Prowling about a rock-bound region he discerns afar off, strange cat-like animals that on inquiry he learns are the transformed souls of those who left their cats to starve while they betook themselves to the country for a season of pleasure.
Although overcome by hunger, every eatable thing evades them or is snatched away by little imps that skip gleefully about with squeaks of merriment.
THE PENALTY FOR CAT-STARVING.
CANTO LIII.
Hiprah Hunt holds discourse with Beelzebub, who is general superintendent of the whole lower section of Hell.
He learns from this distinguished personage that Satan makes a tour of his region every month on a special train. From the platform of his private car he gives instructions to his employees.