The Moral Usefulness of Cats

A snippet from the marvelous new fantasy novel, Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell, by Susanna Clarke. In this scene Jonathan Strange is discussing a madwoman who lives alone with fifty cats:

"But I do not understand," said Strange. "Who takes care of the old woman?"

Dr Greysteel said, "The Jewish gentleman -- who seems a very charitable old person -- provides her with a place to live, and his servants put dishes of food for her at the foot of the stairs."

"But as to how the food is conveyed to her," exclaimed Miss Greysteel, "no one knows for certain. Signor Tosetti believes that her cats carry it up to her."

"Such nonsense!" declared Dr Greysteel. "Whoever heard of cats doing anything useful?"

"Except for staring at one in a supercilious manner," said Strange. "That has a sort of moral usefulness, I suppose, in making one feel uncomfortable and encouraging sober reflection upon one's imperfections."