At last the cat one day said, “Wait.

Enough of this.  Don’t spoil your fate.

You’re lucky if you only knew

the things that I could do for you,

that is, if I should wish to try.”

“Then do them,” Pippo said, “and I

will be forever in your debt.

I’ll treat you well.  You’ll be my pet.”

The cat took pity.  “I’ll be gone

a little while.  Just carry on.”

She caught and brought a luscious fish

up to the king.  “Sire, if you wish

my good Lord Cagliuso sends

this gift and hopes you’ll soon be friends."

Next time it was an oriole,

or blackcaps strung upon a pole.

The king was pleased with every treat

and told the cat, “I’d like to meet

your lord in person.  Bring him here.”

“He’ll come tomorrow, do not fear.”