Sid faded away in tea dance time
slow
slow
then too soon
quick quick.

Foxtrot Oscar he used to say
when his knees would not lift him
and his eyes would sparkle.

Through the window
we would watch his face
and see the smile
as his left foot tapped out the rhythm.

One two three
one two three
one
and then no more.

Bet still held his hand
as she always had
from their very first dance with the carpets rolled back
and the piano in the corner.

One two three
she said.
One two three
again.
One.