Classic Poem

Within the chalice of a flower
A bee " improved the shining hour, "
Whom, when she saw, a wasp draw near,
And sought to gain the fair one's ear,
With tender praise: " Oh, sister mine —
(For love and trust that name entwine) "
But ill it pleased the haughty bee,
Who answered proudly: " Sisters! — we?
Since when, I pray you, dates the tie? "
With angry warmth the wasp's reply
Came fuming forth — " Life-long, indeed.
In semblant points all eyes may read
The fact. Observe me if you please.
Your wings, are they not such as these?
Mine is your figure, mine your waist,
And if you used with proper taste
Your sting, as I do, we agree
In that. "
" 'Tis true, " replies the bee,
" Each bears a weapon; in its use
The difference lies. For fierce abuse,
And insolence your dart doth serve.
Mine gives the chastisement that these deserve,
And while you irritate your dearest friend;
I take good heed myself, but to defend. "