Classic Poem

" How swift is a thought of the mind"
When winged both by Fancy and Love!
Three hundred long miles left behind
The Robin's caressed by the Dove!

But if to bills more within reach
The Robin his faithless beak joins,
Not with kisses, but pecks will she teach,
And this severe penance enjoins.

Whatever gay bird he may see,
Howe'er she his fancy may suit,
No homage of eye must there be,
His flattering tongue must be mute.

He shall not tell the pheasant or jay
How brilliant their plumy attire;
Not a word to the lark shall he say,
But in silence her strains must admire.

He shall not praise the shape of the swan
The most graceful of all waterfowl,
But till six months are over and gone,
Must pass for an old stupid owl!