PARKE CUMMINGS
When saplings pass for Christmas trees,
And glowing bulbs of red and green
Bedeck the Strands and Rivolis,
And here and there a wreath is seen,
When everywhere Salvation Nells
To passers-by their carols sing,
And rub their hands and toll their bells,
While castanets with quarters ring,
When theatres proffer matinées
Throughout the week, and actors groan,
And reminisce of better days,
And weaklings dread to shop alone,
When markets teem with greens and meat,
Their floors bestrewn with sawdust clean,
And office-boys are swift and neat,
And messengers alert and keen,
When bankers quote the Golden Rule,
And visitors enjoyment seek,
And lads and maids are home from school,
New York’s engulfed in Christmas week.
1926