1873 BIRMINGHAM CAT SHOW (FROM "REMINISCENCES OF THE BIRMINGHAM DOG SHOW." Birmingham Mail, 14th November 1901
[This was an article giving the history of the Birmingham dog show, but there was one note on a cat show held there in 1873. In 1862 the Dog Show ] "was held on the wharfland belonging to the Birmingham Canal Company at Broad Street Corner . . . the receipts at the doors amounting to £1,302. 17s. 10d., for the four days' show. It may explained that this was the largest amount over taken in admission fees in the history of the society, with only one exception, that being in 1873, when a cat show was held, and when the admissions totalled £1,349. 6s. 7d. "

VALUABLE WHITE PERSIAN CAT. - Pall Mall Gazette - Monday 22 April 1889
Not only do dogs go across the Atlantic at long prices, but now cats are following in the same way. The Fanciers' Gazette this week records that the celebrated white Persian cat "Miss Whitey," which at the last Crystal Palace Cat Show carried everything before her, has been sold at the high figure (for a cat) of £20 to an American purchaser. Miss Whitey was bought in 1885 for £2, and at the last show won the silver medal for the best long-haired she-cat in the show, the silver-mounted tea-service for the best long-haired cat, and the challenge cup for the best cat in the show, as well as several other prizes. Unfortunately she has never been bred from, and leaves no descendants on this side.

TOTTENHAM & EDMONTON FANCIERS' ASSOCIATION. Tottenham and Edmonton Weekly Herald, 20th February 1891
A meeting of this Association took place at the Red House Concert Hall, on Thursday in last week. The President, Rev. L. O. Fry, was in the chair, and a large number of members were present . . . A paper on " Cats " was then read by the President, who acknowledged that the preparing of the paper and the thought that he had given to the subject the last few months had entirely changed his opinion about cats. Before then he had always regarded cats with great aversion, but he had since learnt to discover what interesting and companionable creatures they were, and how much was to be learnt and said about them. During the last few years several books on cats have been published; cheapest among them being, "The Cat," from a zoological point of view, by Sir George Mivart; "The Cat, past and present," translated from the French of M. Champfleury; "The Cat, its natural history, varieties and management," by Mr P. Rule; "Our Cats," by Mr Harrison Weir, late president of the National Cat Club; and "Poor Puss," by Rev. J. C. Gardner. It was chiefly to these works, the president acknowledged, that he was indebted for the information he had to give respecting the cat's place in nature, the introduction of the domestic cat into England from Egypt, the most remarkable characteristics of cats, and the large number of varieties into which they were classified, at cats shows, and especially at the annual cat show which is held at the Crystal Palace every October. A vote of thanks was accorded the President for his paper, and discussion on the subject followed.

NATIONAL CAT CLUB Yorkshire Evening Post, 19th January 1891
The National Cat Club is a body which deserves to be more widely known. Its objects will command general approbation. It would have cats registered and licensed. We do not know whether its members are in favour of more extensive regulation, but we doubt not the public would hail with satisfaction some measure for keeping down the numbers of the "harmless, necessary" animal. A tax on cats might do something to effect this - it might test the public affection for the animal. Even if it resulted in reducing the feline population the consummation would not altogether be an unpleasing one. A tax, too, could scarcely be objectionable to sworn lovers of the cat - it would place their favourite animal on a footing of dignity which in many cases it does not at present enjoy. If the National Cat Club used its influence in regulating those members the feline tribe that make night hideous in large towns, it would further commend itself to popular favour.

NATIONAL CAT CLUB Nottingham Evening Post, 20th January 1891
Many people will probably be surprised to learn that not only is there such organisation as a National Cat Club, but that body numbers 100 members. This society, like many other institutions, believes in educating the public opinion, and, as a consequence, they have arranged a series of debates and lectures which will deal with all the physiological and philosophical aspects of the domestic pussie. They accordingly held their initial meeting the other night, when a paper was read on the following subject: - " Whether a licence would not benefit the status of the cat." The author contended that it would, arguing from the analogous case of the dog, and the proposal excited so much interest that it has been determined to print the paper with a view of eliciting the feelings of the outside public on the subject. That decision points to an amount open mindedness on the part of the Cat Club which does them great credit. The British public, as rule, have a deep-rooted objection to taxes of all descriptions, and that the members of the N.C.C. will calmly discuss the advisability of a State control and tax speaks volumes for their sincerity and earnestness.

SHOULD NOT CATS BE LICENSED? A SUGGESTION BY A LOCAL CLERGYMAN Bromley & District Times, 23rd January 1891
An interesting paper, entitled "A Licence for the Cat," was read last week before a well-attended meeting of members of the National Cat Club, at the offices of the ‘Stock Keeper,' in Fleet Street, by the Rev. J.G. Gardner, Curate of St. Paul's Cray, who is well known as a successful cat fancier, and active supporter of the club. The rev. gentleman first congratulated the members and associates of the club on having secured as their President, on the retirement of Mr. Harrison Weir, so distinguished a friend of the cat as Mr. Louis Wain; and expressed a hope that all who were interested in the welfare of "poor puss" would join their ranks. Differences of opinion among them on smaller matters there might be, as, for example, the subject he was about to introduce to their notice, yet on that one essential point they one and all, from the president to the last elected associate, were in hearty accord. (Hear, hear.)

Turning then to the subject of his paper, Mr. Gardner proceeded "Would it not improve the status and general condition of the cat if each owner were placed in the same position as the owner of a dog, and compelled by the law - with certain restrictions - to procure a licence for the privilege? As to the cost of the proposed licence, the age of the animal when it should be taken out, whether a reduction should be made where many are kept, how long the cat may be in the possession of its owner before the impost is due - these and further matters of detail, if matters for consideration at all, are considerations for the future. I merely now propose the broad question: Would an enforced licence benefit the cat? I doubt not there would be many objectors and objections to this new departure. At present I am inclined to think the arguments in favour of such a tax more real and solid than those against it. Curiously enough one of the most valued members of our club, hearing I was about to speak in favour of a licence, most kindly took the trouble to send me her stated objections. For this I beg to I return my sincere thanks, for it is the opinion of the principal fanciers that must be so valuable on this subject. But, curiously enough, one of the objections had seemed to me an argument in favour of the tax. She says it will "cause a great destruction of cats which are worthless." This is what I think so desirable. Any bad name the cat may have earned for itself - prowling, thieving, cat concerts at midnight - is chiefly due to the uncared for, unowned, half starved, and worthless cat. Of the professional dealer and breeder I am unable to speak; but of the amateur breeder - those who can maintain a cattery, a special house and run where the sexes can be kept apart - you may count them on your fingers compared with those who have no such accommodation. And all who have queen cats know by painful experience, without a cattery, with all your care, it is next to impossible to keep them from bad company, and in spite of all hopes and calculations, being inundated with litters of worthless kittens. This is greatly owing to the overstock of worthless ‘toms' uncared for, half-starved, and many unowned. This is the case in the country; how much more, then, may it be the case in towns and cities where there are so many more hiding places and opportunities for puss to pick up a precarious living? Were ever so small a tax imposed it would decrease the number of worthless toms, who must do harm by perpetuating their own bad qualities; and this leads on to the prevention of cruelty a cat licence would effect. I don't want to speak theoretically, but from experience - one ounce of experience is worth a ton of theory. So I would say from experience, wherever at different times I have chanced to live. I have come across cats whose owners had no right to keep them – yes, no right. No regular food of any kind is provided for them. Now and then a bone or stray crust is thrown for them perhaps, but a cat is never a good hand at a bone, nor would I imagine a mouldy crust is found very toothsome. Often two or more are kept in a stable or granary to keep down the rats and mice, and you see the poor creatures in a state of semi-starvation. Note the greedy way in which a stable cat will bolt the most unpromising offal that may come its way. Why is the cat singled out for this treatment? Would the owner, whether rich or poor, let his horse, his cow, his dog exist in this unhappy-go-lucky condition? It may be agreed, that a horse, a cow, is more valued and valuable than a mere cut; be it so, but I ask again, why is the cat singled out for this unmerited neglect?

Surely one may claim the same care and interest for poor puss that is given to a rabbit, a pigeon, a chicken! If such owners had to take out a licence, its payment might increase the value and estimation of the animal, or, at any rate, decrease the number of unhappy creatures consigned to this uncertain and precarious mode of existence. As to the objection a poor man cannot afford to pay a tax, however small, the question arises, if he is so very poor that he cannot squeeze together, say one shilling, can he afford to keep a cat in comfort? In my younger days, when a poor man lost a horse or pony, and he came to me to write out a petition and head it with a donation towards purchasing another, I always used to do so; now I should fight shy of so doing, for in nine cases out of ten such beasts are miserably overworked and underfed. I can see no reason why it is a less sin to starve a cat than to starve a horse.

