For ten years, I had the privilege of Merrill's company. Always independent, he had his own way about everything. Merrill came when he wanted to and left just the same way. When he generously gave his attention, you knew you were really honored. Visitors seldom warmed to him. He really didn't care. Always, he acted tough and self-sufficient but when you really knew him, you realized his gentle nature and deep purr. Mer loved to have his cheeks rubbed and would sit for long times lavishly bestowing his affection. He was a good listener. Whenever I had problems or was down, he was there to listen to me. Last week, the vet gave us the verdict. Mer had kidney failure, diabetes and some other problems. Today, I went with him to the vet's one last time. I wouldn't let him go by himself. I owed him to much. I held him gently as he left. I'll miss him. He was always a good friend. He gave me much more than I could ever repay.