How To Get On In Society by John Betjeman. Phone for the fish-knives, Norman As Cook is a little unnerved; You kiddies have crumpled the serviettes And I must have things daintily served. Are the requisites all in the toilet? The frills round the cutlets can wait Till the girl had replenished the cruets And switched on the logs in the grate. It's ever so close in the lounge, dear, But the vestibule's comfy for tea And Howard is out riding on horseback So do come and take some with me. Now here is a fork for your pastries And do use the couch for your feet; I know what I wanted to ask you - If trifle sufficient for sweet? Milk and then just as it comes, dear? I'm afraid the preserve's full of stones; Beg pardon, I'm soiling the doileys With afternoon tea-cakes and scones. |