One of the most famous buildings in Europe is the Tower of London, which housed one of the most notorious prisons in England. From 1100 to 1941, the tower held some of western history’s most famous prisoners, including King Henry VI, Sir Walter Raleigh, Anne Boleyn and Princess Elizabeth.
Sir Henry Wyatt and His Angel Cat
Sir Henry Wyatt was imprisoned in the Tower of London when Richard the III became king in 1483, because Richard believed Sir Henry might support the true heirs to the English throne.
During his two-year imprisonment, Sir Henry was tortured and in pain. King Richard always was present at these torture sessions. Afterward, Sir Henry was returned to his cell, where he received little to eat.
During these unbearable times, a cat fed the weak and hungry Sir Henry by regularly killing and bringing pigeons for him to eat. Sir Henry convinced a compassionate guard to cook the pigeons for him.
The cat would stay with Sir Henry, providing him with invaluable love and companionship. This cat, truly an angel, helped keep Sir Henry alive both physically and in spirit.
**For the full article, pick up the February 2007 issue of
CAT FANCY.**
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