24 The Eaves Swallow 
He with blue and chestnut breastplate, 
He with snow upon his forehead. 
From the mud-banks in the river 
Pellets bore he to the cliff's face, 
One by one he stuck them fast there. 
Till his fortress was completed, 
Arched and roofed and lined with fea- 
thers, 
With its tube-shaped entrance pointing 
Downward, so no rain could enter ; 
Happy homes, those by the Saco, 
Few the foes could reach their treasures. 
By and by the Saco meadows 
Felt the feet of wandering white men, 
By and by Chocorua's echoes 
Were awakened by the rifles. 
By and by the stately pine woods 
Helped to build the white man's home- 
stead. 
By and by great barns were planted. 
Milestones in the new-made clearings. 
