  I ONCE knew all the birds that came And nested in our orchard trees, For every flower I had a name— My friends were woodchucks, toads, and bees; I knew where thrived in yonder glen What plants would soothe a stone-bruised toe— Oh, I was very learned then, But that was very long ago. I knew the spot upon the hill Where checkerberries could be found, I knew the rushes near the mill Where pickerel lay that weighed a pound! Where lived the poaching, saucy crow, And all the woods and crows knew me— But that was very long ago. And pining for the joys of youth, I tread the old familiar spot Only to learn this solemn truth: I have forgotten, am forgot. Yet here’s this youngster at my knee Knows all the things I used to know; To think I once was wise as he!— But that was very long ago. I know it’s folly to complain Of whatsoe’er the fates decree, Yet, were not wishes all in vain, I tell you what my wish should be: I’d wish to be a boy again, Back with the friends I used to know. For I was, oh, so happy then— But that was very long ago! |
|
