A25 The Mayor’s Ordinance Poem by Rajaram Ramachandran

Right from the beginning,
Mayor’s eye was on the spring,
That was a source of income
And a rich man to become.

The report on his table
Was highly favorable
To start a good business
On mineral water sales.

How soon to corner it,
Before someone took it,
He thought of a plan,
Free from any suspicion.

By the public, he was selected.
As a Mayor, he was elected.
So, in the public interest
He was expected to act.

He issued an ordinance,
To fence that place,
As the water could cause
All kinds of diseases.

He alerted the police
To cordon that place
And warned the trespassers
Of serious consequences.

It was made known,
Then to every citizen,
In the nook and corner,
Thro’ the town-crier.

Strong fences were erected.
The area was well protected.
Day and night vigil was kept.
Public co-operation was sought.

It was a relief to the church
There was no tension as such
To the Imperial administration,
Since the Mayor had taken action.

The Mayor did one thing.
The Lady did something.
A severe storm broke out,
Damaging the fences, overnight.

How true it was,
Behind this loss?
What man proposed?
That God disposed!