All mantelpieces should be wide So cats can walk there side by side. There should be trees in every room For exercise in storm and gloom. VII. THE CATNIP MOUSE 46 If I were asked what I would like To beautify my house, I’d say without a moment’s thought, Give me a catnip mouse. VIII. THE FIRST SNOWSTORM 52 I love the frostwork on the panes, The snowfall on the trees. I like the time when winter reigns, And lakes and rivers freeze. IX. BUSY SALLY 61 Long naps by day, I like that best, When the great sun is hot and bright. That seems the time to take a rest, After a long and strenuous night. X. MOODS 69 Perhaps the lady in her silk, And coat of costly fur, Would sometimes like my bowl of milk, If she could have my purr. XI. PETER 78 Old Peter I have put to flight On more than one occasion. He says for country he will fight, I call it an invasion. XII. SALLY AND THE LOUD SPEAKER 87 Speak gently, it is better far; Soft answers are the best, And low replies. Loud speakers are A nuisance to the rest. XIII. SALLY BRACES UP 95 The New Year is a glorious date For resolutions splendid, And dreams of valor far more great Than in the year that’s ended. XIV. SALLY AND SPOT 102 A tree is such a pleasant place I’ll stay here through the night If Spot continues at its base. That villain I won’t fight. XV. THE FAMILY TREE 112 I long to have a family tree And show to all my true descent. But Oxford says a family tree Is not a tree for kittens meant. To know his father is enough For he was made of valiant stuff. XVI. THE TRAVELING CAT 120 A traveler comes who’s seen the world, The harbor and the sea. He’s seen the spreading sails unfurled, And all life’s mystery. XVII. OXFORD GOES ON A JOURNEY 127 Proud scion of a noble race am I; The blood of hunters courses through my veins. Variety I crave before I die; I fear not furious gales, nor autumn rains. XVIII. SALLY HAS HER WISH 139