Has the novice come to-day

Here beneath the wall to pray?

Has the young monk, lately chidden,

Sung his lyric, sweet, forbidden?

Tell me, roses, did you note

That pale father's throbbing throat?

Did you hear him murmur, "Love!"

As he kissed a faded glove?

Mourning ferns, pray tell me why

Shook you with that passing sigh?