The Cocks in the Barn by the Marchioness of Dorchester (~1650)
Such inclement weather
said I
to raise one’s skirts
in a barn
where the cock
roams
and cluck cluck clucks
asserting
eager prowess
After an early morning call.
Well,
said the farm hand,
I am
warmed
by the
hard
and
vigorous work
of the day.
Pray allow me
to warm her Ladyship
with mine hands
for they are
not without
expertise
in such matters
of heat
and comfort
M’lady?
I raised
my hems
as the rough
yet handsome
man approached
and I saw not one
but two
proud cocks
in the
barn that day.
After some
vigour,
I will not hesitate to say
I was truly warmed.
Indeed,
rosy of cheeks,
above and below,
as if soft
red flowers
ripe with
achievement bloomed
where the sun
rarely shines
©2023 Marchioness of Dorchester Sarnia de la Maré FRSA