For Selwyn

Saw him quiet in the corner

of his train seat

just a cough once in awhile

a burp now and then.

The next day I

looked beyond his shuffle

the way he cradled his hand.

Did you have a stroke?

my bold request.

Yes he answered shyly.

So did I as our friendship began.

Off to Toronto he says

to his son’s wedding.

I’m from Yorkshire.

Great country this Canada

18 years later it’s still 

too huge to travel he says.

Then tiredness captured

his chatty voice

got to rest now he says

as the VIA attendant

approached.

Selwyn took his pillow

and winked.

Good for hiding beer farts

in the night.

You know something?

He’s right.