feed the kittens in the kitchen.

set food out for the strays.

try hard to do your best.

the magpie will have his way.



fill your mouth with berries

by the full light of the moon.

work all night if you have to.

the magpie comes at noon.



shore up the crucifixes

above the archways and the doors.

the magpie will come at midday.

and you will go down on all fours.



and when the cherries white with blossoms

be ready and be brave.

and remember what we had here

when there was something left to save.