dulcie

By Jan Busch










a wild free enterprising spirit
before the age of 10
not yet 11
whose after school duties
were different from most of them

before the classroom commences
the learning of 3 r’s
sources out the deepest greenest clover patch
for the afternoon cow minding duties
“come watch dulcie explode”

before the classroom commences
the learning of 3 r’s
sources out the biggest bull ants' nest
for the afternoon cow minding duties
“come watch dulcie dance”

before the classroom commences
the learning of 3r’s
the skipping competition is posted
for the afternoon cow minding duties
“come watch dulcie hold the rope”

before the classroom commences
the learning of 3 r’s
bets placed tickets sold by halfpennies of old
for the afternoon cow minding duties
“come watch your money go”

this wild free enterprising spirit
with fortune gained
selected capstain red & white
to smoke behind the lavvy
and hide in the sand each night

majestic beauty
radiates calmness dignity
whose saucer eyes
are all seeing
all knowing
bestows patience indulgent by ancient wisdom
“come meet dulcie my jersey cow”

© Jan Busch 2007