Another lovely poem sent by Mrs Edna Dolphin (nee Stephenson) who was born at Cowling in 1935.

We'd hear a knock upon the door,
We'd wonder, what they're calling for.

When at the door, we'd open wide,
We'd ask a man to step inside.

There stood a man, so short and fat,
In short white coat, Straw Bengy Hat.

Brown polished shoes, long stockinged legs,
Plus Four Trousers, with pouched up legs.

He was so nice, so full of charm,
A large straw basket, on his arm.

But covered up, with cloth so white,
Tied at the corners, to keep it tight.

This cover then he lifted off,
We'd see his Goodies, there to scoff.

'Twas full of Muffins, Pikelets, a few.
Some Crumpets, maybe Oatcake too.

Mum, would buy some, give him cash,
Then in the Bread Bin lightly stash.

But she always did a funny thing,
If Oatcake she did buy.

She'd spread it on the Clothes Rack,
As though to hang it out to dry.

Then later on she'd say to me,
'Please get down' she'd utter.

'That's just what we will have for Tea,
So tasty with some butter'.

But if in Lancashire, this treat,
They fill it up with Potted Meat.

You'll find it on the Menu Card,
It's Title there is 'Stew and Hard'


Edna M Dolphin