"I do think it was nice of Jane," said Nicky, "to have Jerry."
"And I do think it was nice of me," said Dorothy, "to give him to you."
Jane was Dorothy's cat; therefore her kittens were Dorothy's.
"I wouldn't have given him to just anybody."
"I know," said Nicky.
"I might have kept him. He's the nicest kitten Jane ever had."
"I know," said Nicky. "It was nice of you."
"I might want him back again."
"I--know."
Nicky was quiet and serious, almost humble, as if he went in the fear of losing Jerry. Nobody but Jerry and Dorothy saw Nicky in that mood.