The Poetry Corner

Old Excursions

By Thomas Hardy

"What's the good of going to Ridgeway, Cerne, or Sydling Mill, Or to Yell'ham Hill, Blithely bearing Casterbridge-way As we used to do? She will no more climb up there, Or be visible anywhere In those haunts we knew." But to-night, while walking weary, Near me seemed her shade, Come as 'twere to upbraid This my mood in deeming dreary Scenes that used to please; And, if she did come to me, Still solicitous, there may be Good in going to these. So, I'll care to roam to Ridgeway, Cerne, or Sydling Mill, Or to Yell'ham Hill, Blithely bearing Casterbridge-way As we used to do, Since her phasm may flit out there, And may greet me anywhere In those haunts we knew. April 1913.