That looks a lot like my perennial sweet pea vines. The blooms come before the pods. Mine have long stalks of either hot pink or white flowers and are quite pretty but they have no scent. I'm surprised that you didn't notice the flowers if it is indeed a perennial sweet pea. I'd keep it. It should come back next year and will reseed as well. Here's pics of the blooms.
Karyn

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It is most likely Lathyrus latifolius. The brown pods you are seeing is where the flower was and should have some seeds in if they didn't pop open yet. Very pretty vine I think. I have one in a barrel and another variety on my pergola.

Here is a link that might be useful: Lathyrus

OOh Sorry Karyn I hadn't seen your post! Yes like Karyn said it is so worth keeping.

Ronnie at least you were able to supply the proper name. I can never remember it.
Karyn

Thanks for solving the mystery! I guess it must have bloomed when I was gone for a month. I'll take care of it and watch for the flowers next year.