My own experience is, however, that every cottager who really cares for and is proud of his puss, when we have discussed the matter, has agreed with the idea of a small licensing fee cordially, as it would prevent much cruelty and neglect daily seen practised. Again and again in the country I have been told that we cannot keep cats - we live too near the woods and our cats are shot and poisoned. There is no more disgusting sight than that which may be seen near a gamekeeper's lodge, where impaled on the barn wall are to be seen scores of jays, magpies, owls, and cats - and if you have heart to take another glance at this revolting exhibition you will have cause to fear that some of these works of God have been nailed up alive! If the cat were licensed I doubt whether these heartless foes of the naturalist and of some of the most rare and beautiful objects in the animal world, would be so ready with their guns and poison, their hammer and nails.

Keepers are far shyer of injuring a dog than a cat because the dog can be more easily identified and prosecution is more likely to follow. I venture, therefore, to think a licensed tax would improve the status of the cat (1.) By weeding out the worthless it must improve the general breed. (2.) It would save many cats from a life of neglect and semi-starvation. (3.) and (in the country at least) it would raise the estimation in which the cat is held, and ensure greater care and consideration for its comfort and welfare."

The paper was very well received, and, on its conclusion, a spirited discussion took place, the suggestion meeting both with support and some opposition.

NATIONAL CAT CLUB Manchester Times, 23rd January 1891
The Weekly Times. Pope, apropos of a duchess who in her last will left considerable legacies and annuities to her cats, wrote the familiar lines" But thousands die without or this or that, Die, and endow a college or a cat." The National Cat Club, one of the latest additions to London clubland, is at present greatly exercised in its mind whether or no "a licence would not benefit the status of cats." A paper by a sympathetic member has been read to the members, and will shortly appear in print, so that the public at large may have the opportunity of learning the pros and cons of this interesting, if unimportant, question. That friend of man, the dog, is by this time fairly familiar with the worries and annoyances incidental to the enforcement of the law anent licences. He is supremely indifferent about his "status;" he is vastly more concerned about his muzzle. Is the friend of woman - the pet of the fireside - to be subjected, like a dog, to the inquisitorial requirements of the minions of man-made law? Is she destined, like him, to have a special place on the papers of the omnipresent tax collector? The cat-a-mountain which figures among the crests of the noble house of Sutherland pays toll to the State as an armorial bearing, but the plebeian householder is hardly likely to view with equanimity this latest proposal for cat club law. But if, on the principle of tit for tat, he agrees to compound for the dog he is inclined to by paying for the pet of his womenkind, he need not, as he bethinks him of the nocturnal wanderings of the tribe, lose heart of grace. Compliance with the precept enjoined by Mrs. Glasse to "first catch your hare" has ever been held a task of difficulty. The Inland Revenue officials to whose lot it may fall to carry out the desire of the club will find it no easy matter to " catch the cat " and, despite their best laid plans "Let Hercules himself do what he may, The cat will mew and dog will have his day."

ABOUT CATS. - Various, February 1891
There are high-bred cats and low-bred cats – so at least says the circular letter of Mr. Townsend, the hon. Secretary of the National Cat Club – and it is to encourage the breed of cats of the former sort that this institution, whose headquarters are at Wendreda, Lancaster Road, Wimbledon, was established some years ago. The club has increased and prospered, and by dint of cat shows, bronze, silver, and gold medals, and careful attention to the Cat Club's "Stud books," in which Amateurs may trace the pedigrees of their pets, the committee look forward hopefully to the time when cats of "low degree" will have given place to pure breeds presenting all the best points of their respective varieties. The latest step taken by this meritorious society is that of offering prizes for the best original essay on "The Cat," to be competed for by children under sixteen years of age.

A WIMBLEDON CAT CLUB Croydon Times, 11th February 1891
Says the ‘Daily News:’ "There are high-bred cats and low-bred cats - so at least we learn from the circular letter of Mr. Townsend, the hon. secretary of the National Cat Club - and it is to encourage the breed of cats of the former sort that this institution, whose headquarters are at Wendreda, Lancaster-road, Wimbledon, established some years ago. The club, we are told, has increased and prospered, and by dint of cat shows, bronze, silver, and gold prize medals, and careful attention to the Cat Club 'Stud books,’ in which amateurs may trace the pedigrees of their pets, the committee look forward hopefully to the time when cats 'of low degree' will have given place to pure breeds presenting all the best points of their respective varieties. The latest step taken by this meritorious society is that of offering prizes for the best original essay on ‘The cat,' to be competed for by children under sixteen years of age.

WHO WILL DO THEIR BEST TO WIN A SILVER MEDAL? Derbyshire Courier, 21st February, 1891
This question will, I have no doubt, be a surprise to very many of you, and I need not tell you that it is a great pleasure to me to be able to put such a question to our members. I have before me a letter and papers of particulars from the Hon. Secretary of the National Club, which has been formed in order to improve, protect, and advance the interests of our good DOMESTIC FRIEND, THE CAT. The Club in question has decided to give a handsome and massive silver medal as a first prize, and a bronze medal as a second prize; also CERTIFICATES OF MERITS designed by the talented delineator of animal life, Louis Wain, for every paper deserving "honourable mention." So that all our members may be in possession of all the particulars and conditions respecting the competition, I will give an entire reprint of the prospectus, which it at follows:-

PRIZE ESSAY COMPETITION. THE NATIONAL CAT CLUB Offer the following Medals and Certificates for THE BEST ORIGINAL ESSAY on "THE CAT." 1st Prize, an exceedingly handsome and massive Silver Medal; 2nd Prize, a Bronze ditto (same size, same design) and a Certificate of Merit, designed by Louis Wain, for every paper deserving Honourable mention. This Competition is open to all Children under 16 years of age. The age of the Competitor must be authenticated by a Clergyman, Teacher, or Guardian, who must also vouch for the originality of the Essays. All papers will become the unrestricted property of the National Cat Club, for publication if deemed desirable. These Papers are to be sent in to the Hon. Sec. Mr. J.W. Townsend, Wendreda, Lancaster road, Wimbledom, Surrey, on or before Easter Monday. The Rev. J.G. Gardner has kindly consented to adjudicate and award the Prizes and certificates. No Paper will be eligible for competition which arrives later than by the first postal delivery on Easter Monday (30th March, 1891).

There is no entrance fee, no form to be filled up, and no restrictions other than those above. All communications requiring an answer must be went to the Hon. Sec. accompanied by a stamp for reply. A list of names of the successful candidates and the winners of Certificates will be published about April 15, and also in the May number of "The Animal World." In the very nice letter I have received from the Hon. Secretary of the Club, Mr. Townsend, he tells me how anxious he is to increase the love of cats amongst the young, and asks for my assistance in this particular. I am thinking that perhaps many of our members will not quite know how to go about writing an essay of this sort. It may be of service to give a hint or two on the subject.

We will suppose now that your Captain [author of the column] was under the age of sixteen, (alas! He is several sixteens) and was about to compete for a medal. In the first place I should TAKE AIM FOR THE SILVER ONE, and do my very best to win it. My essay would consist of a few particulars respecting the different breeds of cats, their various colours, habits, and uses. I should make lengthy note of the great domestic position held by the cat, also pussy as the pet of the family. I should note her good qualities as a catcher of vermin, and should revile and expose her bad qualities, as instanced in her occasionally barbarous conduct of MAKING A MEAL OF A CANARY.

I should give my ideas respecting the proper training of cats, also the necessity of good and kindly treatment. I should also give a few instances of remarkable intelligence as displayed by our feline friends, also of their great love and fondness for those who treat them with kindness. I should expatiate on pussy's great love of fun and frolic, and of course draw a lifelike picture of our own little chimney corner friend, the pet pussy of Kindness Castle. These are some of the subjects I should treat upon in my fifteen hundred word essay. Of course, Children, it is not necessary to write your essay of that length, but you must re¬member not to exceed the 1,500 words. Need I say how much it would please me to see one at least of the MEDALS COME TO CHESTERFIELD.

Of one thing I feel quite sure, that there are many members of our Castle who are capable of winning not only the medals, but the certificates of merit also. I shall, therefore, expect with confidence to see all those who have already written essays, and also many more who have not, to make up their minds to enter the lists, and so do credit to themselves, and bring honour to the town and district in which they live. I hope our young friends will take special note of the conditions and particulars respecting the competition, as given above.

[HARRISON WEIR RESIGNS]various, 8th October 1891
Mr. Harrison Weir has resigned his seat as judge for the Cat Show, a popular institution founded by Mr. Weir himself more than 20 years ago. If we count rabbits, pigeons, poultry, &c., Mr. Harrison Weir has been for 40 years a "fancier judge." In a letter to ‘Poultry,’ he explains that he has given up his Cat Show judgeship because of some differunc.es between the manager and himself regarding classes and schedules of prizes, Mr. Weir considering that, out of fairness to exhibitors, who incur so much expense and risk in forwarding their pets to these shows, the number of classes should be increased. His judgeship on the Fruit Committee of the Royal Agricultural Society is the only position of the kind which Mr. Weir means to retain. It is unnecessary to say that cat lovers and cat exhibitors will regret Mr. Weir's decision.

