October / James Lewis Milligan

October
Sad and sober Monk October Comes in russet habit clad; Sore relenting, Loud repenting – What a merry time he's had!

How the rafter Rang with Laughter In the Sylvan woods of June! Now his Maying Turns to praying And he chants a solemn tune.

Base deceiver! He's no griever; All his seeming sorrowing, All his chanting Is but canting: Lift his cowl – behold the Spring!

[Poem is in the public domain in the United States and Canada]