There Was A Cherry-Tree

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.