The Poetry Corner

The Inquiry

By Thomas Hardy

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.