N.S.P.C.C. BAZAAR Bromley Chronicle, 16th June 1892
Lord Aberdeen opens a Bazaar in the cloisters and grounds of Bromley College in aid of the above society. [. . .] After lingering here a few minutes to admire the delicate draping of the stalls in orange and white, most of the visitors wended their way to the northern side of the grounds where, in the extreme corner, was an exhibition of prize cats, exhibited by Mrs Herring, Mrs Curtis, and other ladies. A little to the right of the Cat Show was the Band Stand where, during the afternoon, the band of the Royal Fusiliers discoursed sweet music.

FIRST STUD BOOK CONCERNING THE CAT. - London Daily News, 31 December, 1891
A publication which claims to be the "first Stud Book concerning the Cat that has yet been attempted," demands a note, both as a literary curiosity and as a document for the future historian of our domestic pets. Such is the "Stud Book and Register" just issued to members of "the National Cat Club," and published by Messrs. Clarke and Son, of Bromley, Kent. The substantial feature of the pamphlet is the register of some two hundred pedigree cats, the property of about fifty persons, with notes of their points. No attempt, of course, is made to trace any eat to Dick Whittington's famous animal, materials for genealogical research being wanting, though "sires" and " dams" are in most cases gravely recorded. Mr. Louis Wain, the popular cat artist, has very appropriately been chosen pre¬sident of the club which claims to have the welfare of "Poor Puss" at heart without any idea of personal advantage, and sensibly declares its object to be "not only to breed hand¬some cats but healthier cats."

CATS - Nottinghamshire Guardian, 27th February, 1892
We almost instinctively turn to our cats after writing the above, for, as all will admit, cats invariably follow birds, especially canaries, as many a fancier knows to his cost. Admirers of the domestic puss will perhaps be glad to hear that their favourite is in no danger of dying through neglect The Hon. Sec. of the National Cat Club writes to inform the public that the club has never been in a more flourishing condition than it is at present. Ever since the commencement of the club some four, years ago its list of members has increased steadily, and it is probable that the society will be able to achieve much useful work in the future. It is stated that the members are now anxious to hold a large show of cats before very long, so that we shall one and all have an oppor¬tunity of judging for ourselves as to the excellence of the nineteenth century cat. Per¬haps no animal's history presents such a strange record of ups and downs, and we fancy many of our readers would find the subject a more interesting one than they imagine if they studied it closely.

A FAMOUS CAT. Isle of Wight County Press and South of England Reporter, 7th May 1892
"Fur and Feather" for April contains a full-page illustration of Mr O. H. Yelf's celebrated smoke-blue Persian cat, Gordon, the winner of many prizes. Our contemporary describes this fine creature as "about two years old, very powerful, splendid head, ears well set on, magnificent frill, full of quality, texture, and length, with well-carried, long, silky bush." The Rev. J. G. Gardner, secretary of the National Cat Club, writing to Mr. Yelf. says "Thank you for print of your beautiful cat - your smoke-blue. I wish he were mine."

NATIONAL CAT CLUB St James's Gazette, 30th December 1892
A new era has commenced for cats. Cat shows we know, the National Cat Club some of us may have heard of; but only quite the inner circle has been hitherto acquainted with the fact that on July 31, 1890, was planted an institution which has now blossomed out into its first tangible product - the Cat Stud Book. Henceforth, ye prize toms and tabbies, take the electoral agent's warning, and Register, Register, register," under pain of being very low down in the numbering of the Stud Book.

Already the numbers have reached 1,185; and this surely means business even when we arc naively informed that the first entry was numbered 1001. This inaugural animal, Badomia, L.F. (i.e. long-haired female), Dark Smokie, bred by Mrs. Besant, Southsea, sire "Tibbs," dam "Minette," will some day be an historical personage. It is, indeed, a revolution in the history of cat-breeding. Hitherto cats at shows have been judged solely on their looks, as it has been taken as a postulate that you could never be sure to their fathers. That is all to be changed; and henceforth the lineage of cats shall be as scientifically attested as that of racehorses.

[STUD BOOK AND REGISTER] Irish Times, 30th December 1892
The first "Stud Book and Register" of the National Cat Club is issued to-day by the hon. sec., the Rv. J.G. Gardner. The Tom and TIbbie are no longer to labour under the disadvantage of doubtful descent, but are henceforth to be classified as to parentage with as much care as, and at infinitely more cost of labour than, the notabilities of "Debrett" or "Dod." Indeed one is staggered by contemplation of the monumental character of the effort necessary to establish with even an approach to certainty such a record as "Nourmahel, sir Tiglath Pileser, by Sultan, dam Soupeya; Sat, by Canton, ex Ahmin," and I notice that occasionally so imposing a family tree has to give way to the simple record "Nixie, imported." At any rate, here are "entered" cats commencing with 1,000 and running to 1,185, though Mr Gardner tearfully complains that in many instances he "failed to obtain help from those he imagined would be most forward to render it." Alas, what a vast realm of the unknowable is suggested by the "failing" thus plaintively bewailed. The domestic cat has a somewhat shady reputation for bad hours and a name for airy indifference to matrimonial fidelity, and Mr Gardner ought to freely excuse genuine cat lovers some reluctance to expose in black on white the penchants of their pets. All this, however, will be buried in oblivion when every cat-owner is a member of the N.C.C., and makes it a point of honour to put each canine [means "feline"] on his or her chain at twilight, so as to vouch for all their families with that conscientiousness for which the patrons of studbooks are distinguished. It is unnecessary to expatiate upon the manifest advantages of the new propagandum from the point of view of the not inconsiderable portion of the community to whom the enjoyment of "tired nature's sweet restorer" is a matter of some importance. The millennium, it is true, is not yet, but here is foreshadowed the attainment of one of its prime necessities. May the N.C.C. achieve abundant success in its efforts to "do all in its power to protect and advance the interests of the cat." And may its stud-book be a standing reproach to the flippant persons who have supposed that there are not "pure strains" of purring pussies as well as of shires and shorthorns, or pigs and pouters.

FIRST STUD BOOK OF THE NATIONAL CAT CLUB - Sporting Times, 31st December 1892
>We have received a copy of the First Stud Book of the National Cat Club. We thought that this would be an impossible volume, but the compilers have made the attempt. Here is a sample of the entries—
GRAY QUEEN, 1020, L. F. Grey, Miss Molony.
Sire, white points and feet, The Shrubbery.
Dam, " Minnie."
Born, June 1883. Canterbury.
The "Shrubbery" is distinctly appropriate. We have handed the book to the "Hoffis Kat," who will duly, review it next week.

A NEW ERA HAS COMMENCED FOR CATS Elgin Courant, and Morayshire Advertiser, 3rd January 1893
Cat shows we know, the National Cat Club some of may have heard of, but only quite the inner circle has been acquainted with the fact that on July, 1890, was planted an institution which has now blossomed out into its first tangible product - The Cat Stud Book.

STUD BOOK AND REGISTER FOR CATS - The Cornish Telegraph, 5th January, 1893
It will be good news to all lovers of the
—little lion, soft and dainty-sweet,
With sea-grey eyes and softly falling feet,
that at last the purity of their favourites' breeding is taken under the august protection of a society. The National Cat Club has issued the first Stud Book and Register for cats of both sexes. This contains the entries that have figured at the National Cat Club shows from July 31, 1890, to the end of 1892, no fewer than 1,185 in number. In future there will therefore be some justification of the claims of pussy's pedigree, and she will be able to point to the "claims of long descent" with as unerring a paw as her canine rivals. Cat buyers will soon begin to insist upon stud book ancestries, and then the desire of the club "not only to breed handsomer cats, but healthier cats" will be fulfilled.

STUD BOOKWestern Times, 9th January 1893
The National Cat Club has issued its first stud book and register for cats of both sexes. The figure asked for a pure-bred Persian is equal to that of a thoroughbred horse.

CAT SHOWS London Evening Standard, 28th January 1893
It is generally understood that cat shows are necessary for the improvement of all kinds of animals, and that the strong competition to which our pets are subjected is to a great extent responsible for the perfection to which they have attained. But, as cat shows are conducted now, it is useless expecting anything but a deplorable deterioration of our feline friends even if any of our principal prize-winners are left to survive the conflict. It stands to reason that if one specimen is showing symptoms of a highly contagious complaint, its comrades must be more or less infected; yet these cats are admitted into exhibitions to be brought into contact with some hundreds of healthy exhibits. The result is only too obvious: the infection instantly spreads throughout the shows, and distemper being a complaint which developes most rapidly, a cat which has sent apparently in the best of health may be returned to you after two days absence almost in a dying condition. So long as people persist in sending cats which are sickening for some dire complaint to shows, we shall have the same trouble, and hear the same tales of woe over and over again. The prospect of a pink or green card, or a silver medal, in many instances blinds the exhibitor to the fact that his pet is looking a little out of sorts; the entrance fee is paid. What a pity tor "Queenie" to miss the show - there is not much the matter with her! No doubt it is only a slight cold she has caught sitting in a draught. She perhaps looks a little mopey, but she will cheer up when she gets to this show, and so "Queenie" in the first stage of distemper is packed off on her peregrinations, and by the end of the show has fallen a victim to this dangerous and highly contagious disease. Exhibitors may, to a great extent, be to blame; but, on the other hand, the arrangements at many of our smaller shows are conducted on principles which show great carelessness and ignorance on the part of the authorities. The feeding of cats especially leaves very much to be desired in many instances. We have seen huge lumps of meat given to the tiniest kittens, some of whom would gaze helplessly at the uninviting morsels, their eyes round with astonishment, whilst others would set to gnawing it them with an avidity for which they would doubtless suffer later on, when overtaken by that, alas! now too general a foe, “indigestion." – The Lady.

