neatness and
comfort might be revolted by the dark crannies and gloomy cellars in
which she had to seek her work. But as for being _useless_, that was
indeed an idle fear any where for any body who wished to work.

She listened attentively, and began to purr in a more decided manner.

"Still," said she, "I am afraid they will miss me here."

"No doubt," I replied; "but their loss can be remedied. A house like
this can be kept in order by a very inferior cat to yourself; and after
all, you are cherished here chiefly because it was Lily's wish. Peggy
can easily find another kitten; and you know she has often said that
white cats were not to her taste, and she should much prefer a tabby."

"True, true," murmured Puss; and seeing that she was gradually
softening, I continued to place every inducement before her in the
strongest light. I represented the present unguarded state of the sugar,
candles, preserves, &c., in a manner to touch the feelings of any
domestic cat, and dwelt at some length on the improvement that must take
place in the house under her vigilant superintendence. And I finally
crowned my persuasions with the tenderest appeal to her affection for
me, drawing a vivid picture of the difference to me and to my happiness
that would result from her companionship. Pussy had for some time been
wavering, and before I had finished my harangue she purred a full
consent.

I need not describe my delight at thus gaining the great object of my
life. Some feelings should not be made public property. My happiness was
not of a nature to be boisterous, but it was such as to satisfy Pussy
that she had decided aright.

At break of day we began our grand adventure, as we were anxious to lose
no time; and we had been so well fed over-night, that we could defy
hunger for the next twenty-four hours. When I had set out on my
solitary journey, I had felt very easy about my accommodations and mode
of travelling; but now that I had my less hardy companion, many cares
crowded on my mind, and I pondered so profoundly over every arrangement,
that Puss seemed the most cheerful and courageous of the two. Indeed,
from the moment she agreed to my request, she generously gave to the
winds all her former objections, and thought of nothing but helping me,
and giving as little trouble as possible herself.

We passed through our native village quietly. All curious observers had
visited us the night before; and our friendship was so well kno