BEASTLY TALES

THE PROMISE

Alfonse Oxymoron was a cunning scoundrel indeed,
Quickly taking advantage of any if need decreed.
He had a housekeeper who cooked and cleaned.
He had a gardener keeping his large garden preened.
He had many shopkeepers who would send out stores.
And none of them received payment for goods or chores.
Alfonse was elderly and he was oft heard say,
“I’m asset rich, but cash poor, have naught to pay.”
“But should you be willing to provide services and goods”
“You will be well repaid for such items and foods.”
“I’ll bequeath property to you in my will,”
“That will more than adequately compensate your bill.”

“I have no desire that my cash poor need intrudes.”
So, with each provider of services or goods,
He filled in a new Last Will and Testament,
Saying most fondly, “your contribution is the best I meant”,
Alfonse lived happily in his mansion for many years.
Without the need for cash or tiresome arrears.
Inevitably, one day, he did pop his clogs.
To be at the will reading, townsfolk memory jogs.
At the ensuing reading of the Will,
A very large gathering, the room did fill.
The solicitor, who imagined himself as beneficiary,
Joined the stunned silence as he read what he did see.
“This is the Last Will of Alfonse Oxymoron,”
“I hereby do bequeath my estate, as swore on,”
“My death bed, to my long lost son,”
“He’s so deserving, yes, he’s the one!”
“To all of you others, I’m ever so sorry,”
“Take pride in your actions, do not worry.”
“But you will have reward just knowing,”
“You helped an old man along life’s waters flowing.”

The long lost son was also there,
Said he, “I well know you really care,”
“I’m asset rich, but cash poor, have naught to pay,”
“But should you be willing to …………….”