5 a.m.

Gentle rustling of leaves from nearby tree
same early bird-song drifting through my window
my eyes were heavy and I was still drowsy-
jealously I clung to my pillow.

6 a.m. onwards to 6.59

The train had its first run around my area
the dreadful clanging sound was too familiar
the neighbour's wretched dog Heather
was barking at the milkman--at six and a quarter.

7 a.m.

The mini-bus had arrived at the nearby school
the kids began to sing ' We Are The Nation's Pride'
Mrs Scrim the HM uttered the same words: 'Obey every rule'
my sleep was shattered--I rolled from side to side.

8 a.m.
     The automatic clock sang: ' Oh What A Beautiful Morning'
     (Getting up from bed was like being summoned to the jail)
      my wife yelled  ' You'll be sacked if you go on lingering'
      this is the pulse of the day--do you understand my sad tale?