But that is only the beginning. Fur like the finest Italian velvet - heaven to the touch, a pattern designed by the gods - no two the same, uniquely intelligent, with remarkable memory, sometimes aloof and introspective - always the stunning grace of a cat. Sometimes almost canine, - earnest, expressive, happily fetching toys or swimming. In true rough-house mode behaving like a monkey, with astounding speed at climbing and leaping antics, powerfully strong, incorrigably creative about reaching a fixed goal. A bewitching sweetness, altogether a glory to watch, and for me, an ongoing inspiration.

Ours were adopted from a variety of situations. The eldest, "Ishka", for whom we were foster parents and a fifth home, lived to the marvelous age of twenty-five, the last twenty-two of them as a member of our family. Sleeping with her under the covers was like having a puff of cloud resting on your shoulder and curled about your toes all at the same time. Back
J.S.T.