NATIONAL CAT CLUB Lincolnshire Echo, 16th February 1893
A National Cat Club has been established. It is an association of humane people who are anxious protect an animal that is often ill-treated.

FANCIERS' COLUMN Ripon Observer, 1st June 1893
Mr. Harrison Weir has stated in the new edition of his book on cats some of the causes of the rupture between himself and the National Cat Club. The late president of the N.C.C. writes: "I do not care to go into particulars further than to say I found the principal idea of many of its members (the N.C.C.) consisted not so much in promoting the welfare of the cat as of winning prizes, and more particularly their own Cat Club medals, for which, though offered at public shows, the public were not allowed to compete, and when won by the members in many cases the public were thoughtlessly misled by believing it an open competition. I, therefore, felt it to be my duty to leave the club for that and other reasons." If the Cat Club wishes to vindicate its claim to the bids of "National" the opinions of Mr. Harrison Weir cannot be ignored nor slightly set aside. In the report of the last committee meeting of the N.C.C. we read "The Rev. J. G. Gardiner, without expressing his own opinion, thought that while there was a strong feeling among some that the N.C.C. should confine its benefits to members, there was also a strong feeling that they should be thrown open to the public. Many members did not keep cats, certainly the majority never showed cats, and such members would prefer that the N.C.C. should benefit the many rather than the few. On the other hand, Mrs. Herring very justly urged that many members would not subscribe unless they did receive some direct benefit, and if the prizes are thrown open to outsiders, outsiders would not care to join the N.C.C. It was agreed, that at the next Crystal Palace Cat Show a gold medal be given to the best cat shown - long hair or short to open competition - and four silver medals, one each to the best long-hair male and female, and the best short-hair male and female entered in the N.C.C. Stud Book and Register." We intend to give later on an explanation of the principal points by which the most common varieties of short-haired cats are judged at the cat shows. At the last fanciers show at Knaresborough we noticed some excellent specimens of short-haired tabbies owned by local exhibitors who were previously unaware of the good qualities of their pets.

A TALK ABOUT THE FELINE FANCY. Clifton Society, 25th January 1894
(By a Correspondent) Apropos the Bath Cat Show, which I am pleased to learn takes place shortly, I think perhaps a few words on this subject will prove interesting. The whole family of cats, who may be considered a most desirable household inmate and fireside companion may be divided into two heads; long and shorthaired, French or Persian, or the ordinary common cat. For the former I must confess I have a great liking, having seen so many different kinds, but they are invariably only to be found in high life, some being certainly beautiful specimens of the animal world. For beauty I admit they must have the preference, but for intelligence, affection and many other virtues give me the short-haired, whose courage, temper, and general constitution are far superior to the former whilst as a terror to small vermin, such as rats and mice, they have no equal.

In byegone days a cat, whilst appreciated as a mouser, was a signal for cruelty whenever it appeared; but now such men as Harrison Weir, Gordon Stables, Louis Wain and others have come forward in their defence, we find more attention is given to the various breeds of cats, and thanks to the National Cat Club (who by-the-way are giving four valuable silver medals to the Bath Cat Show) we have its general status raised, the welfare of poor puss looked after, and, by means of Shows, the varieties of cats, English and Foreign, are brought more prominently before the general public. Those gentlemen to whose exertions we are indebted for the various Cat Shows, must assuredly feel well satisfied with their labour of love. Had other members of the animal world been so neglected for ages, what would our horses, cattle, and even dogs have degenerated into

Speaking locally, we have many gentlemen (and of course ladies) who have done much to further the interests of puss. There is, for instance, Mr.. W. C. O. Ellis, whose valuable exhibits a few years since were the pride of the fancy, his particular breed in which he was so fortunate, being the long-haired; then again, Mrs. Drummond, who, when residing at the Weston nurseries, bred some very lovely specimens of the Persian breed, and even now takes a great interest in the feline race. Among the ladies must be mentioned Mrs. J. A. Crook, of Keynsham, whose cats of many different varieties have a rare good time of it in well appointed catteries; also Miss Howe of Warmley, who has for many years taken a considerable interest in the rearing of prize bred specimens, even to Chinchilla and many other of the rarer kind of cats. Another lady, Mrs. Lansdowne Daubeny, of Shockerwick, had a magnificent Persian "Davius," the admiration of all who had seen it. An almost perfect specimen of the short haired Tabby is the male possessed by Mrs. Cay, of Weston, a beautifully narrow striped brown, the marking being very distinct. A grand, long-haired cat, of tremendous size, was "Corridor Tom," possessed by Mr. J. Overton, of Bath, invariably to be seen laying upon the counter of his toyshop, apparently enjoying the admiration of the customers and passers to and fro. Mr. R. Findley's "Jack" is familiar to all who visit his dining rooms, and is a good sized and well developed specimen. The smokey blues are a great favourite with me, and I often think of the grand Persian of that colour once possessed by Mr. A. Ambrose, of Stoke Bishop.

For a good specimen of an ordinary short haired Tabby, with a good head and coat, commend me Mrs. Montagu, of Widcombe, who was fortunate to secure second at the Bath Cat Show; then again, Mrs. A. Fisher, of Widcombe-hill, had a nice cloudy grey specimen (long haired), good markings and a good coat. The long haired neuter Tiger," possessed by Mrs. George Garraway, of Swainswick, is doubtless well known to most local residents. The neuter cat naturally attain a great size and are generally seen in good condition. Mr. A. F. Collie, of Walcot, also Miss Hardcastle, of Grosvenor, possess splendid specimens of the long haired kind. Mrs. Percy Learoyd's (of Bath) female silver grey Persian was bred by Mrs. Drummond, and is undoubtedly a good colour and most handsome specimen, also the fine longhaired male possessed by Mrs. H. G. Sonia. I am only mentioning these specimens as they occur to my mind, for in my opinion this locality can boast of many very valuable and remarkable specimens, both for size and beauty, of our four-footed friends—the Fells Domesticus.

I must not omit to mention the many varieties kept and bred each year by Mr. J. Trousdale, of the London Hotel, Bristol, or those bred and exhibited by that good fancier of the fur tribe, Mr. C. H. Lane, of Downend. The large cattery built on the most approved principles at Kingswood, and possessed by Mr. H. W. Bullock, who has doubtless done more for the cat fancy than any other gentleman in these parts. Here are to be found every variety of cat bred or exhibited— Russian, Angora, Persian, French and even Siamese. The latter is certainly the most ludicrous looking of all, its appearance reminding one of a cross between a pug dog and a short haired cat. Some time since these columns described the many lovely specimens kept and bred by this fancier. There are many local supporters of the feline fancy, but one name must certainly not be omitted, for whether fur or feather, sport or pastime, his name is generally to the front as an enthusiastic supporter. I refer to the County magistrate, Mr. Councillor Woodiwiss. I hope Bath contains many who, like those I have mentioned, endeavour to raise the status and to protect dumb animals. Before closing this article I would say a few words about the feeding of cats. Some people prize their pets, whilst others I know imagine a cat can live on anything, but if you have a valuable specimen or not it is best to give it the correct food. Well, in the morning, let me advise bread and milk; mid-day, raw liver or boiled lights; evening, boiled bread and milk. A little fish mixed with the latter now and then is advisable.

I sincerely trust these few lines will be appreciated by the readers of Clifton Society, and that they will be led to see that the "miniature tiger" is worthy of their notice, and that the Creator has sent them for a purpose, and when one considers the beautiful possibilities in the way of cats, we cannot, I am sure, but take some interest in the feline fancy, and I wish the committee of the forthcoming Show every success in their second exhibition.

SCOTTISH CAT CLUB. Edinburgh Evening News, 24th October 1894
A meeting of cat fanciers was held in Edinburgh yesterday afternoon, for the purpose of forming a Scottish Cat Club. There was a good turnout of fanciers, and Mr J. Kidd presided. It was resolved to form a club.

LIVESTOCK EXHIBITIONS. (BY GORDON STABLES) Burnley Express, 22nd December 1894
These is a mental progression, a slow march upwards and onwards, among all animals, much more rapid than those whom man takes under his protection, and elevates to the rank of pets, favourites and companions. This physical development is either helped or hindered by the animals' immediate surroundings and the mode of living . . . it may be asked how dog shows, cat shows, pigeon shows and pet shows tend to assist physical evolution in the animals so exhibited. On this subject the reader may have one opinion, I another, and my friend Ouida, who undoubtedly has the most tender of hearts towards all God's creatures, a third. . . . Take cat shows first. Although Vice- President of the National Cat Club, I do not hesitate to say that most cat shows held under ordinary auspices do more harm than good to our humble friend pussy. Such exhibitions are merely got up for the sake of £.s.d., the cats are badly penned, badly bedded and fed, and about a third of them die after every show. I not encourage these.

