. As to the miserable stuff ladies cover themselves with
in an evening, there is about as much comfort and softness in it as in
going to sleep on a duster. Men's coats are nothing to boast of, either
to look at or to feel, but they _are_ thicker. If you happen to clutch a
little with gratification or excitement, your claws don't go through;
and they don't squeak like a mouse in a trap and call you treacherous
because their own coats are thin.

I was very comfortable in my new home. My master was exceedingly kind to
me, and he has a fearless and friendly way of tickling one's toes which
is particularly agreeable, and not commonly to be met with.

Yes, my life was even more luxurious than before. It is so still. To
eat, drink, and sleep, to keep oneself warm, and in good condition, and
to pay proper attention to one's personal appearance; that is all one
has to do in a life like mine in bachelors' quarters.

One has unpleasant dreams sometimes. I think my tea is occasionally too
strong, though I have learned to prefer it to milk, and my master
always gives it to me in his own saucer. If he has friends to tea, they
give me some in their saucers. One can't refuse, but I fancy too much
tea is injurious to the nerves.

The night before last, I positively dreamed that I was deserted. I
fancied that I was chased along a housetop, and fell from the gutter.
Down--down--but I woke up on the bear-skin before the fire, as our
man-servant was bringing in candles.

It made me wonder how Mrs. Tabby was getting on. I had never done
anything further in that matter; but really when one's life goes in a
certain groove, and everything one can wish for is provided in
abundance, one never seems to have time for these things. It is
wonderful how energetic some philanthropic people are. I dare
say they like the fuss. (I can't endure fuss!) And Mrs. Tabby's
appearance--excellent creature!--would probably make her feel
ill-at-ease in bachelor quarters, if we could change places. Her fur is
really almost mangy, and she has nothing to speak of in the way of a
tail. But she is a worthy soul. And some day, when the Captain and I are
going to town without much luggage--or if she should happen to be
collecting in the country,--I will certainly _look up a few of my worst
bones for the Fund_.

I really hesitate to approach the subject of my one source of
discontent. It seems strange that there should be any crook in a lot so
smooth as ours. Plenty