I saw Winter 'neath a spindle tree, br She plucked berries bright to crown her head. br She was singing little robin's song br While wild beech-leaves round and round her spread. br I ran home into my little house, br Pulled to the shutters, barred up the door; br I knelt down to blow the fire to flame, br Great dark shadows danced upon the floor. br Long-legged shadows came from corners drear, br Leaped up white walls, fell, and climbed again. br I hear North Wind pushing at the gate, br I won't open, not for wind or rain. br Oh, run home, wee ones, lest the whirling leaves br Take ye far away, fairy folk to see. br Crowning her dark hair with berries red br I saw Winter 'neath a spindle tree.