It seemed a place where nothing ever comes

But change of season. He could hear the plums

Plash in the frosted thicket, over-lush;

While, like a spirit lisping in the hush,

The crisp leaves whispered round him as they fell.

And ever now and then the autumn spell

Was broken by an ululating cry

From where far back with muzzle to the sky

The lone dog followed, mourning. Darkness came;

And huddled up beside a cozy flame,