My great grandfather's Soliloquy on his Seventy-first Birthday
By Yvonne Bligh
I'm seventy-one! I'm seventy-one!
My racy life is nearly run
I've wandered far from East to West
And seen life at its worst and best.
Been mentioned in the London Times
For reading thoughts and kindred lines
I've sighted hosts of nature's freaks
Which every pushing showman seeks
And when down south in search of gold
Attended marts where slaves were sold!
Have travers'd Europe far and near
And dined with Parson, Prince and Peer;
Of dainty dishes had my share
(sauer-kraut, grilled frog and bear)
Cosmopolite I've been all through,
And fraternised with Greek and Jew.
Ills of the flesh have pass'd me by
I forgive the slight without a sigh
Hair-breadth escapes, I've had a few
Proverbial luck has proved quite true!
Of occupations, had a score
Poetic pranks adds just one more
As worldly treasures are but Dross,
Like rolling stones, I've saved no moss
I've mingled with the merry throng
And do so still - but not for long
Altho' admitting many faults
I fear not death or icy vaults
My consort, too, is full of years
(To state her age might lead to tears)
She's gentle, genial, gifted, good
And noted for her cheerful mood.
Martin Van Buren Bligh
(Born Michaelmas Day, 1833)
24 Queen's Gardens, Brighton
This page was added on 29/09/2006.