ASTERS. 



In full profusion, far and wide, 

 They fill the path on every side, 

 In loose confusion multiplied 

 To endless harmony ! 



The Autumn wood the aster knows, 



The empty nest, the wind that grieves, 

 The sunlight breaking thro the shade, 

 The squirrel chattering overhead, 

 The timid rabbit s lighter tread 

 Among the rustling leaves. 



And still beside the shadowy glen 

 She holds the color of the skies ; 

 Along the purpling wayside steep 

 She hangs her fringes passing deep, 

 And meadows drowned in happy sleep 

 Are lit by starry eyes ! 



84 



