To My Mother

Long years you’ve kept the door ajar To greet me, coming from afar; Long years in my accustomed place I’ve read my welcome in your face, And felt the sunlight of your love Drive back the years and gently move The telltale shadow ’round to youth. You’ve found the very spring, in truth, That baffles time--the kindling joy That keeps me in your heart a boy. And now I send an unknown guest To bide with you and snugly rest Beside the old home’s ingle-nook.-- For love of me you’ll love my book.

Dedication of Overheard in Arcady.