(the summer of 64
finally an invite
to the "big game")

a massive chestnut tree stood watch
as we proudly displayed our marbles
the circle was drawn, my left hand twitched
wondering if the beady eyes noticed

being the youngest, I had to go first
the shot was sure and true
center of the circle, my "cat eye" never failed
concern bordered competitive faces

Freddie stepped up pulling his "steely"
a hideous marble, that matched his smile
but his shot was perfect
sending my beloved cat eye beyond

the game went on for over two hours
each player had at least one in the middle
but none could match freddie's perfection
the steely proved too intimidating

down to my eleventh and final shot
I saved the "sulfer" teddy bear
a special marble that I cherished
it smiled and on that day, I think it even winked

nervously I stepped to the line
aiming for the glaring steely
my shot was way off to the right
slowly rolling toward nothing

just then a chestnut fell from the tree
hitting the teddy, altering its course
the marble rolled into the steely
replacing its position perfectly

there was a huge debate
but I was declared the winner
quickly I bagged my winnings
not forgetting to include the chestnut

I never played again
for fear of losing such treasure
but lost all my marbles
in the 72' Agnes flood

now I realize I never lost them
they've just been replaced
by the people in my life..........

great visuals as if I was there

i suspect not many know what a "steely" is anymore...

nice trip to the past...