The Railings

You came to watch me playing cricket once.

Quite a few of the fathers did.

At ease, outside the pavilion

they would while away a Saturday afternoon.

Joke with the masters, urge on

their flannelled offspring. But not you.

Fielding deep near the boundary

I saw you through the railings.

You were embarrassed when I waved

and moved out of sight down the road.

When it was my turn to bowl though

I knew you’d still be watching.

Third ball, a wicket, and three more followed.

When we came in at the end of the innings

the other dads applauded and joined us for tea.

Of course, you had gone by then. Later,

you said you’d found yourself there by accident.

Just passing. Spotted me through the railings.

***

Speech-days • Prize-givings • School-plays

The Twentyfirst • The Wedding • The Christening

You would find yourself there by accident.

Just passing. Spotted me through the railings.