The Song of the Alder Fairy
by Cicely Mary Barker
By the lake on river side
Where the Alders dwell,
In the Autumn may be spied
Baby catkins, cones beside -
Old and new as well
Seasons come and seasons go
That's the tale they tell.
After Autumn, Winter's cold
Leads us to the Spring;
And, before the leaves unfold,
On the Alder you'll behold
Crimson catkins swing!
They are making ready now
That's the song I sing.
Alder is a charm to be used against not so good fairies.
Water sprites are said to protect Alder trees;
So think twice before doing any harm to one.
