THE LANGUAGE OF BIRDS. 
239 
Or in sequestered lanes they build, 
Where, to the flitting bird^s return, 
Her eggs within the nest repose, 
Like relics in an urn. 
But still, where general choice is good. 
There is a better and a best ; 
And, among fairest objects, some 
Are fairer than the rest. 
This, one of those small builders proved 
In a green covert, where from out 
The forehead of a pollard oak, 
The leafy antlers sprout. 
For she who planned the mossy lodge, 
Mistrusting her evasive skill. 
Had to a primrose looked for aid. 
Her wishes to fulfil. 
High on the trunk's projecting brow. 
And fixed an infant's span above 
The budding flow'rs, peeped forth the nest, 
The prettiest of the grove I 
