Within the Hollow

While sauntering on a sullen walk

I noticed a hollowed out stem

beneath the bay of the water oak tree

rising o’er treasures within

What be that deep and hidden gain

that none doth access or see

far much below the surfacing ring

that all who dare look may perceive

Might there be jewels as jasmine or jade

tiger eye, jacinth or pearl

or rubies cut fine, perhaps diamond mine

a treasure box wholly unfurled

Maybe a ball, a basket or bug

perhaps several vines to be weaved

just what shall I find in this hollow bind

under the obscurant scene

With flashlight in hand well before dawn

I peered into precipice hole

when to my surprise no values inside

but just a quite fright to behold

For there down below in deep wooden cave

were six lonely eyes attracting my gaze

and fearful raccoons they all did count three

were now looking up and staring at me

I rattled their home and now they did squeal

and mother came running to make her appeal

and dash away fast with light in my hand

the sauntering walker my place did aband'

And lest I feel fright from this dreadful quest

my mind after treasure shall fin'lly give rest

and be thus more careful the next time to take

lest gazing below discover three snakes