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THE HAUNTING ROAD

By Edith C. Bates

A little road runs in my dreams
A path beneath the trees,
A tantalizing way it seems
With promises that please.

I passed this little road o'mine
A dew-pearled summer day,
Invitingly it showed a sign,
That bade me stay.

I hastened on and gave no heed
To shade or perfumed solitude
Unwittingly I passed it by,—
An action rude.

A little road all woodland bound
Haunts me by day and night—
I smell its sweets; I hear its sounds
A memory of delight.

L'Envoi
O, little road, I beg,—
Out of your charm, forgive;
I'll pass you ne'er again
While I live.

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