THE OLD MAN IN THE DELL

There is an old man who lives in the dell,
Near where, it is said, the pixies dwell,
He is tall and lean, with pale blue eyes,
He cannot write, but is nature wise.

Sometimes you see him gathering berry
And herb, his step light and merry.
If you knock at the door of his cottage small
He will ask you in if he is there at all.
When you go in, such tales he will tell
As he feeds you dishes he makes so well
Of food from the forest, and lakes so deep,
E'n into his larder he allows you to peep.

He is old, yet young, it is hard to say
This man who lives in such an odd way,
If you are sick he has a natures cure
Made from the herb and berry pure.

Who is this man who lives in the dell?
Near where, it is said, the pixies dwell,
He is a friend to all he meets,
Always a smile to those he greets.
So wander some day in the forest green
And look for a man who is tall and lean,
Learn from him of the simple things
And feel the happiness this brings.

Ann Margetson 28 July 1995