A dark-eyed Roman artisan
with flowing curls of copper hair
said, ‘Cara, I’ve a suit for you
that will not stretch and will not tear
a perfect fit! there’s just one catch:
it won’t look good with underwear.’
‘You little minx,’ our hero said,
‘whatever will the people say?
already they all criticise
my actions each and every day
at least I need a skirt with this –
and round my knees the hem must stay!’
‘Carina knows my mind too well
you’re spoiling my sartorial fun
but do not fear, I promise it’s
the finest work I’ve ever done
it won’t get wet, it will not burn,
it will resist both blade and gun.’
Our hero kissed the olive cheeks
‘These Roman hands have earned my trust
I love your sweet Italic fire
you stir my heart and fuel my lust
I’d never leave your tender arms –
but fate is cruel! Alas! I must…’
Francis James Franklin (Alina Meridon) 