BUTTONS

"Dear James and Jayne Clayton,

You probably do not remember me, although you may recall my name from the newsletters I sent you both from Buttons.

I have thought long and hard about this matter, but in the end it was Buttons' own choice.

You see, I've only got a short while to live, the doctors have said less than a month at best, but enough about me.

I need to be sure that when I'm gone - all of my animal friends will be loved and taken proper care of.

Because Buttons is a very special friend to me, I let him choose his own future.

I lined up photographs of all his sponsors and let him choose who he'd like to go to after I'm gone.

He chose you!

I met the two of you when I was cleaning up after Buttons and you both offered to help.

Buttons remembers when Mrs. Clayton gave him her Manatee soft toy. He's kept that toy neat and tidy ever since.

I think he's got quite a soft spot for her.

Buttons and I have spent a lot of time together, He can sign a hundred or so words and is literally 'bright as a button!'

I have set up a trust fund for buttons so money will never be a problem for any of you. Buttons is a very special person to me, full of secrets and suprises.

I know you will love him as I do - and I need for him to be happy...

My kindest Thanks,

J. Hercules Campbell."