The Sunflower. A Poem

Clothed are the hills and the valleys below With rich yellow tints in the sun-set glow. To make the rich Autumn scenes the more fair, The countless sun-flowers are blooming there. A whispered welcome to the dawn is sent As to eastward at morn each head is bent. Through the day, you hold to the sun your face To feel his warm kiss through infinite space ; And thus you follow the god on his way Till westward you look at the close of day. Your grace so sturdy, ah : now we may view Nature's gift to Autumn, 'neath skies of blue. By the road you stand till October wan, When the white frost comes and your life is gone. Your days have been honest, and bright, and strong— A glad note you add to Nature's wild song.