THE OLD NEIGHBOUR AND THE NEW
Reading edition
’Twas to greet the new rector I called I here, But in the arm-chair I see My old friend, for long years installed here, Who palely nods to me.
The new man explains what he’s planning In a smart and cheerful tone, And I listen, the while that I’m scanning The figure behind his own.
The newcomer urges things on me; I return a vague smile thereto, The olden face gazing upon me Just as it used to do!
And on leaving I scarcely remember Which neighbour to-day I have seen, The one carried out in September, Or him who but entered yestreen.