WINTER. 

 

ALL the little birds are frightened, 

Chirping very sweet and loud; 

"What shall we do, both I and you, 

Since winter is so proud? 

"With his snow he hides the grasses, 

With his breath he nips the trees; 

What use to seek, with claw and beak, 

For food 'mid things like these? " 

Winter smil'd a very little, 

Said, "You discontented things, 

Why, don't you know that from my snow 

Arise your lovely springs?" 

"Here are haws and holly-berries, 

Eat them as good birds should do; 

And be content that I am sent 

To keep earth warm for you." 





—Selected.