It had carried the poor drenched cat into the Wandering Woman Tavern expecting someone besides myself to find pity for it. Gaining the cat a meal was not my foremost motive for going there.

I was sure there was gold to be had if one had means of getting their hands on it and I knew I had many means to that end. While I had deft fingers, I did not need to steal at this time. Some would say I had plenty but I wanted more.

After dropping the cat to the floor, I bought a drink and strolled about slowly taking in the goings on and deciding what I should offer first..Maybe read a palm or two, spread the cards or a little gambling.

I strolled past a table with an extra chair and as I had hoped the men there ask me to join them. "Ov course." I said in my smokey voice. "It vould be my pleasure."

Then putting on my most fetching smile I said. "Please. Do not stop your game. Maybe could I join you?" Two of the men guffawed and I bit my tongue not to curse them. The third rose from his chair, smiled at me and speaking in an eloquent tone replied. "If it pleases the lady to game, you are most welcome to join in." He gave the other two men a scathing look which immediately hushed them. They bent their heads in embarrassment as I settled onto the proffered chair the eloquent gentleman held for me.

Then I heard the most unusual singing. I turned toward the sound and refrained from dropping my chin on my chest when I realized the song was coming from the wet cat I had sneaked in.

Immediately I knew I had but moments ago held a fortune in my very arms! I must reclaim the marvelous creature at once!