At this summons a kitten, black as the ace of spades, and very much addicted to fun and frolic, jumped into the lap of her young mistress, and purred a noisy acquiescence.
"There," said Bert, triumphantly, "Topsy says I am right. I don't know what I should do without Topsy."
"She makes a very suitable companion for you, Bert," said Mr. Bowman, smiling.
"Why?" asked the cat's mistress, suspiciously.
"Because you can sympathize so well. Both are equally mischievous, and it is very difficult to tell which knows the most of books."
"Now, papa, that is a slander. I will sue you for libel."
"On your own account, or the kitten's?" asked Mr. Bowman. "I really don't know which I have done injustice to."
"Now you are laughing at me, papa. I know you are."
"Not entirely, Bert. The fact is, you are terribly ignorant for one of your age."