by Stephen Gold

“More people leaving money for pets in their will”
—The Times

Dear Children,
Now that I’ve expired,
A moment you have long desired,
The time has come for you to know
The destination of my dough.

Though in life I fed and clothed you,
Truth to tell, I always loathed you.
So, I’ve left it all to Spot,
And you, my dears, get diddly-squat!

Loyal, steadfast, good and true
(None of which applies to you!),
The virtues of the saints abound
Within that lion-hearted hound.

I’ve tried to make this note concise,
But here’s a last piece of advice.
Pine not for what you never had.
The dog’s day’s come.
Best wishes,
Dad