Page:Near nature's heart; a volume of verse (IA nearnaturesheart00jack).pdf/23

 The Oven-bird graceful, misnamed "the preacher," Proudly sang out, 'I'm-a-teacher, a TEACHER;"

And Maryland Yellow-throat piped, "What a pity, You can't sing a sweet, old-fashioned ditty!             What a pity!"

From the wayside just then came a mocking "meow;" "If the rest of you follow, I'll join in the row;

"And why not now?             A fuss somehow—              Meow, meow!"

But lo! the voice softened and turned to a tune, Repeating the bird's notes that glad day in June.

With soft-flowing accent the good Chickadee Said "dear me," and added a sweet "amity."

YOUNG MALE CARDINAL TRYING TO LIGHT ON BOUQUET OF FLOWERS. Snapped by the Author.

And Blue-Bird's grave "purity," Robin's gay "cheer" Were songs as delightful as lovers may hear;

While Red-headed Woodpecker, ever after his rum, Kept beating and beating his sweet tree drum.

The Cardinal came with his bright crimson crest, And sang for his bride as she fashioned her nest;