To our dear friend Sydney, an apology!

I once forgot the secrets and the magic you hold.

A million words on sociology,

A million words on history wanting to be re-told.

As first years you are a novelty…new,

Shining, fabled, to be only whispered in hallowed voice.

As second years, we think your time is through.

It is in third year, I regret we left you, a bad choice.

Now let the voice of a million books ring out

And throw off the dust jacket and let us dive in

And see the words that are pleasant and rich.

Let there be debate on author’s girth and writing stout,

To keep us enthralled, keep happy and broadly grin

Let them get under your skin, let each word bewitch.

Ian D. Hall 2012.