_A Happy Loiterer_

Beneath our blue Colorado skies, Where tall mountains gladden eyes, Here I seek the care-free muse Till life’s burdens all I lose.

Far away from Sorrow’s brood, How I love serene, sweet Solitude! What to me is worldling’s strife, While I lead this placid, unobtrusive life?

Men or crosses, men of rules, Teach me not in Trouble’s schools. Wilful truant, I would lie Listening to the wild-bird’s melody.

In my forest by the stream Let me worship, let me dream, Loving Nature and her ways, I would court her all my days.