The Shamus Chronicles: More About Harvey

by Betty Poole

Harvey the cat has been in residence with me along with his human family since last May. Feelings between Harvey and me have only intensified. Neither of us has found any basis for change.

Harvey, like most cats, spends his nights outdoors. There is shelter in the woodshed or on the porch, so he is not entirely at the mercy of the elements. Usually he prefers the hood of my car as evidenced by muddy footprints all over the hood every morning.

At daybreak, as soon as one of us humans opens the front door, Harvey flashes inside and heads for the softest chair in the living-room. Manfred, my son-in-law and Harvey's boss, pours himself a cup of coffee and also heads for that chair. Manfred's love for Harvey does not extend to relinquishing his immediate comfort. He tenderly picks Harvey up and carries him into the bedroom, gently laying him in the middle of the comforter on their bed. Harvey, of course, resents arbitrary decisions being made for him, and promptly returns to the living-room where he stares accusingly at Manfred, then jumps into the chesterfield where he carries out his morning wash.

I am of a peace- loving nature--as long as the peace is on my terms. I use an enormous amount of restraint during the day by denying my desire to pick Harvey up off the furniture and toss him outside. This procedure would be satisfying, but pointless however, as Harvey merely turns around, rises to his hind legs and rhythmically scratches the glass on the french door, ultimately driving the occupants to desperation, and letting him in again.

Promptly at 3 p.m. Harvey remembers that it is his dinner time, and strolls into the kitchen, loudly voicing his demand for immediate service. After dinner a drink of water is in order--not from the water bowl provided, but from the toilet bowl or the bottom of the bathtub.

Harvey is beloved by his family and he knows it. It must be this very affection that has made Harvey the arrogant, self-centred creature he is.

In order to live in harmony with Harvey, he must be viewed with amusement and humour. Otherwise Harvey's ninth life might be seriously threatened.