NOW the lilac tree's in bud, br And the morning birds are loud. br Now a stirring in the blood br Moves the heart of every crowd. br Word has gone abroad somewhere br Of a great impending change. br There's a message in the air br Of an import glad and strange. br Not an idler in the street, br But is better off to-day. br Not a traveller you meet, br But has something wise to say. br Now there's not a road too long, br Not a day that is not good, br Not a mile but hears a song br Lifted from the misty wood. br Down along the Silvermine br That's the blackbird's cheerful note! br You can see him flash and shine br With the scarlet on his coat.