Classic Poem

We built a nest among the birds
Now many Mays ago;
And we have heard a many a word
They sang, by building so.

And times when dew is on the day,
And starlight on the trees,
We meet and warn the mists away
With little lays like these:

A birdie tells of dimpled dells
That blushed in far-off springs;
And many an April blooms and thrills
With rapture while she sings.

A birdie coos of light and shade
The summers brought our nest,
Of Violets born, and Lilies laid
Where Lilies love to rest.

A birdie carols: Day's decline
Restores the dawn's caress;
And Autumn pours a richer wine
Than April's tenderness.

A birdie says: The bitter days
May blow till they expire;
The winds but raise our censer blaze
And waft its incense higher!

The birdies sing. The bright shells bring
The soul-song of the sea;
The close cheek and the clasping hand
Make Life's whole melody.