Notes and Queries/Series 1/Volume 6/Northumberland Tradition

Northumberland Tradition.—Joaney or Johnny Reed, the parish clerk of a village near Newcastle, was returning home one evening, and in passing a gate by the roadside marvelled much to see nine cats about it. His wonder was changed to horror when one of the cats addressed him, "Joaney Reed, Joaney Reed, tell Dan Ratcliffe that Peg Powson is dead." Joaney hurried home to his wife, and instantly informed her of the circumstance, wondering at the same time who Dan Ratcliffe might be; when up sprang the cat from the hearth, and exclaiming "If Peg Powson's dead, it's no time for me to be here," rushed out of the house and was seen no more.P. P.