"I'd like to take you on my lap, pretty pussy, but you're fast asleep, and I won't wake you." "That is right, my darling; I am glad to see my little girl thoughtful of the comfort of even a cat," her father said, bending down to stroke Gracie's hair with tenderly caressing hand.
"I s'pose they have feelings as well as other folks, papa," she said, smiling up affectionately into his face.

"I mean to be very kind to this pretty pussy; and oh I'm ever so much obliged to you for her!" His reply was prevented by a sudden, loud bark from the dog, as he spied pussy on the rug.
"Turn him out into the hall, May," the captain said, hastily stepping in between dog and cat.

"Don't be alarmed for your pet, Gracie; he shall not be permitted to harm her." "Nor my Polly either, shall he, papa ?" asked Lulu, who was trying to make acquaintance with her new possession.
"No; certainly not.

But take care of your fingers, daughter; she may snap at them and give you a bite that you will remember for a long while.

Now go and get yourselves ready for tea.