For Peggy (Poetry)

Nobody told me you had died
they left me in the dark
like it was something they could hide —
rub out affection’s mark

I’m sad to read that you have gone
my grief long overdue
with lamentations quietly sung
in memory of you

Though dynasties divide and fall
they can’t erase the past
for blood and marriage are not all
that count or hold us fast

By sheer good nature you were bound
and I, your grateful niece
send love, dear aunt, in hope you’ve found
that place of endless peace

***