And but the wind, no other sound

Than a leaf that fluttered to the ground,

And a far-off robin singing,

We heard. You guessed my thoughts, and said:

‘In spring, the swallows who have fled

Will back be winging;

The trees a brighter emerald show,

The rose a richer crimson glow,

Than any gleamed in this year’s prime’—

All this was once upon a time