He has the ear of all the ladies of society
the old and young, the gossip of gentility
and yes, he can make a dress of refinery
but his most impressive feat is his loyalty.

Carries secret messages with all discretion
merely a tradesperson, gives an impression
nobody would dream he hears her confession
and duplicity is his forté, tend to her lesson.

Haute couture, fabrics to dazzle, trim to hide
much can be hidden in design, treasures reside
away from view, vulgarity on show she can't abide
tittle-tattle, they follow like cattle to be at his side.

For he's the Queen's Dressmaker, highest rank
has her patronage and in return to thank
he lets out the whispers, the details frank,
and she sorts their import, the value to bank.

Fine velvets, delicate lace, latest fashions of France,
let them all think she'll strut and she'll dance
a lady and her whimsy for fineries to enhance,
but from his lips as he measures her hips, plans she'll advance.



© .Garry Saunders