LAD AND LASS

I heard the buds open their lips and whisper,

Whisper,

“Spring is here!”

The robins listened

And sang it loud.

The blue-birds came

In a fluttering crowd.

The cardinal preached

It high and proud,

Spring!

And thro the warm earth their song went trilling,

Trilling,

“Wake! Arise!”

The kingcups quickly

Assembled, strong.

The bluets stept

From the moss in throng.

Like fairies too

Came the cress along.

Spring!

And love in your breast, my lass, awaking —

Waking.

Love was born!

Your eyes were kindled,

Your lips were warm.

Wild beauties broke

From your face and form.

And all my heart

Was a heaven-storm,

Was Spring!