A lingering joy, a flame of hope
One touch before the winter cold,
God paints upon His canvas
A wonder to behold.



A pretty glow upon each leaf
Within the falling hush,
Just before the trees lie bare
There blooms an autumn blush.



As summer's strength is blown away
It turns to kiss the frost,
And a winsomeness bursts forth
Before the warmth is lost.



A parting flush of burnished bronze
To bear us through the chill,
The gentle blush of golden beauty
Our hearts, our memory to fill.