THE leaves are falling; so am I; The few late flowers have moisture in the eye;     So have I too. Scarcely on any bough is heard Joyous, or even unjoyous, bird     The whole wood through.

Winter may come: he brings but nigher His circle (yearly narrowing) to the fire     Where old friends meet. Let him; now heaven is overcast, And spring and summer both are past,     And all things sweet.