To One Long Forgot

I would not know you if you came —
( Think it no wrong! ) —
The years have kept you from all blame,
So long, so long!

Once more the crocus flowers are set,
Lance-like and small,
Some yellow and some violet,
By the old wall.

Now, if at all, your ghost comes by,
In April air,
In the gray light of earth and sky,
And lingers there.

Yet were we lad and maid together;
So, of a truth,
Beside you walks in this dim weather,
Mine own lost youth.

Oh, two glad ghosts of long ago,
In this dim weather,
By the old wall you used to know,
You fare together!