GROWTH 



So far the willow reaches down. 



It meets a hidden spring; 

 And in the ripple of its leaves 



Is water murmuring. 



So hard the cedar cleaves the ledge. 

 It finds its strength renewed; 



And shapes its somber blade and hilt. 

 From granite fortitude. 



So close the beech tree keeps within 

 The dusk which it has made, 



That every silver root receives 

 Companionship of shade. 



So strong the elm has felt the swell 

 Of growth beneath the turf. 



It flows up to a reef of clouds 

 And breaks into green sm-f . 



[235] 



