TEMPERANCE

agonizing

   I toss an abundance

             of the night                                             

Struggle to restore my sleep, in vain

I settle in bed eyes peeled half open

Sand crystals glued to them

I reflect upon the captain’s dinner

In two days hence

My temper is sheer chaos

As I try to sort matters

 

I shall not be rude

Yet I fear the unknown

A momentary notion of my soldier

Entrusted to this hospital bed

Yet a new instant of this perfectly

Kind gentleman

Seemingly smitten with me

And wishes to pursue me

I must keep my distance

In order that I do not forfeit restrain

Oh, if someone else would only make this call

 

I dress with my wool shawl and stroll around

The ship’s walking path

Catch some fresh sea air

Perhaps this will guide me

To a final decision

 

Tis a crisp morning whither the salt aura

Cleanses my nostrils

Thick brown hair swaggers in the breeze

I lean against the ship’s railing

Mutter incessantly, ought to cease this rubbish

 

Fine, I say to myself

I shall attend the captain’s dinner

With my gentleman friend

Though with temperance

 

 

Author's Note

Thank you for supporting this endeavor!

Reviews

[John the Baptist]

In this installment, we find the lady still wrestling inwardly with her desires and doubts about whether to attend the captain's dinner with her new admirer. She feels hesitant because her soldier boyfriend is still hospitalized, but something about the gentleman does attract her. A walk around the ship seems to clear her mind and she decides to accompany him to the dinner "with temperance." Is she gradually getting in over her head?

[Betty Hermelee]

Maybe! Thanks for a great review John, really appreciate!
Warmly,
B.

[Julie McCarthy (juliesp..]

This is amazing truly
Loved this one ☝️
Hope you well Betty

[Betty Hermelee]

Thank you so much Julie, appreciate!
Warmly, B