by Erna Martha Odell
Stanley was not welcome, I did not want another cat. Especially a large tiger cat with no tail, huge paws and an attitude. This was one muscular and strong animal. My son promised me that I would not have to do anything for the cat, he would do it all. Like I believed that story, it was the same old story time after time. My children would bring home animals, deposit them in my home, and then either go back to school, or move out. Reggie was the youngest, and here he comes again with yet, another cat. Stanley stayed and took over the house. He was arrogant, he was tough, and he got what he wanted. He was fed what he liked, and he would give you a hint of recognition once in a while... his eyes were slanted and green, and they would not put up with any nonsense. Everyone feared Stanley, neighbors would stay clear of him, and other cats knew better then to fool with Stanley. Dogs would race toward Stanley, and he would keep completely still and they would rush and he would just put out one claw and run it down the dog's face. Dogs did not mess with Stanley after the initial encounter. As the years went by, Stanley became more and more of a presence, he was part of the family, and he was the King of the Animals.