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.
