At the Bar

I do believe you said that, I'm afraid.
I'd like to say I don't, but yes, I do.
I've heard worse things before, but not from you,
And not while sober. Those remarks you made
Were not about the wine, or the wine trade:
They were the wine, debating, talking through
Attempts to slow you down. You know it's true;
Your face has turned some sort of scarlet shade.

You've spent too many evenings at the bar,
Told all those stories, and traded on fear.
My heart is open, and my mind is clear,
So when we talk about the way things are
I never pander, stoop, or go too far.
And my opinions aren't on trial here.