At First Glance When first I came to Apalach And strolled and roamed about I spotted deep within the woods A most engaging little house. Timbers and clutter lay about But its seams were tall and straight It captured my attention prompt Kicking a smile into my gait. Why had it fallen into ruin, And who loved it last I said; How many lives had called it home, How many children bred? It told no tales and let me think As I thoughtfully left its side, That precious history lay within And that there were others far and wide.