Classic Poem

Do I believe in Angels? Yes.
And in their prowlings to and fro--
I entertained one long ago,
In guise of age and sore distress.

He clambered up the narrow stairs,
And by his heavenly smile I knew
He was a truant angel who
Had come to visit unawares.

"Rest thee, old man," I gayly cried,
"And share my humble couch and cheer--
Thou shalt not want for comfort here--
My home and heart are open wide."

Relieved of temporary cares,
The old man laid him down and slept;
And in my thankfulness I wept--
I'd entertained him unawares!

I never shall forget that night,
My happy dreams, my slumbers sound,
And when I woke at noon I found
My angel vanished out of sight.

Perhaps in years that are to be
That angel will return, and yet
I sometimes fear he may forget
To bring my overcoat to me.