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 On Leaving “The Birches” This morn we viewed a soothing nook Where quiet people dwell, Amidst the groves of birch and pines— We grieved to say farewell. A sparkling lake was at the door, A boat moored at the dock, And oft we’d sailed from shore to shore ‘Round towering castle rock. The mount above was steep and green— Huge boulders strewn about— Where Titans played their game of bluff And put the Gnomes to rout. The chipmunk and the groundhog dwelt Hard by the rocky ledge— Their visits oft amused us much, Response to friendly pledge. Groves of white limbed birches grew In front and at the rear; The tree-toads and the katydids Added their mite of cheer. The whole was a most pleasant scene And quiet were the hours, Where books and music had their place— The joy was truly ours.  This peaceful scene of nature’s charms Shifted to crowded streets, As through by magic all was changed To cars and rushing feet. A part now of the madding throng We rush from street to street, Disturbed by whistles, clang of bells, And raucous sounds replete. So back unto our burdens borne By duties stern and stark— Withal a mighty rush of life Far from our lake-side park. ...

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