BALLADE OF CROSS WORDS
Reading edition
By
Ruth Franc von Phul
Once from the world I sought surcease
Between a novel’s covers pressed;
No longer there I look for peace;
Of anodynes I’ve found the best.
So, when the sun sinks in the west
Sunk, too, are husband, friends and cook—
Where do I find my treasure chest?
All in the leaves of the Cross Word Book.
If from ennui you seek release
Purchase this book; don’t beg; invest!
Madame, she will love ze fine service
A caller intrudes? Hein? Kill ze pest!
Oh, Noah Webster, you are blest
When for a clue in your works I look—
Where is all life from “less” to “crest”?
All in the leaves of the Cross Word Book.
What galleon sought the Golden Fleece?
What is the Welsh for “eagle’s nest”?
What is a Flemish tartan crease?
Who was it asked the Erse for “breast”?
Who can define a Baltic jest?
Who ever called it a six-pronged hook!
You will discern them, mixed and messed,
All in the leaves of the Cross Word Book.
L’envoi
Prince: if from affairs your soul craves rest,
Hie you to some abandoned nook.
There for your mind seek a gayer test
All in the leaves of the Cross Word Book.