Frank J. Meistrell the Third!
(Spokane, August 1971)
There's noos down in Knoxville of greatest import,
It ain't Economics, it ain't even Sport.
There's tidings in Tennessee, haven't you heard?
About the arrival of "F.J.M. III"
"Hurrah" cried the people, "We're pleased as can be,
As all good American people should be,
Well done proud Mother and you proud Father you!"
And an Englishman echoes the "Well done there!" too.
Yes , of course, I'm delighted and Philled up with joy,
To know of the marvel of your new baby boy.
I'm sure that you love him, wouldn’t have any other.
And three cheers for Kerry - 'cos she got her bruvver!
My first job in the USA had been in Tennessee working with Frank J. Mesitrell Junior. He and Sonia and their little daughter Kerry had taken me into their home and made me more than welcome. Having said that, Frank sometimes seemed more interested in spending time at his stockbrokers, Merrill Lynch, than working and lost his job some months later. I knew they'd been expecting an addition to the family and was truly delighted to hear their news. And promptly send them my verse.