There was a cherry-tree. Its bloomy snows
Cool even now the fevered sight that knows
No more its airy visions of pure joy —
As when you were a boy.
There was a cherry-tree. The Bluejay sat
His blue against its white — O blue as jet
He seemed there then!– But now — Whoever knew
He was so pale a blue!
There was a cherry-tree — our child-eyes saw
The miracle:– Its pure white snows did thaw
Into a crimson fruitage, far too sweet
But for a boy to eat.
There was a cherry-tree, give thanks and joy!–
There was a bloom of snow — There was a boy —
There was a bluejay of the realest blue —
And fruit for both of you.
