Cappello Romano

Sister Bridget thinks the safest way
down the mountain is to hold onto her hat
and pretend to be a frisbee.
She gathers speed and leaps

over the edge, one hand gripping
luminous rosary beads, the other
clasping her purple Saturno.
Flight doesn't come easily to her;

her green skirt billows around
her head, slowing her progress
and revealing red knickerbockers
forbidden by the Reverend Mother.

As she touches down in soft snow
close to the convent door, her cheeks
reflect the pink of the setting sun,
her puce cloak veils her indiscretion.