Ducks and geese in a pond racket honking
biblical readings mmourners.made wearyripples in waterfall lake
offtrees cattails and red-winged blackbirds andall the air in gassho.
Seven men in gun green uniforms and bright white gloves fired three shots.
flag was unfolded and refolded. Glovedhands checked and rechecked the folds, pressing armyand adjusting some loss. "On behalf of the President of theUnited States, the United States Army, and a grateful nation, this fl ag is presented as a token of app reciation for your loved one’s honorable a
nd a faithful service."
Groundskeeper fiddles at marble font with electric screwdriver.
Statics and radio crackle from the voices at his belt,
"Yeah, one of the pumps is out. I'll be down later."
