Seams of Chalk and Clay

As if sentence should be passed this way, on sixpence pressed of misplaced mirth

Then tossed like poison from the hip hung vial, more's the chance and less the trial (still at birth)

Whilst in cahoots were neck tied loops for epitaphs to cultured roots

And in the fields they burned the books - by way, they say, of mission

To raise the roofs and smoke the eaves to purge the pests of their contrition

As those who marched with most intent long such seams of chalk and clay

To quarry bent of mal-intent were hung out in the sun to flay