Classic Poem

After the silence long
On valley and hill,
Listen, — again the song
Of the silver rill!

Vanishes from the plains
The prison of snow;
Broken the crystal chains,
And the captives go;

Over the Winter's tomb
The bird in its mirth
Carols of bud and bloom
To the barren earth;

Tremble the vines and trees
With ecstasy then,
Hearing the lisping breeze
Hint of Spring again.

Mystery fills the air,
And melody sweet
Follows the pathways where
Glimmer Spring's white feet.

Over the meadow's floor
She hastens, and — see!
April is at the door
With her golden key!