Page:Sparrow, the tramp (IA sparrowtramp00wess).pdf/95

 its drooping branches over the moss-grown roof.

To this tree the sparrow made his way, and lighted on a branch before a little bird-*house which looked as much out of repair as the house itself; for it seemed ready to fall apart at any moment, and the bits of seaweed and straw and wool of which the nest was made, were hanging out of the door in a most untidy manner. In fact, the whole structure had an insecure appearance, as if a high wind might topple it over at any moment.

A little bright-eyed sparrow stood in the doorway, and three small sparrows from the nest inside opened their mouths wide and clamored expectantly for something to eat as the sparrow lighted beside them.

"How do you do, my darling?" said the sparrow gayly, as he approached his little bright-eyed wife for a kiss.

But instead of answering she turned her