This is the last place that we went

I don’t know the day nor the time of year

It was after a long, hot summer

You talked for a while to a cyclist

Human contact that reduced

To a small set of special people

The short walk was enough for you

we sat on this bench in sunlight

You were still cold, wrapped up

Sunshine doesn’t always break shade

Memories gathered round you

You were a most proud man

Who believed in people and things

This wasn’t the last time that we sat

And nattered about small matters

But it was our last time in daylight

The rest was spent inside, in rooms

I still weep, think of that day

Think of the days that came later

Of the strength that trip took

How you stayed an honourable man

Even the pain of fading light

Never took you away