NEARLY  LOVE

(A parting sonnet for Jean)

 

Let` not call this cosy comfort love,

But only say that once there was a time

When the loneliness and travel-heat of the way

Became too much for us, when it was enough

To leave the world go by us and recline,

I in your deep kindness - you in mine.

 

And though we boast: We never did betray

Cupid with words` being much too wise,

Let`s confess: Our arms, our lips, our eyes

Sometimes told untruths in our despite.

But, Jean, they were such little, little lies

That he just chuckled and forgave us - quite.

 

But now - for truths sake - just before we go:

It was not love...but it was nearly so.