Expectation and prognostication

In New Britain, Conn., after the Great Blizzard of March 11-14 1888.

"March is the month of expectation,
The things we do not know,
The Persons of Prognostication
Are coming now.
We try to sham becoming firmness,
But pompous joy
Betrays us, as his first betrothal
Betrays a boy."

- Emily Dickinson, XLVIII