The Lantern

 

A lantern burns outside the door

it is never extinguished

A welcome and hospitality are assured

a knock and the door opens

A room with a fire burns in the grate

an armchair is close by

A hot drink is brought followed by food

then a bedroom upstairs is ready and waiting

Clean sheets and several blankets

bring a deep sleep without fear

The morning light enters the room

a sunny day with a crust of frost

A bath is drawn in which to luxuriate

then dressed and down to breakfast

A pot of hot tea with toast and marmalade

then farewell and out into a new day

Leaving as entered but restored