"I am her steward," said Father Lustucru, with dignity.
The eyes of Faribole sparkled with pleasure; he bowed respectfully before the steward, and said with warmth:—
"Ah, how much I owe to you!"
A little awkward at first.
Faribole was installed that same day, and cordially received by the other servants of the household. He was a good-natured boy, serviceable and quick, and, although a little awkward in his new clothes and at his new duties, he showed plenty of willingness.
"Faribole," said the steward to his protégé, several days afterward, "It is well to let you know the ways of the house. There is an individual here, all-powerful, who reigns as sovereign master, whose will is obeyed, whose whims are anticipated,—and that individual is a cat. If you wish to make your way in the world, it is necessary to seek to please Moumouth; if the cat Moumouth accords you his affections, you will also have that of Madame de la Grenouillère and her companion, Mother Michel."
The Cat and the Boy become Friends.
"The cat shall be my friend, and I will be the friend of the cat," responded the young fellow, confidently.