A Mrs Tiggywinkle Senior,

toadily-hunkered in a safe corner

in the rather posher cafe

than was her wont, 

bundled inside a plethora of headgear - a cape, earmuffs, scarf, 

 out of which she grimly scowled;

l’itle ole harpy witch, bereft of broom

on her thick, wrinkled ankles

 in a baggy coat

with ancient bag and massive purse

…until she saw her cohort friend 

scuttle in the door.

Then her face lit up, 

gappy teeth and all

in an expression of sweetest joy

like the sun coming from behind a cloud.

 

She knew a thing or two!

not the less for not knowing about

bespoke fresh-ground coffee

kindsof of baguettes, bistro specials, toasties, gluten free carrot cake.

Shameless eavesdroppers beware!

Get bewitched and besozzled 

by her top-secret gossip,

her savvy politics, loud details

and how her eyes were everywhere,

 

Tricksy old hon!

She wins the day.

 

May