" The Sheepfold here 

 Pours out its fleecy tenants o'er the glebe. 

 At first, progressive as a stream, they seek 

 The middle field ; but, scattered by degrees, 

 Each to his choice, soon whiten all the land." 



COWPER. 



THE life of a shepherd is naturally looked upon as one 

 of peace and contentment. If you go abroad in the 

 early morning, and see him leading forth his bleating 

 flock, his eye brightened with cheerfulness, his cheek 

 ruddy with health : if you hear his clear whistle min- 

 gling with the song of the lai-k, and nearly as joyous ; 

 and see with what humble affectionate looks he is fol- 

 lowed by his faithful dog, you have a picture of country 



