A WALK BY THE RIVER

From the Nungate Bridge let's wander on
down by the Auld Kirk gate
along the wide and green East Haugh
to the old mill ate Poldrate.
Along the river perchance you'll see
a handsome heron perched on yon tree.
Cygnets and swans glide gracefully by
gulls above them swoop and cry.
Shy water hens 'mongst leaves and stick
dart and hide to guard their chicks.
Drake, duck and ducklings swim on past,
here the river rushes fast,
here the squirrel are seen to play,
not easily spied in their coats of grey.
The pathway richly carpeted
with green and gold and brown
passes on by the West Mill
one way leads to town,
but I shall take the other path
the one that's been remade,
the one that once was treacherous
now rebuilt by man and spade.
By Cuddy and old curling pond
this magic pathway strays,
trees glowing in the sunshine
mysterious on darker days.
So take the time to wander down
you'll find it time well spent
and leave with pleasant memories
of this walk I oft frequent.

Nessie Gell

ST MARY'S

Majestic ruined battered and grey,
choir and transept open lay,
windows were but gaping holes,
stones recording departed souls,
all were open to wind and rain,
could it be restored again?

[John Knox had said restore one day
Our people said they'd help to pay]
So now beside the flowing Tyne
St Mary's stands restored, sublime,
With windows filtering rainbow light
When thro' the glass the sun shines bright.
John Brown, Knox and Jane Carlyle,
[just linger now, ponder awhile]
those famous names these walls have seen,
have they knelt to pray where we have been?

Interest in and out abound,
carved stone on pillar not easily found,
Men of green and scallop shell,
Coat of arms we all know well.
Find solace in the 'Lady Aisle'
or rest in 'Lauderdale' awhile
where pilgrims come from far and near
with faithfulness year after year.

Hark! From the organ the air is filled
with music, and my heart is thrilled.
This ancient Church, it's echoing sound
Brings joy to all and peace profound.

Nessie Gell