Oh, loveliness incarnate, especially

          round the spout,

Divinest that ever poured

          afternoon tea out!

Thy form embodies beauty, yet thy

          base is balanced, too,

Small wonder that my heart is

caught and held by your brew!

You did not cost my savings and

         undoubtedly you’re good;

Your children, too, the cups and

  plates, I welcome as I should!

There’s breed, my dear, about you,

            flush of colour I adore.

And yet, you know, I picked you up

           in a famous store.

Each time we part I pray, sweet, as

your countenance is hid, That never

shall I hear those words, “Please

mum, I’ve smashed the lid!”

THE SHELLEY STANDARD

March 1930