‘Look, it’s a fox!’ – their two hearts spoke
Together. A fortunate day
That was when they saw him, a russet spark
Blown from the wood’s long-smouldering dark
On to the woodside way.
There, on the ride, a dog fox paused.
Around him the shadows lay
Attentive suddenly, masked and poised;
And the watchers found themselves enclosed
In a circuit stronger than they.
He stood for some mystery only shared
By creatures of fire and clay.
They watched him stand with the masterless air
Of one who had the best right to be there –
Let others go or stay;
Then, with a flick of his long brush, sign
The moment and whisk it away.
Time flowed back, and the two walked on
Down the valley. They felt they were given a sign –
But of what, they could hardly say.