THE house-sparrow's SPEECH. 296 



And are we not a social tribe ? 



We follow man without a bribe ; 



We leave even corn with him to dwell, 



Why, let him, if he's able, tell : 



For in his cities we abound 



Where corn grows not, nor weeds are found. '^^ 



'• How live you, then ?" — I almost scorn 



Such question ! certes not on corn ! 



We live by worthy means — by wit — 



Have I not rightly answered it ?— 



We /ive— enjoy domestic life — 



And though we sing not, you may see 



And hear us always full of glee ; 



Nor know we much of care or strife, 



Save what proud Man provides for us. 



From what is said coiiclude we thus : 

 That yet, our knowledge cannot scan 

 The vast design which we, with man. 

 In nature's universe behold ;— 

 That, though there be some beings bold 

 Who would prescribe laws to that Power, 

 Beneath which we and man must cower, 

 How often are we set at nought — 

 Our insignificance how taught ? 

 Yet may we cherish happiness 

 And all our fellow beings bless, 

 By offices of tenderness. — 

 Here chiefly lie our duties— here 

 No doubts arise— no mists appear. 

 Who is it then that has most sense ? 

 He WHO SHEWS MOST Benevolence!! 



