Thomas Hardy

A Leaving

Knowing what it bore
I watched the rain-smitten back of the car –
(Brown-curtained, such as the old ones were) –
When it started forth for a journey afar
Into the sullen November air,
And passed the glistening laurels and round the bend.

I have seen many gayer vehicles turn that bend
In autumn, winter, and summer air,
Bearing for journeys near or afar
Many who now are not, but were,
But I don’t forget that rain-smitten car,
Knowing what it bore!