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The Inquiry

Topics: classic

And are ye one of Hermitage -     Of Hermitage, by Ivel Road,     And do ye know, in Hermitage     A thatch-roofed house where sengreens grow?     And does John Waywood live there still -     He of the name that there abode     When father hurdled on the hill      Some fifteen years ago?     Does he now speak o' Patty Beech,     The Patty Beech he used to - see,     Or ask at all if Patty Beech     Is known or heard of out this way?     - Ask ever if she's living yet,     And where her present home may be,     And how she bears life's fag and fret      After so long a day?     In years agone at Hermitage     This faded face was counted fair,     None fairer; and at Hermitage     We swore to wed when he should thrive.     But never a chance had he or I,     And waiting made his wish outwear,     And Time, that dooms man's love to die,      Preserves a maid's alive.

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"And are ye one of Hermitage -..."

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