In the past I never counted cards But had I did have a feel for when A certain card would appear. My card-counting partner Would nod his head in approval, But I'm retired now And no longer play -- Until recently. My hand Is spread out before me. I'm pretty sure my partner Isn't counting her's And may not even care That we are losing. She seems impatient To be done, and I can't Blame her. I look again At my cards and hope, but There is nothing I can play To change a thing. She smiles contentedly As I send up a silent prayer.