As in her ancient mistress’ lap <br />The youthful tabby lay, <br />They gave each other many a tap, <br />Alike disposed to play. <br /> <br />But strife ensues. Puss waxes warm, <br />And with protruded claws <br />Ploughs all the length of Lydia’s arm, <br />Mere wantonness the cause. <br /> <br />At once, resentful of the deed, <br />She shakes her to the ground <br />With many a threat that she shall bleed <br />With still a deeper wound. <br /> <br />But, Lydia, bid thy fury rest: <br />It was a venial stroke: <br />For she that will with kittens jest <br />Should bear a kitten’s joke.<br /><br />William Cowper<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/familiarity-dangerous/
