31 JANUARY 1964, Page 24

When We Were Married

She took the book from the shelf And turned the pages slowly. 'I loved this book,' she said, 'When we were married.

"lhat song that teases silence Was a favourite of mine; It did not grow tedious. While we were married.

'I ate some food tonight But did not relish it.

It was a dish that I enjoyed When we were married.

When we were married,' she said, And her lashes were glistening, 'I felt at home in this house, that bed.' But the man was not listening.

VERNON SCANNELL