Some days ago I found a book on butterflies casually abandoned by the roadside

The book showed no outward signs of damage although the cover was much faded

Even the unidentified white butterfly seemed tired

I opened the book and discovered that it had once belonged to a

K Surrey
35 Primrose Way
Alperton
Wembley
Middlesex  

The inscription was written in pencil and was hard to age

But it seemed years old

I knew this area well in my younger days

And although it is now much changed

I still harbour an affection for its avenues and ways

As they were always kind to butterflies

No matter their colour or shade

During the summer months these elegant creatures

Came in droves to share the happiness

Of those long forgotten Alperton streets

And writers such as the Reverend Wood

Recorded their visits for posterity