In the diner the busboy counts the empty stools and looks at his reflection in the coffee urns. On the radio the announcer says the allies have won another victory. There have been few casualties.

It will, we hope, be everything
you ever wanted in a medallion.

Offenders will be prosecuted
without regard for age or sex.

We begin, we extend, we reach forth, we
entice, we commence, we begin to dream, we

We did not cry out in alarm. Jill
did fall down, and something spilled.

Because of one blow
I have entered the celibacy
Of silence

I know there is a window
Opening onto
A garden

the bone bared and hack-sawed through
muscle parts pulled gently over the end

Arriving there just after dark 1 see that the draw-bridge has been raised. I compare my situation to that of a piece of luncheon meat destined for a sandwich, only to find that the bread it was supposed to occupy is already accounted for.