Father Ignatius wrote...
> How to Get On in Society
> John Betjeman
>
> Phone for the fish-knives, Norman
> As Cook is a little unnerved;
> You kiddies have crumpled the serviettes
> And I must have things daintily served.
> Are the requisites all in the toilet?
> The frills round the cutlets can wait
> Till the girl has replenished the cruets
> And switched on the logs in the grate.
> It's ever so close in the lounge, dear,
> But the vestibule's comfy for tea
> And Howard is out riding on horseback
> So do come and take some with me.
> Now here is a fork for your pastries
> And do use the couch for your feet;
> I know what I wanted to ask you --
> Is trifle sufficient for sweet?
> Milk and then just as it comes dear?
> I'm afraid the preserve's full of stones;
> Beg pardon, I'm soiling the doileys
> With afternoon tea-cakes and scones.
>
Ah, yes, I remember it well. This sounds just like my mother, who
even looked like Hyacinth Bucket.
--
Noel
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