A Southern Belle played loud notes to the merchant of Venice outside the Astoria as bags were carried….strollers pushed….and panhandlers peddled…..

You think I’m this dumb plaything don’t ya, she bellowed softly….demurely….loudness in hushed tones….

My daddy told me to be careful with members of the tribe…..My momma told me to find myself a good Christian man…..Well that’s what I get….That is exactly what I get…..

Shylock kept looking forward….rolling a cigar between flossed teeth….usual procedures….

Her fur wrapped loosely….blonde hair blowing….considering her next move….

I have needs….do you hear me? ….I said….Do you hear me?…..Your not the only one with big plans…..grandiose schemes…. let me tell ya…

The cigar was placed firmly now in a wide-opened mouth; a money clip was pulled from pocket….

A couple of bills were tucked in a fragile hand, Go get your hair done….go to a spa….go  to a tea….just go…..go…..go…

And with that, the belle’s step became a strut…

These things we must do….