Os ooh and aah outwards whilst the fountain chugs

in the background - out then up then out then down -

in pitter patter patterns. A mauve Mallard's head flecks

in the sunshine - a little flicker bottle green - still another

ruffled black, then off to the jolly attack where tufts waddle

and wiggle; webbed feet peel on padded grass; beaks

wak wak wak deep and low until a squawking squabble

erupts and petrol peacock sheens flap ruggedly at dainty

ocre queens. They are serene - accepting of their fate.

Later they will nestle safely; beak in wing, floating dreamily

downstream. I watch them here on this mossy rock; feet

sank firmly in the bank. Their back rudders fan in smooth

symmetrical lines; dotted with nature's blueprint. Overhead

other marks and symbols whoosh in fine formation, dominating

under currents. Miniature works of art buzz and bob; flitter

flashes of red, green and blue and sashes of glitter. I am

powerless to resist this lake; the glowing orb twinkling warmly

on all that meander here in her wake, under her heavenly halo.