And bide the winter-time in hopeful rest.

There are the hyacinths, holding ivory tips

Pointed and ready for a hint of sun;

And hooded violets, with dim, fragrant lips

Asleep and dreaming fairy dreams each one.

There lurk a myriad quick and linkèd roots,

Coiled for a spring when the ripe time is near;

The brave chrysanthemum’s pale yellow shoots

And daffodils, the vanguard of the year;

The nodding snowdrop and the columbine;