I was prepared for this request, for I had noticed how his pets had been getting bigger and more full of life. However I did not want his pretty family of tame sparrows to be killed as the flies and spiders had been. So I said I would think about it. Then I asked him if he would not rather have a cat than a kitten.

His eagerness told me that was what he really wanted, "Oh, yes, I would like a cat! I only asked for a kitten because I thought you would not let me have me a cat. No one would refuse to give me a kitten, would they?"

I shook my head, and said that at present I did not think it would be possible. He looked very upset, and I could see a warning of danger in his expression. He gave me a sudden, fierce, sideways look which meant he wanted to kill something. The man might one day become an insane killer. I shall see how badly he wants a cat, and will and see what happens next, then I shall know more.

10 pm. I have visited him again. He was sitting in a corner looking upset. When I came in he threw himself on his knees before me. He begged me to let him have a cat, and said that only a cat could save him.