TO THE HUMMING BIRD.

Hail to thee, Humming Bird

Beauteous and bright,

That flitt'st like a spirit

Before my rapt sight!

I bid thee a welcome

To sip from my flowers

The rich, honied produce

Of sunshiny hours.

O, be not so easily

Moved to depart!

Thy presence is cheering

To my saddened heart.

Thine shall be the treasures

Of clove-currant trees

And bells of the Columbine

Prized by the Bees.

My odorous tulips

I will with thee share,

Nor grudge thee the blossoms

Of apple or pear.

The sweet-scented woodbine

I shall not withhold,

Nor rare perfumed lilies,

Like pure burnished gold.

O then, pretty Humming Bird,

Stay thou with me,

Midst bright blushing roses

So charming to see.

I'll hail thee at morning

Or woo thee at noon —

Thy presence at all times

Regard as a boon.

Then why be so anxious

My garden to leave?

Know'st thou that I never

Attempt to deceive?

I would not confine thee

In cage if I could:

I glory in Freedom —

The best earthly good.

Then, Humming Bird, listen

My earnest appeal;

The love I have for thee

I cannot conceal.

My children, too, love thee,

My wife does the same,

And I am in transports

At sound of thy name.