A stone cape sits on a beautiful lot

Surrounded by dogwoods, and not

Lived in - for some few years past

Neglected, becoming just a mask



A pretty house in a lovely setting

But sitting empty, owner betting

Someone will want it as it stands

Even though neglect is out of hand



For so much work needs be done

On land behind where rain comes

Pooling, and moving earth around

Piling up paving, eroding ground



Destroying underground utility tanks

Oil, well, septic ... not given thanks

So, tens of thousands need be spent

On recovering all, to make good vent



And yet, just today - house is now shown

To some unsuspecting folks needing home

Hoping they can make good a pretty house

Neglected so badly, it's just a picture now



- Tristram



(c) Christopher W. Thomas

10:50am Sat. May 23rd, 98