Old Man

There's a man I knew somewhere:
You'd think he's gone - He'd still be there!
Waving arms at all who care
To hear a merry lore.

He'd stroll up and down - about a mile
Mumbling rhymes all the while
Or smile at you a crooked smile;
Yet I knew his heart was pure.

But soon he'd wish he'd rather be
Alone - away from companee;
For all that in him e'er they'd see
Would be a toothless bore.

Yours sincerely
Jude

Sleep not yet

Sleep not yet, my endless sorrow -
My mind lies bitter and cold.
Prolong thy sweet burning yet awhile
For I am not yet old.

Say, what good youth may be
When youth cannot be free?
My kindled soul inflames my husk
But chills the heart in me.

Take all thy merriment yonder now
And leave me here in pain;
Gently numb my senses til'
None but memories remain.

Yours sincerely
Jude