RETURNING.
I years had been from home, And now, before the door, I dared not open, lest a face I never saw before Stare vacant into mine And ask my business there.
My business, -- just a life I left, Was such still dwelling there?
I fumbled at my nerve, I scanned the windows near;The silence like an ocean rolled, And broke against my ear.
I laughed a wooden laugh That I could fear a door, Who danger and the dead had faced, But never quaked before.
I fitted to the latch My hand, with trembling care, Lest back the awful door should spring, And leave me standing there.
I moved my fingers off As cautiously as glass, And held my ears, and like a thief Fled gasping from the house.
