THE
WHITE
CAT

The White Cat was lying by the fire in a basket
on a cushion of white silk. She sprang up at his
approach, and said—
‘TI did not expect you back quite so soon, king’s
son!’
Then he vatted and stroked her and scratched her
under the chin, and she purred; and he told her
of his successful journey, and how he had come
back to ask her assistance to procure him that
which was now demanded by the king, and which
it was not possible for him to procure elsewhere.
The White Cat looked grave, and replied that she
would consider the matter, and consult with some
spinster cats in the castle who were very skilful.
Then the hands appeared carrying torches, and
conducted the Prince and the White Cat to a
long gallery which overlooked the river, from the
windows of which they saw a magnificent display
of fireworks. After that they supped, and the
Prince appreciated his supper much more than
ae fireworks, for he was hungry with his long
ride.
So the time passed as before, just as pleasantly
and just as quickly. The Prince often marvelled
to find the cat so agreeable a companion, so well
read, and so able to talk intelligently about
matters. Heonce ventured to ask her how as a
cat this was possible. She replied, with a sad
smile—
‘King’s son, do not ask me. I am unable to give
you the explanation you desire.’
The Prince was so happy that he did not trouble
himself to take account of the time as it passed,
but the White Cat did not forget, and one day she
said to him—
‘It is now within two days of that on which you are
bound to appear before your father. This time
you shall travel in better style.’
Then she showed him a gilded coach enamelled
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