In The Door

I'll always have a memory of her

Standing in the door.

The pleasant smile upon her face,

The little frock she wore.

Her standing in the door began,

As far as I'm concerned,

When she was waiting my approach,

And hearts of lovers yearned.

Or when the old clock made it known

That time was taking flight --

And she would listen for my steops

Receding in the night.

Then in the door -- ah, anxious now,

For children at their play,

When there was not soft footfall

At the ending of the day.

A mother's heart was beating then

With fear of dire things

That might befall her precious ones --

Till sudden laughter rings!

Good-bye to friends who came to call;

She's standing in the door

To see them safely on their way,

To bid them call once more.

Goodbye to sonny off to school,

Along the daily track

Which ends at that same threshold

When she hears him coming back.

Goodbye to her of laughing eyes

Who leaves the home for good.

When plighted word must put an end

To happy maidenhood.

I see her standing in the door;

I'm coming up the lane;

And I know she knows I'm coming

by the tapping of my cane.

If time should bring sad changes

And I hear her voice no more,

I know that I shall see her -- silent

Standing in the door.

(Copyright, 1940)