24. Fireworks

They rise like sudden fiery flowers

That burst upon the night,

Then fall to earth in burning showers

Of crimson, blue and white.

Like buds too wonderful to name,

Each miracle unfolds,

And Catherine-wheels begin to flame

Like whirling marigolds.

Rockets and roman-candles make

An orchard of the sky,

Where magic trees their petals shake

Upon each gazing eye.

                               James Reeves