Sense Sonnet - Tickler

Progress

It was a White House ladies tea.
Bess Truman was hostess for it.
The President happened to be
In the rose garden when, to wit,
The ladies could overhear him
Discussing with some of his staff
That good manure gave the vim
And vigor to roses. A laugh
Came from Mrs. Truman, noting
That her guests reacted in shock,
Over that word they were hearing.
She assured this was improved talk.

"Gladly, nothing could be truer,"
"That at least he says manure."