According to Ruth Edna Kelley:

The actions of cats on Hallowe’en betoken good or bad luck. If a cat sits quietly beside any one, he will enjoy a peaceful, prosperous life; if one rubs against him, it brings good luck, doubly good if one jumps into his lap. If a cat yawns near you on Hallowe’en, be alert and do not let opportunity slip by you. If a cat runs from you, you have a secret which will be revealed in seven days.  – from chapter XV