Orlando is a cat.
In human terms he passed sixty this month, so is now eligible to be a member of Autumn Voices. His ‘staff’, Sallie and Robin, have filled in the QQQ for him because he’s too busy doing more important things… like catching up on his sleep.
Coming soon: Orlando’s new, regular Autumn Voices feature – ‘Online with Orlando’. Keep a watch out for it!
Four important facts about yourself:
- When I was six months old I found myself in a scary sort of cage! In fact, this was my first contact with tall two-legged creatures. Up until then I lived outside on a farm with a large family who all looked the same as me, only bigger.
- Quite soon after this my cousin, Zaffron, and I went to live in Helensburgh. At first we were terrified of these ‘humans’. It turned out they meant us no harm so I started training them to be my staff.
- I have been hit by a car twice. On one of these occasions I was badly injured, but I’ve made a full recovery. The traffic is a lot faster late at night and in the early hours of the morning. So I don’t go out then.
- I have special ‘night-night cuddles’ when I stretch out and get my belly scratched and stroked, and behind my ears and under my….prrr, prrr …chin.
What is your favourite age that you’ve been so far?
Now. It’s always now. I live in the moment.
Who is your favourite fictional character over 60?
The Katnapper (who turns out to be a big, soft-hearted goody) in Orlando’s Silver Wedding by Kathleen Hale.
You have three minutes to get out before your house collapses and burns to the ground. What one possession would you grab and take with you?
My favourite toy mouse.
What’s your favourite creative pastime?
In the garden, running, hiding, pouncing with my friend Corvo from next door. Everything is play and everything is creative, right?
Tell us something about yourself that’s surprising or unexpected.
I do try my best to speak English, but my staff are a bit dim and don’t always understand.
Editors note:
It is important to note that Orlando may reply to comments or questions left on this article. Whilst out during the day he’s been known to abuse the free WiFi connection at the local library and may be unsupervised. We cannot be held responsible for his comments.
I spent all afternoon outside the library stealing their WiFi and I’m sad nobody has asked any questions yet. Back home now with my staff. They might be sleeping but I’m still plotting against them.
Oh no he isn’t! But he might be plotting how to get extra treats and how to get into No. 28 and raid the food bowl of the stupid tabby that lives there.
From his Staff.