My neighbor's tree, in sunny field, Was tall and frail, a graceful thing. I watched its growth from year to year And treasured every leafy wing, It hid from view a wretched sight, Rough lumber piles, a rambling shed With patched-up doors and smoky roof, Old dingy walls, gray, black, and red. But yesterday my living screen Was doomed to death, by ruthless pride. Its fall disclosed the sordid view Revealed by Beauty crucified! |