Memory

A YEAR is a thief Who comes in the guise of a friend Saying, "Let us travel together, We have much to give each other. See, I hold back nothing— For what is giving Between friends?"

Yet when the year departs He takes his gifts with him— "Oh, Robber!" we cry, Aghast and weeping, "Nay," he replies, "I did but lend. Still, for your weeping, I will leave you something.

It is not the real thing But you may keep it always."