NUISANCE

There’s something in the backyard Gypsy wants,
Still shadowed in the hazy pre-dawn dark,
A hangout sometimes that a possum haunts,
Enticing Gyppie to patrol and bark,

Which must not be, of course: the neighbors would
Be angry to be roused peremptorily,
But Gyppie on her own will not be good,
And hence her discipline is up to me:

“Get in here now!  And shush that nasty noise!
There’re people over there who want to sleep!
Gypsy, come in!  I’ll get you treats and toys—
Hush up right now, and not another peep!”

     Gyp will submit and soon be pacified,
     A different dog once she is back inside.

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