by Carol Sones Shetler

A stray kitten rescued from a rural area near Opp basks in his new digs in the “City of Brotherly Love,” a testimony to the caring hearts and hands of several humans.

Sharon Snyder was unable to trace the origins of a male tiger kitten beyond the ruffian’s arrival at her doorstep.

Although the feline was welcomed by Snyder’s young grandsons, she feared the family dogs would resent sharing their domain. In addition to the safety factor, autumn temperatures grew colder with each passing day.

The news of “Kitty’s” plight spread and eventually he was taken across county lines and the next temporary home. After removing a tick from the kitten’s neck, shots were arranged by the new caregiver. Cody replaced Kitty as a more masculine name on the vet’s paperwork. The search for a permanent home continued as several pets were also well entrenched at this stop.

Meanwhile, a neighbor and former Warrior Run grad arrived home from college break and knew a classmate longing for a companion. After viewing his photos on camera phone, Amy Miller made the required $350 deposit to house the pet in her Philadelphia apartment.

Travel arrangements were simple as Miller expected her friend for a two-day visit before a return flight to a California University on New Year’s Day.

By now, Cody had acquired a mass of worldly goods including carrier, food, toys, litter and box plus a record of his vet visit.

After loading the vehicle with cat paraphernalia and the student’s luggage, Cody accompained three humans on a four-hour trip and rendezvous with Miller at the city limits.

For at least a third time, Cody was given a new name when Miller dubbed him Prince Edward.

She provided a neck collar inscribed with pertinent information on the chance ‘wander lust’ lures him away from his new digs.

Considering his move up in the world, Prince Edward may be an appropriate name. Pampered in an apartment loft is a far cry from his days as a country stray.

Prince’s curtural tastes are certain to improve as his owner, a music major, practices oboe hoping for a future seat in the symphony orchestra.

While Prince’s saga continues on a high note, all who aided his journey are assured he’ll never again be condemned to the life of a pauper.