OUR CATS - Bridport News, 7th June 1895
Cats in town are pretty much of a nuisance to most people. But they are to a chosen few a source of much interest and pleasure. Not many of our rural readers, we pre-suppose, own a cattery. A cattery is not a place for tinning cats, or for manufacturing "bags of mystery" in! Not at all, it is a stud and breeding establishment for the pure breeds of cats that can only seen by the common public on such occasions as the Crystal Palace Cat Show, etc. A cat show is a rare treat to anyone who is fond of animals, and who has never seen such a sight before. Our own native and inborn antipathy to cats in general used to be somewhat like that of a bull-terrier to the same feline animal, till at last we went - it is years ago now - to see a cat show. That show not only set our hatred of cats for ever at rest, but It also made us become a student in the "school of cattery " for the rest our natural life. See what education can do in such a case! Our first study in cats was begun by pitching a half-grown one over the top of hayrick, and then running quickly round see whether it really did alight upon its feet, as cats are said to do! We have progressed muchly since those first lessons, and may be now be said to have taken our degree, having become the owner of a prize cat. Of that another time. Let us discuss the cattery on this occasion.

An apostle of the cult, Miss G. M. Taylor, writing in Fur and Feather, gives a very concise summary of the ethics of cat culture, from which we extract a few items, together with a picture of a real beauty of the first water—we mean colour—a blue Persian [Miss Gresham's Persian Silver Laddie - A First Prize Winner] This is one of the popular breeds, and the pedigree and strain is pure in its case as that of any racehorse or shorthorn. Miss Taylor's remarks on cat culture run thusly: Feed your cats yourself with proper food. If anybody and everybody may feed them they are not likely to do well. Too many tit-bits one day and scarcity the next will be the result. Kittens require the utmost regularity, cleanliness, and judicious choice as to food. Bread and milk, porridge and milk for breakfast; a meal of beef or mutton and vegetables, all finely minced and soaked with gravy, for dinner; a less heavy one of boiled rice and fish, varying It with bread and "Liebig" or gravy, and a few scraps of fowl, rabbit, etc., for supper. Veal, pork, fat, rich sauces, etc., are simply poison to cats! New milk, clean water, and a daily supply of fresh green grass should never be forgotten. An abundance of fresh air and exercise, but with discretion. A netted-in run, with access to and from the window of a sunny room, inside of which is a good, bright fire, a clean hearth, a singing kettle, and an old maid (the italics are ours). Readers of "Rural Life," this is a description of a cattery, not of a well-arranged and conducted home for rearing children. Truly, the well-to-do have some pleasant ways of passing time!

ONE CAT WORTH $12,500.
Argus, June 14, 1895

Did You Ever See a Pure Tortoise Shell Tom? — Cats That Look Like Bulldogs.

It is estimated that there are 360,000 cats in England and 69 varieties. With the greater number of these varieties the average reader is probably quite unfamiliar. Tortoise shell and white toms are very common, says an English writer, but a pure tortoise shell tom is so extremely scarce that many people declare that they exist only in the imagination. Anyone who happens to possess a female red tabby without any white spots could obtain a price which would keep him in comfort for at least a couple of years without work. Female red tabbies are as rare as tortoise shell toms.

The taste in Persian cats just now runs on the deep blue with orange colored eyes. Edward Lloyd, the tenor, had one for which he repeatedly refused $150. The bright slate or blue is a favorite variety of the Persian, the price sometimes going as high as $125. White cats of really herculean proportions readily fetch $500. The Marquis of Dufferin is extremely partial to white cats, upward of a dozen of these splendid creatures being comfortably domiciled at the British embassy in Paris.

Russian cats fetch high prices. The Duchess of Bedford owns several of a species extremely rare — a very curious tint of blue. Russian white cats are also highly prized, but the white variety is seldom long haired. Mr. Sam Woodiwiss is the owner of a smooth haired tom, Xenophon, of such gigantic proportions that when the writer, after an introduction, induced the cat to approach by calling in seductive accents, he experienced a feeling akin to dismay as the mammoth jumped on his knee, which in the course of a few moments began to exhibit unmistakable signs of fatigue, and no wonder — for 25 pounds is a fair weight. Xenophon is valued by its owner at $12,500. Lady de Trafford has cats of such remarkable ugliness that the writer for a moment took them for a hairy sort of bulldog.

The value of cats is much enhanced if they possess the black markings on the chest known as the "Lord Mayor's chain." The writer has seen a cat of this sort for which the owner would not take $2,500. Some cats are actually vegetarians, and a curious variety from Burma will only drink water.

IN THE CAT HOUSE
Newcastle Courant, 26th October 1895

How wonderfully the condition of our feline pets has changed to be sure. There was a day, and that not very long ago either, when a cat show was unheard of, and the only known varieties consisted of the Common cat, the Manx, and a very poor sort of long-haired animal. Now we find a monster cat show in the Crystal Palace, four judges hard at work upon an entry of 622. Cats of every description were to be found surrounded by an admiring crowd. Nor have the prospects of the cat fancy ever been brighter, for while it was noticed that most our famous cats such as Samson, Xenophon, Champion, Laurel King, and others still held their own, connoisseurs were not slow in discovering that many of the- youngsters which now appeared for the first time were the higher quality.

Most people who keep several cats of any high class breed find it necessary to devote something more than a mere corner of the house to their favourites. An ordinary household cat may wander about at will, but no satisfactory results will be obtained in this way from high-class animals. As a correspondent pointed out only last week, one cat soon draws others, and then the trouble commences. Trouble which causes not only sleepless nights, but litters of mongrel kittens, queens spoilt for breeding purposes [see note], and Toms which not only distribute their favours too freely, but are also apt to appear with torn cars and scarred heads at just about the time when they are required for breeding purposes. This being the case, the best plan is from the very commencement to provide proper sleeping accommodation, and moreover lose no time in finding a safe and suitable exercising ground, for it is well to remember that though a cat may safe enough in the garden with its mistress, there are times when is sadly apt to play truant.

[Note: it was believed that the influence of a previous mate would affect all later litters. Many females were destroyed if they mis-mated because it was believed they would not produce pure-bred offspring later on.]

LOUIS WAIN - Various, January 1896
Mr. Louis Wain, the cat artist, is very fond of cats, and keeps a number in his house at Bendigo Lodge, Westgate. The chief favourite is Peter," and it was the portrayal of the antics of this cat that first brought its master public success and favour. Mr. Wain has some original ideas about cats, which he has been giving to the "Idler." "I have myself," he says, found, as the result of many years of inquiry and study, that all people who keep cats and are in the habit of nursing them do not suffer from these petty little ailments which all flesh is heir to, namely, nervous complaints of minor sort." Not everyone, perhaps, will endorse this opinion. In Mr. Wain's opinion, English cats are slowly but surely developing into stronger types, which have very little affinity with the uncertain and unstable creature of the tiles and chimney-pots. "With careful breeding the lank body and the long nose disappear, the face becomes condensed, as it were, into a series of circles, the expression develops artlessness, and the general temperament of the animal is one of loving conceit." A marvellous change has also, it seems, come about in the quality of varieties since the National Cat Club has taken such strong hold upon the public fancy.

NATIONAL CAT CLUB. - Globe, 2nd April 1896
But could anyone ever think a cat soulful? There is something about the smug and satisfied selfishness of the feline nature that forbids the thought. But cats are on their promotion. There has just been started a National Cat Club with a coat of arms supported by two cats and a motto "Beauty lives by kindness." Lady Marcus Beresford, a well-known cat-lover and proprietor, is prominent on the committee. Her husband is one of the presidents, Her Grace of Bedford the other and Lily, Duchess of Marlborough heads the list of vice-presidents, which includes such well-known names as those of the Countess of Warwick, the Countess of Sefton, Lady Hothfield, and Lady Granville Gordon. The committee is composed equally of ladies and gentlemen. There is to be a local habitation as soon as suitable premises can be found. At the Ladies' Kennel Association Dog Show, to be held in June in the grounds of Holland House, there will be a special marquee for cats. Most assuredly they are on the upward grade. X. AND Z.

THE LADIES KENNEL JOURNALGentlewoman, 4th April 1896
"The Ladies Kennel Journal" has a wider scope than its title indicates, for it is really a country house magazine for gentlewomen, and is far from being of exclusive interest to dog-owners, especially since cats have been brought within its sphere of influence [. . .] With reference to cats. It will not be surprising if we have a boom in them, as Mrs. Stennard Robinson is now the hon, secretary and treasurer of the National Cat Club. Among the presidents are the Duchess of Bedford and Lord Marcus Beresford.

