A Highly Cultured Tiger, both carnivorous and nice,
Was greatly aggravated by a horde of Rodent Mice
That showed the lack of manners uninvited to intrude,
And played the Very Mischief with his comfort and his food.
The Tiger, for the cleansing of his Himalayan flat,
Installed within the domicile a Recommended Cat
Who chased the Sleek Marauders when they gathered to the feast
(Observing due precautions not to harm them in the least),
Which left the Tiger happy in his victuals and his sleep,
While Pussy drew good Wages in addition to her Keep.
Now Pussy, growing weary, took a fortnight to recruit
Her health, and left a Kitten as a Likely Substitute.
But Kitty proved Ambitious, and, despite of grievous wails,
Devoured all the Rodents but their whiskers and their tails!
The Highly Cultured Tiger, being highly pleased thereat,
Discharged, with thanks, his Servitors, the Kitty and the Cat;
And while it's rash to credit every word a person hears,
They say an angry Pussy boxed a hopeful Kitty's ears.
And while I've told the legend as it runs in Hindustan,
I've clean forgot the Moral—you may find it if you can.