A Baker's Dozen

A baker’s dozen is thirteen - 
You get an extra bagel;
But don’t expect it other places
Though you may finagle.

A dozen roses gets you twelve,
A dozen eggs the same.
If you need thirteen candles,
Then expect a smaller flame;

Unless you buy a second box,
For each one carries twelve.
It’s only bakers who into
This mystery can delve.

If you request a baker’s dozen
When you’re in the bank,
They’ll call the guard and throw you out,
Like every other crank.

The postal service, too, won’t know
Exactly what you mean.
“A baker’s dozen stamps!” you’ll say,
But you’ll pay for thirteen.

There aren’t many places where
We get something for free.
In this respect, a baker is
The Gratis V.I.P.!