To The Grasshopper And The Cricket

Green little vaulter in the sunny grass

Catching your heart up at the feel of June,

Sole voice that's heard amidst the lazy noon,

When ev'n the bees lag at the summoning brass;

And you, warm little housekeeper, who class

With those who think the candles come too soon,

Loving the fire, and with your tricksome tune

Nick the glad silent moments as they pass;

Oh sweet and tiny cousins, that belong,

One to the fields, the other to the hearth,

Both have your sunshine; both though small are strong

At your clear hearts; and both were sent on earth

To sing in thoughtful ears this natural song,--

In doors and out, summer and winter, Mirth.

30th December, 1816. Written in competition with Keats.