As usual, the drum came by today

At noon three-thirty and just before civil 

Passed into naval twilight and asked 

If I'd repented yet. My neighbors,

If I had any, could set their watches 

By his quiet compound duple beat.

Before him there was a flute and 

Before the flute a krumhorn who

Took for granted that I was unchanged

But still felt I should be reminded 

That my repentance, even though

Likely to have no effect, would, 

In certain places of authority be noted.