Wow, a quick response in a 20-something-year-old thread.

OK, I'll accept your explanation of "a-". It certainly fits what I hear, even if the meaning is indefinite.

But I think you're wrong about one thing: it's not "The gray cat spit in the little cat's eye": it's the *big* cat. Listen to your recording again. (BTW, I'm pretty sure that's the same one I'm listening to, from a County LP.)

Does your ear agree?

Regarding "porter", my vote would be for "poultry", which would make more sense, no?