The Poetry Corner

To Almon Keefer

By James Whitcomb Riley

INSCRIBED IN "TALES OF THE OCEAN" This first book that I ever knew Was read aloud to me by you - Friend of my boyhood, therefore take It back from me, for old times' sake - The selfsame "Tales" first read to me, Under "the old sweet apple tree," Ere I myself could read such great Big words, - but listening all elate, At your interpreting, until Brain, heart and soul were all athrill With wonder, awe, and sheer excess Of wildest childish happiness. So take the book again - forget All else, - long years, lost hopes, regret; Sighs for the joys we ne'er attain, Prayers we have lifted all in vain; Tears for the faces seen no more, Once as the roses at the door! Take the enchanted book - And lo, On grassy swards of long ago, Sprawl out again, beneath the shade The breezy old-home orchard made, The veriest barefoot boy indeed - And I will listen as you read.