A NATIONAL CAT CLUB - London Daily News, 10th April, 1896
The re-construction of the National Cat Club has just taken place, and the Book of Rules has been published under the auspices of the Hon. Secretary of the Ladies' Kennel Association. The objects of the club are to promote purity of breed, to secure adequate distinctness of classification, and to encourage exhibition by giving prizes to owners. A stud book is to be established, in which a record of pedigrees and championship successes will be kept. The club is to have premises as soon as they can be found, and here a reference library will be founded, consisting of works relating to cats. Owners of valuable pussies must henceforth be careful to note the dates of birth, as this has to be set down, in the club register with other particulars. The Duchess of Bedford and Lord Marcus Beresford are presidents of the club and among the vice-presidents are Lily Duchess of Marlborough, Lady Warwick, Lady Granville Gordon, the Countess of Sefton, Lady Hothfield, and three or four gentlemen. Lady, Marcus Beresford and Mrs. Blair Maconochie head the list of the committee, which is composed of an equal number of ladies and gentlemen.

A NATIONAL CAT CLUB - Cheltenham Chronicle, 18th April, 1896
There are many people in good old England who may not be aware that we have had in our midst, for many years, a society calling itself "The National Cat Club," and having for its object the promotion of the purity and breed of the feline species in general. It has also aimed at securing adequate distinctness of classification, and the encouraging of exhibitions by giving prizes to the owners of good cate. For the last year or two the interests of the National Cat Club have been somewhat on the wane, but lately it has been felt that something should be done to resuscitate its fallen fortunes and a reconstruction has taken place which is likely to lead to most important results. The Honorary Secretary of the Ladies' Kennel Association has taken the matter in hand, and the Duchess of Bedford, who loves the dumb creation with an affection that might well be imitated in many humbler circles, and Lord Marcus Beresford have become Presidents of the reorganised club, among the list of the Committee being Lily, Duchess of Marlborough, Lady Warwick, Lady Granville Gordon, the Countess of Sefton, Lady Hothfield and many others. A Stud Book is to be established in which a record of pedigrees and champion successes will be kept. Suitable premises are being taken, and a reference library will be appended, consisting of works relating to cats. As the dates of birth have to be set down in the Club Register, it behoves owners of valuable animals from this time forward to be particularly careful in noting the exact lime of these interesting events. Naturally the walls of the club will be adorned with pictures of the leading cats of the past decade, and these will, of course, emanate from the brush of one of the few men who can do them justice — Mr. Louis Wain, whose fruitful pencil enables us this week to present to our reader* three of the most distinguished cats which have appeared before exhibitors recently. Mr. Wain has established a record as a cat artist and fancier, and, whoever may be responsible for the fortunes of the National Cat Club, there is no doubt that the genial Louis will rarely be absent when any knotty point is brought forward to be decided by the committee in council assembled.

THE LADIES' KENNEL JOURNAL Gentlewoman, 2nd May 1896
"The Ladies' Kennel Journal" is never lacking in Interest. The April number is, as usual, bright with illustrations and readable letterpress. [. . .] Cats now occupy a reasonable place in the Journal's pages. A jotting mentions that Mr. Marcus Stone is one of the most prominent cat fanciers In London, his preference being the good old English short-haired tabby, of which he has some fine specimens.

THE CAT SHOW. - Manchester Courier and Lancashire General Advertiser, 17th October, 1896
When Mr. Harrison Weir suggested a cat show, nearly a quarter of a century ago, there were many difficulties and prejudices to encounter. It was necessary not only to solicit entries, but to beg and borrow cats. But the show was a success, and has continued to grow steadily in popular favour. This year it enters on a new career, under new management and new conditions. The National Cat Club has supplanted the Crystal Palace Company, and for the first time in their history cats on exhibition, like horses and dogs, have to appear with a registered pedigree. Many people thought that this would reduce the number of entries. On the contrary, it seems to have stimulated competition, for the show which opened at the Crystal Palace on Tuesday is the largest on record. Nearly 1,000 cats and kittens are collected in cages, and no fewer than 740 compete for 300 and odd prizes. There are a great many species, with an infinite variety of colour, form, eyes, tails, and temper. The long-haired cats are most numerous, including Persians and Chinchillas, with their soft, silvery-grey coats. To judge from the entries, Chinchillas are rapidly becoming the fashion. One looks in vain for the "Tom" of pure tortoise, though in white and tortoiseshell he is common enough. The Siamese, with his soft, biscuit-coloured coat and intelligent blue eyes, is no longer the rarity he was in days when it was a triumph of diplomacy to secure a specimen from the palace of the King. The tailless Manx, the short-haired English, and the very rare cream are also well represented.

THE NATIONAL CAT CLUB Gentlewoman, 9th January 1897
The National Cat Club, I am rejoiced to see, is going ahead, and bids fair to be both popular and useful. Notwithstanding the inevitable loss of membership which any rupture in a club necessitates, the newly formed club is a very large one. The Duchess of Bedford is president, and one of its most active committee is Lady Marcus Beresford. Little wonder, then, that the club is a success. The Duchess of Bedford now prefers the Siamese to any other variety of cat, although she has from time to time owned some beautiful Persian tabbies. SOME SALES AND PURCHASES – Mrs Blair Maconochie has just purchased that grand young Persian cat Peterkin from Miss Stobart, of Pepper Arden. – VENATRIX

NATIONAL CAT CLUB Gentlewoman, 6th February 1897
The year 1897 promises to be as brilliant for cats as for dogs, and I hear of many new exhibitors for the forthcoming summer and autumn shows of the L.K.A. and the N.C.C.; and, despite the talk of a few seceders from the old club, most cat owners are clamouring for cat exhibitions, and seem quite impatient to hear when and where the next show of importance will be. Lady Arthur Grosvenor is quite as fond of her cats as she is of her whippets, and the variety she prefers is the long-haired "tabby." The Hon. Mrs. McLaren Morrison has the largest collection of cats in England, over sixty, I think, of which the greater number are lovely long-haired whites, with blue eyes. At Kepwick there are also some good Siamese.

CAT CLUB - St. Andrews Citizen - Saturday 24 April 1897
The Cat Club in London appears to be still going on very comfortably. It may interest some of my readers to know that cats never arrived at the dignity of being classified and entered in a stud book until last year, when Mrs. Stennard Robinson, hon. Secretary of the Ladies' Kennel Club, promoted them in this fashion. Lady Marcus Beresford, whose collection of fine cats is well known to all her friends, was one of the principal promoters of the plan.

NATIONAL CAT CLUB Gentlewoman, 6th March 1897
The annual meeting of the National Cat Club will take place early in April, and, so I am told, start its financial year with a credit balance on its first year's working of £70. This, after allowing for the show deficit and the publication of the stud book, speaks well for the management.

NATIONAL CAT CLUB Gentlewoman, 27th March 1897
The annual meeting of the National Cat Club will take place in April. I am told the club is in a most flourishing condition, and will start the new year with a substantial balance. Efforts, too, are being made to hold a show during the year in Kensington, and to change the date of the Crystal Palace Show from October to January, as it should be.

NATIONAL CAT CLUB Gentlewoman, 7th August 1897
The Marchioness of Dufferin has joined the National Cat Club, and hopes at the first show held in Ireland under National Cat Club rules to exhibit her Blues.

NATIONAL CAT CLUB - Gloucester Citizen, 5th October 1897
It may not be generally known that influential lovers of cats have banded themselves together and formed the National Cat Club. Its object is to secure proper recognition of high-bred specimens of the feline for show purposes, and it is but natural that Mr. Louis Wain, whose caricatures of cats and their ways have created much amusement among our children, should be very closely identified with the club. Lady Marcus Beresford is also deeply interested in the work, and the second show, be held at the Crystal Palace next week, promises"well, the entries bang very large. Cats of every known variety are to be shewn, and many of the prizes - among which are several sterling silver milk-dishes - are exceedingly valuable. Championships are also be awarded.

A NATIONAL CAT CLUB - Buckingham Advertiser and Free Press, 23rd October, 1897.
The National Cat Club promises to make the creature of the hearthrug a thing of beauty. Its second championship show has revealed new features of joy in the domestic animal, and proved that our familiar friend Thomas when well-bred has a grace of outline and variety of good points that may make him the rival of the dog. A cat show has also this advantage over an exhibition of dogs it is a quiet affair. The air is not rent with cries for release and furious discussions between neighbours. The cat rises to the situation, and maintains an attitude of ease and dignity. Among the exhibits at the Crystal Palace Show was Mr. Sam Woodiwiss's "Xenophon," for whom £50 was recently refused. Then there were Manx cats, and cats from Siam and Russia, and representatives of every kind of pussy. The benching was well done, the interest was sustained, and there is reason to hope that the exhibition will grow in the course of years.

NATIONAL CAT CLUB - Dundee Evening Telegraph, 23rd September 1897
Mr Wain, who is a London man, 37 years of age, was first trained for the musical profession. He began the study of art towards the close of the seventies, and first drew cats in 1883. He has been President of the National Cat Club, and is story-teller, gardener, an essayist, or a natural history student, as the mood takes him.

