Classic Poem

The Peacock is magnificent—he wears a splendid crest,
He's like an Indian Rajah in his richest regal vest;
With robes of purple velvet and a jewel gleaming train
He struts before his wifie who is simple neat and plain.

The Turkey dresses handsomely he makes a proud display,
Like puffy rustling dowager in all her court array;
What topazes and tourquoises the foreign Turkey wears!
His mistress plain and motherly for splendour little cares.

The gaudy bird of China with his waving plumes of gold
And bright vermilion bodice is as fine as he is bold:
The Pheasant wears a snowy ring and flaming scarlet patch:
His wifie in her quaker dress can scarcely be his match.

And Chanticleer's a kingly bird with noble arching tail:
His dunghill is a throne of state which none will dare assail:
He wears a crimson cravat and a fiery coloured comb;
The Hen's a homely housewife and her dress is fit for home.

The cocks of every family are given to the duel;
They all are gallant combatants—in battle fierce and cruel:
Their beaks are sharp and potent—they have spurs upon their legs:
The hens have no such weapons—they are made for laying eggs.