Youth and Age

ODAY so gray, you could not chill me,
In that sweet time, far off and fair,
Though loud winds shrieked and echoed shrilly,
And wild rain washed the woodlands bare !
Though sodden fields stretched cold, unvaried,
And birds flew south on weary wing;
For in my happy heart I carried
The hope and promise of the spring.

O day so gay, you cannot thrill me !
Your light and perfume, shower and song,
Your bloom and brightness, only fill me
With old-time memories, sweet and strong.
I would not bid your swift hours tarry,
I do not hasten at your call ;
For in my thankful heart I carry
The joy and fruitage of the fall.