THE CAT SHOW
Watford Observer, 23rd October 1897

The Cat Show of last week will be followed shortly by a dog show, organised by the Ladies' Kennel Association. The attention directed to cats lately has brought about a great change in the estimation in which these home favourites are held. Instead of harbouring any vagrant animal that chooses to make its way into a house and remain there, ladies carefully select their pets from distinguished families, so that they are eligible for prize competition at a show. Mixed races are not to be tolerated. The taste this year is for long furs, and fine markings of the fur are indispensable. The stranger within the gates of the Cat Show was the cat of Abyssinia, which is being domesticated, but not with its own entire approval, in England. The Abyssinian is solemn, and by no means disposed to make friends of masters and mistresses. To the uninitiated in such matters it may be well to mention that a first-class cat ought to have fat cheeks, even so plump as to have a tendency to droop.

There are several great ladies who have superior catteries of their own, with recreation grounds and every luxury provided for their pets. The Duchess of Bedford is one of these beneficent cat lovers. A very nice cats' home has been established in one of the suburbs of London, and during the summer absence of owners the domestic pats can be received as paying guests. Of course, the more valuable are the cats the better care will owners take of them, and perhaps the time may come when the wretched homeless creature deserted by its owners for several weeks at a time will be no more seen.

SURA (PRINCE DAMRONG) The Sketch, 27th October 1897
Among the famous breed of royal cats from Siam, Sura (late Prince Damrong) is among the most important. He was bought by the Hon. Mrs. McLaren Morrison last year, but, as his mistress was leaving England for India, he was placed in the care of Miss Manley, who is well known as one of the most popular and capable lady judges at both dog and cat shows. Sura was taken to Kensington, and soon became devoted to Miss Manley's lovely little King Charles, Boscobel. The beautiful pair are never apart. They eat out of the same dish, sleep together on the fur hearthrug, Sura making Bossie's body his pillow, and they often go out for a walk together on the same lead. When photographed recently at the bas-relief studio in Dover Street, Sura proved utterly unmanageable until his friend was placed on the table beside him, when he sat quietly and condescended to have his portrait taken. At home Sura is a charming cat, showing a pleasing curiosity in the doings of all Miss Manley's friends. He has every desired point in full perfection the close, fine fur, cream-colour with chocolate markings, the most brilliant china-blue eyes, and the requisite "kink" at the end of his tail which distinguishes him as one of the royal cats of Siam. He is by the famous King Kesho and Lady Betty, and was born in July 1896.

KRISHNA The Sketch, 27th October 1897

Among long-haired cats, Mrs. E. Lenty Collins's lovely pure white Persian, Krishna, is a lovely specimen. He is between four and five years old.

CATS IN THE ASCENDANT.
The Globe, 1st April 1898
Whether it is the result of the muzzling orders for dogs or of other causes, the boom in cats grows. In addition the National Cat Club, another Cat Club has lately been started at a meeting presided over by Lord Marcus Beresford; and already nearly half of doggy papers like the "Ladies' Kennel Journal" is devoted cats. To the ordinary person a cat is merely a cat, unless it is Persian with long hair or a Manx without a tail. But every cat of note now has his pedigree and his registered double-barrelled title; and in a very few years it will doubtless be as unusual for a respectable household to keep a "common or garden" cat as it now is to keep a mongrel dog. One has but to carry the mind back twenty years recollect the time when nine out of ten of the dogs which were kept were of no particular breed. Now, the cross-bred dog is rare and the mongrel almost non-existent. The same process is at work among the cats; and as each year's cat shows indicate a wider differentiation between the several feline varieties, once ignorantly lumped together as "common cats," we shall soon have as many distinct breeds of cats as our fathers had of dogs. The fecundity and roving instincts of the common cat, indeed, put practical difficulties in the way of hereditary differentiation; but with so many scientific breeders in the field, many carefully-kept "catteries," and many annual cat shows, the supply of well-bred kittens will suffice for all demands; and the "common or garden" cat will be left to follow his ancestral enemy, the "mongrel" dog, to the realms of the extinct.

NATIONAL CAT CLUB Gentlewoman, 21st May 1898
I hear that the National Cat Club is having a good increase of members, the summer show having obtained the support of many who never care to show in winter. The club's challenge trophies, too, are largely augmented, and now include silver bowls for various varieties and also for kittens, as well as the champion long-haired and champion short-haired of the show, and the coveted championships for every breed and every colour.

OWNERS FALL OUT OVER OWNERSHIP OF SHOW CAT - Pall Mall Gazette, 5th August 1898

There were two maiden ladies of Lee, as friendly as friendly could be. But there was also a blue Persian cat, one Roy, and in an evil moment Miss Slater's eye fell on Roy. Cats and maidenladyhood are a favourite example of the association of ideas, but in this case the evil of speculation, that curse of modern society, blurred the usual idyllic picture. Miss Slater got Miss Harris to join her in a feline syndicate; Miss Slater bought Roy for thirty shillings; Miss Harris paid out twenty-five shillings on a "cattery," and attended to the cat, and all such prizes and profits as the cat might fetch were to be halved. At least so it has been decided was the arrangement. But whereas the National Cat Club ruled that the prize it gave Roy was to be halved, Miss Slater stuck to all the prizes he scored at Brighton. She was the owner, she said; Miss Harris only the paid trainer. But it is rules that the cat belongs to both, half and half, and therefore the prizes must be split, not the cat. We heard of a split cat with wings in a recent trade-mark case, but the National Cat Club gives no prize for that sort.

[DISPUTED OWNERSHIP OF THE CAT ROY] Gentlewoman, 20th August 1898
The decision of Mr. Justice Stirling on the disputed ownership of the cat Roy confirms that of the National Cat Club in January last, and had the lady who defended the case abided by the decision of the club which undertakes arbitration in cat matters much in the same way that the Kennel Club does for dog owners, she would have saved herself an expensive lawsuit. The blue Persian Roy, however valuable, will never cover the costs of a Chancery suit.

NEW CAT CLUB - Gloucester Citizen, 29th October 1898
Following the show of the National Cat Club, held the Crystal Palace this week, that of the Cat Club - surely a distinction without a difference - is announced. Certain members of the former, among whom were Lady Marcus Beresford and other aristocratic fanciers, found fault with the management and seceded; hence the formation of another club. It is indeed strange how members of these specialist clubs quarrel over matters seemingly very trifling. The Kennel Club, however, is a notable exception, and much interest is now being evinced as to the action of the governing body of the canine world in regard to the latest move of the Ladies' Kennel Association. This combination threatens to hold shows in defiance of the ruling of the Kennel Club that certain conditions must be complied with. In a dignified manner, quite in keeping with its reputation, the Old Burlington-street club may be depended upon to more than hold its own, even when opposed by ladies.

NEW CAT CLUB - Cheltenham Looker-On, 5th November 1898
That ladies should quarrel over their pussy cats is not after all surprising seeing that they have failed to maintain relations of perfect amity with the Kennel Club over their canine favourites. Lady Marcus Beresford is said to be the leading spirit amongst those who have seceded from the National Cat Club – whose exhibition at the Crystal Palace does not seem to have suffered greatly from being severely left alone by the members of the new organisation – the Cat Club. Perhaps the most satisfactory feature of the whole business – from pussy's point of view at any rate – is the increasing appreciation of a much abused animal, whose whims and little ways are according to Mr. Louis Wain, the great artist, worthy of close and affectionate regard.

A NEW CAT CLUB - Sheffield Evening Telegraph, 12th December 1898
A new cat club has been started by Lady Marcus Beresford who is so devoted to the feline race and goodness knows how many feline companions – something between thirty and forty. Her sister-in-law, Lily Duchess of Marlborough, is president of the club, and they will open proceedings by holding the first show on January 19.

A NEW CAT CLUB - Sporting Life, 21st December 1898
Cats as show animals are almost as popular as dogs, thanks in great part to Lady Marcus Beresford, who founded the Cat Club, and is untiring in her efforts to improve the feline breed. The first show of the Cat Club will be held on January 19, at St. Stephen's Hall, Westminster, when half the proceeds will be given to the Children's Guild of the Deptford Fund.

CAT CLUB SHOW - Reading Mercury, 7th January 1899
Lady Marcus Beresford has obtained an excellent list of supporters for the Cat Club's forthcoming Show. A number of exceedingly valuable prizes are to be offered, and it is hoped that these will attract a large number of entries. This young branch of the National Club has made such progress that the annual show promises to become very shortly a competitor for public recognition, which at present the Crystal Palace Exhibition alone enjoys.

[RIVAL CLUB] WESTMINSTER CAT SHOW Gentlewoman, 7th January 1899
Talking of cat shows, the rival club [to the N.C.C.] called the Cat Club hold their first show at the St. Stephen's Hall, Westminster, on the 19th, and Lady Marcus Beresford has obtained a wonderful array of specials for cat owners to win, so there is sure to be a large entry for the London show. It is strange, though, to see scheduled, after many assurances to the contrary, so many kitten classes, for, though popular, they are certainly death-traps during the winter months.

