XVII.
17 lines✦
t was the dawn of winter : sword in sheath, Change, veiled and mild, eame down the gradual airWith cold slow smiles that hid the doom beneath. Five days to die in yet were autumn's, ereThe last leaf withered from his flowerless wreath. South, east, and north, our skies were all blown bare,But westward over glimmering holt and heath Cloud, wind, and light had made a heaven more fairThan ever dream or truthShowed earth in time's keen youthWhen men with angels communed unaware.Above the sun's head, nowVeiled even to the ardent brow.Rose two sheer wings of sundering cloud, that wereAs a bird's poised for vehement flight.Full-fledged with plumes of tawny fire and hoar grey light. 56 A NEW' YEAR ODE,
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