“In Chicago, you can’t swing a cat without hitting an Irish pub (and angering the cat), but McAnally’s place stands out from the crowd.”

“You don't take your cat with you to go bird shopping. Not because the cat isn't polite, but because he's a cat.”

“He gave me an inscrutable look that said maybe he would and maybe he wouldn't. Mister was a cat, and cats generally considered it the obligation of the universe to provide shelter, sustenance, and amusement as required. I think Mister considered it beneath his dignity to plan for the future.”

“My office is in a building in midtown Chicago. It's an older building, and not in the best of shape, especially since there was that problem with the elevator last year. I don't care what anyone says, that wasn't my fault. when a giant scorpion the size of an Irish wolfhound is tearing its way through the roof of your elevator car, you get real willing to take desperate measures.”

“...you look like you fell out of a crazy tree and hit every branch on the way down.”

“I would hit you on the head with a rock and drag you away from this. But it would only shatter the rock.”

“When everything goes to hell, the people who stand by you without flinching -- they are your family. ”