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152
THE PENTAMERONE.
The poor cat was compassionated beyond measure for seeing herself so ill rewarded; but one of those present observed, that she might have found some consolation in not being alone; for at the present day ingratitude has become a domestic evil; and there are many others also who, after they have worked and toiled, and spent their money, and ruined their health, to serve this race of ungrateful people, and have fancied themselves sure of another and a better reward than a golden coffin, find themselves destined to be buried in the hospital. Meanwhile, seeing that Popa was preparing to speak, all present were silent, and she began as follows.
