ROBIN AND JENNIE. 105 



'Twas that very night that Rob came later than ever; 



"Why, Robbie, what kept yon?" asked Jennie, surprised; 

 "What kept me?" growled Robin, "What kept — ! well, I never!" 



"To think that a Robin should be tyrannized." 



"I'm sorry!" sighed Jennie, "I meant nothing by it." 

 "Your sorrow don't help it," said Rob, in a pet. 



"My temper you ruffle — you wickedly try it! 

 The older you grow, why the crosser you get." 



No carol heard Jennie, next day, on awaking, 



For Rob and Miss Pert had flown, the birds said ; 



But Jennie was brave though her heart was nigh breaking 

 And, hiding the tears, her dear birdies she fed. 



The days into weeks, lengthened never so slowly, 

 But Robin came not and her friends disappeared, 



For friends court the gay, not the blighted or lowly, 

 And tli' nestlings were mated and off when half reared. 



Alone and so lonely, she passed the days sighing, 

 Till Fate let an arrow fly, piercing her side ; 



"I'm grateful—" gasped Jennie, who knew she was dying, 

 "I'm happy at last — so — happy — " and died. 



