Of a Certain Manor

Wandering weary, carriage wrecked,
Through the brooding woods I trekked,
Dreary, darkening charcoal clouds 
Threatened rain in sheets and shrouds.

Then a clearing did appear,
‘Tween the trees that towered near.
With a mighty mansion there,
Like an answer to my prayer.

Hastening my plodding pace,
I did trod up with my case
To the massive entry arch
Hoping so to end my march.

Thus I knocked upon the door
Knowing not what lay in store
And I waited, motive plain:
Seeking shelter from the rain.

     A chilly wind began to waft,
     Descending from the skies aloft,
     And sending shivers down my spine
     As if by fiendish, foul design.

     But then I heard a latch unlock.
     I cleared my throat, prepared to talk
     Just as the groaning door swung in
     And thus revealed the host within.

     And there my would-be hero stood,
     Adorned in tattered cape and hood,
     All Pale and gaunt, with haunted eyes—
     The kind that pierce and paralyze.

     “My carriage crashed,” I did explain,
     Detailing both my plight and pain.
     “I see,” the ghoulish man replied.
     “Then we had best get you inside.”

In I went and followed him
Up the stairs, all dank and dim,
To a room he offered me
For the night and for no fee.

I’d have put up a good fight,
But my eyes were closing tight.
Next I knew, ‘twas morning light
And my host was out of sight.

Leaving money near the door
I departed, off once more,
By the light of blessed day 
Homeward bound to find my way.

Such a strange adventure, yes?
Truly changed me, I confess.
I feel so vibrant, free of care,
And all my meat I now eat rare.