THE SONG SPARROW 



When lately winter's blasts are laid 



And, through the crusted snow 

 The bare brown fields in sheltered glade 



Their sodden furrows show; 

 When still the leafless trees resist 



Fair virgin spring's caress 

 And but in sheltered nooks, sun-kissed, 



Bold leaflets upward press, 



Among the first of feathered friends 



The waking earth to greet, 

 The bright song-sparrow early lends 



His presence trim and neat. 

 Full bold, yet unobtrusive, he 



Comes forth at peep o' day, 

 Exploring cranny, nook and tree 



Jn dainty vesture gray. 



V 



[12] 



