∗ ∗ ∗
The rains of the winter fell
In benison on its sod;
And the smiling fields of the spring looked up,
A thanksgiving glad, to God;
And the little children laughed to see
The wild-flowers star the sod.
∗ ∗ ∗
Hark! hark! to the thundrous roar!
Like a demon of fable old,