The Water Trolley

The past – a sea battle.
The ocean heaves darkly
spitting broad white sea spray
Little ships dance up and down high waves
Classical melodies ringing in the back –
Carried along with heavy, nearly painful ease.

A little pert man in a black frock
with white skirt cuffs and long collars
black narrow pin trousers and gaiters.
A tiny hat straight on his head.

His eyes wide open, searching horizons.
His mouth gaping astonished: Ooooooooh...
Not at all frightened out of sheer surprise
pumping the lever of the water trolley up and down,
carrying him steadfastly over the endless sea.

His nose in the wind – hands gripping the rails tight.