The Grocer's Cat

Behold the village grocer's cat! That's who I am; (Named Sam) Not sleek — not fat — But foe, and woe, to sneaking rat.

I wander out and in 'Twixt box and bin With feline grin, And many a tender mouse I eat Because of silent feet, Well armed and fleet. Sometimes I park myself

On crowded shelf; Or in the window built for show — For that's a place I love to go To doze, and purr in the sun's warm glow And watch the circling flies below.

At night, when men and dogs are still I roam as dictates my sweet will. On many a cat date I intrude Without intending to be rude, When lo, an old feud is renewed! 'Tis thus I gather many a thrill.

My ears are slit ; and cocked one eye ;

And I well know the reason why. But what of that? I'm just the grocer's cat, Named Sam, That's who I am ! !