The Ivory Duchess

That day in July when we went to the gates where the crowd was assembling,

I remember it well.

The noise and commotion, a veritable ocean of streamers and crinolines,

Of colours and smells.

But oh! the magnificence, stupendous significance.My heart in my mouth and my hand held in yours

We pushed further forward, our eyes searching skyward

Anticipation alive in each cell.

She appeared from the clouds like a mist gaining form,

Precociously sailing ahead of the storm.

Thermalised canvas stretched taut on brass wires

Vanilla sweet smoke trailing , seldom desired.

"It's The Ivory Duchess! She's the beauty of the Nation!"

I heard someone exclaim.......but then ........consternation!

A scream, a piercing shriek, a snapping of flags

As this marvel of centuries, this wonderful cloudcraft

Faltered in flight, crumbled, it's might turned to grey ash 

Fell in dust ,ash and rust, death .......the terrible hush.

I remember it well as we turned from the gate.