The gods were once disputing whether it was possible for a living being to change its nature. Jupiter said“Yes，”but Venus said“No.”

　　So，to try the question，Jupiter turned a Cat into a Maiden，and gave her to a young man for a wife. The wedding was duly performed and the young couple sat down to the wedding-feast.“See，”said Jupiter，to Venus，“how becomingly she behaves. Who could tell that yesterday she was but a Cat？Surely her nature is changed？”

　　“Wait a minute，”replied Venus，and let twose a mouse into the room. No soonedid the bride see this than she jumped up from her seat and tried to pounce upon the mouse.“Ah，you see，”said Venus，“Nature will out.”