The art of chivalry is not dead

Or so to say that rumours of its death

Have been exaggerated.

A resurgence of its vitality observed

Commenting on itself through deed

Enacted in clear view of few who dared

Stopped in their tracks to engage with

Sidelong glances of approval.

He bends to kneel before her

Head bowed to the task

No need for comment or to flout

With convention that says she

Has spoken.

Presenting her foot as a slide rule

To measure his adoration in loops

And knots to tie himself to her

In one becalmed moment of the pre-

Occupational hazards of love.

Michael Haward