BALLADE OF CROSS WORDS

By

Ruth Franc von Phul

(Cross Word Puzzle Champion of the World)[1]

Once from the world I sought surcease

Between a novel’s covers pressed;

No longer there I look for peace;

Of anodynes I’ve found the best.

So, when the sun sinks in the west

Sunk, too, are husband, friends and cook—

Where do I find my treasure chest?

All in the leaves of the Cross Word Book.

If from ennui you seek release

Purchase this book; don’t beg; invest!

Madame, she will love ze fine service

A caller intrudes? Hein? Kill ze pest!

Oh, Noah Webster, you are blest

When for a clue in your works I look—

Where is all life from “less” to “crest”?

All in the leaves of the Cross Word Book.

What galleon sought the Golden Fleece?

What is the Welsh for “eagle’s nest”?

What is a Flemish tartan crease?

Who was it asked the Erse for “breast”?

Who can define a Baltic jest?

Who ever called it a six-pronged hook!

You will discern them, mixed and messed,

All in the leaves of the Cross Word Book.