The narrative follows a young girl named Fifine and her interactions with her cat, Mimi, and her sister, Madeleine. Fifine is depicted as a child struggling with her emotions, particularly her temper. The story begins with her walking in the garden, confiding in Mimi, and expressing her frustrations. After a quarrel with Madeleine, which results in her hitting her sister, Fifine feels guilty and confused when the village clergyman, a kind neighbor, confronts her about her behavior. The clergyman reveals that he knows about the incident, which astonishes Fifine, leading her to suspect that Mimi, the cat, must have been the source of the information. This misunderstanding highlights her childish logic and the way she processes guilt and blame. As the day progresses, Fifine's anger towards Mimi grows, culminating in her punishing the cat by locking her in the tool-house. That night, Fifine wakes up to hear Mimi's cries, realizing her mistake in leaving the cat locked away without food. In a moment of panic, she seeks help from the clergyman, who assists her in rescuing Mimi. This incident serves as a turning point for Fifine, as she learns about the consequences of her actions and the importance of managing her temper. The clergyman gently explains that it was actually her mother who informed him about the incident, not a "little bird," as he had initially suggested. This revelation prompts Fifine to reflect on her behavior and the impact it has on those around her. The story concludes with her expressing remorse and a desire to improve, emphasizing themes of accountability, forgiveness, and the lessons learned from childhood misbehavior.
By Mary Louisa Molesworth · First published 1882 · Genre: Children's Literature, Fiction, Animal Fiction