VI 
BY SEVERNSIDE IN 
SHROPSHIRE 
HROPSHIRE does not monopolize the 
Severn, but the river runs through a 
goodly share of the shire : cuts it in half, 
as it were. Those who have lived long 
by Severnside would not like to leave it. It has 
become part of them, they will tell you. They 
have known it in spring, 
“When nothing that asks of bliss 
Asking aright is denied, 
And half of the world a bridegroom is 
And half of the world a bride.” 
And when: 
‘Summer glows warm on the meadows and speedwell and 
goldcups and daisies 
Darken ’mid deepening masses of sorrel, and shadowy grasses 
Show the ripe fruit to the farmer and summon the scythe and 
the haymakers,” 
They have known it in autumn: 
“Season of mists and mellow fruitfulness, 
Close bosom-friend of the maturing sun,” 
And in winter : 
“When the valley’s hushed and white with snow.” 