CATS AND DOGS
Manchester Courier and Lancashire General Advertiser, 14th January 1899
Domestic animals have never been in such high favour in as now, and, since women have taken to exhibiting their pets, and even keeping kennels of their own, [. . .] Not only is there the Ladies Kennel Club, to which very many Society women belong, but there is also a new Cat Club with Lady Marcus Beresford as head; while an exhibition cats and dogs Brighton or elsewhere is sure to bring together some beautiful animals.

CATS TO THE FORE
Newcastle Courant, 14th January 1899
Next week the famous Cat Club, which has been started so successfully by Lady Marcus Beresford and other titled fanciers, holds its first show. The Westminster Aquarium has been chosen as the venue, and the schedule before us shows a liberal classification; while over and above the ordinary prizes there are 136 specials. Disease has too often followed cat exhibitions, but in the present case this go-a-head club has determined to baffle the enemy. The club, as all fanciers should know, has its own pens, the wood staging is to be new, while no cushions or draperies whatever are to be allowed. Under such favourable circumstances the show should be a success, and it is to be hoped that those who have worked so hard for the beloved feline will reap their reward. It is true that cats are advancing, yet they are still very far from being common; indeed, we wonder how many ordinary fanciers know anything of the Siamese, Russian, or other varieties.

CAT SHOWS HAVE COME TO STAY
Kentish Mercury, 10th February 1899

NATIONAL CAT CLUB Gentlewoman, 29th April 1899
The National Cat Club is taking part in the great hospital bazaar, and Miss Gertrude Willoughby, who will sell kittens on behalf of the charity, will be glad to have as many sent her for this purpose as ladies have to give away.

NATIONAL CAT CLUB WORKING IN THE CAUSE OF CHARITY The Gentlewoman, 29th July 1899
I was pleased to see the National Cat Club working in the cause of charity and assisting H.R.H. the Duchess of Connaught at her bazaar at Bagshot last week, and my congratulations to pretty Gertrude Willoughby on the honour paid to her and the N.C.C. by Her Majesty the Queen accepting one of the champion Zaida s kittens as a gift from the National Cat Club. I hear, too, that Princess Victoria also accepted a kitten from the N.C.C. By the by, the great annual show of the National Cat Club will take place as usual at the Crystal Palace this year in the week of October after the Kennel Club Show, about the 23rd, I think.

CAT SHOWING.
Newcastle Courant, 4th November 1899

CAT SHOW RIBBONS
Nottinghamshire Guardian, 16th December 1899

SUCCESS OF AN IRVINE CAT FANCIER
Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald, 19th January 1900
The increase of Persian Cats in Scotland has been very marked during the last year. Always a popular hobby in the South, it is surprising how many fanciers have sprung up North of the Tweed. At the Scottish Cat Show held in Edinburgh on December 27th, 1899, the entries numbered 230, an increase of 50 over those last year, while at Stephen's Hall. Westminster, the entries were 198, and a wonderful sight it was – Siamese, Persian, Russian, British, Manx, and some wild European Cats being on exhibition. Mrs Mackenzie Stewart's blue Persians have again succeeded in making a name for their owner, and have won this winter - at Glasgow, in December, two firsts, two seconds, and a third: four medals and special; Edinburgh, one first, two seconds, and five specials; while at Westminster, with four cats, Mrs Stewart was most successful, winning in a class of forty males, second with Ronald, and her kittens, first and second in an equally strong class, the second prize winners selling at £5 5s. At same show Mrs Stewart's English cat took third prize and four specials, and a medal also came to Irvine. Mrs Stewart's silver cat, "Silver Lancer," has, this season, won five first prizes, and is now a Scottish champion, winning second prize at the Crystal Palace In October last. This long list of successes is very creditable to Mrs Stewart, and is a proof of the interest she takes in this charming hobby.

NORTHERN COUNTIES CAT CLUB
Hull Daily Mail, 20th April 1900
The Northern Counties Cat Club, which is just springing into existence, will, it is hoped, hold a kitten show in September.

NATIONAL BAZAAR
Hull Daily Mail, 4th May 1900
The National Cat Club will have a tent at the forthcoming National Bazaar, containing kittens, puppies, and birds, which will be sold for the benefit of the war fund.

NATIONAL BAZAAR
Bedfordshire Times and Independent, 1st June 1900
At the National Bazaar Her Grace the Duchess of Bedford presided over a department for the sale of animals which was under the patronage of the National Cat Club.

THE NATIONAL BAZAAR
Illustrated Sporting and Dramatic News, 2nd June 1900
THE National Bazaar was the most talked of event in a particularly busy week for Londoners, and, having an engagement there on the opening day, I naturally found my way to the animal department, of which the Duchess of Bedford was the president, and Miss Gertrude Willoughby, hon. sec., quite as well-known as a successful breeder of poodles as she is as one of the founders and chief supporters of the National Cat Club. Members of the latter had, of course, sent numerous contributions to Miss Willoughby's tent, and quite a brisk trade was being done in kittens at "five bob a nob." [. . .] Spratt's, I ought to mention, penned and fed all the animals free of charge, Trusty, one of their best known show officials, acting as general assistant to Miss Willoughby.

THE NATIONAL BAZAAR
Herts Advertiser, 2nd June 1900
The National Bazaar - in aid of the sufferers by the war - was opened last week by her Royal Highness the Princess of Wales. [. . .] Her Most Gracious Majesty the Queen herself headed the list of patrons, and the noblest families in the land were assisting personally the good work. On entering the beautifully-decorated rooms and scanning a list of stalls, I immediately started off in search of the Live Animal Stall, under the patronage of the National Cat Club, President, Her Grace the Duchess of Bedford; secretary, Miss Gertrude Willoughby. A snug little room was set apart for these dear pets, who mewed and barked in cages all round. Wee, white Pomeranian pups, with tricolour ribbons round their fluffy necks, tiny khaki-coloured Persian kittens similarly decorated, puggies of all sizes and species, two beautiful collies, and endless rabbits and pigeons lived together in perfect harmony in their comfortable quarters at Kensington, enduring with much serenity the continual flow of admiration and caressing which it was their fate to receive until they were carried off in covered baskets by some fair purchaser.

NATIONAL CAT CLUB
Morning Post, 14th June 1900
Her Highness Princess Victoria of Schleswig-Holstein has joined the Grand Council of the Ladies' Kennel Association, and also become patroness of the National Cat Club.

FANCIERS' NOTES
Hull Daily Mail, 31st August 1900
The scheme for improving the health of stud cats by means of the Stud Cat Register, has, for some reasons which could hardly have been anticipated, not proved an entire success. In the first place, though the elite of the Fancy, the health of whose cats is beyond question, have gladly had their cats examined, the rank and file prefer to let their stock remain uncertified.

[PERSIAN STUD SOLD] Hull Daily Mail, 21st September 1900
The grand stud Persian cat, Blue Robin, has been purchased from Miss Hester Cochran by Mr C. W. Witt, who has also purchased from Miss Lee the noted silver Prince of the Fairies.

AMERICAN DEMAND FOR WHITE CATS.
Luton Times and Advertiser, 2nd November 1900
There are few white cats at the cat show the Crystal Palace. For this fact, a fashion among fanciers in America is primarily — if not, indeed, solely — responsible. Latterly Americans have been sweeping England of Whites, just as they have swept it of kinds of rabbits and toy dogs, to say nothing of horses and pictures. For anything good in white cats they are willing to pay a substantial price, and the result has been that many of last year's champions have crossed the "Duck Pond," while the kittens have not yet come on sufficiently for show purposes.

THE CULTURE OF THE CAT
Various, November 1900
Of late years there has been a very large accession to the ranks of cat fanciers, and there is but little doubt that the efforts of the National Cat Club and its offshoot, the Cat Club, have done much towards creating interest in the culture of the various species [breeds]. At shows the sections are most bewildering; but now that definite standards of points have been set up, it cannot be doubted that in time the different varieties will be bred true to type, and sooner or later the pedigrees will be registered just the same as those of dogs. All this means that the breeding of cats as a hobby can be made very profitable. They stand confinement far better than dogs; in fact, no breed of the latter, not even the most delicate, thrives unless given liberty and plenty of it; whilst another thing in favour of cats is that they can be reared in rooms in which it would be unsafe to attempt to keep dogs. The breed of which I give an illustration is one of the most valuable, but it is a beautiful species, its silvery coat with black points making it very handsome.

CAT SHOWS AND SCHOOL DEBT
Banbury Advertiser, 29th November 1900
The Crystal Palace Cat Show in October last suggested amusing intimation of the debt on the [St. John's] schools.
You saw Great London's wondrous show of cats
In graphic picture ! Now, friends ! to-night, that's
Just what we want to beat; at least, we'll try.
A thousand pounds a cat! was there the cry.
These schools cry too ; We want a thousand pounds.
A thousand pounds ! We're poor, no wealth abounds.