CONVERSATIONS WITH AMBER

Already introduced to the doting reader--there can be no other kind--in Amber: A Very Personal Cat (1970), the apricot Abyssinian is back and her relationship with her indulgent mistress is more kitschy-koo than ever. Taber now discerns three grades of purr, indicating degree of satisfaction with her ministrations to Amber's needs--though only a hiss and a sharp claw await casual interlopers. Taber twits on about Amber the nature lover, Amber the watchdog, Amber the gourmet individualist, Amber the jealous guardian of her affections, Amber the sage who worries not about aging. Less exalted matters like diet intrude--the adorable cat is very fond of lamb chops and asparagus tips and during the blizzard she was wrapped in ""my best"" cashmere sweater. Oh, for the sarcasm of Morris, the TV tyrant.