In reply to Ann Baer, aged 101, of Richmond-on-Thames.
Your handwriting, so perfect for its style
And firmness, made me feel that this must be
A brilliant schoolgirl. Hence my knowing smile
At your comparing of my maple tree
With Tennyson’s. But further down the page,
And seemingly in passing, you revealed
The secret of your learning: your great age.
Disagree with half of it, enjoy reading all of it
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