V   On Duty

First things first: the Crossword of the Day,

which I do while showing visitors the way.

I’m paid for boredom and the tide

of non-events on which I ride.

We’re waiting to hear about our jobs.

Six across could be the Ace of Spades.

What would I curate if I had to leave?

These mud flats? Anagram: Reprieve.

The open handbag of a screaming gull?

The passing clouds? Fifteen is Dull.

The crossword setter, my anonymous friend

gives me clues to my unknown mind.

These are snakes and ladders you’ll never climb

or follow to anywhere. Last word is Time.