Bright hour

Strangers, we met briefly, casually, But within minutes we were marshalling Words rich in connotation, equally Apt to persuade, to startle, or to sing. A newly discovered book, a poem old, A Latin phrase, a childhood memory, Facts, fancies -- all these things we told With earnestness, with grace, with gaiety. One brief, bright hour! We danced a minuet Of words, formal, precise, obeying Every rule that custom has wisely set. Still, perhaps each alike heard music playing. What does the future hold? Another chance To test our skill with words? Another dance?