[21]

But somehow alters in the April air,

Grown dearer still, on some enchanted day,

For shining garments they have come to wear.

The way the spring comes to our Town is such

That something quickens in the hearts of men,

Turning them lovers at its subtle touch,

Till they must lift their heads again—again—

As lovers do, with frank, adoring eyes,

Where the long street of lifted steeples lies.

IV

WATCHERS

I think those townsmen, sleeping on the hill,

Are never careless how the Town may fare,

But jealous of her quiet beauty still,

Her ways and worth are things for which they care:

For shuttered house, and gateways and the grass,

And how the streets, tree-bordered all and cool,

Are still a pleasant way for folks to pass:

Men at their work and children home from school.

 Prev. P 23/91 next