400 GRAY LADY AND THE BIRDS 
them in his song and carolled it in May’s ear as she swept 
up the hillside to set the red-bells chiming for a holiday. 
* * * * * * * 
These are the verses that the children recited. Goldi- 
locks asked the question in the first line of each verse, and 
the child who represented the bird answered. Little 
Clary was the first, — the Chippy, — and as she said the 
words she raised her arms and flapped them like wings; 
the parents all applauded with delight. 
THE BIRDS AND THE HOURS 
4 A.M. 
Who is the bird of the early dawn? 
The brown-capped Chippy, who from the lawn 
Raises his wings and with rapture thrills, 
While his simple ditty he softly trills. 
5 A.M. 
Who is the bird of the risen sun? 
The Robin’s chorus is wellnigh done 
When Bobolink swings from the clover high, 
And scatters his love notes across the sky. 
9 A.M. 
Who is the bird of the calm forenoon? 
The Catbird gay with his jeering tune, 
Who scolds and mimics and waves his wings 
And jerks his tail as he wildly sings. 
Noon 
Who is the bird of the middle day? 
The green-winged, red-eyed Vireo gay, 
Who talks and preaches, yet keeps an eye 
On every stranger who passes by. 
