An Old Faded Valentine Box

I went up to the Grandmother’s attic one cold gloomy Sunday, just wishing time away,

I found an odd surprise in an old trunk that was covered with quilts---- that day.

It was an old faded Valentine Box that was tattered and worn with pink paper that decorated the lid,

With red moth eaten lace all around the box ---and inside it---- a heart-shaped note was hid.

And on the colored paper written in red with big letters it said,

Be My Valentine, My Darling and it was signed------ Fred.

And on the other side the sad story started to unfold,

After I read it I knew I had to find out who wrote this note----- that was so very old.

The written words said---I missed you on the path today; I wanted to carry your book for you to school,

Our little granny has the flu,

And I hope the old country doctor knows what to do.

Are you still wearing my ring on the blue ribbon around your beautiful neck---isn't it just dandy?

I worked in the fields last week-- picking up roots--- to buy you a Valentine Card and Chocolate Candy.

Pa said I could take you to the dance if I finished all my chores,

And my brother Pete said he would help me plow the north field, while I whittle Mr. Mike some new oars.

We only have six more months until we are 18 years old, and I hope your Pa finds nothing to disparage,

Then I will ask your Ma and Pa for your hand in marriage.

Can you meet tonight at the old hollow tree down by the seaside?

I just want to hold you a little while and kiss your hand----being apart I cannot abide.

My love for you grows stronger each day as I look into your eyes of blue,

I want you forever until death we do part---by my side---just my Darling----you.

With tears in my eyes, I refolded the beautiful Valentine Card, to put it back, when I saw a tiny red box on a small letter,

I opened the box and on a washed-out blue ribbon was a little ruby ring, and as I read the little note I did not feel any better.

Because Fred had died from the flu in 1833,

And under that was written,

Fred my Darling, walk slowly to Heaven, so I can catch up, please wait for me.

The signature was faded, and the name I could not see.

I stayed there forever, it seemed, holding the note next to my heart,

Saying a prayer for the lovers who by now--- were not apart.

© BEPH January 14, 2012

Follow me on Twitter @2sweetnottolove

An Old Faded Valentine Box

Years later, I could not forget that day so long ago, when I went to the attic--I felt bold,

It was there in Grandmother's attic, I found a Valentine which left my heart cold.

Who was this Fred? I had to know,

So, after visiting my Grandmother's grave, I walked down a long path in the woods in the snow.

Under an Oak tree, I saw some very old tombstones, so lonely and unkempt,

On the oldest tombstone was written "Walk slowing my Darling Fred, I am on my way"

there was no name, no dates, it was so sad---I wept.

Who was she--I still did not know,

So sadly I walked back to Grandmother's house in the snow.

© BEPH 2012

Follow me on Twitter @2sweetnottolove