; “ they 
seem to know no fear at all ; and such soft and 
glossy coats I never saw before.” 
“ Their confiding and docile nature is due to 
kind treatment,” said mistress, “ and the soft and 
glossy coats are the result of good food, plenty of 
fresh water and clean pads.” 
As Mrs. Cotton took her departure, it seemed as 
though her face wore a far more kindly expression 
than it did when she came in. 
Of course, I was delighted to hear all these good 
things, and especially that we cats are useful, and 
