THE CALLING CARD (19th Century)

MY calling card you touched
a heavy stock and rough
that dream in stocking
those days a top hat
and knickers as much
the rules of etiquette
distribute upon my visits
that servant received
the card upon silver tray
and you would accept
my calling that day
if away that servant
would save my calling
and return I would —
another day
unless you sent to me
a card in envelope
and I would know then
a cold brush-off today
Such eloquence is lost
a great manner extinguished
but rare be the man today
that keeps tradition
a respect for women

:: 04-04-2014 ::