The story begins with the Linnet and the water rat discussing what the rat think a devoted friends should be like, and the story is most likely a work of children's literature. Yet, these anthropomorpic animals voice lofty idea about 'te best society' and 'te devoted friendship', showing more sophisticated preoccupations thn caraters seen in typical children's stories.Furthermore, te style of the story is rather satirical. From this, readers cann gater tha te story is intended for adults as well as children.