A - Beyond Class No.1

Beyond Class

No. l

My grandfather spent his whole life in service
Mostly for a Lord and Lady Irvis
(He was one of the most powerful men in England, back then
As I was reminded time and time again)
At their palladian home, Upper Groping Park

My grandfather was rude behind their backs
But had the sense to their faces at least
To show a measured deference
(Ever the pragmatist, in case he needed a reference)

And he would joke, what good is all the money in the world when
Below Stairs
They can't spit in my food
But I can spit in theirs

The truth is more prosaic and more stark:
Grandfather and Lord Irvis fitted like a glove, all too cosily
The bond they shared was love of Oswald Mosley