Fine Folk on Tour

 It would be a fatal error on your part
 to take me for a fool, Owen Wormgriever
I, Tansy Bellweather, insist you meet me in truth,
or leave me now.

 You've played havoc with my trusting heart.
You've played hard to get.
You've not played by the rules of love.
You're a bit player, for your part.

 There's longing in my silence, Owen.
You stop to smell the blood of your fallen foes.
I feel like I'm just watching life happen,
 What I want is to be living it.

 I'm looking for a life of adventure.
Take me with you on your travels.
Don't just tell me about your journey -
take me along.

 Oh, Tansy, my Tansy! 
You're but a maiden - fair and gentle.
There's no comfort for ladies on the road.
You'd be sore and unhappy by nightfall.

  I must insist, Owen Wormgriever!
I will bring a retinue of ladies to tend  us.
They'll provide victuals and wine -
we'll make merry and feast.

 What will become of Owen and Tansy?
How will they fare on the road?
Will the ladies bear the dust and grime?
Or will the entourage return anon?

 We're off at dawn, prepare to ride!
The carriage and horses are ready.
Provisions are stocked to last 
until we reach the Inn of the Tipsy Sailor.

 We're ready and so excited!
We've brought our fine silk gowns and hats.
All who see us will smile approval.
We'll show our fine manners to the folk.

The merry journey lasted but two days.
It wasn't the ladies who flagged, but the gents.
It seemed the relentless chatter was not to their liking.
Bickering ensued and Owen turned them back to town.
Tansy and Owen never again journeyed away.


©Ellen Pepper 2026