The Volumes

Two Volumes waiting to be read, sat upon the mantle shelf.

Would it be Stevenson or Emerson,

which one would win out?

I took both down, blew the dust off the pages edge,

inspected the worn leather, and foxing stains within.

Gifts from my son, from his favorite shop,

Curiosities and Memories were our favored jaunts.

Heavy were the volumes

For "All their Works" were there;

every written verse, 

every thrilling tale!

Purposely I browsed each one,

(it just was not fair)

that I should have to decide the fate

of the author's I held dear.

So I placed once more upon the shelf,

both volumes side by side,

and even though they were not read,

I'll cherish most -this special gift,

than any word inside.

For William

5-29-11