Bought an 1800's period house

Had always wanted historic

Was as it was minus 200 years

Had old charm, did or didn't.

Some things remained behind

In particular ghostly footsteps

Heard all hours – all day long

Attic overhead; secret staircase.

Then there was the hanging tree

Outside their bedroom window

Full moons – dead images swinging

Thrown in the mix was the moaning.

Evidence found in a hidden cupboard

Hanging judge was a resident here

He was judge, jury, and executioner

Had the sympathy of a scythe.

Papers weren’t meant for other eyes

Not going over too well – hell to pay

Noises getting louder and louder

Furniture moving while seated.

Flames leaping from fireplaces

Pets missing – knives in flight

Then ghost hunters called in

Frightened half to death, literally.

Exorcist called – do your thing

Head used for a corkscrew

The couple were next on the list

Same night – looked out window.

Saw themselves on the hanging tree

Necks broken, feet still kicking

Turned – looked at the couple

Index fingers up, come hither.

Nothing packed, jumped in the car

Sped out of there like no tomorrow

Judge was in the back with 2 nooses

“Going somewhere . . . ?”

‘2009’ RLS