Classic Poem

On the Death of a favourite Linnet.

Adieu , sweet warbler! whose harmonious strain
Has often cheer'd the solitary hour,
When sad reflections o'er the heart obtain,
Life to embitter and its joys to sour;
Like me unconscious of impending woe,
Unfearful of the ills that life await,
Thy song of cheerfulness alone could shew
Thy happy ignorance of changeful fate,
That happy innocence which sway thy heart,
Kept far aloof each motive of distress:
Untaught to fear fate's unevasive dart,
Thy native joy no dangers could suppress.
Thus live the innocent, their hours thus past,
Thro' life still gay and fearless to the last.