Dug this one out of the archives. Written 2014.
You’re terribly kind and polite
I am sure
when you ask how the snipe hunt is going;
and you offer to buy me a coffee or cake
since I’ve nowhere else to be.
.
You’re terribly kind and polite
I am sure
when you ask if there’s been any sign;
and I say there was one last week
I heard but never saw
and you say well,
at least it shows they’re out there.
.
You’re terribly kind and polite
I am sure
when you say a glimpse is better than none;
two in two weeks,
that’s three in a month!
That’s good
isn’t it.
.
You’re terribly kind and polite
I am sure
when you tell of a snipe over there;
I stalk it and hide and I look and I see –
it’s another Greater Spotted Snipe
and I only have a license
for the Lesser.
.
You’re terribly kind and polite
I am sure
when you say one is bound to turn up;
it’s all good practice,
keep hunting, my dear,
and then you leave
so you’re not late
for work.