WINTER.
ALL the little birds are frightened,
Chirping very sweet and loud;
"What shall we do, both I and you,
Since winter is so proud?
"With his snow he hides the grasses,
With his breath he nips the trees;
What use to seek, with claw and beak,
For food 'mid things like these? "
Winter smil'd a very little,
Said, "You discontented things,
Why, don't you know that from my snow
Arise your lovely springs?"
"Here are haws and holly-berries,
Eat them as good birds should do;
And be content that I am sent
To keep earth warm for you."
—Selected.