Patriot Bear SIR
I don�t get to say that very often. It would be nice to have a pair of hightop leather boots with thick heels I could click together after I say it.
I have just been moderating a discussion (translation: settling an argument) up on the bookshelf about who is going to use the computer next. The fast typists think they ought to go first so they can get done and out of the way. The slow typists think they ought to go first because they need more time. The medium-speed typists then suggested that they get their typing done while the other two groups decide which of them should go before the other. This issue may not seem like a big deal to you, but we have so few issues that every one of them is a big deal. And I�m sure you are well aware of the differences in opinion that can exist within one family!
I don�t mean to create the impression we are fussing and feuding up there on the bookshelf. Actually, when discussions start getting a little heated or too many members are speaking out of turn or all at once, I just say, �HARRUMPH!� and they all settle down again. You hear that? They heard me say it, and now we can�t hear them.
I came to Ms. Mary from her friend in Connecticut who was allergic to the dust that kept collecting in my fur. I tried to get it off, but when I brushed it off me, it went into the air so it was still around to make Charise sneeze. I went to Florida with Charise in October 2003 and Ms. Mary whisked me off to California and put me in charge of law and order on the bookshelf. There aren�t many laws � other than �Don�t fall off� � and we aren�t organized in any particular order up here, so I spend a lot of my time just sitting here saluting the memory of my idol, Teddy Roosevelt.
I keep an eye on the new members to make sure they get acquainted and start feeling at home. Their newness sometimes makes me remember my days as a new patriot way back when, and it gives me a lump in my throat, and makes my whiskers twitch, and I have to say �HARRUMPH� � and it usually happens when the members need a little reminder to be quieter and more dignified, so I get credit for being a good supervisor. Don�t tell them it is mostly because I am a soft-hearted old patriot; I�d like to maintain the illusion of authority for a little while longer. And I actually do say it on purpose sometimes when it really is necessary.