Come snuggle-puss I said to him,
come cuddle up real tight.
No, he said, don't want to,
I have to go catch mice.

They won't run away I said to him, No, he said, can't do that,
then there'll be trees to climb.

Don't be cruel, I said to him,
I like to feel your fur.
No, he said, haven't time,
but you can listen while I purr.

Not good enough I said to him,
I want to hold you tight.
No, he said, really can't stay,
must go watch the birds in flight.

Your dinner's here I said to him,
guess I'll put away the plate.
No, he said, I want it now,
all those other things can wait.

You're a naughty puss I said to him,
you're just making use of me.
No, he said, that's your job,
to make sure I get my tea.

By Grace Tolson