Stray Cat

Oh, what unhappy twist of fate
Has brought you homeless to my gate?
The gate where once another stood
To beg for shelter, warmth, and food
For from that day I ceased to be
The master of my destiny

While he, with purr and velvet paw
Became within my house the law
He scratched the furniture and shed
And claimed the middle of my bed

He ruled in arrogance and pride
And broke my heart the day he died
So if you really think, Oh Cat,
I'd willingly relive all that
Because you come forlorn and thin
Well...don't just stand there...
Come on in!

Author Francis Witham