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 girl.

There was a cherry-tree. The Bluejay sat
Her blue against its white -- O blue as jet
She seemed there then!-- But now -- Whoever knew
She 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 girl to eat.

There was a cherry-tree, give thanks and joy!--
There was a bloom of snow -- There was a girl --
There was a bluejay of the realest blue --
And fruit for both of you.