The lingering smell of charred wood.

The lovely old house; the vacated property next door has been burnt out. So has the one in front. Fired by vandals. Old buildings that saw families grow.  They weathered the tests of time but were not the match of those that would destroy. Flames have taken the memories of happier times, promises, hopes and expectations.  All that's left now is the lingering smell of charred wood.  And the purpose of the destruction? Who knows? Did the arsonists come to watch the flames? Did they enjoy? A beautiful old house. Ready for the bulldozer. Stinks of uselessness.