After the Autumn Storm

AFTER THE AUTUMN STORM The warm rays of the emerging sun Escape from the clouds like newborn kittens, Only to be gathered up quickly again And by their mother clouds hidden; And the day seems destined to fade Before it has had a chance to bring Last sustenance to the longing glade. She sees me and, with a smile like the morning, Brushes aside the failing Of Indian summer’s last effort: And I know the hope of spring - Like the bear and the meadow wort, Sleeping now and in wait - Instinctively knowing that all is well, That by and by the clouds will abate, And that time will tell.