TOM: THE DOWNING-STREET CAT.

New Zealand Graphic, Volume IX, Issue 17, 23 April 1892, Page 423

TOM: THE DOWNING-STREET CAT.

Amongst the personages who have passed away of late none apparently, within a certain circle, seem to have been more lamented than ‘ Tom,’ the well-known Downing-street cat’ A determined ratter, he was the friend alike in turn of Con. servative or Liberal Ministers, and was as pleased to be noticed by Lord Prime Salisbury as by Mr Gladstone, whilst Ambassadors of whatever nationality were always welcomed by him alike with the same urbanity. ‘ Tom ’ was devoted to the military, and generally took up his abode in the sentry box outside the Foreign Office, but fell, alas ! at last a prey to two ruffianly bull-terriers, after a gallant resistance, and if ever there seems to have been a case for a sentry to have used his bayonet and told these assailants to have moved on, the present was one. As it is, ‘ Tom ' has departed full in years, and to the regret of all those who have had the honour of his acquaintance during the past ten years.