A Lady Doesn't Ask

A gentleman’s late, his cuff has a stain. He blames the traffic, I blame the rain. His tie is straight, his story is not. I smile at the man, that’s all that I’ve Got. A lady doesn’t ask, a Lady doesn’t pry. She hears a crooked story And compliments the tie. A lady doesn’t ask where gentlemen have Been. She pours another drink And lets the evening in. Vincent walks in, Quarter to two. "Long night?" I ask. He says, "A few." His coat smells like rain, his smile says Enough. I offer a light, no need to Discuss. A lady doesn’t ask, she knows when to Grin. If trouble buys dinner, At least let it in. A lady doesn’t ask, she listens Instead to half-finished stories And things never said. Don’t ask the price, don’t ask the Name. Don’t ask why Vincent never takes Blame. And if someone leaves before their last Glass, just straighten your dress. A lady doesn’t ask. Finish your drink, let mysteries Pass. Whatever he’s done, A lady doesn’t ask.