The Pedlar

Lend me, a little while, the key

That locks your heavy heart, and I'll give you back

Rarer than books and ribbons, and beads bright to see

This little Key of Dreams out of my pack

The road, the road beyond men's bolted doors

There shall I walk and you go free of me

For yours lies North across the moors

And mine South, to what sea?

How if we stopped and let our solemn selves go by

While my gay ghost caught and kissed yours, as ghosts don't do

And by the wayside, this forgotten you and I

Sat and were 22?

Give me the key that locks your tired eyes

And I will lend you this one from my pack

Brighter than colored beads and painted books that make men wise

Take it, no, give it back