Classic Poem

To Cicely Trafford, Aged Eleven

Who would expect to see
Violets in late November?
As well might the apple tree
Blossom in dull December.

Things of this nature sound
Really beyond all reason;
For who on the earth has found
Spring in the winter season?

Yet violets come to me,
Even in wintry weather;
You say, But how can it be? —
Well, let us reason together:

Cicely's gentle hand
Sent them; and she is very
Friendly in Fairy-Land,
Loved of every fairy;

She is my dearest friend,
Happy am I to befriend her;
Fairies on her attend,
Wonderful gifts they send her;

Therefore I think you see,
When these things you remember,
How violets come to me,
Even in late November.